Over 63 Years of Gas Insert Installation
Bowie’s Source for Gas Fireplace Installation
There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a fire on a cold Maryland evening. The soft flicker of flames, the steady heat—it’s the heart of a home. It creates a cozy ambiance to come home to after an afternoon at the Piney Orchard Ice Arena or a morning latte at Bitty & Beau’s Coffee. However, if your old gas fireplace struggles to light or no longer produces enough heat, that comfort quickly fades.
When this happens, you can rely on the team at Belair for assistance. We offer gas fireplace insert installation and replacement in Bowie, Crofton, and Annapolis. And, since 1962, have installed thousands of them. Whether you’re upgrading from an older gas log setup or ready to replace a failing fireplace insert, we’re here to help you find the perfect fit.
Why Homeowners Choose Belair for Gas Fireplace Installation
For over 63 years, Belair Engineering and Service Company, Inc. has brought comfort, craftsmanship, and care to homes throughout Prince George's County. We’re proud to be a second-generation, woman-owned and -managed fireplace company. And that longevity is built on a reputation for trust and results. Every job, from AC repair to fireplace installation, reflects our commitment to doing things right the first time.
Belair can help with installing a new gas fireplace, converting a wood-burning fireplace to gas, troubleshooting and repairing issues with a gas fireplace, and installing or replacing a gas fireplace insert.
When you choose Belair, you get a partner who guides you through the entire process, from selecting the right fireplace design, insert, and accessories, to completing the permit and post-installation inspection. Owner Debbie Risher often speaks directly with homeowners about their fireplace options, ensuring every project meets our standards for safety, performance, and design.
Here’s why we’re a top choice for gas fireplace retrofit installation and service in Bowie:
- Experience You Can Feel
- We’ve been serving Prince George's County since 1962, earning a reputation for quality work that stands the test of time. Our decades in the business mean your gas fireplace insert is installed by a team that understands local codes, older home layouts, and the details that make your system last.
- Licensed and Insured
- Every gas fireplace retrofit installation we complete is fully permitted, inspected, and compliant with Maryland’s strict safety standards. This protects you from future issues and ensures your new fireplace runs safely, efficiently, and without code concerns.
- Proven Integrity
- Our reputation is built on trust and accountability, not sales pressure. Every installation is backed by written satisfaction guarantees and hundreds of verified five-star reviews across Prince George's County. This gives you complete confidence in the team working inside your home in Crofton and Bowie.
- Professional Technicians
- Each member of our installation team is factory-trained, background-checked, and certified for gas line and venting work. They treat your home with care, taking time to keep the work area clean and walk you through operating your new fireplace.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Fireplace Insert in Bowie
A gas fireplace insert is the safest and most efficient way to enjoy your fireplace. It contains combustion safely and returns heated air to your home instead of drawing your home’s conditioned indoor air up the flue. In time, all fireplace inserts will need attention. If you’ve noticed these signs, it may be time to replace your gas fireplace insert in Bowie or Annapolis:
- Uneven Flame or Strange Odor
- Flickering flames, soot buildup, or unusual smells can indicate burner or venting issues. Left unaddressed, these problems can lead to poor combustion and reduced air quality inside your home.
- Cloudy Glass or Weak Heat Output
- When the viewing glass fogs or your fireplace no longer puts out steady heat, internal components may be worn or corroded. These problems reduce efficiency.
- Pilot Light Problems
- As gas inserts age, worn thermocouples or corroded burners can cause ignition delays—issues our technicians see frequently in older homes around Bowie. This often leads to pilot light problems. A new insert eliminates constant relighting and ensures safe, dependable performance.
- Outdated Design
- Modern gas inserts are more efficient, beautiful, and safer than older models. Upgrading your fireplace not only lowers energy costs but also enhances the style and value of your home.
- Failed Inspection
- If a recent safety check revealed cracked logs, damaged burners, or poor venting, it’s time for a replacement. A new insert brings your fireplace back into compliance, allowing you to enjoy warmth with confidence and peace of mind.
Why Gas Fireplace Installation Should Be Left to the Pros
It might seem easy enough to swap an old gas fireplace for a new one. But in reality, this isn’t a DIY-friendly job.
Installing a gas fireplace takes precision, care, and a clear understanding of safety standards. Every unit involves live gas lines, ventilation, and electrical components that must be handled correctly from the start. You also must have proper venting clearance to pass inspection in .
That’s not something your average homeowner can calculate, however handy.
At Belair, our licensed technicians are trained to handle every connection and safety check with the level of detail that has defined our reputation for more than 63 years.
Attempting a do-it-yourself fireplace installation can lead to serious hazards like gas leaks, carbon monoxide buildup, or fire risks. Even a small mistake during hookup or venting can compromise your family’s safety and void your manufacturer's warranty.
Professional installation ensures that your new gas fireplace insert operates safely and efficiently. It also lets you pass inspection on the first time. So, skip the DIY attempts and just call 888.823.5247. It might cost more, but what it’ll save you in peace of mind far outweighs monetary value.
Our Gas Fireplace Installation Process in Bowie
Great fireplace installation in Bowie starts long before the first tool comes out.
At Belair, we take time to plan every detail, from permits to product selection. Our process has been refined over decades to protect your home, meet Maryland codes, and make the experience as smooth as possible. Here’s a breakdown of what it takes to get a new fireplace from idea to reality:
- Consultation and Estimate We start with an in-home visit to assess your space, discuss design options, and recommend the best gas fireplace insert replacement for your home. This step ensures your new fireplace complements your home’s layout and meets your heating goals.
- Permitting and Scheduling Our team handles all necessary permits and coordinates the installation date around your schedule. This ensures your project stays compliant with Maryland safety regulations while minimizing disruption to your routine.
- Professional Fireplace Installation Certified technicians remove the old unit, connect your new insert, and perform safety and venting checks. Their attention to detail means your fireplace will run efficiently from day one.
- Final Inspection and Walkthrough Once your installation passes inspection, we will go over it with you. We’ll also verify gas pressure, leak test its joint, and optimize your fireplace’s venting. This includes everything from operation to maintenance tips, so you can confidently enjoy your new fireplace.
If you’ve been searching for “gas fireplace installation near me,” our team makes the process simple from the first visit to the final inspection.
Upgrade to the Fireplace Your Home Deserves
For more than 63 years, Belair has kept Maryland homes warm, efficient, and comfortable. From gas fireplace insert replacements to full heating and plumbing services, we’re proud to bring craftsmanship and care to every job in Prince George's County.
Whether you’re replacing a failing fireplace insert or are simply ready to upgrade to a new model, we’re here to help. And, since we’ve been open since 1962, you know our skills are unmatched. Take a look at our photo gallery to see recent installations or read our customer reviews to hear what your neighbors are saying.
Frequently Asked Questions - Gas Fireplace Installation
How long does gas fireplace installation take?
Most gas fireplace insert installations in Bowie and Crofton are completed in a single day. Typically, it’s done in under four hours. Our hearthside experts arrive with everything needed to remove your old unit, connect the new insert, and perform final safety checks. Because we handle all permitting and inspection details in advance, your project won’t encounter unnecessary delays.
Do I need a permit for a new gas fireplace insert?
Yes, Maryland law requires a permit and final inspection for any gas fireplace installation or replacement. However, Crofton, Bowie, and Annapolis may have different requirements than the state. This inspection ensures your system is appropriately vented and safe to use. When you choose Belair for fireplace service, we handle every step for you.
What fireplace brands do you install or service?
We install and service all major gas fireplace brands, including Napoleon, Empire, Montigo, Superior, and Sierra Flame. Our technicians are trained to diagnose issues, replace parts, and retrofit inserts for most models still in use. If you have an older system, we’ll help determine compatibility with modern inserts or suggest the best replacement option for your home.
Can you replace my existing gas logs with an insert?
Absolutely. Gas fireplace inserts are designed to fit within existing wood-burning or gas log fireplaces, transforming them into efficient, clean-burning heat sources. We’ll inspect your setup, confirm compatibility, and install an insert that blends seamlessly with your home’s existing structure.
How often should my gas fireplace in Bowie be serviced?
We recommend scheduling fireplace service annually. During that visit, our team will inspect your pilot assembly, clean the glass, and test the sensors to keep everything operating safely. Regular maintenance prevents buildup and helps your fireplace run efficiently in Bowie, Crofton, and Annapolis.
Is a gas fireplace more efficient than a wood-burning one?
Yes, modern gas fireplace inserts can convert up to 80% of their fuel into usable heat. Most wood fireplaces lose significant warmth through the chimney. Gas units are also cleaner, producing fewer emissions and less mess. That means more consistent comfort and lower maintenance costs for your home.
Can I use my gas fireplace during a power outage?
Yes. Many gas fireplace models come equipped with a standing pilot light or battery backup, allowing them to operate even when the power goes out. This makes them a reliable source of warmth when a blizzard knocks out your power in Crofton and Bowie. If backup operation is important to you, our team can recommend models that provide this feature.
Do you offer financing for fireplace installation in Bowie?
We do. Through our partnership with Synchrony, Belair offers flexible financing with promotional options and convenient monthly payments. This makes it easier to invest in a safe, efficient gas fireplace insert without putting off the comfort your home deserves.
Are your fireplace installations guaranteed?
Yes. Every gas fireplace installation comes with our Satisfaction Guarantee, which protects your investment and your comfort. If the fireplace doesn’t perform as promised or you’re not satisfied with the workmanship, Belair will make it right. No exceptions.