Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to Wing Stoves & More question and answer page for stoves and fireplaces, where you can find answers to common inquiries. To get more detailed answers specific to your needs, please contact us. We’re happy to discuss your hearth questions!

Purchasing a Stove or Fireplace

What is the difference between a fireplace and a fireplace insert?

A fireplace and a fireplace insert both add beauty and warmth to your home, but they cater to different needs.

If you already have an old wood-burning fireplace with an existing chimney, an insert is a straightforward retrofit that converts the old space into a new fireplace. On the other hand, if you’re undertaking a major remodel, renovating a home without a current fireplace, or building a new home, a fireplace would be the better choice. Fireplaces provide more flexibility in size and shape compared to gas inserts, which are limited by the dimensions of the existing firebox.

Wing Sales & More offers many options for premium fireplace inserts and  fireplaces for all different heat sources.

Gas fireplaces don’t necessarily require a traditional chimney. There are different types of venting systems depending on the kind of fireplace or stove you are using.

Direct vent systems use a sealed pipe that vents directly outside through a wall or roof, eliminating the need for a traditional chimney. It draws air from outside for combustion and expels exhaust gases outside as well, making it highly efficient and safe.

When choosing a gas fireplace, it’s essential to consider factors like your home’s existing infrastructure and local building codes to determine the best venting option for your needs.

Yes. The burners will remain operational, but accessories like blowers and lights will not. This makes your gas fireplace or insert a great “just-in-case” heating option for homeowners concerned about power outages resulting from winter storms.

While electric fireplaces can provide supplemental heat, they are usually not designed to be the primary heat source for a home. They are most effective in heating small to medium-sized rooms and often used to add ambience and style to a room.

  • Catalytic and Non-catalytic wood burning devices:
    2.0 grams/hour if tested with crib wood and 2.5 grams/hour if tested with cord wood
  • Factory-built fireplaces, masonry heaters: 7.3 grams/kg

Look for a label on the device that lists the emissions. If there is no label, it cannot be used in Washington.

We can help you find a new stove that meets requirements and burns clean and efficiently. You may even qualify for up to $2,000 discounts to change out your old stove. Ask us how!

 

Cleaning & Maintenance

How do I reduce smoke from a wood burning device?

You can get a cleaner burn by following these recommendations:

  1. Burn only dry, untreated wood that has been seasoned for at least 9 months.
  2. Give your fire plenty of air and don’t overload the stove. Small, hot fires burn cleaner.
  3. Keep your chimney clean and free of build-up.
  4. Consider an upgrade. Newer high quality stoves will burn much cleaner and more efficiently.

Ensure that your wood burning stove or fireplace meets emission requirements where you live.

For a wood-burning stove or fireplace, it’s generally recommended to have your chimney cleaned and inspected at least once a year, ideally before the start of the burning season. This annual maintenance helps prevent the buildup of creosote, a highly flammable substance that can accumulate in the chimney and pose a significant fire risk.

If you burn a lot of softwood or have very heavy usage, you may need more frequent cleanings. If you notice any issues such as a smoky smell, difficulty starting a fire, or a visibly darkened or sooty chimney, it’s important to schedule a cleaning sooner. Regular maintenance not only helps to prevent chimney fires but also ensures that your system operates efficiently and safely.

Our chimney sweep services include inspection and cleaning as well as taking care of any necessary repairs or relining of the chimney.

It is recommended that you get an annual service inspection for your stove or fireplace by one of our qualified technicians. We will check for wear or damage, confirm proper setup and calibration, and perform any service necessary to keep your heating system functional and safe. It is better to keep on top of maintenance rather than wait for a bigger problem to arise.

Gas fireplaces don’t necessarily require a traditional chimney. There are different types of venting systems depending on the kind of fireplace or stove you are using.

Direct vent systems use a sealed pipe that vents directly outside through a wall or roof, eliminating the need for a traditional chimney. It draws air from outside for combustion and expels exhaust gases outside as well, making it highly efficient and safe.

When choosing a gas fireplace, it’s essential to consider factors like your home’s existing infrastructure and local building codes to determine the best venting option for your needs.

More questions? We can help!

Give us a call or visit our Spokane showroom. We are happy to discuss any questions you may have and give our expert advise.