|
Choosing a fireplace is a complex decision. Learn about pros and cons of each fuel type in order to choose the best fireplace for your family and residence.
Pros
 Cleaner than wood
Easier than wood - simply flip a switch
More flexibility in installation
More control over heat output and flame height
Can be used to supplement the furnace to heat home, reduce heating bills
Energy-saving IntelliFire ignition system
Cons
Doesn't create the same smell and sound as a wood fireplace
Can't tend to the fire
Pros
Can be installed virtually anywhere in the house
Air-tight construction eliminates air quality concerns in home
Maintains indoor air quality
Many direct vent products are efficient enough to be listed as furnaces
Eliminates the need for a chimney and chase - less expensive installation
More flexibility in installation such as under windows or as a room divider
Instant ambiance with the touch of a button
More authentic look due to sealed combustion chamber, allows for flame-out-of-logs
100% of combustion air comes from outside the home and 100% of the exhaust is expelled outside the home - direct vents do not interfere with indoor air quality - doesn't use already heated room air for combustion air
Cons
No "direct" access to the flames due to sealed combustion fireplace
Pros
Ease and convenience of gas fireplaces
Cons
Potential backdraft of combustion gases depending on home's indoor air pressure
Uses already heated room air as combustion air
Less efficient than direct vent units
Pros
Less involved installation
Potential to be installed in many places, BUT must follow room sizing requirements (typical unvented fireplace requires 96' x 20' room)
Very efficient in burning of gas, but uses heated room air for combustion
Cons
Air quality issues/health concerns
Typical sizing guidelines for an average fireplace size (30,000 BTU's) require a 96' x 20' room size - or 1,920 sq. ft. to safely accommodate unvented products
Illegal in many states and municipalities
A typical (unvented) natural gas stove or fireplace releases a gallon of water vapor every 2 to 3 hours of operation - potentially causing mildew issues*
May require more service to ensure dust, pet hair, and other chemicals are not interfering with the unit
For safety reasons cannot be run for extended periods of time
Requires permanent fixed opening to the outside for proper room ventilation
Pros
Instant ambience
Utilizes existing masonry fireplace
Ideal for warmer climates where extra heat is unnecessary
Current technology allows better logs and flames than in past
Burns clean
Easy to use
No ashes to clean
Cons
Less efficient use of fuel vs. fireplace
Little or no heating capability
Opportunity for products of combustion to enter home in negative pressure situation
Relatively expensive to operate vs. gas fireplace or insert
Pros
Aesthetics of the fire - smell, crackling sound, glow
The experience of chopping wood and actually building a fire
Firewood is more readily available in some areas
Can be used to supplement the furnace to heat home, reduce heating bills
Cons
Cleaning the fireplace, hauling ashes, sooting
Cost of wood is greater than gas in most areas and is rising
Requires a chimney, chase, footings, etc.
May cause odors and particulates in the air
Requires continuous maintenance to keep fire burning
Peaks and valleys in heat output
Pros
Clean burning
Allows extended burn times
Can be mixed 50/50 with corn
Easy to store
Pellets are readily available, found in most hardware stores
Some pellet appliances are self-lighting and run off a room thermostat
Cons
Pellet appliances are usually more expensive than wood
Consumers can't get "free" pellets like they can wood
Pellet appliances require electricity to operate
Pellet appliances historically require the most service and maintenance
Pros
Easiest fireplace product to install - just plug it in
Portable
Convenient
Can be "installed" by anyone, no training required
Ideal for apartments, condominiums, lobbies, etc.
Cons
Not as realistic looking
Lower heat output
|
){kind=link}