For homeowners who love to see a roaring fire burning in an open fireplace, the sad truth is that traditional wood-burning fireplaces do little to add heat to your home. Open-hearth fireplaces send an estimated 90% of the fire’s heat up your chimney, and lets out your homes heat too. That means that your open-hearth fireplace can actually lower home’s efficiency and increase your home’s heating bills. The good news is you can enjoy a fire — gas or wood burning — in an efficient way that decreases your home’s heating bills and lessens your environmental footprint.
Energy-efficient Gas Fireplaces
When it comes to efficient home heating, gas fireplaces offer the best options. Direct-vent gas fireplaces are closed systems that vent to the outside. One duct pulls cold air from outside to fuel the fire, then the other vent exhausts the fumes and particles generated by the burning fireplace. Direct-vent fireplaces are up to 77% efficient. The most efficient gas fireplace options are ventless fireplaces. These fireplaces burn hot enough that they don’t require outside ventilation, and they keep 99% of the fire’s heat inside. However, these fireplaces do create moisture and other byproducts that can have an impact on your home.
Energy-efficient Wood Fireplaces
Those who love wood-burning fireplaces don’t have to give up on this traditional fuel altogether. EPA-certified wood-burning fireplaces and inserts utilize blowers and converters to increase the heat output and seal the openings. EPA-certified wood-burning fireplaces, inserts and heating stoves are up to 75% efficient. This makes them nearly as efficient a choice as gas fireplaces and heating stoves!
Energy-efficient heating stoves
If you’re looking for energy-efficient fireplace options, Fluesbrothers Chimney Service can help! Our fireplace experts can listen to your home-heating needs and advise you on which type of fireplace or heating stove will best suit you. Talk to us about how important energy efficiency is to you, and we will be able to help you weigh the pros and cons of each type of fireplace and help you find the most energy-efficient choice for your home.