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Fireplace Advice as You Begin Your Search
Wood Burning
Installation Costs
If you choose a masonry fireplace your installation costs will
be higher due to labor and the higher cost of stone or brick.
Manufactured units are faster and easier to install. Ensure a
safe and reliable installation by using a certified professional
installer. In addition to assessing the construction of your
home, he will obtain the necessary building permits and make
sure that the installation meets all local and state codes.
Operating Costs
Wood burning fireplaces can be the most inefficient unless steps
are taken to increase efficiency. Two newer, high-efficiency
fireplaces, Clean Burning and EPA-certified (to burn less than
7.5 grams of particulates per hour), are more technologically
advanced and offer a substantial amount of heat. See our Wood
Burning Fireplaces page for more details. Click here to see a
chart of costs to burn various types of fuel based on the amount
of heat they generate. See our link for the Univ. of Neb. site
showing BTU ratings of various woods. These fireplaces are also
good choices in areas with frequent power outages, or where the
cost of home heating is an issue.
Care and Maintenance
Guard against creosote build up by burning harder, seasoned
woods and monitoring your flue. The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue
Association (HPBA) recommends that fireplaces and chimneys be
inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a chimney sweep
certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America.
Wood burning fireplaces require constant cleaning of ashes and
hauling wood. Possible smoke stains on the exterior face if
drafting problems develop.
Natural & Propane Gas
Installation Costs
The prices of these fireplaces can range from $600-$2,000 or
more depending on size, style, manufacturer and where you
purchase. Then add installation and delivery costs.
A gas fireplace can be installed almost anywhere in the home as
long as natural gas or propane is available. Always use the
services of the most experienced and qualified technician you
can find. Licensed plumbers or HVAC technicians are the only
ones qualified to run gas lines. Check your
local area
requirements. Installation can occur along an outside wall or in
the middle of a room. Zero clearance construction makes this
possible because very little space is needed between the unit
and combustible materials.
Operating Costs
Gas fireplaces are generally cheaper and more efficient than
wood burning fireplaces. There are many variables in determining
the actual costs, such as location of your home, how air tight
it is, the size of your room and the cost of gas in your area.
Liquid propane gas contains 2,500 BTU's per cubic foot, natural
gas contains 1000 BTU's per cubic foot.
Care and Maintenance
Gas fireplaces are clean burning and require little maintenance.
The HPBA recommends an annual inspection by a qualified
professional who can inspect the burner, fan, venting, pilot
light and thermostat and even clean the glass. Alternately,
check with your owner's manual for instructions for cleaning
glass doors. Typical glass cleaners are not as effective as
products specifically made to clean the stains on the inside of
fireplace doors.
The HPBA also recommends an annual inspection by a chimney sweep
certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America.
Electric
Installation Costs
No real installation costs unless you need to run wiring for an
outlet where you want to place this fireplace. The perfect
choice for a small office, apartment or where ever you cannot
have a flue. .
Operating Costs
Costs will depend on your electric rate from your provider.
Most units use approx. 1400 Watts.
Care and Maintenance
Virtually care free. Allows "fire" in the summer by turning off
the heating element.
About the author:
Harold Wagner is a National Fireplace Institute Certified
technician for Wood Burning and Gas Fireplaces and has been in
the industry for over 15 years. Let his experience and expertise
guide your search for the perfect fireplace or stove. Fireplaces
Now.com has been in business since 1981 with an internet
presence since 1997. Our sales staff is here to serve you 24
hours a day, 7 days a week. Call toll free, 1-877-669-4669.
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