Gas Fireplace Installation — Find an Installer, Costs & Permits
"Who's going to install this?" is the #1 question people ask before buying a gas fireplace online. Fair question — here's the honest playbook, including what to do if a local dealer gives you attitude about equipment you didn't buy from them.
Yes — buying online + hiring a local installer works
It's how thousands of gas fireplaces get installed every year. You save on the equipment, an installer earns their normal labor rate, and the manufacturer's warranty applies in full — every fireplace we sell is factory-new from an authorized dealer. The key is sequencing: line up your installer BEFORE you order.
Step 1: Find a qualified installer
- NFI-certified specialists — the National Fireplace Institute certifies gas hearth professionals. Search the NFI installer locator by ZIP code.
- Licensed plumbers / gas fitters — for the gas connection; many handle full fireplace installs.
- CSIA chimney professionals — especially for inserts going into existing chimneys.
- Independent hearth installers — many install equipment from any source. If one local dealer declines, the next call usually says yes.
Step 2: The 5-minute call to make BEFORE ordering
Send your installer the model's spec sheet (on every product page) and ask:
- "Can you install this model — and what will the venting route look like in my house?"
- "What should I order with it?" (vent pipe lengths, termination, conversion kit — our configurator prices these instantly, so you can do it together on the phone)
- "Do I need a permit here, and do you pull it?"
- "What's your all-in labor estimate?"
What installation typically costs
| Scenario | Typical range* |
|---|---|
| Insert into existing fireplace (liners up the chimney) | $800 – $1,800 |
| Direct vent, simple through-the-wall vent run | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Direct vent, complex/vertical run or new framing | $2,000 – $3,500+ |
| Vent-free (no vent run; gas line + framing only) | $500 – $1,500 |
| Electric fireplace | $0 DIY (plug-in) – $500 (240V hardwire) |
*Labor + permit ranges vary by region and gas-line work needed. Get a written quote.
Permits & code
Most jurisdictions require a permit for a new gas appliance or vent penetration — your installer normally pulls it. Two things worth knowing: vent-free fireplaces are banned in California and restricted in Massachusetts (details in our vent guide), and inspectors want the installation manual on site — every product page links the model documentation, and we're happy to send PDFs.
If a local dealer refuses to service "internet equipment"
It happens — some dealers only install what they sell. It's a business choice, not a rule. Independent NFI techs, plumbers, and chimney pros install customer-supplied equipment every day. Call the next name on the list, or ask us — we'll help you figure out the right pro type for your install.
Before you order: run your model past your installer, then use the configurator to add the exact venting and accessories they specify — your order arrives complete. Questions? Contact support or call (949) 619-7824, 7 days a week.