Pros and Cons of Mounting Your TV Over Your Fireplace

A hotly debated topic in the fireplace, construction and design industries is whether or not a TV has a place above the fireplace. With strong arguments and adamant opinions on both sides, it is ultimately up to your design preferences, your comfort and what both your space and fireplace can facilitate.  Here’s a brief pros and cons list, but pros to one will be cons to another, so it isn’t quite that simple. We elaborate on these points below. 

Pros to Putting TV Above Fireplace

• Enhance the fireplace as the gathering point for family 
• The look might suit your design
• With the right fireplace and installation, it can be done safely 
• Integrate tradition with modern times
• Great for spaces where no alternative location for TV 
• Creates a multi-functional space
• Create the ultimate comfort zone for nights where you want to relax with your favourite show or a sports match

Cons to Putting TV Above Fireplace

• TV has to be at least the specified clearance higher than your fireplace, perhaps too high, neck strain and less quality display when viewed from angle
• Dampens more authentic sitting room look 
• TV takes away from the fireplace and becomes the reason to gather
• Not aesthetically pleasing, plastic TV can clash with design elements of mantel and hearth
• Potential damage to TV - TV's have a maximum heat tolerance and fireplaces get HOT
• Heat and electronics don’t mix 
• Heat damage may void tv warranty (even placing tv above can void warranty)
• Complicated and potentially visible cables
• Smoke build up on TV (wood fireplaces)

Does the TV add or detract from this linear gas fireplace by FireplaceX?

The Fireplace

For some perspective, most TV’s heat tolerances sit at around 100°F. Higher temperatures will damage the TV and often void the warranty. A gas fireplace can produce wall temperatures between 180°F and 380°F, which clearly doesn’t agree with the presence of a television.  Heat and electronics certainly don’t mix, and back in the day having any electronics near the fireplace was a bad idea. Luckily, there are plenty of fireplace manufacturers today who produce heat management systems, to redirect heat away from the wall and allow you to mount a TV there. Some examples are Valor HeatShift™, FireplaceX CoolSmart TV Wall™ Kit.  Electric fireplaces, which are increasing in popularity, do not produce a lot of heat and are mostly installed for visuals and ambience. As long as the electric fireplace doesn’t produce more heat than the TV can stand, you are good to go in placing the two on the same wall. An electrician can help with the installation of both.  All fireplaces specify clearance distances which must be adhered to to ensure safety. A mantel can do a good job at blocking heat to the wall and in conjunction with the right technology, having your TV above the fireplace is entirely possible. It is not a given though as not all fireplaces have this technology and clearances will vary.  An Amantii electric fireplace and the TV above are the focal point in this outdoor space

Design Preferences

Whilst the original purpose of a fireplace was practical, in modern times, there are plenty of alternative ways to provide heat to a space. Nowadays, a major reason for installing a fireplace is aesthetics. Many designers and homeowners alike, are vehemently against the TV being above the fireplace because they frankly can’t stand the look. A fireplace is often intended to be stately, imposing and a focal point. In the eyes of some, the presence of a TV simply doesn’t belong, detracting from the beauty of the fireplace. On the other hand, the fireplace may be a distraction whilst trying to watch TV, creating a sensory overload.  Others who are partial to the ultra-modern look, highly rate the appearance of a TV above the fireplace. Why not combine the old and the new? To them, the fireplace does not distract, but enhances the viewing experience, providing ambience and enhancing the comfort of an already relaxing activity. The fireplace or the TV often serve as the focal point in a space, so why not have both? Another point to add here is that some may not have the choice of putting a TV elsewhere. For smaller homes, or laneway and basement suites, creating multi-functional spaces is essential.  In this more traditionally styled living room, this Valor fireplace is the sole focal point 

Comfort is Key

Comfort is a major consideration of those who contemplate this choice. An appropriate TV height is typically eye level with the center or bottom third of the TV. By nature of being above the fireplace, the TV has to be higher than the height of the fireplace plus the clearance required. This can result in having to look up to view the screen which can cause neck strain and headaches. It can also distort the visuals creating a subpar viewing experience. Whilst this is a dealbreaker for many, there are ways around this.  The higher the height of the fireplace and the larger the clearances, the higher the TV has to be, so to mitigate this problem, you can opt for a fireplace that is not very high, and has minimal clearances. A linear model is a popular choice of fireplace with a low height.  As for low clearances, an electric won't produce much heat and will have low or no minimum clearance. A gas fireplace with effective heat distribution will have lower clearances than one without. You can also consider a tilting tv mount to angle it down, and if you have reclining chairs, that will decrease the need to strain upwards.  A TV above the fireplace must be mounted higher than the fireplace plus clearance distances 

The Verdict

To leave you with some final words of wisdom, if you are determined to have your TV above the fireplace:

• Choose a gas fireplace with efficient heat management to keep the wall cool
• Favor linear models to bring the height down 
• Opt for an electric model if heat is not so important 
• Install a mantel to block heat
• Factor the installation of both TV and fireplace from the outset
• Check TV warranty for mention of fireplace
• Discuss with an electrician positioning of cables
• Consider a tilting TV mount 

No matter which side of the fence you sit on when it comes to TVs and fireplaces, we can source or custom design a fireplace that meets all your needs. Reach out today to create your dream space with a fireplace that steals the show.

How to Make a Room Cozy for Winter

Nothing evokes a sense of coziness like a roaring fireplace. When it comes to snuggling up, the fireplace is most definitely the vital ingredient your space needs to thrive, but it can’t do all the heavy-lifting. Tying in thoughtful design elements and cozy touches, especially in the winter time can allow your home to truly serve as the sanctuary you need it to be.

Lighting

Firstly, you’ll want to incorporate some ambient lighting. Your fireplace is key in this step, and as a bonus, most gas fireplaces allow you to control the look of the flame and accent lighting to some degree. Electric fireplaces offer even more flexibility, allowing you to customize the entire look of the flame! Spread this warm lighting throughout the space with candles, lamps or other lighting features.            

Plush Factor

You can also make the space visually inviting by adding soft accessories like throw pillows, blankets and a plush rug. Changing up the textures here can add excitement and enhance the snug factor. Think woolly blankets and fuzzy pillows. You’ll be snug as a bug!

Natural Materials

Adding timber brings a rustic feel and warmth to the space. Popular in minimalist and scandi design, you can incorporate timber through various elements such as furniture, planters, floating shelves, ornaments or the fireplace mantel itself. We love the look of a hutch to store firewood, adding that cottage chic whilst serving as a practical means of storing your wood. Even if you don’t have a wood fireplace, there are so many creative ways to incorporate this design element, it might be worth pursuing purely for the aesthetic.

Looks Aren't Everything

Now, it’s not just about looking cozy but feeling cozy, which means involving all the senses. Your eye can be pleased with the gorgeous decor and warm hues, but what about how you physically feel? Your textured accessories will allow you to feel comfort through the soft fabrics, cuddling up to a blanket and nestling your feet against a soft rug. The closer you sit to the fireplace the more cocooned by it’s warmth you will be. Fireplaces can vary in radiant heat - wood and gas offering the strongest heat with gas having the bonus of being adjustable and more efficient. Electric fireplaces give off less heat so can suit a space that either needs less heat or has an alternative primary heating source.

All the Senses

So how about the other three senses? If you have a traditional wood burning fireplace or stove, let your ears be mellowed to it’s inviting crackle. Play some chill or soothing music to bring the relaxation. Add some enticing scents to the space to satisfy the nose. You can choose scented candles that double as ambient lighting, burn incense or simmer some oranges on the stove and envelop the space in a sweet aroma. As for taste, well the options are endless. Indulge in some freshly baked goods, soothing soups or a winter cocktail.

All Set

Incorporating even a few of the tips above, will set you up to cherish your restful winter abode. There are so many options to make a space look cozy, and remembering thoughtful touches to do with sound, smell, touch and taste can make a big difference. After all, cozy is a state of mind. Instead of letting the cold get you down, take the initiative to make your home your haven, and enjoy winter for all it brings. Time to turn on the fireplace and put your feet up. In the market for your dream fireplace? Contact Vancouver Gas Fireplaces today.

The Top 5 Fireplace Safety Tips For Your Home This Holiday

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Despite the tumult of this pandemic-ridden year, people are getting as festive as ever. We have seen decorations go up earlier as people reach out for moments of joy amidst hard times. The fireplace is the star of the show in any room, but especially when we are talking themed decor. It's delightful to see everyone’s creativity unleashed for their holiday mantel makeovers. We wanted to remind fireplace owners of the importance of safety when it comes to decorating. Read on for 5 of our best tips.

Keep Decorations Above the Mantel

Don’t hang anything over the opening, even on a fireplace with a screen or glass. This includes stockings, plastic greenery, and signage. We know it’s tempting - you may have been inspired by something you saw on Pinterest! But many of the mantels that feature this kind of decor are for non-working fireplaces. Lucky you aren’t missing out here, you have a mesmerizing flame that will keep everyone warm and captivated. Best to hang those stockings a wee bit higher. Safety first.

Refer to Your Manual

Consult your installation manual for clearances. If you purchased your fireplace from us our product pages feature a link to the respective installation manual. If not, head to the manufacturer websites who should have all the information you need.

Trees and Fires Don't Mix

By now we should be familiar with distancing. Your Christmas tree should be at least three feet away from your fireplace. Plastic or living, we don’t want that thing to ignite! That’s a sure-fire way to ruin Christmas. If you have cheeky young ones or pets with a knack for knocking things, you might want to add a foot or two of distance.

Firewood Only

Don’t throw anything other than fire wood in your wood-burning fireplace. This is a common mistake people make. This can do serious damage through releasing toxic fumes, risking a fire and damaging a chimney. Wrapping paper and cardboard boxes should not be burnt. Pieces could fly out and cause damage. Recycle those materials instead.

Yearly Checkups

General fireplace maintenance to check that everything is in working order is an essential part of fireplace safety. Click here for a quick guide on yearly fireplace maintenance.

Need a Fireplace?

If you’re still hesitating on getting an existing fireplace replaced or thinking of installing a new unit, get in touch with us now. We naturally get extremely busy this time of year. There is still time to put the pieces together for a perfect christmas filled with nostalgic joys. Be quick though, time is ticking and we are even busier than usual. This time of year signifies positivity to so many, whether celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or something else. Whatever you celebrate, we hope this time can bring joy and rest. To the decorators out there, go nuts! But be safe. And if you have a fireplace from VGF that you’ve decorated, we would love to share a pic on our social channels. Email your photo to marketing@vangasfireplaces.com. Happy decorating!

Whilst the sun-filled and rain-less days are behind us for 2020, fall’s charm has alleviated any end of summer blues. Fall is the time to prepare for more time indoors by making your dwelling as warm and cozy as possible. The cool months to end 2020 will surely be like no other year, with less time out and about in gatherings and more time in smaller circles at home. So how should you prepare this year? We know some options to add a stylish focal point and provide heating to a space.

Keep Warm Indoors with a Traditional Fireplace

This is always our #1 recommendation. Everyone loves a fireplace! Whether a traditional wood-burning, an efficient gas-fueled or a modern electric, a fireplace can make a mesmerizing statement that radiates beauty and nostalgia. There are so many options to make a fireplace work in your space. No matter your style, venting requirements, heating preferences or budget, our experts at Vancouver Gas Fireplaces can find you the ideal fireplace. From nights in with the family to holiday gatherings, fireplaces bring people together and are a timeless backdrop for memory making. It surely is a purchase you will treasure for years.

FireplaceX Probuilder 42 Clean Face A direct-vent zero clearance gas fireplace is a top choice for efficiency and style

Jotul F500 Oslo Wood Stove For smaller spaces or those with limited venting - how about a wood stove?

Make an Outdoor Space Shine with an Outdoor Fireplace

Since lockdowns were implemented in March, people have made more use of their outdoor areas than ever. We've seen sheds turned into offices, gardens blooming and patios being renovated. Having a separate space to the home has been especially appreciated by work from home folks and families who all of a sudden have more bodies than space at home! While restaurant capacities are limited and gatherings restricted, the need for functional outdoor spaces remains. You shouldn’t be relegated to staying inside your house just because it’s getting cooler! There are many outdoor fireplace options, including fireplaces that are compatible for both indoor and outdoor installation like the Valor “L1” Gas Fireplace and the Amantii “Tru-View XL” Electric Fireplace.

Superior 4300 Outdoor Gas Fireplace

Make a bold statement with an outdoor fireplace

Gather Around a Fire Table

Maybe you won’t be taking that vacation this year, but you can give your own backyard a resort-like feel with a fire table! Many of the fire tables and firepits we offer can be fuelled by propane (LP) or a natural gas (NG) line. Moments spent at home with your nearest and dearest will be memories held close, so make them even more special with an impressive outdoor feature. A perfect backdrop for entertaining your social bubble and enjoying a glass. Don't wait for your others though, put on your comfiest fluffy sweater and slip on some uggs, there's always time to sip on a warm beverage by the fire.

Outdoor Great Room Providence Fire Table

Don't let the fall chill stop you from enjoying the outdoors

Don't Wait to get Started

There is still plenty of time to get your fireplace project completed before the real cold sets in, but the industry is busier than ever. You don't want to go another winter, especially this winter, not equipped to hunker down. Now is the time. Contact us today and heat up your home this fall.

FortisBC double rebates of $600

FortisBC have implemented increased rebates to promote energy efficiency and help home-owners in these difficult COVID-19 times. They are offering double rebates of $600, which is excellent news for those in the market!  A natural gas fireplace is a superb option for providing both style and warmth to a living space. We are proud to supply many high-efficiency EnerChoice® models that are eligible for the standard FortisBC $300 rebate - view the full list here. This rebate has now increased to $600 on eligible EnerChoice® models. FortisBC are only offering double rebates for a limited time, so don't hesitate to jump on this offer!

Best-selling EnerChoice® gas fireplaces

[products ids="2296, 6842, 574" columns="3" orderby="id" order="desc"]

How to save with FortisBC

To access the increased rebate, apply for a promo code with FortisBC by December 31. The installation must take place and the invoice must be dated between October 1, 2020 and March 31, 2021. Apply for the rebate with FortisBC using your promo code, within six months of the invoice date. Browse our FortisBC rebate page for more information and to view eligible models that Vancouver Gas Fireplaces offer. Be sure to cross-reference with the FortisBC website for full eligibility requirements and terms & conditions. 

Start your fireplace project now

We can't think of a better way to hunker down for winter than with a new efficient gas fireplace or insert. With much more time than usual spent at home this year, it's the perfect time to finally get that fireplace installed! Make the most of the FortisBC double rebate offer and get your gas fireplace project underway.

The concept of home has changed amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. When many workers were banished from offices as lockdowns were implemented, work from home entered the mainstream. Many workers will continue to work from home, so how are they adapting to this change? Many are choosing to repurpose and adorn their abodes to accommodate home offices.

Work from Home is Here to Stay

Working from home pleases many, reclaiming money and time previously spent on commutes and lunches. Others feel unsettled by the lack of distinction between home and work. Whichever the case, working from home is not fleeting. Whilst the pandemic endures, outcomes remain uncertain and the need to alter lifestyles continues. COVID-19 has enforced the shift to flexible work arrangements that began with an increased demand for work-life balance.   [caption id="attachment_3549" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Workers are Adapting to the Reality of Work From Home[/caption]  

Shift in Demand for Home Offices

People are recognising that these changes will be lasting, and permanent for some workers. Many are upgrading their home office setups by decorating, renovating and adding basement suites or building laneway homes. Condos with extra bedrooms, large balconies or dens are under demand in Vancouver as home office spaces are prioritised. People are reimagining what home means to them, and making use of spaces previously unused. [caption id="attachment_1283" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Reinvent Rooms into Home Offices[/caption]

Reinventing Home

There are a myriad of approaches to incorporating work into the home. One option is converting bedrooms, basements or sheds to home offices.  Another is the clear separation of work zones from relax zones. Adding cozy touches to living spaces can ensure full relaxation when off the clock. You don’t have to ask us twice what the ultimate touch of cozy is! There is no greater sense of comfort than being fireside. When the sun fades and the rain begins, this effect will amplify. Whether it's to build a new suite, upgrade a home office or cozy up a living space, ask us which fireplace will suit yours or your clients’ needs best. [caption id="attachment_5827" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] A Quality Fireplace Could Transform Your Down Time[/caption]

VGF Can Help

Whilst disconcerted by these hard times, people are adapting to their newfound situations by taking control of their residences. With home becoming the main dwelling, the need to ensure it is a place of both function and refuge is vital. We would love to help you strike this balance through our many fireplace options. Tell us about how you or your clients are adapting to work from home via the form or give us a call at 604-732-3470.

The Vancouver Gas Fireplaces Covid-19 prevention team has developed the Vancouver Gas Fireplaces Covid-19 Safety Plan.  Please read it here. Our staff have been working diligently, following guidelines to maintain a safe office showroom space for staff and visitors alike. It is our pleasure to service the Vancouver area fireplace market safely.  You can Expect Glowing Results!

We have Flattened a Curve and Coloured our World! Our showroom is open by appointment. Fireplace projects are exciting … and Vancouver Gas Fireplaces wants to keep our fireplace conversations rolling with you! We have set up a fun, colour-coded floor system that will easily keep us 6 feet apart. Fun and symbolic, "FloorBow" flattens the curve of a rainbow;  its colours guide us to stay safely apart when we meet in  person! [caption id="attachment_7372" align="alignleft" width="222"] Colour "FloorBow" by the starting green.[/caption]   It’s simple. If you stand on a Red mark, I will stand on Red mark … and we’ll be 6 feet apart. Blue for you, blue for me. Or perhaps Purple is the best site line for you to see? Maybe yellow? Or turquoise will get you closer to your dream flame- and Orange you glad you've made a plan ... for a brand new fireplace installation!     [caption id="attachment_7364" align="alignleft" width="218"] When it's time for a showroom meeting, the FloorBow will help us meet together, 6 feet apart.[/caption] Let’s talk about your project by telephone first, and then we can arrange for your private, in-store consultation. Call 604 732 3470 and leave a detailed message for us to follow up with you OR Use the contact form at www.vangasfireplaces.com/contact/ Fireplace projects are exciting! As the saying goes … we’ll be speaking moistly during our consultation. Cloth or paper masks are required so we can safely discuss your project - and keep our conversations going until you get the fireplace you love is installed!   [caption id="attachment_7365" align="alignnone" width="226"] "FloorBow" keeps us 6' feet apart by using colour![/caption]    

It's easy to add fire to your outdoor space at home. A new gas fire bowl or fire table is sure to enhance your social bubble experiences with family and special friends. [caption id="attachment_5430" align="aligncenter" width="536"] Linger longer with table height firetables like the Barbara Jean.[/caption] Fire bowls and Fire tables in aluminum or concrete materials, using propane (LP) or natural gas (NG) fuels are currently in stock and ready to be delivered to you by Vancouver Gas Fireplaces. [caption id="attachment_6351" align="aligncenter" width="537"] Long linear tables bring a beautiful line of fire.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7430" align="alignleft" width="300"] Social Distance Bubble gathering made easy with Bola Firebowl[/caption] A new fire feature can be as easy as having a propane fire table kit delivered to your home,  or a full service run of your Natural Gas line to your pre-assembled fire pit.  [caption id="attachment_6345" align="alignright" width="303"] Cove 12, 20 and 30 to fit most spaces.[/caption]           Vancouver Gas Fireplaces is here to help you add fire to our social bubble gatherings, with  easy to buy, easy to use fire bowl and fire table solutions.  Contact us for a consultation.  Click here or call  604 732-3470.

2020 Compliance: Did you know that the wood burning fireplace industry has been doing its best to reduce carbon emissions?  Wood stoves are a perfect example.

[caption id="attachment_7348" align="alignleft" width="242"] Blaze King Chinook 20 uses catalytic damper for long, efficient burns.[/caption] Most of the products that Vancouver Gas Fireplaces represent today have gone through extensive re-engineering to become 2020 Compliant. [caption id="attachment_7351" align="alignright" width="150"] Popular Worldwide, the Jotul 602 is burning more efficiently than ever![/caption]   Stoves must now emit 2 grams or less of particulates per hour, which is good news for our environment and offers such an efficient burn, that you will be using much less wood than older model stoves. [caption id="attachment_7349" align="alignright" width="234"] Pacific Energy Neo 1.6, re-burning wood gases, with colour enamel options.[/caption]     Stove models are slowly coming back on line after rigorous re-engineering and re-testing.  We are expecting more to be certified, manufactured and released by June of this year and so we are updating our web site as we go along. Some excellent small cabin wood stove products that are 2020 compliant and available now are shown in this blog. If need a new wood burning stove contact us.  We can supply the stove and chimney components that you will need. May 15^th is the new compliance deadline for wood stoves, but we thought we would celebrate this major industry change today.  Happy Earth Day!

[caption id="attachment_7331" align="alignright" width="300"] We DELIVER! Big Green Eggs & Accessories in Vancouver![/caption] Whether it’s making a wood fire, designing your next fireplace project or firing up the charcoal, Vancouver Gas Fireplaces is happy to bring you some non-rushed, slow paced ideas and products for your consideration. In the mood for trying something slow and easy? You may have heard of Big Green Egg multi purpose charcoal BBQ and smoker … Or you may already have one.  Why not try your hand at some slow cooking recipes?  There are hundreds online through Big Green Egg or other independent bloggers.   To download more recipes and product information, just click here. [caption id="attachment_7333" align="alignnone" width="600"] Time to learn how to smoke![/caption] This smoked Brisket recipe takes 8 hours of luxurious time - that you may now have! [caption id="attachment_7335" align="alignleft" width="396"] Slow roasted with the fixings![/caption] [caption id="attachment_7334" align="alignleft" width="150"] BGE Smoke or roast StandUp Chickens[/caption]               It takes a few hours to slow cook and smoke one of these birds for absolutely delicious results!         [caption id="attachment_7332" align="alignleft" width="247"] Stand up accessories in stock at VGF[/caption] Charcoal, turkey/chicken stands and other accessories are available at Vancouver Gas Fireplaces. Our showroom is closed, but you can still pre order, order and have items delivered (curbside) by calling 604 265-1387  or emailing us…  and get smoking!

Brand new this year is the Valor H3 medium sized direct vent gas fireplace. This is a high efficiency fireplace that will work especially great in condos and townhouses. Whether you’re renovating, or building new, the H3 direct vent gas fireplace can be a top option. NEW Reduced Clearance Backing Plate A reduced clearance backing plate makes it easier to replace wood or gas fireplaces with tighter framing dimensions. The standard zero clearance backing plate is also available with the Valor H3. We can help you decide which one is right for your home. Customizable Style There are multiple liners to choose from. Traditional options like red brick, and herringbone, or more contemporary options include plain black, or reflective glass. Fuel beds options include driftwood, traditional log set, or the brand new birch logs. The birch log set features several pieces of white birch logs with charred areas for a realistic appearance. Whether you prefer the look of a traditional gas fireplace, or a contemporary gas fireplace, you’ll be sure to get what you need in the Valor H3. Outdoor Compatible Bring your Valor gas fireplace outdoors and get radiant heat even on the cool nights. With the outdoor conversion kit it’s easy to heat up your patio or deck. The Valor H3 is eligible for the FortisBC enerchoice rebate. View the Valor H3 Brochure. See the rest of the Valor line of fireplaces on our website. Come to our showroom at 235 W 7^th Ave in Vancouver.

Are you interested in a wood fireplace, but don’t know where to start? We can help you choose the right wood burning fireplace. We can also provide installation and finishing services. Zero Clearance (Air Tight) Air tight wood fireplaces have a combustion chamber designed to maximize the amount of heat you get from every log. These will be the preferred units for home heating. Zero clearance fireplaces require major renovation, or installation in new builds. Zero Clearance (Open) Open wood fireplaces do not have a sealed glass front, and will not feature a secondary combustion system. They are older style traditional wood fireplaces but made in a factory out of steel rather than site built out of brick. Inserts These are inserted into existing wood fireplace opening, or approved wood burning metal firebox. Your chimney will need to be cleaned and we’ll need roof access to complete the installation. Inserts are highly efficient and are designed for heat. Free Standing Wood stoves are perfect for homeowners who do not want a complete renovation. They come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit any project. We can optionally vent through a side wall then run chimney on the outside of the building to a vertical termination. *please check your local bylaws to see what restrictions, if any, there are on wood fireplaces in your municipality

Are you interested in a gas fireplace, but don’t know where to start? We can help you choose the gas fireplace that’s right for you. We also offer installation and finishing services. If you’re in a condo or strata development with a gas fireplace, please click here. Zero Clearance (Direct Vent or B Vent) Meant for installation in new builds or renovations. Zero Clearance fireplaces will need to be framed and finished. This means we’ll have to open a wall to adjust the framing to fit the unit and venting. You could have a few options for venting – to get the best price on installation, choose an outside wall for your fireplace. Inserts (Direct Vent or B Vent) These are inserted into an existing wood fireplace opening, or approved wood burning metal firebox. You’ll likely require a chimney cleaning, and we’ll need unobstructed access to the top of the chimney on your roof. Free Standing Gas stoves are perfect for homeowners who do not want a complete renovation. We can most likely vent out the side wall, and avoid having to access your roof. Log Sets Log set installations will be the least expensive of all gas products. They require venting, so they should be installed in existing wood fireplaces. Log sets are decorative appliances that will not heat your room as well or as efficiently as any other gas fireplace or stove.   For prices on installation, please call, or come by our showroom to speak with one of our sales staff about your project.  

The holidays are over and we have quite a few new units for you to dry off in front of this winter season. Our showroom has over 50 gas, wood, electric, and ethanol products. We regularly make changes to suit the needs and wants of our customers. Below are some of our more recent, and popular, showroom fireplaces. *click the links for product pages ProBuilder 72 by FireplaceX With a viewing area of “ long, the ProBuilder 72 from FireplaceX is a clean, contemporary option for those who want the luxurious look of a linear fireplace, without the added costs of optional accessories. ProBuilder 36 by FireplaceX A large, open traditional fireplace, the ProBuilder 36 is the newest member of the ProBuilder series. It is available with traditional log set and black liner, and requires no additional options or accessories. Enclave by Marquis Instead of the standard mesh screen, the Enclave comes with double glass for fireplace safety. This unit is available as a bay, corner, or single-sided fireplace. With over 5 media options available, the Enclave will truly be a unique fireplace. B95C by Stuv The Stuv line of gas fireplaces feature a more contemporary looking log set, making this line popular with Vancouver area homeowners. These fireplaces feature double burner technology, making the flames resemble a wood burning fireplace. Shaker by Wittus Featuring a long bench, or short bench, the Shaker wood stove is a modern home heater. It can heat up to 1,300 sq.ft, and has an open fire viewing area. Cubic Wood Stove by Wittus The Cubic wood stoves feature a few shapes and sizes to choose from. They can be free standing, or wall-mounted. Lorenzo by BioFlame BioFlame is an ethanol fueled line of fireplaces. The Lorenzo is a wall-mounted unit with a 16” wide burner. It can heat up to 742 sq.ft. XL Firebox by BioFlame Zero clearance unit with a 38” wide burner, the XL is available single-sided or see-thru. There are longer and shorter units available. Come visit us to see any of these units in person.

We’re adding a new line of ethanol fueled fireplaces to our inventory. With an ethanol fireplace, you don’t have to worry about venting, and depending on the product you choose, installation can be minimal. Fireboxes Available in stainless steel, and painted black, fireboxes are safe to install indoors and outdoors (protection from the elements is necessary). With your choice of see-thru, or single-sided, fireboxes come in multiple lengths to give you the best product to fit your space. RC Smart Burner Remote controlled smart burners, Bio Flames’ RC burners are the only remote controlled ethanol burners on the market today. The Smart burner will monitor CO2 levels, is equipped with external heat sensors, and comes with child-lock. The remote also comes with 6 heat settings. Bio Flame also has a smart phone app for controlling your RC burner. Come to our showroom to see how the RC burner works. Grate Featuring a simple, modern design, the grate requires zero installation, and will fit nicely in your existing wood fireplace cavity. You can also create your own fireplace focal point, as long as you maintain safe distance from combustibles, and have a level surface, the Grate will look great anywhere! Easily portable, the Grate can be transferred indoors and outdoors (just not when the flame is lit). Wall Mounted Includes wall mounting kit, you’ll need a couple of friends to help you install, but you can hang these Bio Flame fireplaces just about anywhere. The sleek, modern design will provide a wonderful focal point even without the fire burning. Free Standing Furniture While some assembly is required, the instructions are easy to follow, and you can have your ethanol fireplace set up in no time! The furniture line comes in all shapes and sizes, and feature contemporary design to look great in any space. Come to our showroom to see some of the products we have on display.

Our showroom and office will be closed this Monday, September 24^th, and Tuesday September 25^th. Our staff will be at a training facility in Washington and may not be available through emails or phone calls. Please email your sales person, or salesvgf@vangasfireplaces.com and we will get back to you as soon as we can. Thank you, Vancouver Gas Fireplaces staff

August is nearly over and we’re preparing for the influx of rainy season customers. With over 50 fireplaces on display in our showroom, we make a point of regularly making changes to introduce new and exciting fireplaces! Below is a list of fireplaces we recently introduced to the Vancouver Gas Fireplaces showroom.

Valor LX2 2200 The first multi-sided from Valor since the L1 see-thru, the LX2 2200 is available as bay, right corner, or left corner. The unit comes standard with the Valor HeatShift System, and has an optional rough-in kit to help contractors with rough-in framing.
Jotul GF 305 A Free standing gas fireplace with a modern design, the 305 features a unique look which could fit in nicely with 1930’s art deco decor, or today’s minimalist look.
Blaze King Clarity 26 Adorned with our own custom inset, our showroom Clarity 26 free standing fireplace features a contemporary look, with the capacity to heat up to 1,500 sq.ft, for a lower price point than comparable units.
Kennedy Electric The Kennedy series of electric fireplaces feature a bright LED lighting effect, with a crystal media bed. All units come with multiple colour options.
Coming Soon:
FireplaceX ProBuilder 72 The ProBuilder line is available in three sizes, all linear. These fireplaces are great for homeowner’s or contractors wanting the modern linear look, but don’t need some of the frills attached to luxury fireplaces.
Marquis Enclave This is a linear multi-sided unit with approximately 48” of fire viewing area. Media options include five styles of driftwood, glass, and river rocks.
Stuv B95C Get an up close look at Stuv’s double burner technology when you check out our showroom corner unit. This unit comes with some of the more contemporary log sets available in the fireplace market.

If you’re looking for an efficient wood stove to heat your home long after the fire has gone out, look to the Stuv 30 Compact H wood free standing fireplace. The stove can be equipped with heat accumulating stones, which allows the heat last long into those cold winter nights. This unit is well-suited to Whistler homes and winter getaways. How Does it Work? The combustion chamber can draw air from the outside, which is a great feature for air-tight new builds. The heat from the fire heats both your home, and the optional stones in the upper chamber. The Stuv 30 Compact H has been EPA approved, with a low emissions total of 2.7gr/hr. There are 3 fire-viewing options to choose from:

• Open door – the least efficient option will allow the full fire viewing experience, including: sight, sound, and smell.
• Glass door – Keep the glass door closed to get a full view of the flames, but keep the flames protected.
• Slow burner – for maximum efficiency, you can fully close the unit and let the fire burn safely over-night.

Final Thoughts The 30 Compact H wood stove features a unique, contemporary design. It will fit the most with modern surroundings, but this minimalist unit will look great in any space. The slim body allows for a smaller square footage to be taken up as opposed to more traditional wood stoves. We have the smaller, Stuv 30 Compact on display in our showroom. Come by and get a look at the quality products from the Stuv line. Or contact us for more information.

Not all fireplaces have to be single-sided and located on an outside wall. There are many zero clearance, multi-sided gas fireplaces to choose from. A fireplace can provide more than just heat, they can also act as a space divider, and look great from all angles.

• Island The Island style fireplace features 4 sides on unobstructed fire viewing area, making it an excellent focal point of any room. It can be used to separate a formal dining and formal seating area – but still keep your space one harmonious flow. The DaVinci is the only Island style fireplace we currently carry. But with features like power-venting and Cool Touch glass, the DaVinci will be an excellent fireplace for commercial settings and restaurants.

• Peninsula/Pier If you like the look of an Island, but don’t have enough space for foot traffic on both sides, consider a peninsula or pier fireplace. You can enjoy 3 sides of fire viewing, and as an added bonus, have a little extra wall space for shelving or décor.

Bell Fires Room Divider

Marquis Atrium

DaVinci

• See-thru Warm two rooms at once with a see-thru fireplace. The more popular rooms families love the see-thru fireplace for are dining room/living room, formal living room/family room, and kitchen/formal dining room.

FireplaceX 864

Valor L1 2-sided

Bell Fires Derby Tunel

• Single-sided Of course there’s still always the classic single-sided fireplace. If you are still lacking wall-space, and don’t have the budget for a see-thru, add a single-sided fireplace to one room and use the other side for your much needed shelving, decoration spots, or even a place to hang your TV.

Fireplaces come in many applications, and our showroom features see-thru, bay, island, and single-sided fireplaces. Not only in gas. Visit us to learn more about styling your space with a fireplace!

Getting your Gas Fireplace Inspected

Permits and inspections are required when installing any gas appliance. There are 2 types of inspections:

Fireplace Framing Inspection

Zero clearance fireplaces, installed in new construction and most renovations, need a Framing Inspection. The inspection will occur after the installation and framing of the fireplace, but before any wall board is installed. The inspector will want to be able to see the fireplace, venting, and framing. Types of fireplaces that need a Framing Inspection: Direct Vent Zero Clearance B Vent Zero Clearance

Final Inspection

If you had a gas fireplace inserted into a wood fireplace, you only need the final inspection. Gas stoves will also only need the final because the venting is completely exposed. Types of fireplaces only requiring a Final Inspection: Fireplace Inserts Gas Log Sets Free Standing If you required a Framing Inspection, a Final is required after you have closed your walls and tiled/finished your fireplace. Who Applies for my Permit? When Vancouver Gas Fireplaces books your installation, we will apply for the gas permit which is issued within hours. Our administrative team can schedule your inspections. Or, if you prefer we will provide you with all the information required to book them yourself. Where do you get the Permit from? Either your municipality, or Technical Safety BC. Technical Safety BC has jurisdiction in most municipalities and for all large gas systems, such as condo or townhouse developments. What is required from Me (the Homeowner)? When we book any inspection please arrange for someone to be on site to grant access to the inspector. The installation manual should be with the fireplace so the inspector can reference it. Our sales team will explain what type of inspection you will need.  Our administrative team is on top of scheduling inspections, so you don’t need to worry. We think it’s nice to have a guide for homeowner’s. Please call us if you have any additional questions or concerns with getting your fireplace inspected.

  We have many homeowners who are confused about the proposed bylaws in Metro Vancouver  regarding wood burning fireplaces and stoves. The reality is you don’t have to worry, Vancouver Gas Fireplaces has you covered. *please note: this bylaw has not passed, the timeline is a reference as to what it could look like* Beginning 2020, wood fires will be prohibited in summer months only. Which means you can still use your wood fireplace or stove during the winter. In 2022 wood appliances will need to be registered, this will be a simple process that we will help our clients out with when they buy a new wood fireplace or stove. 2025 the registration period will be over and any products that are not registered will not be allowed to burn wood. If you have an open wood hearth, you will need to upgrade to a new wood insert or gas insert if you want to continue using your fireplace. If you don’t plan on using your fireplace, no need to upgrade or register. Modern Emission Standards Emission standards are set by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA). Current emissions for catalytic wood burning products is 2.5 g/hr, for non-catalytic it’s 4.5 g/hr. All of the indoor wood burning products on our site meet those standards. We are prepared for the changes going forward, and there is a program in place that will help homeowner’s who decide to take action today and upgrade to Natural Gas. The FortisBC energy savings rebate of up to $300 is an option for new fireplaces, fireplace inserts, and free standing fireplaces. We can help you select the right gas unit for your home, and get you started on applying for your rebate. The FortisBC rebate won’t be around forever, it’s best to take advantage on this opportunity now. Contact us if you have questions about updating your fireplace.

Outdoor Order offers a line of unique, attractive propane patio heaters. Perfect for residential or commercial use, these heaters will be the perfect addition to your outdoor space. Axis The Axis patio heater features a collapsible design, which makes winter time storage a breeze. An optional cover is available as well. Curve We’ve had the Curve heater on our site for a while, and it’s quite popular. It features a unique design with the base off to the side, this allows for a greater coverage of unobstructed heat. Halo The Halo isn’t your standard free standing outdoor patio heater, it features 4 colour options and a heat control options to set the heat at a comfortable level. Prism The Prism heater features a classic design, with an added bonus of being able to withstand suboptimal weather – aka Vancouver weather. Materials include: 304 grade stainless steel, and a borosilicate tube. Any heater from the Outdoor Order line will be a great addition to your deck or patio. Each unit holds a 20lb. propane tank, and are available in the following finishes: carbon, steel, copper, titanium, bronze. The safety screen will protect accidental burns, making these patio heaters especially great for commercial use, such as: restaurant patios, outdoor entertainment venues, and outdoor common areas. Looking for something else? No problem, take a look at our complete line of patio heaters.

We have great news for condo & townhouse owners!

1. Valor Fireplaces have recently re-introduced the B vent adaptor. Many strata developments built pre 2000 have fireplaces that use B vent, which were not as efficient as they are now, as opposed to the more balanced, or direct vent. This has made options somewhat limited for replacing your fireplace.

Valor Fireplaces has developed a certified B vent adaptor that allows some existing B vent fireplaces, within its technical parameters, to be changed to modern direct vent fireplaces. All with no invasive changes to strata rain-screening and minimal change to the roof top vent. Contact us to find out if your strata townhouse or apartment fireplace qualifies for the B-Vent adaptor and a new direct vent fireplace. The units available with the B vent adaptor are: [product_category category="condo-blog-replace-b-vent" operator="AND" columns="4" orderby="name" order="asc" per_page="60"] Which leads us to the second bit of great news!

1. As an added bonus: Condo and townhouse owners are now eligible to receive up to $300 in rebates from FortisBC for a new fireplace.

Whether you’re getting a brand new zero clearance fireplace, gas stove, or replacing a gas or wood fireplace with an insert, you could get a rebate for energy savings from FortisBC. Check out our partial list of eligible units, and come to our showroom to speak with a sales person.

Modern H5 with HeatShift Kit

Complete your outdoors with a BBQ no matter how big or small your space is. We have portable BBQ’s and built-ins. You won’t find the brands we carry in your local big box store. Charcoal Big Green Egg With 7 sizes to choose from, the Big Green Egg will make a statement on your deck or patio. Armed with a plethora of optional cooking eggsessories, you can bake, smoke, or grill your entrees, main courses, and desserts. There are pre-made stands available, or, you can download a design complete with instructions to make a simple wood table yourself. We’ve just added the Everdure by Heston line to our list of BBQ’s (soon to be added to our website). They feature a modern, clean design. With cooking technology to make your time more efficient and your meals more savoury. Some of the products include: The Cube charcoal BBQ The Cube is a fantastic solution to the needs of apartment or condo dwellers in Metro Vancouver. Not only is it small and compact, it’s completely portable so you can easily bring it camping or for a day at the beach. The Hub charcoal BBQ For homeowner’s looking for a product on the larger side, check out the Hub. It can rotisserie up to 40kg, and has a large grilling area capable of cooking for large groups. This unit is portable, but requires access to power. Gas There are a number of options for natural gas or propane cookers. Including built-ins and stand alones. From the new Everdure line, we have the Furnace. A propane BBQ with 3 controls for separate burners. The BBQ can be removed from the stand and placed on a flat surface for your convenience. Come to our showroom and let us help you with your outdoor space. Other outdoor items to consider are fireplaces, fire pits, and patio heaters.

We introduced the ProBuilder 42 in August, and added it to our showroom in November. It was well-received, and popular amongst buyers looking for a clean, no frills type of unit. FireplaceX has now just released the ProBuilder 72. This is the second unit of a series of value-priced, efficient fireplaces. They feature the great technology we’ve come to expect from the FireplaceX brand, but without a lot of options and features, which would run the cost of a unit up. The ProBuilder series are available in IPI or Standing Pilot, and have optional twin 90 CFM fans, the remote control is also an added option. These units will be very popular amongst builders or developers, as they feature a contemporary design, and heavy duty construction that will make them durable over time, unlike the builder’s special fireplaces of yesterday. Look for the ProBuilder 54 Linear and the ProBuilder 36 Square to be released within the next year. Come see the ProBuilder 42 in our showroom.

Okay, this isn’t a versus thing. We’re simply going to explain the differences between the two lighting systems. A standing pilot has a continuous flame, there is a feature to switch it off if needed. But generally, the pilot will always be on. This is most beneficial in colder climates because the continuous flame will keep the venting warm and ready to light the main burner within seconds. Standing pilots are sometimes referred to as millivolts. Millivolts require no access to power. An intermittent pilot ignition (IPI), or electronic ignition system, does not have a continuous pilot. These fireplaces require access to electricity, fireplaces are available with a battery backup in case of a power outage. Electric requirements are a 110V connection. There are benefits with both systems, your salesperson should let you know which is the better option for your home heating. Contact us to see what your fireplace options are!

There are multiple benefits with electric fireplaces

1. Easier installation
2. Great for condos
3. Can help set the mood

Some of the electric fireplace brands we carry feature a deep media bed, which can make for some fun decoration ideas. If you’ve visited our showroom, you’ve probably seen our Christmas decorations, or mostly recently, our Valentine’s Day decorations. You can adjust the lighting effects to match the holiday, or to provide a complementary colour scheme to your home. Add an electric fireplace to your home or business to create atmosphere easily. Visit our showroom to see our line of electric fireplaces.

Our ‘Replacing your Condo Fireplace’ campaign was a big success, and we’re proud to say that we’ve helped many condo owners update their fireplaces this year! There are a lot of B vented fireplaces out there, and we noticed that homeowners are under the impression that a replacement B vented fireplace insert wouldn't be enough heat. B vented fireplaces have improved significantly over the years, for instance, the Valor B vented G3 fireplace insert can heat up to 1,000 sq.ft – and with your choice in liners, media and surrounds, the Valor G3 B vent will be the attractive focal point you want. New Products Speaking of inserts: Lopi Fireplaces has come out with their own line of fireplace inserts. The Radiant Plus fireplaces line are available in 3 sizes, with the smallest due to hit the market sometime 2018. The 42 ProBuilder from FireplaceX was designed to be an answer for the ‘builder’s special’ fireplace. It comes with great features typically expected from the FireplaceX brand, but doesn’t come with a lot of options, keeping it at a low price point. It has an attractive, minimalist, design, which has made it a popular unit in our showroom. DaVinci has introduced the Maestro. The Maestro is a high-end, luxury fireplace. It’s designed to be installed in new builds or major renovations, and is available as single-sided or see-thru.

Maestro

Design Trends Vancouver has a unique design style, most of our customers will choose products with transitional, or modern options. Our main sellers are units with traditional log sets, and contemporary surround or trim options.

Lopi Radiant Plus Medium

We expect those kinds of units to continue to be our main sellers throughout 2018. Also look for the units that don’t require a trim, such as: Bell Fires line, Stuv line, and the clean-face 564 and 864 from FireplaceX. Outdoors 2017 saw the introduction of the Barbara Jean line of linear outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, and fire tables. This line will appeal to restaurants, and businesses with an outdoor patio.

Barbara Jean line

Another change in 2017 was the addition of Valor fireplaces to our outdoor section. Valor has an optional outdoor kit available for those who love the look of Valor fireplaces – venting is required for these units. The unit in our header is the outdoor Valor Horizon. 

Located in beautiful Vancouver, BC, our showroom is 3,000 sq.ft and features over 40 gas, wood, ethanol, and electric fireplaces. Here's a list of some of the newer fireplaces we've added to our showroom. Click pictures for product pages.

Gas

FireplaceX ProBuilder FireplaceX decided they needed an answer to the traditional builders special fireplace you typically find in apartment and townhouse complexes. The answer is the ProBuilder; this unit features minimal design options, but has the same great technology we’ve come to expect from FireplaceX.
Stuv B100H Featuring a double burner system called ‘wood burner’ the B100H has realistic flames that seem to interact with the media, rather than behind or in front of it. The Stuv line of fireplaces are one of the more versatile brands on the market. Not because they come with a bunch of media options – they have 1. Not because there are numerous liner options – again, only 1. But because they feature an updated look on the traditional log set, and a sleek, clean design that can and will fit into any style surroundings.
Jotul 535 DV IPI New Harbor Featuring a traditional design with a 6 piece hi-def log set, the New Harbor is a reliable insert for heating a medium sized space.
Pacific Energy Mirage The Mirage from Pacific Energy is a gas stove for a more contemporary or modern home. It features a slim build, which works perfectly if you don’t want a chunky free standing fireplace. Availabale in 2 sizes, the Mirage will be a fit for small to large spaces.
Hearthstone Europa The Europa is one of our more modern free standing gas fireplaces. It features a sleek design with a crushed glass media bed. It will comfortably heat up to 700 sq.ft

Wood

FireplaceX 42 Apex The 42 Apex is available with Travis Industries GreenStart technology, which makes starting a wood fire so much easier! The firebox is 3.5 cu.ft, which will hold logs up to 24” long. This is a large, efficient, wood heater. It is also available with multiple chimney options for various installation capabilities.
Hearthstone Bari We have 2 Bari stoves on display in our showroom, one in black, the other in grey soapstone. Both come with a 1.5 cu.ft firebox, capable of holding 17” logs (vertically). The double steel wall helps airflow and moves heat throughout the home.
Stuv 30 Compact Choose what you want to use your wood stove for with help from a rotating window. Open for full fire viewing, glass closed for fire viewing and heat, or completely closed for full heating capabilities. The Stuv 30 also features a 360 degree rotating base, so you can point your fire wherever.

Visit our Contact Us page for location and showroom hours.

The Holidays are here, and no matter what you celebrate – Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, Christmas, or Festivus - it’s for the rest of us. Most of these celebrations include decorations. It’s important to brush up on your fireplace safety knowledge.

• Don’t hang anything over the opening. Even on a fireplace with a screen, or glass. This includes: stockings, plastic greenery, and signage.
• Consult your installation manual for clearances. Keep your decorations on, or above the mantel. Not draping over.
• Your Christmas tree should be at least 3 feet away from your fireplace. Further if you have any rambunctious pets or toddlers that live for knocking things over.
• Don’t throw anything other than wood in your wood-burning fireplace. Some of us are lucky not to have had accidents doing this in our childhood. But wrapping paper and cardboard boxes should not be burnt. Pieces could fly out and cause damage. Recycle those materials instead.

Our last piece of advice: If you’re looking to get a new fireplace, come by our showroom now. We (unsurprisingly) get very busy this time of the year. For your benefit, we suggest talking to us in-person and viewing our showroom fireplaces to get an early installation date. See our showroom hours. Click here for a quick guide on yearly fireplace maintenance.  

Now that we’re getting into the colder months, a gas stove is the perfect choice for homeowners who want to upgrade their heating. Why?

1. Less heat loss up the chimney. Gas stoves can be more efficient than a direct vent zero clearance fireplace because the body is exposed, rather than hidden in a wall. With a gas stove, any heat radiating from the body will flow into your home.
2. Less construction. Direct vent fireplaces require an open wall with framing and a rough in inspection, you might not want to do that in the winter months. A gas stove does not require any open walls, only access through the roof, or the side wall, which can be made and patched up same day.
3. More options for installation. You’re not as limited on where you choose to install a gas stove. Which means you can target high traffic areas of your home.

Free standing stoves provide the most benefits for those who do not currently have an older or non-working gas or wood fireplace. Some things to consider:

• Space – if you’re worried about space, gas stoves come in different sizes; our smallest unit will heat up to 950 sq.ft.
• Clearances to combustibles – like any fireplace, you’ll need to be aware of any combustibles near your stove. This includes: furniture, curtains, and carpet – carpeted areas will require a hearthpad.

Contact us for more information about adding a free standing gas fireplace to your home.  

Jotul (pronounced: yo-tull) has been one of the top sellers of gas and wood stoves world-wide. Their free standing fireplaces are made of durable cast iron, and feature high quality fireplace technology designed to bring you the best in heating. Most of their units feature enamel options; and if they’re gas, interior media options as well. The newest addition to the Jotul line is the GF 305. Featuring a modern design, the 305 is available in white or black, and has a large fire viewing area for a unit of its size. The GF 305 is the first unit to feature the new ceramic Jotul Burner III, completed with a contemporary driftwood media kit. To learn more, visit our product page. Or, see the installation manual.

FireplaceX has recently introduce the new 42 Apex wood burning fireplace. Armed with advanced technology, the 42 Apex is designed to deliver heat while being one of the highest performing and cleanest burning zero clearance wood fireplaces on the market. A massive 328 sq.in fire viewing area is just the icing on the cake. Some other unique features include:

• Bypass damper for easy startup fires and smoke-free reloading
• Easy to use single air control, artfully hidden in the face design
• Perforated air wash for super clean glass
• Unibody construction and heavy gauge steel firebox lined with kiln dried firebrick

Because of its flexible installation options, the 42 Apex could be installed within interior walls. It is best suited for new builds and bigger renovations. Contact us today to find out more about the 42 Apex wood fireplace from FireplaceX.

Get ready for winter! If this winter is like the last, we’re in for a head spinner. If you’re looking at buying a new fireplace, now is the time to do it. The weather is still warm enough that most people haven’t thought too much about it, but it’s cool enough for you to want to test your new fireplace before we really get into the colder months. We have over 50 fireplaces in our showroom, so if you’ve been mulling over a design style, or brand, come see them in person to help make up your mind. Most units will take 2-4 weeks from the time we order them, to the time we can get an installation date. Our inserts are the more popular units this time of year, we get a lot of home owners needing or desiring to upgrade their existing wood burning fireplaces to gas or replace their old inefficient gas inserts. Some fireplace that fit inside the average wood burning fireplace in the greater Vancouver area are: Valor Legend G3 Available in B Vent, or Direct Vent, the Valor G3 is a powerful heater that has the added bonus of looking great too! Select your desired media, liner, and surround for a complete unit suited perfectly to your style. Technical features include the standard remote control, and one of the largest turn down ratios on the market. Lopi Radiant Plus Medium Love this unit, but it won’t fit your space? The Lopi Radiant Plus is available in 3 sizes to suit your needs. What makes this unit special is the ceramic glass. With no reflections, the ceramic glass makes it look like you can reach in and touch the flames (don’t ever do this!) There are not many options to choose from, the Radiant Plus line features a traditional log media, and few surround options. Enviro E20 Armed with multiple media, liner, and surround options; the Enviro E20 is one of our more affordable fireplace inserts. You might think least expensive = cheap product, but that is absolutely not true. You can expect this unit to heat up to 1,200 sq.ft while maintaining an EnerGuide rating of 61%. All these units are available for viewing in our showroom, stop by and have a look! Click here to view more of our fireplace inserts.

  Travis Industries has recently introduced the 42 Pro-Builder fireplace. It was designed with builders in mind. It is a low-cost unit, and doesn’t come with many options or accessories, but it does feature a clean look and linear design that will appeal to many homeowners . What makes this unit stand-out, besides the contemporary look, is that it comes with the great technology and performance we’ve come to expect from Travis Industries. Why bother installing a fireplace your clients aren’t going to be happy with? We often have customers who purchased condos with the “builders special” type fireplaces, their biggest complaints are that it gets too hot, and it looks like something from the 80’s. We believe that a 42 Pro-Builder is a great fireplace to replace the traditional builders fireplace. Notes The 42 Pro Builder is in production, but we do not have too much information to give. BTU’s in NG/LPG are 13,000-25,000/hr, and it can heat up to 1,250 sq.ft. Some optional accessories include: blower kit, basic wall remote, the unit comes with white crushed glass media, but can be substituted with any other colour. We have the installation manual in our showroom, come by and have a look at it to see if the 42 Pro-Builder is right for your project.  

Your installation manual will tell you what materials you should, and shouldn’t finish your fireplace with. It will tell you clearances for combustibles, including how high your mantle should be above your fireplace. What it won’t tell you, is how the cut of tile can affect your fireplace. Your fireplace will heat the finishing area around it. When choosing materials, such as tile, it’s best to make sure there’s adequate grout area. Or at least, separation between large tiles. If you choose to finish with one slab of marble (or a similar stone) the heat will move the tile slightly. This has resulted in broken tile; and unhappy homeowners. If you cut your tile into pieces (even larger pieces) your fireplace should be fine. In one case, we had installed a linear fireplace, it was finished with a single slab of granite surround by others. The granite cracked in the same spot multiple times. We only realized after the 3^rd or 4^th piece of granite was replaced that when the floors had been installed, they were on a little bit of a slant. So the granite had been installed with a gap to hide the unevenness of the floor, leaving about ¼ of an inch exposed. The heat got to this area and cracked the granite. The best way of avoiding these problems without sacrificing your wants is to opt for a fireplace with a large opening. The bigger the distance between the fireplace burner and the slab of tile, the better. Units to consider with a large opening are:

Valor H5

Town & Country TC54

FireplaceX 4237

As always, consult your manual, and talk to your sales person about your finishing materials. *The unit in our header is the DaVinci, a power vented fireplace with safe touch glass.

Planning your outdoor space can be a combination of fun and freaky. What colour theme should I go with? Why do I keep killing my plants? One thing you can always get right is adding an electric fireplace. Benefits of an Electric Outdoor Fireplace

1. Provides ambiance Whether you’re planning a romantic night on the patio, or having a themed party, an electric fireplace comes with LED lighting colour options, to help you set the mood.
2. Easier installation Electric fireplaces don’t need venting, gas line, or non-combustible framing.

What is needed for an Outdoor Electric Fireplace?

• Power source Your fireplace will need to be located close to a power outlet.
• Weatherproofing You need to protect your electric fireplace from the elements - especially in rainy Vancouver. A stainless steel cover is available for purchase and is required with the warranty.

Lastly, come to our showroom to see our collection of electric fireplaces, they are available in sizes ranging from 40”W - 88”W, with multiple media options to choose from.

Most fireplaces will come with two options for your pilot light. We'll tell you the difference and help you choose which is right for you and your fireplace. Standing Pilot: Pilot flame remains in contact with the thermocouple or thermopile to keep it hot. This generates a small electric current, which keeps the main gas valve ready to light with a flip of a switch. Electronic Ignition: Electricity is supplied by a battery or 110V. This enables the pilot light to be lit each time the appliance is used. Is There a Cost Difference? Yes, typically an electronic ignition will be an added feature to a fireplace and cost a little more. But the money saved up by not having gas running all the time will typically recoup itself within 3-4 months.

Clearances refer to how far materials have to be from your fireplace. Most zero clearance fireplaces can have combustible materials (e.g. wood framing, drywall) touching the back and sides of the unit without fear of heat damage. Some fireplaces require non-combustible framing and finishing materials for installation (e.g. steel studs, cement board, Skamotec). Furniture, other soft furnishings, and draperies need to be 3 feet away from the front of all heat producing fireplaces. Mantels, and other finishing materials need to be a specific distance from your fireplace. A general rule is the more a mantel projects forward from the wall the higher it will need to be. A popular trend is hanging TV’s or artwork above a fireplace, this used to not be recommended. But there are new ways to make it safe and easy to hang a television above your fireplace. Read an article on Houzz about this design debate. Remember: It is important to consult your installation manual for all requirements. Valor HeatShift The Valor HeatShift System allows you to hang combustibles, such as televisions and art, above your fireplace. The airflow and venting technology transfers the heat above the fireplace. The HeatShift System is available with most Valor indoor zero clearance fireplaces. Up to 60% of the heat will rise up and flow through the HeatShift System and pushed back out into the room. This is done without the use of fans, and without the need for electricity. As the HeatShift dramatically lowers the temperature of the wall you can place your mantel closer to the fireplace. See the HeatShift System brochure. Enviro Heat Distribution Kit Available with their linear direct vent zero clearance fireplaces, the Enviro Heat Distribution Kit also makes it possible to hang a TV above a fireplace. The heat can be shifted above the unit, or to another room. The Enviro heat distribution kit does not change the mantel requirements. And is available with Enviro linear models only. See the Enviro Heat Distribution manual. For more information on clearances and your fireplace, contact us today.

Wood stoves have always been a popular option for homeowners; for good reasons, too.

• • They have more flexibility in terms of where you install them
  • They can be more efficient than built in wood fireplaces
  • They often feature a design that makes a statement, whether you go for a more traditional look like Jotul, or a contemporary design like Stuv

One of the first questions we get is how wood stoves are vented. There are multiple ways to vent your wood stove, below we have listed our most common methods:

• • 1. Through an existing chimney
       • you can have your stove inside, or just in front of an existing masonry fireplace and use the chimney to vent
  • 2. Directly out the exterior wall and up
       • you can choose to leave the venting exposed or enclosed
       • your wood stove must be close to an outside wall to do this
  • 3. Straight up from the wood stove and out through the roof
       • there are multiple flashings available for all roofing types

Image from ICC-RSF

Wood stoves need to be vented upwards, with termination extending two feet beyond the roof line. Talk to us to see how we can help you add a wood stove to your home. See our list of wood stoves.

Focus Fires are a line of wood fireplaces, available as free standing or direct vent, they’re more known for their free standing units. The designer, Dominique Imbert, was a philosophy teacher in the south of France, he gave up his teaching career to follow his true passion and created Focus Fireplaces. Each unit was hand-made by him. And today, his creations are featured all over the world. Vancouver Gas Fireplace is proud to announce that we have become a dealer for these world renowned fireplaces. We can’t wait to get started on our first project; below you’ll find pictures to some of our favourite projects. All pictures are available to view at the Focus Fires website.

Gyrofocus in Norway Norwegian Wild Reindeer Centre Pavilion (Dovrefjell National Park)
Gyrofocus in USA Guggenheim Museum, New York (1998)
Meijifocus in Wales In a dragon's eye that looks out over the sea
Filiofocus in Switzerland view on Leman Lake
Agorafocus 630 in Sweden Dreaming near the Baltic Sea

If you have a big project that could use a Focus fireplace, come see us and we’ll help you complete your dream. Lead time is estimated at 14 weeks. If you’re interested in learning more about Focus Fires, please contact us. Alternatively, we design and manufacture custom gas fireplaces for residential and commercial use. Take a look at some of our projects.

On May 1^st, the restriction on natural gas went into effect. There was widespread confusion on what the ban entails, and as a result, Vancouver Gas Fireplaces had a few installation cancellations from Vancouver homeowners. We’ve learned the facts of the gas restriction, and have collected some resources to explain how it will affect Vancouver residents and businesses.

• The new policy applies to any property that needs to be re-zoned
  • you can replace your current gas or wood fireplace
  • you can add a gas fireplace to your new build, as long as it wasn’t re-zoned after May 1^st, 2017
• This zoning policy only applies to those living within Vancouver city limits

We have a lot of people asking if this really is a big deal. The answer is yes. If a site is being re-zoned from SFD to commercial, or any variance, the property will no longer be allowed the freedom of choosing between Natural Gas or electric. This will affect:

• New housing developments
• Businesses; restaurants in particular
• You

With less residents and businesses sharing the cost and transport of gas, the prices will go up. The bottom line is: a portion of Vancouver residents and businesses will be forced to pay more for electric appliances, while the remaining will have to pay higher costs to maintain gas lines and access to natural gas. Plus, this will hurt businesses and their employees. Learn what you can do at the Save My Natural Gas campaign website. Links to resources: Statement from FortisBC

Bromic offers a wide range of outdoor heating products. Gas and electric, flush-mount, overhead, and free standing. In fact, Bromic Platinum Electric is the only patio heater certified for flush-mount in the industry. Your outdoor area will get more coverage with less heaters with Bromic, which saves money over time.

Tungsten Portable Heater

Bromic also offers a service that will help you plan how you heat your outdoor space. If you send us your patio design, we can send it in to Bromic and they will complete your layout with an effective heating map, including costs. Contact us for more information about Bromic Patio Heaters.

Cobalt Electric Heater

Summer is almost here? Maybe it doesn’t look like it quite yet, but it’s time to get going on planning your patio or deck. We have a variety of products for both small and large outdoor living spaces. BBQ’s Portable, fueled by coal, and available in 7 sizes; the Big Green Egg is a big hit in our showroom. There are so many cooking accessories and stands to choose from – which is great especially when you’re dealing with limited space. Patio Heaters Whether you’re looking for a free standing, propane fueled heater, or an electric flush-mount, we have you covered. Most would think that patio heaters are for large outdoor spaces, but that’s not true. A small heater can be a great addition to an apartment patio, or a garage/workspace. Fireplaces and Fire Pits Outdoor fireplaces are a great feature piece for any outdoor setting; many are ventless, which makes it easier to frame and install. Outdoor fireplaces are available in gas, wood, electric, and ethanol – making the possibilities virtuously endless. We have a section on our website dedicated to fire pits, but we’ve found our more popular items are our custom designs. Come by our showroom and ask us how we can help you prepare your outdoor space!

When you work in the building trades you usually want to have a reliable source for all of your essential needs. Somewhere to get your tiles from. Somewhere to get your doors from. Your floors. Your hardware. And your fireplaces. That’s where we come in. We carry a wide range of products for individual needs – electric, gas, wood, and ethanol. And when you’re helping someone design their dream home, it should include a well-designed fireplace from a trustworthy manufacturer. We only carry products that we believe in, and our sales staff work hard to provide the best solution for every customer. We have fireplaces for all kinds of applications, including B-Vent fireplaces for apartment renovations, ethanol and electric for spaces that don’t, or can’t, have access to a gas line. Whether your design includes traditional or modern design elements, we can find you a gas fireplace that will look great in any setting. If your client is looking for a high-end showcase direct vent fireplace brand like Stuv; or a high-performance, low-cost brand like Enviro. VGF has the unit you’re looking for.

The Valor Legend G3 comes with a variety of designs options to suit your clients style.

We recognize that metro Vancouver has a unique style, so we make sure our products can be versatile and fit in with modern, traditional, and transitional décor.

The FireplaceX 430 with contemporary driftwood log set and traditional brick liner.

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New to the VGF showroom is the Stuv 30 Compact, a wood burning stove that comes on a swivel base; so you can have the flame views pointed in any direction. We anticipate this to be a popular unit. Why?

• Clean contemporary look. Most people enjoy the overall ambience of a wood fire - but Metro Vancouver homes tend to be more on the contemporary side, and an old-fashioned wood stove doesn’t fit in with modern décor.
• Advanced technology for a wood stove. The stove features a combustion air intake from under the unit, which passes through the combustion chamber, and is vented out through the side of the unit. The hot air is circulated through the room by natural convection.
• Multi functional. With the 30 Compacts’ 3 door design, you can choose what function you want from your fire. 1. Leave the door and glass open for a less functional heater, but see and smell the fire. 2. Leave the door open, but glass closed for a more functional heater and see the fire. 3. Or, close the door and the glass for a slow burn, which optimises performance.

View the line of Stuv wood and gas fireplaces we carry at VGF. Come by our showroom to see the Compact 30 wood stove, or the B95C gas fireplace.

Product Feature: Bell Fires Room Divider We introduced a line of contemporary fireplaces from Bell Fires last year. Since then, we’ve installed these units in our showroom and all over the lower mainland. What makes Bell Fires a popular line is their look and the technology they possess – both make Bell Fires unparalleled in the fireplace industry. The Look The Bell Fires line features a clean contemporary look that can and will match with any style space. The large ceramic glass allows for a full view of the flames and log set, which are amplified with double burner technology. The dual burners will add depth, and make these units seem even bigger than they really are – without sacrificing space in your home. The Pier design makes this fireplace the perfect feature to separate a large space; or, alternatively, bring two spaces together. The Technology Bell Fires feature an array of technological advancements for fireplaces:

• Unique venting system, their fireplaces aren’t true zero clearance, they require specific clearances. See the manual for details.
• Double burner technology for added depth – turn one burner off and maintain 85% efficiency.
• Safety system allows for possible overpressure to be released in a controlled way.
• The off-centre flue makes it easier to leave the fireplace open – making your room more spacious.
• Remote control with programming that allows you to ‘stoke’ the flames.

We have the Vertical 3 featured in our showroom – come by and have a look!

Picking a paint colour for your room can be pretty daunting. Home-owner's tend to want to pick a colour they love, without thinking too much about their furniture or accessories. Here are 3 simple things to remember when selecting a colour palette:

• If you have a brick or tiled surround, go for a complementary colour, to provide a cool contrast, pick a shade opposite your tile/brick (so if your tiles are dark, pick a light colour and vice versa)
• Find colours that you have in your room through furniture and accessories
• Have a great view? Look outdoors for inspiration

In honour of Colour of the Year for 2017, we decided to grab a few photos from our manufacturers and come up with colour palettes. Bear in mind that our colour choices might be limited more to neutral colours because we don’t have a view of the full room. But we hope this provides a glimpse into selecting paint colours.

Unit pictured: Solara II from Marquis

This bedroom has a lot of neutral colours, and a very beautiful, bold painting. The neutral colours might be the best option for doing the full room, but if you're considering a adventurous colour in a bedroom, it's best to paint one wall as a feature wall. The most common wall for this is behind the headboard.

Unit pictured: Vertical 3 from Bell Fires

This unique fireplace allows for countless design ideas, we decided to highlight the shape with our showroom unit (pictured right) where we painted the wall black, and the ledge salmon - it is quite the colour combination, but we have received nothing but compliments. For best results, we would recommend a neutral colour for the wall, and your bold colour for the inner ledge.

Unit pictured: Horizon from Valor

Even though this photo shows only a quarter of the room, you can see there are a lot of colours to choose from. A lot of neutral colours. This is probably a more difficult space to choose paint for, there's a lot going on indoors and out, personally, we think a grey/blue would work best.

Unit pictured: Insert 26 from Amantii

For this large room, we selected a colour palette from the colours already shown, but because everything is so neutral and clean, the colour palette is so much wider than it appears from our small sample – especially if the one wall above the fireplace is painted to create a feature wall. To make selecting a colour even more difficult: the Amantii Insert 26 is an electric fireplace, which means it features LED lighting with multiple colour options; opening up the colour palette even wider! What would we do? Grey. It's modern, clean, and quite frankly we have never seen a grey wall we didn't like. We feature over 10 different paint colours in our showroom, as well as tile and stone options; this helps our customers get ideas on their dream fireplace. We can even offer finishing services! Contact us today about selecting the right fireplace for you and your home!

2016 was a busy year! We saw the introduction of Stuv, Bell Fires, and Focus Fireplaces. As well as the Big Green Egg. With all the change-outs we do, our showroom gets a lot of wear and tear; so we painted our showroom and re-finished the floors. On to the Fireplaces! Our electric units got a lot of attention; well-deserved attention. Electric fireplaces aren’t at all what they used to be, they can feature an array of media option, and LED lighting with all kinds of colour options. Most feature a contemporary linear design, but we do have electric inserts, fit to go into an existing wood firebox. The reason electric units are so popular is because there is so much versatility in where they’re installed – which is great for condo owner’s, and homeowner’s who don’t want to do a complete renovation. Another option for easy installation are EcoSmart ethanol fireplaces, they’re ventless, clean-burning, and can be moved (certain models only, some heavy lifting required) if you want to change your layout. For gas products, our more popular items were inserts. There were a lot of people updating their homes, and they knew that a gas fireplace insert is the best way to do it. A new fireplace can completely change the look of a room, and if you’re not sure what style you want to define your space with, you can never go wrong with a traditional log set and contemporary front.

As many of you have heard, the City of Vancouver has passed a Zero Emissions Building Plan. Problem: This will increase costs in a city that’s already facing an affordability problem. Vancouver residents will have limited choices on the appliances they use in their homes and businesses. In the future, this could mean:

• No gas fireplaces
• No gas ranges
• No gas barbecues
• No gas furnaces

The elimination of these appliances will lead to job loss and force businesses (especially small, like ours) to downsize, or move to a less accessible location, or close up all together. Councillor De Genova has issued a Motion on Notice (B.1) that is being voted on November 29^th, 2016. The motion moves to include natural gas as an acceptable form of energy in the Green Buildings report. We at Vancouver Gas Fireplaces support Councillor De Genova’s motion, as it allows choices for business and homeowner’s, and will not lead to job losses. Please email mayorandcouncil@vancouver.ca to make your voice heard! The vote takes place on November 29^th, 2016.

An interesting addition to the electric fireplace line from Dimplex is the Opti-Myst. Featuring a smoke and mist effect, the Opti-Myst uses electrosonic technology and lights to give an illusion of a flame. Completely safe to touch, the Opti-Myst can be installed anywhere (with access to electric) and doesn’t require venting. Because it doesn’t emit heat, the Opti-Myst is 100% efficient. Design options are pretty much endless, multiple units can be combined to create on long, linear fireplace; you can make your Opti-Myst see-thru, single-sided, pier, corner, or whatever type you want. Add any kind of media to complete your Opti-Myst. View the flame from an Opti-Myst on the Woodland Direct youtube channel.

An old or non-working fireplace is a big turn-off for buyers, most will assume that because the fireplace has fallen into disrepair, then the rest of the home must have been neglected as well. Replacing a fireplace before selling doesn’t have to be such a big deal, we can help you pick a fireplace based on recent trends and functionality, and we can also help you spruce up your mantel and finishes – no need to spend too much time looking for a contractor. For Sellers:

• Replacing a fireplace could net 11% return
• There are many types and sizes of fireplaces to choose from
• An updated fireplace will freshen your space up and make it more attractive to buyers
  • you can’t go wrong with a traditional brick liner and log set with a neutral surround
• Some gas fireplace updates qualify for up to $300 rebate from FortisBC
• We offer finishing services so you don’t have to spend too much time finding and hiring a contractor

For Buyers:

• Some gas fireplace updates qualify for up to $300 rebate from FortisBC
• Electric fireplaces are a great alternative to the traditional gas fireplace
  • heat between 400-500sq.ft
  • easier to install
• Ethanol fireplaces don’t require any venting, and are clean burning

Contact us for more information on how we can help you improve the ambiance of your home!

Enviro Fireplaces have recently introduced a linear gas fireplace. You can expect the same great performance as with other Enviro products, but with a more contemporary look. There are multiple media and liner options so you can choose which look suits your space best. With 504sq.in of glass area, the C44 provides a full view of the beautiful media and liner (no matter what you choose), as well as the dancing flames, which reach impressive heights. The Enviro C44 will heat up to 1,700sq.ft, making this unit fit for quite a large area; an optional heat distribution kit is available, so you can send the heat to the areas of your home with the highest traffic. With an efficiency rating of 64.5%, the C44 is available for the FortisBC rebate. Conditions apply, contact us for more details.

There are a few fireplace retailers to shop at in Metro Vancouver, here are a few reasons why you should choose Vancouver Gas Fireplaces: About the Team Our sales and administration team act as a cohesive unit from the beginning to end, we’ll help you find the perfect fireplace, schedule a date for installation, and, if needed, provide you with finishing services. Products You won’t find ‘builder’s specials’ on the VGF website, we only carry medium to high-end brands, most will come with multiple design options to best suit your needs. View our list of manufacturers. Our showroom also boasts over 50 products, we have gas, wood, electric, and ethanol fireplaces for you to view, we’re not a one-size-fits-all kind of store. Gas Fitters We have gas fitters on staff and a number of sub contracted gas fitters who work with us on a regular basis. We make sure that they’re organized and, of course, the best at what they do. Extras We also design custom gas fireplaces and fire pits, in fact, we have a whole section on our site dedicated to our custom jobs. We take pride in our work, and offer unparalleled service with every job we do – whether it’s big or small. Contact us today to find out how you can update and revitalize your home with Vancouver Gas Fireplaces.

It’s that time of the year again! Keep your gas fireplace in tip top condition with these easy steps! Take your glass out and give it a cleaning Dust and debris can and will build up over time, to give your glass a good cleaning follow these easy steps:

• Take the glass out
• Use the cleaner that was given to you along with your fireplace purchase from us
  • OR, recommended product: Kel Kem
• Using a soft, warm damp cloth, apply the cleaner to the glass

Never use harsh products like Windex or anything abrasive

• To dry your glass, use a soft cotton cloth

Clean your log set We recommend using a very soft brush to gently remove the dust off your log set. Do not use a cloth, water, or vacuum cleaner. Check your pilot light If you’re having trouble getting your pilot light lit, consult your owner’s manual for directions. Check your batteries Batteries will be located in two places:

• The remote
• The receiver

Weak batteries in either device will make it harder to control your fireplace settings. Better to replace them both early on in the season. Consult your Owner’s Manual for instructions on replacing batteries If you have a gas log set, check the chimney for any obstructions, and make sure the damper is wide open. Otherwise, odours and smoke won’t go up the chimney, they’ll just settle into the room. Do a test run to burn off any excess dust, and to see that everything is running smoothly. And there you go! Your fireplace should be in working order for the upcoming winter season!

When looking at fireplaces, most homeowner’s will consider what media and finishes suit their décor. Are their interiors loaded with traditional, or contemporary fixtures? And how about re-sale; can they sell their home with a fireplace with such a defined appearance? We're focussing on the B100H from Stuv, it is a remarkable unit in both fireplace technology, and overall looks. Does it have style? The Stuv B100H gas fireplace has such a classic look to it, and features clean contemporary lines – Stuv products were designed to look amazing in all styles of homes; whether you enjoy a rustic atmosphere, or a modern interior. What about functionality? Armed with one of the top gas fireplace technologies, the B100H features a wood-burner, which means it has 2 burners, one long in the front, and a short one in the back. This gives the unit a more realistic, campfire look. Too hot? Turn one burner off and maintain 80% efficiency. Come see the Stuv B100H in our showroom!

Bromic heaters feature a sleek, new design – compared to traditional heaters, they have a smooth body and non-intrusive look. They will also heat more total area, with less units, saving you money; both in the short and long run.

photo compares Tungsten Gas 500 (left) with competitor (right)

The above photos are a comparison of Bromic Tungsten Gas 500 with a direct competitor – not only are the Tungsten’s less expensive, but because they have a bigger heating area, less units are required. These heaters aren’t just for commercial setting like restaurants, you can easily install a Bromic heater (most likely electric) on your outdoor patio, deck, or dining area. Great for late night entertaining! The Bromic product line features multiple types and styles of outdoor heaters. You can get a freestanding propane fueled portable heater, or mounted electric heaters – plenty of options to choose from. View the Bromic brochure. Ask us how much you can save with a Bromic product!

An outdoor fireplace can bring so much to any outdoor space or patio, but sometimes they require more time, money, and effort to install. Amantii Fires have come up with a great solution. Electric Outdoor Fireplaces Amantii has designed the Panorama line, a series that is rated for both indoor and outdoor use. While the outdoor version NEEDS to be purchased with a cover, these units are faster, cheaper, and easier to install. Media options include a variety of gem stones, crushed glass, fire & ice, and a contemporary log set. Ambient canopy lighting is also available in 13 colours, so you can really set the mood! The flame will operate without the heat, perfect for the hot Vancouver summer nights. But if it gets a bit cool, all Amantii units will heat approximately 400-500sq.ft. The Panorama series is available in deep and slim models, so they can be installed into walls with a lot of space, or walls with little space. Come down to our showroom to see the Amantii Panorama in person! Or contact us with any questions.

Powered by charcoal and air flow technology, the Big Green Egg is a powerful cooking machine! There is a grill, a smoker, and an oven all rolled into one durable, high powered BBQ. Featuring a double-wall and ceramic construction, the Big Green Egg is an efficient cooker that was built to last, and won’t rust like metal grills. The outside surface stays relatively cool to the touch, making it safer around children and pets. Armed with dozens of optional accessories, the Big Green Egg has the tools to cook multiple dishes at the same time. Extended racks means you can triple the capacity easily. See the Catalogue for details.

Click the images above to see the Big Green Eggs' expansive list of grilling recipes.

Available in 7 sizes, you can be sure to find one that suits your needs. You can cook for hours without adding more charcoal. Unburned charcoal can be saved for the next cookout simply by closing the vents to snuff out the fire, saving you money! Come to our showroom to see the Big Green Egg in person, or email us for more info.

Metro Vancouver is bustling with new condos, as developments are going up all over Metro Vancouver. But one thing we notice is very few of them have fireplaces. Our suggestion? An electric fireplace. We get it, there’s probably no need for the extra heating a gas unit would provide. But with an electric fireplace, the heat can be turned off, and you could still get the ambiance  - with a contemporary take, of course. Why is an electric fireplace perfect for new condos?

• No venting required
• Easiest and cleanest installations
• You can uninstall and take them with you to your next home

We offer a variety of styles of electric fireplaces, click the manufacturer to see the selection they offer.  

Part 2: New Builds and Major Renovations Most finishing details can be decided on at a later time in the building process, but people forget that a fireplace is not a finishing detail. Too often we’ve had a client come in, inquiring about a fireplace while they’re already at the framing or drywall stage! Fireplaces require clearances and distance to combustibles, plus venting. The best time to speak to a salesperson is during the planning phase. While installations are never booked that early, this allows us to keep in contact with the contractor to make sure dimensions and timing are good. At any other stage, we could run into hindrances that could be costly. Find your dream fireplace and we will work with your contractor can make sure installation runs smoothly. Ideally the fireplace will be installed once the roof, doors, and windows are in; and when the rough-in is complete of gas and power.

Part 1: Small Renovations You’re not planning on a big renovation, that’s okay! Fireplaces can easily be changed, in fact, there are many reasons to replace a fireplace.

• Your old one isn’t working like it used to
• You’re concerned with energy costs
• Your home was a recent purchase and the fireplace just isn’t your style

When should you talk to a sales person? Even if you don’t have a rough timeline of events, it’s still best to talk to someone right away, especially if you live in a condo. That way, we can help figure out what your needs are and give you an idea on the process. How long will replacing my fireplace take? This is a bit difficult to generalize, but we have a process that we stick to for every installation job.

1. We make a visit your home to determine how the installation can be done
2. We give you a quote on your desired fireplace(s)
3. When you pay a deposit, we can schedule an installation date
4. After the installation date, we will send an invoice for the balance

We can usually schedule jobs in as little as 1-2 weeks, but we recommend planning at least a month in advance. We also offer full-service, which means we can help you with all your preparations and finishings! Worried about finances? We have partnered with FinanceIt to make it easier for customers to replace their fireplace. Contact us and find out how it works.

See what we have new in store! We have added several new indoor and outdoor fire features. To see what we've retired, and to get some great deals on fireplaces, check out our specials page.

Stuv B95C Stuv products feature state-of-the-art burner technology, and unique looking media options. This contemporary style fireplace will blend in easily with a modern surrounding.
Ambiance Intrigue Direct Vent Zero Clearance traditional fireplace, with a massive 910 sq.in of fire viewing area, and remote controlled accent lights.
Enviro E20 Direct vent insert with glass bead media, the Enviro E20 was designed for easy installation – this is a great unit to consider if you’re looking to replace a fireplace on a budget.
Valor Legend G3 738J Consistently the best selling Valor fireplace, the showroom G3 features traditional logs, and a traditional look. Available in either B-vent or Direct Vent inserts, the G3 is a versatile unit that can and will look great in any home.
Avalon Radiant Plus Small Another small and budget friendly direct vent insert, the Avalon Radiant Plus Small is available in traditional style only.
Outdoor
American Fyre Contempo Customers coming into our showroom looking for an outdoor fire pit have stressed that they want something they can put their feet up on to. Well here you go! The Contempo provides ample room for your feet. But please remember safety first!
Napoleon Galaxy Equipped with LED lights, the Galaxy provides quite the contemporary look. It’s a showroom favourite!
Outdoor Order Curve 10ft heat radius and a safety tilt switch, the Curve is an easily transportable outdoor patio heater. Fueled by a propane take that sits safely at the base.
HPC TK (Tiki) Torch Liven up your outdoors with a Tiki Torch! The TK Torch will set the tone for your outdoor party area. Remote control, automatic restart if blown out by wind.

Don't have time to read all this? Use the product request form on this page to contact us. Please include the make and model of your current unit. Options for replacing fireplaces in condos Vancouver Gas Fireplaces can assist you whether you need to replace an old gas fireplace, or an old wood-burning fireplace, in your condo. When looking to replace your inefficient, or outdated gas fireplace in your condo there are a few things to consider when determining your options. *Please note: To remove and replace a gas fireplace in a condo will most often require that the finishes around the fireplace be removed, replaced and repaired. Vancouver Gas Fireplaces can provide the services required for your complete project; removal, installation of the new fireplace and whatever framing and finishing is required to complete your project. How is your existing fireplace vented? Direct Vent (balanced flue) Venting is most often through the wall, but can also go through the roof. Direct vent fireplaces always have sealed glass fronts that cannot be opened during operation. B vent (natural venting) Goes up through the roof, and is typically only used for open fireplaces or fireplaces that have doors which can be opened. Why the venting is important

• Venting is not universal. Not all fireplaces can be adapted to any venting.

• A new fireplace must almost always be adapted to the venting for the old fireplace. It's usually not possible to replace the existing venting through the building and/or the vent termination on the exterior of the building.

Many low-rise buildings pre 2000 have B venting, which is venting used for open gas fireplaces, up through the roof. Most high rise buildings, and buildings post 2000 use direct venting, through the wall. There is a third venting style which has been used in a few buildings, again, mostly pre 2000, which is power vented. This is a system that uses an inline fan system to push the vent gases out a horizontal termination. There is one unit to replace power vented fireplaces, the Nova from Vanox. If you have existing Direct Venting Venting height is often the most constraining factor in determining which fireplace can be installed in a condo. In most condos it is not possible to replace the exterior vent so the new fireplace must be adapted to the wall vent. It is important to know:

• The size of the venting. We can usually get the sizing if we get the model number of the fireplace from the rating plate which is normally located near the valve.

• Height which the vent goes through the wall. As many of the earlier direct vent fireplaces had a low exit point. As hot air rises, venting cannot slope down.

Below are some links to some direct vent fireplaces that can be adapted to existing venting. The Valor Portrait series is particularly useful because of its size and its low vent exit. In many instances, these are the only options because for the low exterior vent height of many of the older units. [product_category category="condo-blog-replace-direct-vent-valor-portrait" operator="AND" columns="4" orderby="name" order="asc" per_page="60"] Other recommended direct vent fireplaces for retrofitting and adapting to an existing vent termination. This is a partial list. [product_category category="condo-blog-replace-direct-vent" operator="AND" columns="4" orderby="name" order="asc" per_page="60"] If you have existing B venting Because manufacturers have shifted to the new direct vent technology, there are few options available. But trust us, they are great options! Valor Fireplaces has an efficient fireplace insert that can be adapted to B vent. It is available with a rock or log burners and a multiple number of fronts and trims. View the Legend G3. Valor also has a B vent adaptor kit that can allow the following models to be used to replace B vented fireplaces. [product_category category="condo-blog-replace-b-vent" operator="AND" columns="4" orderby="name" order="asc" per_page="60"] Another option which has been made to specifically replace B vented fireplaces in condos is the Nova by Vanox, a clean faced contemporary styled unit. Recently introduced, the Lyra 28 from Vanox is also a suitable option to replace some  Montigo units, click on the link to see details. If you have an existing Wood Burning Fireplace Some condos have open wood burning fireplaces that can be converted to gas. The key to doing this is ascertaining the route in which the gas is brought to the fireplace. This is often done on the exterior of building from the gas meter. To install an efficient sealed gas insert, flexible liners has to be installed through the chimney which requires access to the roof. If this is not possible you can install an open gas log set which, while not efficient, will supply some heat and ease of use as compared to wood. There are many available efficient gas inserts with a variety of burner styles and finishes. In addition to the traditional log set, contemporary rock or glass style open burners are available. FortisBC has extended their rebate program to include residents in strata developments. Click the banner to see which units are eligible.

In design style, the term modern refers to a 1930’s prohibition era architecture and furniture design. This style has roots in the German Bauhaus School of Design, there are very strict rules and guidelines as to what will qualify as modern; typically the term is characterized by:

• polished surfaces
• asymmetry
• bold geometric shapes

In truth, modern fireplaces aren’t really a thing. Unless you want one custom designed by yours truly. If a customer came into our showroom and asked us to direct them to our modern fireplaces, we’ll show them these: Valor Bolero What makes it modern? The Bolero features a strong, geometric polished surface. The design almost resembles a household appliance from the 1930’s. Valor Classic Arch The Classic Arch brings out a prohibition era style with the bold geometric lines. We’re almost getting into the style of chrome highlights with this one, but the simple lines keep this unit modern. We'll also have a little fun and show them these:

(click images for links to manufacturer pages)

What makes the above direct vent lines modern fireplaces? Their simplicity and undefined style. You could call them contemporary, but they have a bit of a retro look. They look so clean and classic, they can fit in with any style of space. Which makes them perfect for those wanting to incorporate a modern style to their living area, and are having a rough time finding a truly modern gas fireplace.   Contact Vancouver Gas Fireplaces for all your indoor and outdoor heating needs, with over 400 products to choose from, we’ll be sure to help you find the unit to suit your home perfectly.

Thinking of sprucing up your outdoor living space? We can help! VGF carries all kinds of outdoor products; including, but not limited to: fire pits, heaters, fireplaces, torches. We have products that will work in a variety of outdoor settings, don't worry if you think your patio is too small, or you don't have enough room for venting - check out our EcoSmart line if those issues are your main concern. Currently, we have roughly 15 outdoor products for viewing in our showroom. Here's a list of our more notable outdoor items: (click the thumbnails to view the product page) Fireplaces

Napoleon Galaxy	Marquis Aurora	EcoSmart Fusion

Fire Pits

Outdoor Great Room Providence	Outdoor Great Room Naples	Marquis Bola

Patio Heaters

Bromic Gas	Bromic Portable	Bromic Electric

Sunglo A270	HPC TK Torch	Travis Tempest Torch

Want to see more? Check out our Outdoor tab to find a product that's right for you.

See-thru fireplaces are a great addition to make to your home. They’re less expensive to install than 2 separate fireplaces because they only need one flue and one set of venting. The more popular installation locations are between dining and living rooms, arguably the most occupied rooms of the home. Other locations include between master bedroom and master bath, kitchen and living room, and between the living room and main entry way. Why should I buy? We already mentioned they’re less expensive than installing two fireplaces, but they’re also going to be less expensive in the long run. With the heating technology of fireplaces these days, you can expect to efficiently heat two rooms with the one fireplace – which will be less money spent on fuel. How should I design? Some homeowners might worry about incorporating a design, maybe they’re wanting a different look for each room. That’s okay! So many fireplaces come with media and liner options that will fit in with any style space – making it easy to transition from a modern chic dining room to a rustic living room.

TC36 See-Thru	Bentley See-Thru	L1 See-Thru	B100

We have two see-thru units available for viewing in our showroom.

4415 see-thru	DaVinci Island

Contact us for more information!

Stuv Fireplaces has been a force in the wood fireplace and stove industry. Recently, they introduced a line of contemporary gas fireplaces, that are fit for a modern lifestyle, with intriguing double burner technology. The technical design of the burners make it possible to turn one burner completely off and still maintain 80% efficiency. Double Burner

Two long burners distributed along the width of the fireplace for a heavy flame presence. Units that feature the double burner are: B95c, B95 3-sided, B100

Double Burner Wood

The front burner stretched across the length of the fireplace, with a shorter one behind that produces tall flames for a realistic wood fireplace effect. Units that feature the double burner are: B60, B80, B100H

The simple design of Stuv fireplaces makes it easy to blend with any style space, with no louvres, or surrounds, you can incorporate your personal touch without having to worry about it clashing with your fireplace. Contact us if you have any questions about Stuv, or other fireplace products.

Vancouver Gas Fireplaces in recognition of the refugee crises is donating $600 USD a month to The Al Salam school in Turkey. The school is located near the Syrian border, and has been set up to school refugee children, both boys and girls, equally. This donation pays directly for one teacher and six children a month. We encourage you to help out. Find out more about the Al Salam school.

You may have noticed the new look of the VGF website. With the amount of visitors on mobile and tablet devices, we thought it was about time to launch a mobile friendly site. Because most fireplaces will come with your choice of log sets, rock sets, or glass media, we decided to do away with the traditional and contemporary tabs – making it easier to navigate our products. We have helpful descriptions if you don’t know what type of product you need. And yes, we kept our contact form – it will appear on every product page, and is available in our contact tab. We hope you enjoy navigating through our new site!

Billed as a large format fireplace, the H6 features tapered sides and a shallow depth for easy installation into a variety of applications. The unit was designed for efficient zone heating, which is harder to do with large format fireplaces. Valor combines looks and efficiency absolutely seamlessly in the H6. And the Valor Comfort Control remote is included so you have more control over your heating. The H6 has a 60% larger fire viewing area than H5 and is complimented by the best in fireplace media, and liner options. The Valor H6 is great for renovations, and new builds; it would be best suited for a larger living area.  

Want to get a head start on replacing your old fireplace? You can start by measuring your current fireplace, to give you more of an idea of which inserts you should be looking at. Most fireplaces will curve in the back, which will make G and H a little bit tricky. For the depth at top of the fireplace, all you have to do is measure, in a straight line, from the face to the back. This will tell us how much of a curve there is and how much room we have to work with. For the back height, measure from the bottom, to where the curve starts. Be sure to contact the VGF team if you need any help, or if you want to know your options for a fireplace insert.