Most gas or wood fireplaces that have been designed to operate "open" will not work properly with the doors closed, and in doing so, you may run the risk of melting the valve. The real benefit of having doors is to keep the warm room air from going up the chimney when the fireplace is off.

There are several exterior gas fireplaces on the market which do not require venting off the top or rear of the unit; they simply vent out the front. However for the best flame effect, install a zero-clearance wood-burning fireplace complete with venting, or a full masonry fireplace, and install a gas log set.

Drywall is considered a combustible. Check the specification of the fireplace you are installing for clearance to combustibles. Note too that drywall finishes will often crack in higher heat situations.

Most fireplaces can have a wired or remote control unit installed with a timer feature.

Fireplace components, like most other manufactured products, are generally not universal or interchangeable; especially finishing items such as trims and log sets, which distinguish one manufacturer from another.

Many direct vent fireplace manufacturers make their own vent systems. Their units are only approved with these systems.

In the case of sealed direct vent fireplaces, it is important that the size and placement of the rocks remain approximately the same as recommended by the manufacturer. As long as these criteria are met, the rocks can be replaced with other ceramic rocks of slightly different sizes and colors. With open units, more drastic changes can be made. 

When setting up a service call, make sure that the technician specializes in the servicing of gas fireplaces and is familiar with your model. There are differences between furnaces, hot water heaters and fireplaces.

Historically, most gas fireplaces have operated with standing pilots, much like many furnaces and hot water heaters. Retrofitting existing units with electronic ignitions would require replacement of the valve and pilot system. With most fireplaces, this is not possible due to design restrictions.

Most manufacturers recommend servicing your fireplace once a year. However, if you use your fireplace often and as a primary or strong secondary heat source, we would suggest following the manufacturer’s recommendations. On the other hand, if you do not use your fireplace that often, servicing once every two or three years should suffice. A good tip for maintaining your fireplace is to open up the access to the control area and carefully vacuum and clean it out. These areas can be great dust collectors. If not cleaned out, the dust buildup can eventually affect your fireplace.