Introduction to Gas Fireplaces & Gas Fires

The very first gas fire was invented by Sigismund Leoni in 1882, and this crude model used a bunsen burner to provide heat. Improvements were made to such fires in the 1930s, and gas fires had taken on the look familiar to many by 1925. In time, convector gas fires were introduced for the efficient circulation of heat, but in the fifties the gas fire went into decline. This was due to the fact that coal, needed for gas production, became very expensive – however, by 1965 the gas fire and gas fireplace became popular once again, and have remained so ever since.

Today, there are many quality gas fire manufacturers, amongst them Baxi, Cannon and Valor gas fires. There are many styles of gas fire to suit all tastes, from the most traditional to the ultra modern. Living flame gas fires are particularly popular, as they provide the homely, cosy ambience associated with a real log fire. Such technology has advanced considerably, so much so that sometimes it is difficult to tell the difference between a solid fuel and gas fire.

The contemporary family has very high standards, in terms of interior design and home appliances, and the gas fire industry does not disappoint. Sleek plasma gas fires look at home in the flashiest of properties, and families without chimneys (such as those living in some types of new build) can still have a beautiful gas fire in their homes, thanks to the flueless and balanced flue gas fires. These simply need fitting to an outside wall.

Traditional gas fires evoke the same feelings as the roaring log fire, and look at home in any property – although they are usually to be found in period homes. People looking for a contemporary gas fire really are spoilt for choice, and the hole-in-the-wall fire seems to be the most popular choice. This is probably because they free up floor space, look very neat, and do not require a mantel or surround. Instead, such fires feature a trim in modern materials such as stone, marble or stainless steel.