My parent's are planning to build a new house in Colorado. We have always lived in the Houston area so fireplaces are all show and not much function.

They really don't want a wood fireplace because of the hassle, smoke, etc and would prefer a gas one. Everyone that already lives there tells them they are crazy to consider gas. They have found many new gas units that appear to be VERY efficient and probably better than wood.

Do any of you who live in the Northern climates have a take on this? More than likely they won't be spending more than a few weeks a year in the house during the winter but depending on how they like it that could change....

Thank you...........