Questions and Answers about
Gas Stoves and Inserts

Ever wondered?

1. How do I know if I need an insert or a fireplace?
2. What is a BTU?
3. How do gas models turn on and off?
4. Do Excalibur gas models need electricity to work?
5. How do I control the blower?
6. Do I have to vent my gas fireplace up through the roof?
7. Can I burn wood inside my gas model?
8. I don't want to tear open my wall to put in a gas fireplace. What are my options?
9. Can I adjust the heat output of Excalibur gas models?
10. Can I add accessories later?

1. How do I know if I need an insert or a fireplace?

If you already have a brick or stone fireplace, or a factory-built fireplace, and you want to convert it to gas, then the most cost-effective solution is an insert. If you are remodeling a part of your home that never had any kind of built-in structure, then you need a Direct Vent fireplace like the Excalibur models that do not require an existing opening or chimney.

2. What is a BTU?

A BTU (British Thermal Unit) refers to the heating power of a gas appliance as measured by the amount of energy it produces in one hour. Technically, it is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. Here's what you really need to know: On average, 10,000 BTU can heat up approximately 500 square feet, depending on floor plan, windows, ceiling height, etc.

3. How do gas models turn on and off?

There are several ways of controlling your Excalibur gas fireplace. The standard method is with the on/off switch that comes standard with every unit. Another method is to have your dealer install a remote control, which allows you to operate your Excalibur from the comfort of your couch or lounge chair. The final method is to hook up your Excalibur to a wall thermostat, and let it run itself according to the desired room temperature.

4. Do Excalibur gas models need electricity to work?

No, they do not. Excalibur uses a standing pilot ignition system, just like a gas water heater. This system operates with a pilot light so there is always a flame to ignite the gas. The pilot light also generates the power needed to operate the valve, so that if the pilot light gets blown out accidentally, the valve shuts off and the gas flow stops. The pilot light feature makes operation both easy and safe. (Note: Excalibur models do require AC power for the blower to work, but do not need AC power for the fire).

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5. How do I control the blower?

The blower is controlled by a dial (located on the control panel in the drop down bottom louver) which turns the blower on and off and allows you to adjust its speed. In addition to the switch, the blower is hooked up to a thermostat, so that it only operates within a predetermined temperature range. The advantage is that the Excalibur blower will never blow cool air, even if you leave it on after you turn off your appliance. Once the fireplace cools down to a certain temperature, the thermostat will shut off the blower.

6. Do I have to vent my gas fireplace up through the roof?

No! The beauty of Excalibur Direct Vent technology is that you do not necessarily need to go up through your roof to terminate the venting. All you need is proximity to an outside wall, the distance to which depends on the model you choose. Not only does this make installation more flexible, but it also keeps the costs down. And with our sleek and attractive patented AstroCap horizontal termination cap, you won't be cluttering up the outside of your home either.

7. Can I burn wood inside my gas model?

Gas models are engineered specifically to burn gas, and cannot be used to burn wood.

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8. I don't want to tear open my wall to put in a gas fireplace. What are my options?

You will need to cut two holes for the fireplace, one for the vent pipe and another for the gas pipe. However, you can install an Excalibur fireplace directly against the wall, and then use one of our custom mantel cabinets to finish the job (See the section on Instant Fireplaces for more detail). Excalibur mantel cabinets are the easy solution to quick and economical installation needs.

9. Can I adjust the heat output of Excalibur gas models?

Yes. Every Excalibur gas model is equipped with a valve adjustment that allows you to turn down the heat output by up to 50%, providing you with a wide range of heat for a wide range of temperature conditions. So if you want to enjoy your fireplace in the middle of the summer, simply turn down to valve so that you won't overheat your room!  

10. Can I add accessories later?

Yes. You can change the way your fireplace looks any time in the future. Upgrade to gold or steel accents, add a screen door, install a set of brick panels, and more. The range of Excalibur accessories makes it easy to change the look of your fireplace to match your new décor.

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