Questions and Answers about
Gas Stoves and Inserts

Ever wondered?

1. How do I know if I need an insert or a fireplace?
2. What is a BTU?
3. How do gas models turn on and off?
4. Do Hampton gas models need electricity to work?
5. How do I control the blower?
6. What is the difference between B vent and Direct Vent?
7. Do I have to vent my gas fireplace up through the roof?
8. Can I burn wood inside my gas model?
9. What if the insert I choose is smaller than the opening in my fireplace?
10. I don't want to tear open my wall to put in a gas fireplace. What are my options?
11. How close to the wall can I install a Hampton gas stove?
12. I don't want to see too much stove pipe inside my home. What are my options?
13. Can I adjust the heat output of Hampton gas models?
14. Can I add accessories later?
15. Can I cook food on Hampton products?

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 that does 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.

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3. How do gas models turn on and off?

There are several ways of controlling your Hampton gas insert, stove or 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 Hampton from the comfort of your couch or lounge chair. The final method is to hook up your Hampton to a wall thermostat, and let it run itself according to the desired room temperature.

4. Do Hampton gas models need electricity to work?

No, they do not. Hampton 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: Hampton models do require AC power for the blower to work, but do not need AC power for the fire).

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5. How do I control the blower?

The blower is controlled by a dial (located on the top left-hand side of the faceplate for inserts, on the control panel for stoves, and in customized locations for fireplaces) 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 Hampton blower will never blow cool air, even if you leave it on after you turn off your appliance. Once the fireplace, stove or insert cools down to a certain temperature, the thermostat will shut off the blower.

6. What is the difference between B vent and Direct Vent?

These terms refer to how a gas appliance takes in the air it needs to burn gas. A B vent unit draws air from inside the home, through ports in the firebox itself. A Direct Vent unit draws air through a pipe from outside the home, into a sealed firebox. Direct Vent models are usually more efficient and safer for today's airtight homes, since they do not use inside air or cause a conflict with range hoods and bathroom fans circulating the same air. B vent units are generally less expensive to install, but are more sensitive to air flow inside the home.

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

No! The beauty of Hampton 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.

8. Can I burn wood inside my gas model?

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

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9. What if the insert I choose is smaller than the opening in my fireplace?

Chances are there will be a gap between the insert and the inside of the fireplace. That is why we offer a range of faceplates designed to cover the gap. The faceplate also houses the on/off switch and fan control, so you don't have to crouch or bend down to operate your insert.

10. 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 a Hampton fireplace directly against the wall, and finish with a beautiful mantel.

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11. How close to the wall can I install a Hampton gas stove?

Depending on the model you choose, you can install as close to 2" from the rear or side wall. This means more space in your room, and less cost for installation. Be sure to check each stove's clearances before deciding.

12. I don't want to see too much stove pipe inside my home. What are my options?

With Hampton, your options are several. First, you can install a rear vent direct vent stove, which vents directly out the back with no vertical pipe whatsoever. If this is not possible, you can minimize the amount of visible pipe with either the 2-foot or 4-foot AstroCap horizontal termination kits for DV stoves. These kits use the minimum required height for our stoves, and then turn 90 degrees to go out your wall instead of up through the ceiling.

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13. Can I adjust the heat output of Hampton gas models?

Yes. Every Hampton 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!  

14. Can I add accessories later?

Yes. You can change the way your fireplace, stove or insert looks any time in the future. Upgrade to enamel finishes, add side shelves, install a set of brick panels, and more. The range of Hampton accessories makes it easy to change the look of your fireplace to match your new décor.

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15. Can I cook food on Hampton products?

The top surfaces of Hampton stoves get hot enough to boil water or keep soup simmering. However, you should never try to cook food on open flames (gas or wood), since you risk damaging the logs or other equipment, and you will void your warranty. You should also never operate your Hampton gas model with the glass removed or the door open.

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