8Dec
Things To Consider Before Purchasing a New Fireplace
A fireplace can bring many benefits to your home. It adds the finishing touches to any living room, and can warm up your home during the colder months. However, not all fireplaces are created equally.
When selecting the right fireplace for your home, many things must be taken into consideration. You may be thinking of safety, cost, maintenance, and appearance, among other factors.
There are three main types of fireplaces: wood, gas, and electric. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks that are relevant to the factors listed above.
Ask the following questions to your fireplace provider to ensure that you get the best experience possible that suits your individual circumstances.
Questions to Ask Yourself Before Investing in a Fireplace
How Much Maintenance Can You Provide?
Some fireplaces require manual maintenance and semi-frequent care, while others require no maintenance at all. Ask yourself if you have the time and ability to clean your fireplace, or replace its parts.
Electric and gas fireplaces typically require less maintenance than a wood fireplace, though many prefer the latter because of its traditional feel.
If you are ever unsure of how to correctly maintain your fireplace, seek assistance from a fireplace professional.
Is Energy Efficiency Important to You?
You may want to choose a fireplace that uses as little energy as possible, while still warming your living space effectively. But which kind is truly the most energy-efficient?
Electric- and gas-powered fireplaces are actually more energy-efficient than you’d think. Sure, electric heating boards are typically expensive to operate. Electric fireplaces, on the other hand, can efficiently warm up a room, since these fireplaces don’t have chimneys that allow heat to escape.
If you have an old fireplace that sky rockets your bills, you may choose to get an insert or upgrade to make your fireplace more energy-efficient.
Read more: Which is More Energy-Efficient – a Gas or Electric Fireplace?
What Is Your Budget?
Each type of fireplace has its own variety of product options that work for different budgets. When purchasing a fireplace, you will need to consider maintenance costs and any additional equipment required, depending on the type of fireplace. Ask your fireplace provider for quotes on each kind, if you are not sure which is right for you.
Questions to Ask Your Fireplace Supplier
Which Should I Go With: Gas, Electric, or Wood?
The most important decision you make is likely which of three main types of fireplaces you choose. Each one has its own benefits, and one may be preferred given your hopes and circumstances. If you have a particular emphasis on a certain quality, ask your provider which type is best for you.
Essentially, here’s how each type works:
- Electric fireplaces do not use real fire or smoke, and do not display real flames. Instead, they are designed to draw in cool air, which is heated internally and released back into the room.
- Gas fireplaces rely on a fuel source that is transmitted through a gas line. Like the electric fireplace, it does not require actual log-burning or fire-lighting.
- Wood fireplaces are the most traditional. They rely on manual woof placement and kindling.
Is Maintenance Necessary or Difficult?
Your provider should be able to answer any questions that pertain to fireplace maintenance.
These questions may include:
- How much time and effort do I need to spend maintaining my fireplace?
- Will I need to purchase any equipment to maintain my fireplace?
- What are the risks or dangers of maintaining my fireplace?
- Should I hire a fireplace care provider to maintain my fireplace?
Read more: End-of-Season Fireplace Heating Tips
How Much Heat Will It Emit?
The size of your living space will determine how much heat you want your fireplace to emit. A fireplace that emits too much heat will overheat a small space, while a less effective fireplace won’t make enough of an impact on a larger living space.
There are two more things to consider regarding emissions. First, you’ll want to know if any heat can escape through the chimney or other types of venting. Second, you’ll want to know what type of heat each fireplace actually emits.
What Model Is Most Energy Efficient?
Choosing an energy-efficient fireplace model can save you plenty of money when your energy bill arrives. Ask your fireplace provider how much energy the model you’re interested in uses.
Read more: Benefits of Adding a Gas Insert into Your Existing Fireplace.
Do You Service Fireplaces, Or Just Install Them?
After you select a fireplace, installation is the first step towards your fireplace becoming part of your home. It’s important to know if your supplier can work on your fireplace down the line, though. This may include maintenance, or installation of inserts, should you choose to select one.
How Long Will My New Fireplace Last?
Most fireplaces last for decades, while some last for generations to come. If your home is a long-term investment, you may be curious about the shelf life of your fireplace. Also don’t forget to ask if your fireplace comes with a warranty.
Do You Have Anything That Goes with My Home Decor?
A fireplace adds a finishing touch on any living room, so why wouldn’t you want to consider its appearance? Ask about décor options, and consider the colour, material, size, and finish of your fireplace.
A fireplace can turn any house into a home. By asking the right questions, you’ll ensure that your fireplace is a great investment that your friends and family will appreciate for a long time.