BEST gas stoves

Gas stoves run on natural gas and propane, and are very similar in their look to wood-burning stoves. Their viewing window shows flames and logs mimicking a wood fire. That’s a feature that distinguishes them from other gas heaters (like gas wall furnaces). They intend to get the aesthetics and decorative appearance of a wood fire by using carefully designed logs, ambers and flames.

But, on the other hand, new gas stoves are different from popular decorative fireplaces and gas logs. Contrary to these devices, efficient gas stoves have significant heat output and they can be very energy-efficient.

Note: Gas fireplaces are, in technological terms, gas stoves converted to fit within a firebox of a masonry fireplace.

Types of gas stoves

Gas stoves are of two types: vented (top and wall vented) and unvented. Though common and efficient, unvented units are a very controversial option, to say the least. They put obvious indoor air quality concerns and are not supported by organizations like the EPA.

Most efficient gas stove models

New modern gas stoves are typically very efficient and emit very little pollution. Some of the best models have now an efficiency of about 80%-85%, which is very high when compared with ancient models.

The advantages of efficient gas stoves

New efficient gas stoves have the look and the feel of wood fire with less maintenance and without the mess of wood burning. And they are also powerful heating units, able to heat quickly and comfortably a family-room or even an entire home. All depends on the size of the stove - models often come in more than one size - and on the insulation of the building.

Vented gas stoves are easy to install in multiple locations, making them an excellent option for zone heating, that is, to selectively heat certain parts of the house, instead of heating the whole building.

Disadvantages of gas stoves

Wood burning produces harmful pollutants, but ventless gas heating can also contribute to high concentrations of nitrogen dioxide (a toxic gas, very harmful to human) in our homes. Do not underestimate the indoor air quality issue, and the pollutants emitted by wood and gas-burning units. Organizations like the World Health Organization are very critical on non-vented units and wood-burning.

Gas stoves require little maintenance and the installation is easy, but safety is often a concern - mainly in the case of unvented units.

To reduce risks, the installation (of vented models) must be performed by a professional that should also service the unit at least every two years. Venting systems should also be inspected on an annual basis, and the stove must be installed distant enough from drapes, doors or walls (four inches at least).

The prices

The price of unvented gas units is low. Prices below $1,000 are common.

The prices of vented units are two or three times higher.

Venting

New gas stoves can use a gas pipe linked to a chimney (B-venting) or be direct-vented (using the ceiling above the unit or the wall behind it).

See: B-Venting vs. Direct Venting

Features

New efficient gas stoves can include important features like…

- variable speed blowers for better heat circulation;
- adjustable heat output or different outputs (say 30,000 and 40,000 BTUs);
- different flame heights;
- large view windows to provide better fire presentation;
- thermostatic control: to select a desired temperature, to program the stove, to pre-heat a room…