Fan the flames of fireplace knowledge
Fireplaces have been featured in homes for centuries. Although their function may have shifted through the years from a necessity that provides light and heat to a device that is more a design focal point, fireplaces are still popular among homeowners.
Providing the cozy comfort and aesthetic appeal that many desire, fireplaces are features individuals may want to add to their homes or upgrade if existing fixtures are showing their age. Before getting started, it's important to realize that fireplaces are not all one and the same. Shopping for a fireplace can be a little confusing, but this guide can help homeowners navigate fireplace installation.
The Spruce says there are four main types of fireplaces: wood-burning, gas, electric, and ethanol. The type of fireplace homeowners choose will affect the initial installation cost, the long-term cost of operation and even the utility of the feature. Better Homes & Gardens says direct-vent gas fireplaces are among the easiest to install. They can be on any exterior wall and will vent directly out the back of the fireplace units. Another advantage of this type of gas fireplace is that it can start with the flip of a switch rather than a match. There also are B-vent gas appliances and ventless units that combust the interior air.
Most people imagine a wood-burning fireplace when they conjure images of a roaring fire. Wood fireplaces offer the crackling sounds of a fire and the smell of burning wood. Wood fireplaces can be expensive and require more extensive installation, particularly because a homeowner needs a space above the fireplace to install a chimney through the roof. In a two-story home, that reality may limit where a fireplace can be installed. A wood fireplace requires a brick or stone firebox to be installed as well. Wood-burning fireplaces also can be dangerous if they are not installed correctly or properly maintained.
Electric fireplaces are easy to install and operate. The Spruce says most electric fireplaces are mounted on the wall and plugged into a standard outlet. Some also are portable and thus can be moved from room to room depending on need. A notable drawback of an electric fireplace for some is that such fixtures do not have a real flame, which some believe adversely affects their aesthetic appeal. Also, electric fireplaces will not be helpful during a power outage and do not produce the same amount of heat as other fireplaces.
Ethanol fireplaces are a relatively new invention that are lightweight and can be moved as needed. Smaller versions can be placed on a tabletop, while others can be built into a wall as permanent fixtures. Again, these produce less heat than other fireplace options, but the fuel required to use them can be more expensive than gas, wood or electricity.
Fireplace installation is best left to a professional. If gas lines need to be routed, fireboxes and chimneys must be built, or proper venting has to be installed, such complex work should be left to those with experience to ensure efficiency and safety.
