Outdoor Gas Fireplaces from Escea

Outdoor Living: How do you choose whether an outdoor gas fireplace or outdoor wood fireplace is the match for you?

Outdoor entertaining is such an integral part to our Kiwi culture; sunny days extending into long evenings with friends and family. However, when the sun goes down and the chill starts to creep, we don't like to cut our nights short by rushing inside. Outdoor fireplaces warm and comfort us during our evenings outdoors, provide a gathering point and create soothing atmosphere. However, how do you know what type of outdoor fireplace is the match for you?

Let's compare the two most common forms of outdoor heating: Outdoor Gas vs Outdoor Wood.

Outdoor Gas

escea outdoor gas fire

Gas is the cleanest burning fossil fuel available, making it the most environmentally friendly burning fuel as it produces fewer emissions than other options. In fact, in some places around the world, outdoor wood fires in residential areas must comply with restrictions and regulations due to the amount of pollution they produce - so check with your local city council.

Gas is also a safe burning flame. They don't spit sparks or produce hot embers, which makes them easy to contain and a safer option for families. You don't need to worry about carrying around the smell of the wood fire all week long or inhaling too much smoke.

Igniting and cleaning the fireplace is a breeze. With a gas fireplace it's all about stressing less. You can ignite the fireplace with a push of button and then just as simply switch it off. No wood = no mess. That's really fuss-free flame.

The cons: a cost for the installation of gas lines from the gas meter to the fireplace (Natural Gas) or upkeep of gas bottles. Note: The cost of installing gas lines from the gas meter to the gas fireplace is dependent on the gas fitter and may vary (Natural Gas).

NZ Tip: Did you know The Gas Hub offers a free natural gas connection if there is gas in the street? You can find out more information on their website here: http://www.thegashub.co.nz/

Overall:

Clean burning.
Safe & Containable.
Clean hair & clothes (they won't smell).
Easy & convenient operation and ignition.
Fuss free.
Cost required for gas bottles or Natural Gas connections.
Free Natural Gas connection from Gas Hub if there is gas in your street.

Outdoor Wood Fireplace

outdoor wood fireplace

It's undeniable that wood fires are known for their natural charm and authenticity. A wood fire is romantic, alluring and comforting. It's the whole package with a wood fireplace: the smell is generates, the sound it resonates and the ambience it creates.

An outdoor wood fire is a cheaper option than gas as you don't need to lay gas lines or constantly fuel your gas bottles. So if this is a main concern, a wood fireplace is the way to go.

You can also get an outdoor wood fire which comes with a cooking plate. This is ideal for evening entertaining and it also means you don't have to worry about maintaing both a BBQ and a wood fireplace. Lastly, the smokey infused food is to die for.

The cons: effort required for maintenance and cleaning; removal and disposing of ashes; restrictions and regulations in residential areas due to smoke generated.

Overall:

Romantic.
Authentic.
Cooking capability.
Wood costs often lower than gas.
Maintenance and cleaning required.
Restrictions and regulations for air pollution.

At the end of the day, we have an innate attraction towards flame so both options provide the charm unique to a fire. What you need to consider is the other benefits or non-benefits that come a long with it.