Removing gas fire

midge406

I’ve just moved to a new home. The gas fire and fireplace look quite cheap and nasty. I’m going to buy a better quality surround and hearth. However. I’m not sure what to do about the gas fire. I don’t need a gas fire and don’t really like the look of them.

What are people’s thoughts on having a fire surround with no actual fire? I thought I could fill the hole with books or a plant.

nofoollikeold

1. You need a Gas Safe Registered engineer to disconnect the gas fire and cap off the pipe supplying gas to it. It should be capped off as close to the meter as is practicable.
2. Once the gas is disconnected you can remove the fire and surround yourself if you want.
3. Unless it is one of the flueless gas fires with no chimney, you will need to blank off the chimney opening. You may need to provide some ventilation for the chimney, but get advice from others, its not my area.
4. I've seen many people use the fire opening for bookshelves / display areas. Done with care they look good to me, but of course this is very much a matter of personal taste.