When you have chosen to go with a gas-fired appliance, and even when you've chosen from a direct vent, vent-free, and B-vent, there is one more set of options to choose from. This final set of options is whether or not you would prefer a fireplace or a stove. The difference is obvious, and it is mostly a matter of personal preference. Do you prefer the look of a fireplace, or do you love the look of a freestanding stove?
Fireplaces have more than just the old-fashioned, set into a wall installation now. You've got installation possibilities of a peninsula (three-sided) or an island (vent-free four-sided). You can have them set high in the wall, making them a feature, or along the floor, allowing you to mount a television above them. Further, gas fireplaces are beginning to trend towards a linear design style, which makes them wider and narrower in height like this Empire Boulevard Direct Vent Linear Gas Fireplace, giving them a more contemporary design appearance. Gas fireplaces also offer the largest collection of fireplace media choices, from logs and fire glass.
With stoves, you have a little more availability to customize the outer appearance of your new gas appliance, with decorative doors, sides, inlays, shelves, and more. Another advantage of stoves over fireplaces is the extra radiant heat the body of the stove provides. While these appliances still closely resemble the wood burning stove that they are modeled from, there are still some modern options to be had.
Be sure to look into all of your options with both fireplaces and stoves to make the best decision for you and your home, as your fireplace or stove will last for many years of enjoyment.
