Older homes in Greater Victoria have a lot to offer – they're charming, well-built and often boast unique character that’s hard to find in a modern build.
However, despite their personality and quality, older homes often come with quirks, including drafts, which can stem from poorly sealed doors, walls, attics or outdated windows. Another common, often-overlooked, culprit is older wood-burning fireplaces, especially those no longer used or maintained.
“Older wood-burning fireplaces are a common issue in older homes and can be tricky to work around, but an easy fix is to install an energy-efficient gas fireplace insert,” says Chad Befus, owner of Pacific Fireplaces in Saanich. “Gas fireplaces are a great solution because we not only reduce the drafts during the installation process, but the end result is an extremely efficient heat source that doubles as a cosy, usable feature in your home. These inserts also provide substantially more heat than the original wood fireplaces, and don’t cause the other rooms of the home to drop in temperature.”
A gas fireplace insert is specifically designed to fit into an existing wood fireplace and is vented out through the existing chimney. This approach helps create a tighter seal on older masonry chimneys, effectively eliminating drafts and increasing efficiency. Installation is typically quick and straightforward, often completed in just one day with minimal mess and no damage to the surrounding area.
“Today's gas fireplaces do an excellent job at mimicking the feel and appearance of a traditional wood-burning fire,” Befus explains. “They create a warm, inviting space and provide an alternative heat source during power outages, making them a welcome addition to any home.”
Additional benefits include:
- Energy efficiency: Reduce heat loss and lower energy bills by sealing drafts.
- Supplemental heat source: Keep your home cosy during colder months while reducing reliance on your central heating system.
- Quick and easy installation: Enjoy all the benefits of a gas fireplace with minimal disruption.
- Increased home value: Boost the appeal, functionality and resale value of your home.
For more information or to book a consultation with the experts at Pacific Fireplaces, call 250-544-6789 or email at info@PacificFireplaces.com. Visit the Pacific Fireplaces showroom at 2205 Keating Cross Rd. and find more information online at pacificfireplaces.com. Follow them on Facebook updates, promotions and more!
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