How Do I Know What Type Of Decorative Fireplace Is Right For My House
Posted on 09. Jan, 2009 by designandfashion in Styling Tips
A fireplace design is a precious addition to any home. They are perfect for providing some comfort during cold winter days and nights but better than that, they are fun. A fireplace design gives off feelings of camaraderie and love along with their warmth. No one can deny how nice it is to gather with friends or family in front of a fireplace design sharing stories and laughter. When you think of a fireplace design, you may have pictures in your head images of the old built in type with a brick chimney up the side of the house. Today that is not the case, you can discover fireplaces of all shapes and sizes that are portable and use a variety of fuel.
Overall most fireplaces are either gas or wood burning varieties although there are some that use electricity. A fireplace surround: can be a fancy and ornate part of your home living room or den ; however, they can also be subtly functional pieces that hold the firebox. Choosing a great fireplace hearth: will make your fireplace design a central piece and are very easy to put in. Conventional fireplaces, while attractive , are not the most energy efficient and if you are not knowledgeable about their proper use can actually pose both a health and physical hazard .
Optional “fireplaces” and heat sources:
In the 70s and 80s electric fireplaces were new on the scene and were pitiful cheap looking things with painfully obvious fake fire scenes. With new technology has come the ability to create electric fireplace heaters that look so real it takes a close inspection to tell the difference. Of course, they will not have the same crackling, smoky ambiance of a conventional fireplace design but they are much more portable and efficient. The fact is many electric fireplace heaters generate enough heat to warm a 400 sq ft room. In addition, you have the choice of hundreds of styles, colors, and mantel types. There is a portable fireplace to fit any style or need.
An alternative to the electric fireplace is the gel; these are new and actually burn with real fire. The fuel required for these is a gel like substance that is odorless , non-toxic and environmentally friendly. These fireplaces all meet the EPA standards of cleanliness, without using wood or gas . One canister of gel is enough fuel to burn at 3,000 BTU’s for up to three hours, this is not as energy efficient as an electric fireplace heaters but they are nice for heating a localized small area Many gel fireplace owners simply burn two canisters at once, increasing the BTU emission and therefore promoting even more warmth over a larger area. This will increase the BTUs and allow you to heat a larger area. Even though they are less cost effective than an electric fireplace heaters, they are perfect for the person who wants to keep the romantic quality that comes with a conventional type fireplace and all without any possible consequences of wood smoke.
One of the most widely used alternative fuels today is propane. Propane is a highly refined product that is left over from the processing of crude oil and natural gas. As fireplaces go, propane fueled one burns much hotter than any other type. Compared to a wood burning fireplace they have less pollutants as well. Next to gel or indoor electric fireplace, propane is a lot less expensive, however they emit more pollutants than these two do. Carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide are common pollutants of a propane fireplace. If you want the most “traditional” genuine-flame fireplace, while still doing your part to help preserve the environment and your health, look no further than propane fireplaces.
A fireplace design is not only a wonderful addition they can actually increase the value of your home. With all the different kinds of fireplaces and mantels available, you will find one that meets all your needs perfectly. Then you and your family can enjoy the warmth for years on end.
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