The CSA - America Vented Heater Technical Advisory Group met in Cleveland on Dec. 13, 2011 and approved language mandating certified barriers to protect children and other at-risk people from the glass fronts of gas fireplaces. This recommendation for a revised standard now goes to the CSA Z21.50 and Z21.88 committees for their review.

If ultimately approved by the ANSI Board of Standards, a gas fireplace or gas heater must include a certified barrier if the temperature of the glass front can exceed 172 degrees F. The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA) supports this revision and is committed to educating homeowners on safety precautions when using their fireplaces and other home heating products.

"Safety is our first priority, and we want people to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of their fireplaces and stoves, but be reminded that they can get hot," said Jack Goldman, president & CEO of HPBA. "Children are by nature curious and need to be protected from hot surfaces."

In 2007, HPBA developed an internationally-recognized warning symbol for manufacturers and retailers of gas fireplaces and gas heaters to inform homeowners that glass fronts can become extremely hot due to their high efficiency, and precautions should be taken. HPBA also recommends that consumers follow the manufacturer's instructions for the safe use and maintenance of their heating products. To learn more about HPBA's safety guidelines, please visit the website .

Unlike traditional wood burning fireplaces, a direct vent fireplace does not require a chimney ran through the entire home. Instead this type of fireplace only requires that a direct vent be placed on the exterior wall where the fireplace is installed to allow toxic fumes from the natural gas to escape outdoors. This small vent is easily installed by cutting through a small section of the exterior wall.

Direct Vent Fireplace Uses Natural Gas

When you are shopping for a fireplace for your home, you can choose from several different types. You can get a wood burning fireplace, but this will require a chimney. You may choose a direct vent fireplace, and this type will require a natural gas pipe line be run to the fireplace, as well as a direct vent installation. Unless you already have an existing wood burning fireplace, the direct vent type is easier to install. You can select the type of fireplace you desire from Copperfield Chimney Supply .

There are different components and materials which make up the chimney for your gas or wood burning fireplace or stove. Traditional chimneys along the exterior wall of the home are often built out of brick and may or may not have a clay liner. You can get a stainless steel chimney liner when you need a replacement. You can even run chimney pipe inside your existing chimney when you add a fireplace insert or convert the fireplace to a wood stove or gas burning unit.

Chimney Pipe Can Be Used for an Interior Style Chimney

Should you be adding a fireplace to your home and do not already have a chimney, you should look at placing the fireplace in the interior of the home. Modern designs allow for a chimney to be run through the interior of the home using stainless steel chimney pipe, which results in a more efficient burning and heating system. Here at Copperfield Chimney Supply we carry all the items you need for venting as well as fireplaces, stoves and other hearth products and accessories.

There are many advantages of installing gas fireplaces over traditional wood burning fireplaces. One advantage is that gas fireplaces are cleaner burning and do not release particles in the air. Another advantage of installing a gas fireplace is no longer having the need to cut or purchase firewood. This also eliminates the need for storage for your firewood and having to carry bundles of wood into your home. One of the greatest advantages of gas fireplaces is the ability with many models to simply switch it on and off. By being able to simply turn off your fire, you don't have to worry about immediately leaving the room or your home.

Direct Vent Gas Fireplaces

Did you know you can have gas fireplaces installed into your home even if you don't have an existing fireplace or chimney with a direct vent fireplace? Learn more about direct vent gas fireplaces at Copperfield Chimney Supply .

WOLF STEEL LTD., Barrie, ON

A clean face design with an exclusive CRYSTALINE™ ember bed embraces Napoleon's new collection of contemporary fireplaces. The Crystallo™ provides inspiration to create a hearth experience that focuses on warmth, beauty and style. CRYSTALITES™ (lights that accent the crystals from below) can function with or without the flame. Simply irresistible!

Up to 17,000 BTU's

• Top or rear vent design allows for versatile installation options

• Cost saving and environmentally friendly electronic ignition with battery back up

• Convenient on/off switch and built-in adjustable flame/heat control

• Exclusive CRYSTALINE™ ember bed sparkles with modern elegance

• Standard radiant, porcelain reflective panels echo flames and crystal reflections throughout the firebox

• Optional contemporary surrounds are available in three designs and in luxurious pewter and brown finishes

• Optional blower kit with variable speed and thermostatic control

• Optional convenient hand-held remote control

• Approved for bathrooms, bedrooms, bed sitting rooms and mobile homes