Modern Fireplaces: Upgrading traditional Fireplaces
Traditional fireplaces and stoves are inefficient, unhealthy and environmentally negative.
They heat little and are a source of wood smoke, which contains gases and particles that are a cause of bronchitis or respiratory problems such as asthma.
Fortunately, today's market is offering a new generation of fireplaces, incorporating a new and much cleaner technology.
Modern factory-built fireplaces
You may get the beauty of a traditional fireplace and also efficiency and a healthy indoor air acquiring an advanced factory-built fireplace.
Modern fireplaces are engineered pre-built units, subject to rigorous testing by national and international organizations. These fireplaces include advanced combustion systems, heat exchangers and tight-fitting ceramic glass doors. They may also include options as duct kits to distribute warm air to rooms.
With them you can also get the warmth of fireplaces, and the romanticism you may associate to traditional wood fireplaces.
Upgrading traditional fireplaces
To upgrade your traditional fireplace, and get energy savings, consider certified fireplace inserts and certified hearth-mount stoves and wood masonry heaters.
Modern fireplaces
The firebox and the heat exchanger of advanced pre-built fireplaces are surrounded by an insulated sheet-metal casing, to avoid overheating the surrounding spaces.
This also means that the enclosure can be surrounded with tile, brick or whatever you want in order to create a modern or a traditional style. Typically, new systems don't demand any new or specific foundation or reinforcement.
Modern Fireplace fuels
Wood is the traditional fuel, and new advanced fireplaces may use it with exceptional efficiency. But most of the new installed fireplaces (around 70%) and inserts use gas. Pellet fireplace inserts, a newcomer in the market, are also an excellent option.
Chimney, footing and supports
Advanced pre-built fireplaces may use a lightweight steel chimney, and do not require additional footings or structural supports.
Fireplace inserts may use existing chimneys, though small modifications or a flue liner are usually necessary. Obviously, the vent-free propane and natural gas (or electric) fireplaces do not demand a chimney.
Where to install the fireplace
Advanced pre-built fireplaces have much fewer limitations in their location than ancient site-built fireplaces; they can be installed in multiple suitable places, and not necessarily only in living rooms.
Modern fireplaces can be installed without problems near wood farming.
Brick, stone, marble, lumber, drywall and other facing materials can be combined to suit your decor. The sides and the rear of the fireplace can be safely surrounded by these materials.
Installation issues
Modern pre-built fireplaces installation is a complex task that should be accomplished by trained professionals. Installation, location and issues like the chimney and ventilation aren't a do-it-yourself job.
Prices
Modern factory-built fireplaces are relatively inexpensive. Simpler fireplaces may cost you something between $1,000 and $2,000, though more sophisticated fireplaces may cost you the double (or significantly more, for custom-designed and luxury fireplaces). Additional options involving special materials, heat-circulating blowers, accessories and tools, etc., will also increase the final price.
Sizes and types
Factory-built modern fireplaces are available in a reasonable number of sizes. They basically depend on your needs and on your heating system and goals.
They can be open on one, two, three or four sides. The two side models are usually corner models, and are termed "see-though"; the three-open side models are known as "peninsula", while the four sides open fireplaces are often called "oasis".
Safety, efficiency and certification
Pre-built fireplaces are submitted to the certification and the severe tests of organizations like CSA International, EPA, UL or the American Gas Association. These organizations and their certification are a guarantee of efficiency and safety.
Local Space heating
Advanced combustion fireplaces are a very effective way of heating your living room (or any other room). The heated air is directed into the room through a grille typically placed above the fireplace opening or through ducts.
Central and multi-space heating using fireplaces
A single advanced fireplace may provide most or all the heating needs of well insulated buildings.