1. How do I know if I need an insert or a fireplace?

If you already have a brick or stone fireplace, or a factory-built fireplace, and you want to convert it to gas, then the most cost-effective solution is an insert. If you are remodeling a part of your home that never had any kind of built-in structure, then you need a Direct Vent fireplace like the Excalibur models that do not require an existing opening or chimney.

2. What is a BTU?

A BTU (British Thermal Unit) refers to the heating power of a gas appliance as measured by the amount of energy it produces in one hour. Technically, it is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. Here's what you really need to know: On average, 10,000 BTU can heat up approximately 500 square feet, depending on floor plan, windows, ceiling height, etc.

3. How do gas models turn on and off?

There are several ways of controlling your Excalibur gas fireplace. The standard method is with the on/off switch that comes standard with every unit. Another method is to have your dealer install a remote control, which allows you to operate your Excalibur from the comfort of your couch or lounge chair. The final method is to hook up your Excalibur to a wall thermostat, and let it run itself according to the desired room temperature.

4. Do Excalibur gas models need electricity to work?

No, they do not. Excalibur uses a standing pilot ignition system, just like a gas water heater. This system operates with a pilot light so there is always a flame to ignite the gas. The pilot light also generates the power needed to operate the valve, so that if the pilot light gets blown out accidentally, the valve shuts off and the gas flow stops. The pilot light feature makes operation both easy and safe. (Note: Excalibur models do require AC power for the blower to work, but do not need AC power for the fire).

5. How do I control the blower?

The blower is controlled by a dial (located on the control panel in the drop down bottom louver) which turns the blower on and off and allows you to adjust its speed. In addition to the switch, the blower is hooked up to a thermostat, so that it only operates within a predetermined temperature range. The advantage is that the Excalibur blower will never blow cool air, even if you leave it on after you turn off your appliance. Once the fireplace cools down to a certain temperature, the thermostat will shut off the blower.

6. Do I have to vent my gas fireplace up through the roof?

No! The beauty of Excalibur Direct Vent technology is that you do not necessarily need to go up through your roof to terminate the venting. All you need is proximity to an outside wall, the distance to which depends on the model you choose. Not only does this make installation more flexible, but it also keeps the costs down. And with our sleek and attractive patented AstroCap horizontal termination cap, you won't be cluttering up the outside of your home either.

7. Can I burn wood inside my gas model?

Gas models are engineered specifically to burn gas, and cannot be used to burn wood.

8. I don't want to tear open my wall to put in a gas fireplace. What are my options?

You will need to cut two holes for the fireplace, one for the vent pipe and another for the gas pipe. However, you can install an Excalibur fireplace directly against the wall, and then use one of our custom mantel cabinets to finish the job (See the section on Instant Fireplaces for more detail). Excalibur mantel cabinets are the easy solution to quick and economical installation needs.

9. Can I adjust the heat output of Excalibur gas models?

Yes. Every Excalibur gas model is equipped with a valve adjustment that allows you to turn down the heat output by up to 50%, providing you with a wide range of heat for a wide range of temperature conditions. So if you want to enjoy your fireplace in the middle of the summer, simply turn down to valve so that you won't overheat your room!  

10. Can I add accessories later?

Yes. You can change the way your fireplace looks any time in the future. Upgrade to gold or steel accents, add a screen door, install a set of brick panels, and more. The range of Excalibur accessories makes it easy to change the look of your fireplace to match your new décor.

Questions and Answers about
Woodburning Fireplaces

 

1. What does "EPA certified" mean?

An EPA certified appliance complies with strict emissions and efficiency regulations designed to reduce pollution and control energy costs. In an increasing number of jurisdictions, only EPA certified units are allowed to be installed. The EPA certification is your guarantee that the stove you are buying will burn cleanly and efficiently, reducing your heating costs and protecting the air we breathe. Non-certified appliances are less efficient and more expensive to operate in the long run. Every Excalibur wood model is EPA certified.

2. How are EPA certified appliances different?

EPA certified appliances must meet strict emissions guidelines. In order to do so, they incorporate advanced combustion technology designed to reduce pollution. There are two types of technology currently in use: catalytic converters and secondary combustion.

3. What is the difference between catalytic converters and secondary combustion?

A catalytic converter is a device through which wood smoke is channeled. It lowers the combustion temperature of the gases, allowing them to be consumed at lower firing. Secondary combustion mixes air with the exhaust gases, causing them to re-ignite and burn before going up the chimney.

4. Which is better?

Catalytic converters burn more cleanly, but they need to be replaced after a certain number of hours of operation, and they can cost in excess of $150. Excalibur uses secondary combustion to achieve almost the same low levels of emissions, and our system is guaranteed for as long as you own the appliance. Secondary combustion systems require less maintenance and are more heavy-duty than catalytic converters.

5. Do I need an ash drawer?

Ash drawers make cleanup a lot easier and safer. Instead of scooping out the ashes after every fire, simply dump them into the drawer, and empty the drawer every few weeks. The drawer comes with a lid to prevent the ashes from flying out while they are being taken outside.

6. Will the glass door stay clean?

Every Excalibur model is designed with a unique airwash system that forces cool air in front of the glass to keep the flames and exhaust away. This keeps your door looking clean and transparent a lot longer. Over the course of a winter, or if you underfire your appliance, you might need to clean the glass. This is easily done with fireplace glass cleaner, available at your local hearth shop.

7. Do I need a blower?

Blowers are an excellent way to spread the heat from your appliance throughout your home more quickly. They do not affect the combustion rate of the fire, since they move air around the outside of the firebox. If you are trying to heat a large room or several rooms, a blower is highly recommended.