What are the benefits of gas heating? ALEX HODGE, LEAD DESIGNER WITH FIREPLACE MAKER ESCEA, TALKS HEATING WITH GAS

Heat, ambience and beauty at the touch of a button – what’s not to love about gas fireplaces? Gas fireplace design has come a long way and the modern gas fireplace gives you 5-star efficiency, an authentic-looking fuel bed and flame display and a sleek, minimalist look that can be installed in more places than a wood fireplace. They are also affordable to run.

How do you choose the right size of heating appliance for the space?

You want to get a fireplace with the right kilowatts for your space. As a guide, we say you need 1kW of heat per 10 square metres.

If you are building or renovating, what are your key considerations when it comes to heating?

First, look at the star rating: the more, the better. Secondly, go for a glassfronted gas fireplace, not openfronted. Lastly, look at the flue system (chimney). Go for a ‘direct vent system’ as these units use a fan to both bring air from outside into the fire box and expel exhaust back out.

Where can a gas fireplace be installed?

The flues can run up to 40m in any direction, with multiple bends and turns – so the question should be, ‘Where can’t it be installed?’ Multilevel apartments are even possible with new technology.

Can you convert a wood-burning fireplace to a gas fireplace?

Yes. Our smallest model, the DF700 gas fireplace, has smaller dimensions, allowing it to retrofit into existing cavities and replace wood burners. The new flue can run up the chimney and original features can be restored.