Best Freestanding Gas Fireplaces – Gas Stove Buyer's Guide

You have your new home, and it’s the one of your dreams, but something is still missing. That fireplace you’ve always wanted is not there yet. Now it’s time to get one, but so many stove types and fireplace options are available that you don’t know which one to choose.

However, few offer the same power and benefits as a gas stove. This popular model is a good addition to any home decor, from the most modern to the most rustic houses—not to mention that gas stoves are highly stylish and safe to use.

In today’s buying guide, we’ll look at gas stoves and why you should consider buying one for your home!

What Are Gas-Burning Stoves?

Stoves come in different sizes and designs, but their fuel systems help differentiate them. There are wood-burning, electric, and natural gas stoves.

As their name suggests, gas stoves use natural gas or propane gas to generate heat. This fuel system makes gas stoves more eco-friendly alternatives to wood fireplaces.

Additionally, gas stoves, unlike traditional wood-burning models, don’t require chimneys for ventilation. They can be vented through walls and roofs, giving them greater flexibility for installation. This means you are not forced to place your stove in a specific part of the house because of venting needs.

Gas stoves come in various designs and can be customized to your home’s specific needs. However, they require a more complex installation process because they must be installed into your home’s gas line. This is why we recommend always hiring an expert when installing one of these models.

How Do Gas Stoves Work?

Gas stoves seal warm air inside an airtight glass door or panel. That's why they provide better energy efficiency since there is no wasted energy.

The heat produced by the stove is then radiated towards the room through the same glass panel. Meanwhile, the waste air is vented through a flue or vent pipe.

Differences Between Gas Stoves and Fireplaces

Gas stoves and gas fireplaces are similar in functionality but different in looks. A gas fireplace is simply a fireplace that uses gas and has that fireplace look that you know and love.

On the other hand, a gas stove has a different feel and design. For example, it doesn’t need to be installed inside a chimney.

Stoves have more customization options, making them excellent for stylish and modern homes. However, you cannot mount your TV on top of a gas stove.

Due to the different installation processes, gas stoves are more affordable than gas fireplaces. However, they have the same heat capacity, durability, and energy efficiency.

In the end, the right option for you will depend on whether you prefer the freestanding design of a stove or the more classical look of a fireplace.

Benefits of Gas Stoves for Your Home

Gas stoves have many benefits and advantages that electric or wood-burning models do not possess. They are durable, safe to use, eco-friendly, and affordable, and they can be adapted into most home spaces.

Here are some of the benefits of gas stoves:

• Gas stoves don’t require electricity or firewood. In many states, gas is cheaper than electricity.
• They come in multiple sizes and designs. Some manufacturers develop customized gas stoves to fit different home styles.
• Gas stoves are easier to clean. They don’t produce soot or ash, so there is no need to worry about cleaning them after every use.
• They burn cleaner, which is better for the environment. This makes gas stoves excellent for eco-conscious homeowners who want to reduce their carbon footprint.
• You can use them even when there are power outages. They are, therefore, ideal for extremely cold places.
• They are relatively easy to install compared to traditional wood-burning stoves. So, the overall cost of getting a gas stove is generally more affordable.
• They allow you to control the heat instantly. Therefore, you can easily customize your gas stove experience.
• Gas stoves occupy less space. Unlike wood-burning stoves, these models don’t need firewood logs, so you don’t have to store them for future use.

Most Common Gas Stove Materials

The material you choose for your gas stove is essential. Your gas stove will have a higher or lower heat capacity depending on your chosen material. Furthermore, it can also influence its safety, aesthetics, and other essential factors.

These are the most common materials used for gas stoves:

Cast Iron

Cast iron is the most popular stove material because of its remarkable properties. This material is durable and elegant, making it a perfect option for homes that combine a rustic style with modernity.

Cast iron also requires less maintenance than other fireplace and stove materials. However, cast iron stoves are more difficult to clean.

Stainless and Heavy-Duty Steel

Stainless and heavy-duty steel are other popular materials we recommend for durable and high-quality gas stoves. They provide longevity, and their luxurious designs perfectly fit most modern and elegant homes. This material is also easier to clean than cast iron, requiring less maintenance.

Ceramic Fiber for the Logs

Gas stoves and fireplaces sometimes come with fake logs. They help create the romantic and magical feeling of a traditional wood-burning fireplace. These logs are usually made of ceramic fiber to emulate real firewood.

Ceramic fiber is the most recommended material for this purpose because of its incredible texture and durability.

Most Popular Types of Gas Stoves

Each gas stove type provides various benefits and drawbacks and is better suited for a different kind of home and homeowner. However, they all are safe to use and beautifully designed to fit most interior home designs.

Freestanding or Traditional Gas Stoves

Traditional gas stoves are usually made of cast iron. However, they can be made of other materials that combine a timeless look with the best possible durability.

The traditional stove has a freestanding design, perfect for modern homes with a classic style. It is also ideal for rustic and farm chic houses, especially for people trying to be more green.

Contemporary Gas Stoves

Contemporary gas stoves have a different look and feel. Unlike traditional models, they are not freestanding stoves and are usually placed in room corners.

They blend into the modern decor as if they were specifically created for the most elegant homes. However, you can also use them in rustic spaces with metal accents and matching furniture.

Modern Gas Stoves

Owning a modern gas stove is all about creating a luxurious atmosphere in your home. It enhances contemporary home decor, whether it is an industrial style or something more subtle.

The best part of one of these stoves is that you can install it anywhere in your home, and it will fit perfectly. It is also designed to be durable and stylish and, above all else, safe to use.

How Much Do Freestanding Gas Fireplace Stoves Cost?

The cost of your freestanding gas stove will depend on its size, design, heat capacity, features, and brand. The more luxurious the stove is, the more expensive it will be.

However, most freestanding gas stoves range between $2,000 and $5,000. The most luxurious models cost slightly more, with a price range between $5,000 and $8,000.

The installation cost of one of these models ranges from $3,000 and $4,500, depending on the state you live in. If labor and materials are higher in your state, installation could be more expensive. However, it is still much cheaper than installing a wood-burning stove, typically costing around $10,000.

Benefits of Freestanding Gas Stoves

Freestanding gas stoves are some of the most popular options because of their benefits. They bring comfort and warmth to your home. Additionally, they are so easy to install that you can have yours running the same day you buy it.

Here are some of the most important benefits of having a freestanding stove:

Warmth, Convenience, and Comfort

Thanks to their heat capacity, freestanding gas stoves can create a welcoming atmosphere. They can establish a warm and magical ambiance filled with that beautiful mood lighting that the flames provide. In other words, you get comfort and convenience in whichever room you choose to install your brand-new freestanding gas stove.

Easy Installation

Installing a freestanding gas stove means minimal renovations. They are built and designed to be easy to install. Therefore, there is no need to break through walls or remove plumbing or wiring, making it a fast and affordable option. This is especially true when compared to wood-burning stoves that require ventilation.

Warmth Even During Power Outages

Freestanding stoves that use natural gas are essential for areas with very low temperatures. If your power goes out, you will still be able to warm up your house. Plus, the fire produced by the gas stove is cleaner than burning wood.

Unique and Advanced Technology

Most newer freestanding gas stove models are designed with your needs in mind. That’s why they’ve developed new technologies that allow you to control and regulate your stove’s heat even from a distance.

Some models even include remote controls to turn the stove on and off. Furthermore, some premium gas stoves have a connectivity feature, which you can use to link your stove to your smartphone. That way, you can control your stove without getting close to its control panel.

Quality, Reliability, and Safety

Freestanding gas stoves are made to last. You don’t have to worry about expensive maintenance or unreliable warranties. Additionally, they are safe for you and your family since these models have fewer fire risks than traditional wood-burning stoves.

Gas stoves don’t produce large amounts of emissions, unlike wood-burning stoves, which could harm kids and pets. Overall, a freestanding gas stove can be the best option for your home, especially if you enjoy superior durability and style.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Gas Stove or Fireplace

Now that you’ve made up your mind and you have chosen to buy a new gas stove, there are some things you should think about. Price range, durability, brand, features, and more can make or break your satisfaction with your brand-new gas stove.

Here’s what you need to consider when buying a new gas stove for your home:

Home Style

The first thing you need to consider before buying anything you will install in your house is your home’s style. Decide whether you are going for a rustic, modern, chic, or traditional style. Then you can start looking for the perfect gas stove to fit your home. Ideally, you’ll purchase a model that will enhance your home’s personality while remaining functional and durable.

Gas stoves are more stylish than wood-burning models, and they are also more customizable. Thanks to this advantage, they are easier to combine with different home interior designs. However, you must keep in mind that they don’t provide the same level of ambiance as wood-burning stoves.

Room Size

The next thing to consider is the overall size of the room where you’ll install your brand-new gas stove. When buying a gas stove or fireplace, make sure to check each model’s BTUs (British Thermal Units).

As a rule, for a 1,000 sq. ft. room, you’ll need an average of 35,000 BTUs. Less energy than that, and you won’t be able to heat the area efficiently.

Since it is vital to determine the right BTUs, most manufacturers will provide some help or a manual. You can contact them if you do not know which model to choose for your room size.

Installation and Maintenance Budget

Gas stoves are cheaper to install than wood-burning stoves or even gas fireplaces. However, they require professional installation and maintenance to prevent fires and other hazards.

You could, theoretically, install a gas stove yourself. Still, we recommend against this unless you have experience with gas lines and similar projects.

You will most likely need to call a professional to perform the installation. As mentioned before, installing one of these models can cost up to $4,500, depending on the project size.

Extra Features

Some gas stove manufacturers include advanced features for controlling the fire using different devices. However, the more advanced features you choose for your gas stove, the more expensive it will be to purchase one.

If you have a tight budget for your gas stove, we always recommend going for an affordable option. It will still provide warmth for your home without breaking the bank.

Durability and Safety

If a tight budget is not a problem for you, the most expensive gas stoves are also usually the most durable ones. That’s because those models often are made of the best materials, as manufacturers spare no expense during production. Due to this increased durability, they are also typically the safest options.

Best Freestanding Gas Fireplace and Stove Brands

With so many gas stoves and fireplaces available, it can be hard to find the perfect one for your home. Now it is time to explore the best gas stoves on the market.

These are the best freestanding gas stove brands available:

True North

True North is one of the industry’s most popular and reliable fireplace and stove manufacturers. Pacific Energy’s True North brand is one of the most trusted gas stoves. It focuses on developing high-quality products at affordable prices without compromising durability or efficiency. 

Every True North appliance is designed for performance, regardless of the price. This includes its wood-burning, pellet, and gas fireplaces and stoves—not to mention it is considered one of the most eco-friendly stove brands on the market.

If you purchase a True North product, you can do no better than the excellent TN24. This great gas stove is a premium model and an all-round reliable stove. It combines power, efficiency, safety, and durability at one of the lowest prices in the industry.

The TN24 has a total BTU input of 24,000, which is ideal for small to medium spaces. It also uses direct-vent technology and a nearly unbeatable micro-mesh glass panel screen to keep your family and pets safe.

IHP Ironstrike

Ironstrike is another popular manufacturer of high-quality and durable freestanding gas, pellet, and wood-burning stoves. Its gas stove models are some of the most luxurious and stylish options available. This means they are also some of the most expensive. However, IHP Ironstrike delivers superior quality, durability, safety, and personality, making these stoves excellent investments.

Here are the two gas stove options IHP Ironstrike offers:

The EPIC Series

The Epic Series is Ironstrike’s most luxurious and stylish gas stove. It mimics the beautiful aesthetic of a wood stove, It also has the ease and safety of a gas model to provide the perfect experience for users. Additionally, it can handle a BTU range between 26,500 and 38,000—ideal for medium to large spaces.

This model enhances modern home interior designs by providing a sense of elegance that few other stoves or fireplaces can match. It is made of heavy-duty stainless steel and integrated cast iron for the best possible durability. Moreover, it offers an exclusive 20-year limited warranty and an on-off remote control kit if necessary.

Serefina

The Serefina Series is Ironstrike’s most affordable option. However, that doesn’t mean it’s a less luxurious or powerful model.

On the contrary, the Serefina is a state-of-the-art freestanding gas stove with a commanding size. It is perfect for setting the mood of any room. Furthermore, it is ideal for those who prefer a more traditional look.

This cast-iron stove comes in different sizes. Each has a different heat capacity, allowing you to choose the right one for your room. The smaller version can heat up to 28,000 BTUs. In contrast, the bigger model can reach 38,500 BTUs.

ENVIRO

With over 30 years of experience, ENVIRO’s fireplaces and stoves have become symbols of quality and excellence. The brand produces luxurious designs and models for every type of fireplace and stove, including high-quality gas options. Suffice it to say that ENVIRO might be the right option if you want elegance in your home.

These are ENVIRO’s most popular gas stoves:

The S40 Freestanding Gas Stove

Thanks to its features, the S40 is one of ENVIRO’s most in-demand gas stoves. With a maximum BTU input of 40,000, this freestanding gas stove is as powerful as it gets.

It can warm up to 2,000 square feet in almost no time. Therefore, it might be the right option if you require heat capacity for long periods.

It features a ceramic log set and burner to create the magical atmosphere of a traditional wood-burning stove. The S40 also has a heavy-duty heat exchanger for superior energy efficiency and easy access to the control panel.

The S20 Freestanding Gas Stove

Another powerful option, and more affordable, is the S20 by ENVIRO. This light version of the S40 can heat a 1,100-sq- ft space in almost no time. This is thanks to its incredible 20,000 BTU max capacity—not to mention that it is thermostat and remote control compatible with a fluted liner.

The S20 has a clear-view safety screen, perfect for protecting small kids and pets. It also offers some of the premium features that the S40 provides. These include easy access to the controllers and a beautiful ceramic log set.

The Westport Steel Gas Stove

The Westport Steel Freestanding Gas Stove is another popular choice by ENVIRO. It has a 30,000 BTU max input, capable of heating 1,700 square feet of space.

Its energy efficiency is over 60% and includes a 150 CFM convection fan for better ventilation. Additionally, it has an LP conversion kit, a thermostat, and remote compatibility.

Like all ENVIRO products, this model is elegant and stylish. It has a ceramic log set that mimics a traditional wood-burning stove. It also includes a battery-powered ignition system, a heavy-duty heat exchanger, and a safety screen.

The Westport Cast-Iron Gas Stove

The Westport Freestanding Gas Stove also comes in an elegant and durable cast-iron model. It has the same heat capacity as the heavy-duty steel version but with a difference.

You can choose between painted black and chestnut color finishes. That way, you can rest assured the stove will fit your home’s specific style.

Similarly to the steel presentation, the Cast-Iron Westport includes premium features like a ceramic log set and thermostat compatibility. You can even add a DV vent kit with a coupler when purchasing this model.

Blaze King

Since 1977, Blaze King has been leading the innovation of gas stoves and fireplaces. It aims to design energy-efficient, eco-friendly, and durable hearth products that you can enjoy at home with your family.

In fact, Blaze King was awarded the first-ever Oregon Department of Environmental Quality wood stove certification. From that moment onward, it has continued creating beautiful, high-quality gas and wood stoves.

These are Blaze King’s most popular gas stoves:

The Clarity Series

The Clarity Series is Blaze King’s most popular gas stove model, including the Clarity 26. This is one of the most reliable and powerful models on the market. It has excellent heat capacity, capable of heating up to 1,600 square feet with a 67% energy efficiency. 

This gas stove feature sand dune rear firebox liners, beautiful black glass firebox floors, powerful burner systems, and almost-impenetrable safety screens. Clarity stoves also come in two colors, cast gray and black, to help you find the perfect match for your home.

HearthStone

HearthStone’s slogan reads “A Heritage of Craftsmanship,” and there’s a good reason for it. For years, its dedication to stove innovation has led the company to create some of the most reliable and high-quality gas and wood-burning stoves.

Today, HearthStone is one of the leading stove manufacturers with eco-friendly designs, overall durability, and a wide selection of stylish models.

These are HearthStone’s most popular gas stoves:

The Bristol

The Bristol is possibly the best-looking cast-iron gas stove in the world. This direct-vent model has a highly advanced pilot system that allows you to easily control the stove’s temperature.

The Bristol has been crafted manually by expert artisans. You will find proof of this in the gas stove’s detailed and intricate cast-iron design.

The Waitsfield

This classic three-sided gas stove by HearthStone is one of the most popular models on the market. It has been copied so many times that we’ve lost count.

However, many competitors fail to duplicate its power efficiency and versatility. The Waitsfield Gas Stove can heat your room in the least amount of time possible using convection heat.

The Stowe

The Stowe Series by HearthStone is a compact and easy-to-use gas stove with the highest quality and reliability. This cast-iron model features a beautiful design offered in three tones: oyster enamel, classic brown, and matte black.

Depending on your preference, you can control this gas stove manually or with its remote control. It also includes HearthStone’s True Efficiency technology. This feature elevates its power through a unique heat exchanger that helps circulate more heat around your home.

Marquis

Marquis is another popular brand with some seriously powerful and stylish gas stoves. This company is known as one of the most luxurious manufacturers in the world, thanks to its premium features and elegant stove designs.

Here are the most popular gas stoves of Marquis:

The Titan Series

The Titan Series is a direct-vent gas stove that provides sealed combustion and excellent versatility. This model can be vented horizontally and vertically, depending on where you install the venting system.

Its dual-burner system also provides a realistic flame pattern. This makes it perfect if you enjoy the atmosphere of a wood-burning stove but prefer the advantages of a gas stove.

The Vantage Series

The Vantage Series of Marquis provides a beautiful view through its incredible multiple-angle design. This contemporary take on one of the classic stove designs adds elegance and warmth to any room. The Vantage stove can enhance your home regardless of its style or personality.

You can choose between different ceramic log sets for better customization and a more realistic flame display. This model also uses superior technology to enable connectivity with Alexa, Google Home, and your smartphone.

Pacific Energy

Pacific Energy has over 40 years of experience in the stove industry. You can tell that’s the case when looking at the brand’s incredible portfolio of products.

The company focuses on designing wood and gas-fueled heating solutions with superior quality, durability, and style. Innovation is Pacific Energy’s primary goal, which led to its incredible gas stove collection. 

The Trenton Freestanding Gas Stove is Pacific Energy’s most popular and reliable model. It is a cast-iron option that combines a traditional design with modern gas technology to provide superior heat capacity and safety.

This model has a maximum BTU input of around 24,000, making it perfect for small to medium-sized spaces. It also has an overall energy efficiency of 74%, so there’s no need to worry about wasted heat. It includes a standard remote control, minimal vertical venting, and an almost-invisible safety screen.

Rais

The high-quality gas stoves of Rais bring classy and elegant Nordic designs to your home. This manufacturer has focused on creating durable, beautiful, and powerful stoves using only the best materials to replicate the Nordic style—and it has succeeded.

Rais has some of the most elegant and popular gas stoves in the country. If you choose a Rais stove for your home, you will quickly find out why!

These are the Rais gas stoves available today:

The Nexo Series

The Nexo Series is the most powerful gas stove from Rais. It is a skilfully crafted model with a minimalistic design and large panels that create an open-fire sensation. Thanks to its user-friendly design and controller system, it is also easy to use and adjust. Additionally, it includes excellent customization options, from color and height to side glass and top plate.

The Q Tee Series

The Rais Q Tee Series is the sleekest, most elegant gas stove design. It is perfect for those urban-twist home interiors that require a powerful heating appliance.

This model has 78%-rated energy efficiency, meaning more power and heat for your home and less wasted energy. It is made of heavy-duty steel and has a beautiful glass door that lets you enjoy its realistic flame display.

Sólas

Sólas is the home of contemporary fireplaces. This famous brand can transform any room into an atmospheric space. The company’s team of experts has developed and crafted beautifully designed stoves and fireplaces with homeowners in mind. Thanks to this, you should be able to find a suitable stove alternative for your home with Sólas.

The most popular Sólas gas stove is the One6 Freestanding model, and there’s a reason for its popularity. This stylish model has a reliable direct-vent design with a classic and timeless look. Therefore, it fits both traditional and modern home decor. Its open style also maximizes your fire view, perfect for mimicking the atmosphere of a wood-burning model.

Still, that’s not everything it offers. The One6 is also made of high-quality reflective porcelain, which makes the fire look even more realistic—not to mention that you can install this gas stove anywhere in your home.

Gas Stove Maintenance

Your gas stove will last for years, especially if you purchase a model from a trusted brand. However, gas stoves can last even longer if you perform the necessary maintenance and take care of them properly.

Keeping your gas stove at its best is essential to keep your home safe and warm. This is especially important during the coldest months of the year.

Here’s what you need to do to maintain your brand-new gas stove properly:

Start the Right Way

The best way to ensure your gas stove will be functional for a long time is to get a professional to perform the installation. Professional installation ensures proper performance, safety, and adequate ventilation, all necessary for a long-lasting gas stove. We recommend contacting a National Fireplace Institute (NFI) expert to do the job right.

Routine Maintenance and Service

Like every other type of fireplace or stove, a gas stove requires professional maintenance and service. A trained technician with fireplace and gas line maintenance experience is the right person to perform this process. They should also fulfill the necessary vent inspection to ensure everything is in order.

Here’s what they need to do:

• Check the gas lines to ensure everything’s in order.
• Clean burners, control compartments, fans, and air circulation passages.
• Check for condensation at least once a year.
• Ensure the vents are unobstructed so that they can do their job.
• If possible, they should also check the batteries in the carbon monoxide detectors.

You can also do some basic tasks yourself to keep your gas stove at its best. For instance, you can keep the glass panels clean and the glowing embers and logs adjusted for a better appearance.

Safety Tips and Precautions

Since gas stoves use natural or propane gas, there is always the risk of leakage. Gas is highly flammable and toxic, so be on alert for odors. If you notice something unusual, contact your local fire department immediately and evacuate your home until someone has inspected it.

Also, warn kids and your family not to touch the glass panel while the stove is working. However, you may have small kids or pets living at home. In that case, we recommend installing safety barriers around the stove. They can keep everyone safe by preventing direct contact with the glass panel.

When to Replace a Gas Stove

The lifespan of a gas stove is between 10 and 15 years, depending on its use, maintenance, and service. With good service, your gas stove could last up to 20 years. However, once you start noticing that the flame isn’t blue anymore, it might be time to get a new one.

The same rule applies if you notice a flickering flame that switches between red and yellow. When that happens, you should try cleaning the grates and burners to see if the problem is the stove itself. After checking correctly, if the problem persists, it is likely time to replace your old gas stove with a new one.

Do Gas Stoves Need Permits?

Depending on where you live, you might need to consider the local codes and regulations for stoves and fireplaces. Some states and counties have stricter rules about the use and installation of these structures. For instance, California has serious regulations regarding wood-burning stoves and fireplaces.

In some states and counties, natural gas and propane stoves require a gas permit and a post-installation inspection. A building permit is required in California if you will add a gas line to your home. So, we recommend verifying with your local permit office before buying and installing a gas stove.

How Expensive Is It to Run a Gas Stove?

We already discussed that gas stoves are more efficient than traditional wood-burning models. However, they are also more expensive.

The main drawback of a gas stove is that it requires a constant supply of natural or propane gas to function. Still, gas is usually cheaper than electricity, depending on your state and its regulations.

Do you live in an area with proper gas pipes in every household? In that case, chances are gas will be cheaper than electricity.

However, getting gas delivered to your home can increase the overall expenses if you don’t have a gas pipe. So, keep that in mind before you choose a stove for your home.

Find the Perfect Gas Stove or Fireplace for Your Home with CAPO Building Specialties

Are you looking for a high-quality gas stove for your home? Look no further than CAPO Building Specialties. We are gas stove dealers with the best and most reliable brands, from True North to IHP Ironstrike. All our gas stoves are made to last for years, requiring minimal maintenance and installation services.

We also provide a reliable warranty. Therefore, you can rest assured that your gas stove is in the right hands if there are any issues or problems. Check out our incredible Gas-Burning Stove Collection and find the perfect option for your home today!