Can you supply more info? Do you already have a fireplace and you are planning to install an insert into it (which is what an insert is)? Or, are you planning to build a complete fireplace using a vented gas fireplace? Maybe include a picture of where you are planning on installing the insert? Maybe you can create your own project board on Houzz and put a link to it here so we don't take up too much space on this board. Or, you can email all that info to gregt@hansenwholesale.com and I can answer your questions more directly.

I bought a house with a fireplace but I'm converting it into gas. So I need an insert. Photo attached. Thanks

The answer to your question really depends on if you are referring to an actual gas fireplace insert or a gas log, because some people will call a gas log a gas insert. A fireplace insert has a gas burner system and logs that is encased in a metal box that usually has a sealed glass front. This entire metal box gets inserted into your fireplace, which is why it is called it an insert. To properly install an insert, venting needs to be run up the chimney and a vent cap needs to be installed. so by the time you buy the insert, pay for the liner and have it all installed, it can easily cost you $5000 or more. Gas fireplace inserts are heat efficient, but they are not necessarily be best choice for converting a wood burning fireplace to gas.

Gas Logs are a more popular choice and will cost much less than an insert, anywhere from $300 to $1200 depending on the type of burner system and controls you choose. Plus, most people can install a gas log themselves, whereas installing an insert can cost you over $500 just in labor if you reline the chimney. Gas logs will provide a much more enjoyable and realistic looking fire because you do not have to put a metal box inside your fireplace that shrinks down the size and closes it off. A gas log does not require relining the chimney and can be burned in your open fireplace just like a real wood burning fire.

Gas logs come in two different types: Vented and Ventless. Vented gas logs must be burned with the damper open because they produce a natural looking flame that produces smoke just like a real wood fire. Ventless gas logs burn the gas cleanly and can be burned with the damper closed, so a ventless gas log will be a bit less realistic, but it will provide as much or more heat than most gas fireplace inserts at a fraction of the cost. You can read more about Vented -vs- Ventless gas logs here.

I took the liberty of using photoshop to create an example of how your fireplace would look with a vented gas log installed:

If you have more questions about gas logs, please post back here or email me at the address below.

Answer provided by:

Greg Tillotson
Webmaster for Hansen Wholesale
http://www.hansenwholesale.com
1-800-201-1193
gregt@hansenwholesale.com

P.S. I could not determine from your photo whether there was already a gas line installed in the fireplace. If not, the cost to run a gas line can be all over the place depending on your situation. That is a cost that will be the same whether you choose a gas log or an insert.

I have a gas line ready for installation. He is waiting for me to pick out the insert.

I will need the insert and the logs.