Tips and Advice

A fireplace can completely change the look of a room, but there's more to installing a gas log set than just choosing an attractive model within your budget. With the sheer number of configurable, customizable, and interchangeable options available, the buying process may seem overwhelming. That's why we're here to help you find the perfect log set for your fireplace - and make sure it's installed properly, too.

In previous articles, we've addressed some of the most common questions about electric fireplaces and how to select the right model for your home. Today, we're back with more common questions you may find yourself asking during the buying and installation processes. Without further ado, here are more answers to your electric fireplace questions.

Fireplace remote controls can offer plenty of different features to control your gas fireplace - from simple on/off control to thermostatic, there's no question these remote controls can simplify your favorite appliance. But, because fireplaces go long periods of time without use, getting the remote synced back up with the fireplace can take some effort - hopefully these videos will help!

Think installing a fire feature must be difficult? Think again. Hearth Products Controls has just partnered with the BILT app to help take the guesswork out of fire pit installation. With the new app, using BILT Intelligent Instructions software, HPC is bringing detailed, easy-to-understand instructions to all iOS and Android devices.

Among Rasmussen's most impressive design features is the Valve Vanisher. This ingenious design addresses some of the most common problems associated with gas fireplace ignition systems. This feature hides the black box that contains the electrical components necessary to operate the fireplace, allowing for a more pleasing appearance. The Valve Vanisher also removes the need to off-center or downsize a gas log set to accommodate the control box, which also enhances the appearance of your fireplace. Finally, the Valve Vanisher places the control box in a cooler, safer location within the firebox. This extends the life of the components and decreases the likelihood of the system needing professionally serviced.

Wind guards are designed to complement your fire pit as well as prevent the flame from blowing around excessively or blowing out all together. Wind guards are also used to prevent loose items from getting too close to the flame.

Wood fire pits may be simple to install, but they're not always the best option for those looking to install a fire pit at their home. Many urban developments restrict the use of wood fire pits due to safety concerns (an uncontrolled fire can spread dangerously). Beyond that, wood fire pits require the extra hassle of always having wood on hand to burn. This requires extra storage space, and because the wood is often stored outdoors, you'll often find it's wet and difficult to start a fire.

If you're looking for an impressive contemporary appearance for your fire pit, fire glass makes a perfect media option. This manufactured glass has been treated to withstand the high temperatures found in your fire place or fire pit. This special tempering process means your glass won't burn, ash, crack, or pop when used, resulting in a product capable of lasting indefinitely - even with frequent use.

Propane gas fire pits are becoming more common in residential settings given their convenient design. However, running new gas lines can be prohibitively expensive and require professional installers to ensure a satisfactory outcome. For this reason, many consumers choose to fuel their fire pits using a standard propane tank.

When fall rolls around and the cold weather of winter is looming, it's important for grill owners to be prepared by winterizing your grill. Many of you, I'm sure, are like me and grill year-round, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't also prepare your grill for lower temperatures and nasty weather. Most of us are familiar with how corrosion (rust) can degrade the performance and lifetime of your grill - while high quality materials like 304 stainless steel are very corrosion resistant, that doesn't mean they're impervious to the elements. Not only does moisture stress metals, but grease build-up can create pressure points where corrosion can build and spread.