A gas log heater is an investment that will heat your home and provide a warm and attractive centerpiece for you living space for years to come.
There are few home heating solutions that match gas log heaters in terms of safety, energy efficiency, aesthetic appeal and value for money, but it pays to take the time to research all the options to find the perfect fit for your living space and your budget.
Let’s take a look at some of the key things you should consider before making your final decision.
Grand design – Fireplace in living room and table
Freestanding or Inbuilt?
This is one of the most important choices you will make when choosing a gas log heater and your final decision will likely hinge on a number of factors. Your available space, whether you have an existing fireplace and your own personal preferences will all come into play as you weigh the pros and cons.
As freestanding heaters take up more space and emit more heat, they are often a more suitable option for larger living areas. They can also create an attractive traditional look in your home.
If you are short on space and/or have an existing fireplace, inbuilt is often the best way to go. Keep in mind that installing any stove in an existing fireplace can significantly cut down on costs as you will not have to install a new chimney or flue.
Choose Your Budget
Once you have made your decision on freestanding or inbuilt it is time to set your budget. Try to leave yourself a little bit of wiggle room here if possible and keep a keen eye out for discounts and special offers. In general, your budget will depend on the size of the area you want to heat and what features you would like in your gas log heater.
Low-price Gas Log Heaters – $2,000 to $4,000
It’s important to remember that lower price doesn’t mean lower quality. Most of the top manufacturers offer more affordable models in attractive designs that will last you for years. While cheaper models are often smaller in size and designed to heat smaller spaces, they still pack plenty of punch and many can easily heat the living space in the average Australian home. While gas log heaters in the sub-$4,000 range may not have all the bells and whistles of the more expensive models, there are some excellent options on the market.
Top pick: Rinnai Slimfire 252 Black
Mid-price Gas Log Heaters – $4,000 to $6,000
If you are looking for a little more from your gas log heater, whether in terms of heating ability or features, you may want to explore the mid-price range. Many of the better freestanding models also come within this price range. With the ability to heat up to 200 square metres, mid-range gas log heaters are perfect if you are looking to heat a large open plan area or, indeed, an entire home. They are also no slouches when it comes to extra features, with remote control and random flame options available in many models at this price level.
Top pick: Coonara Grange Royal Classic or Coonara Grange Royal Freestanding
High-end Gas Log Heaters – $6,000 to $8,000
Offering the best of both worlds, high-end heaters combine oodles of warmth with cutting-edge features and the very best in energy efficiency technology. Standard features include thermostatic control, child locks, timers, dual heat features, remote control and plenty more. With widths up to 1300mm, top range models can provide a spectacular centrepiece to any home.
Top pick: Rinnai 950X
The prices above do not include installation costs so be sure to factor these into your final budget.
Things to Consider When Buying a Gas Log Heater
By now you should have a pretty clear idea of the right type of gas log heater for your home, but here are a few things you should keep in mind before making your final decision:
Buy to Fit – Carefully measure the amount of space you will need to heat. Larger models generally cost more to buy and are more expensive to run, so be sure to buy a model that matches your living space.
Energy Efficiency – Most modern gas log heaters deliver excellent fuel efficiency but there is no harm in checking the exact specifications. Compare all models you have in mind and try to get an idea of monthly running costs for each. It could save you quite a bit of money in the long run.
Maintenance – One of the greatest benefits of gas log heaters is that you get the warmth and ambiance of a real flame fire at the touch of a button with no need for clearing out ashes. They do, however, require regular maintenance. Make sure you know exactly what is required and what it costs to keep your heater shipshape and running efficiently for years to come.
At Barbecue Bazaar we have an extensive range of gas log heaters and the know-how to guide you through the buying process. Contact us today or drop into our Cannington or Balcatta outlets to find the perfect gas log heater for your home.
