Buying a fireplace can initially appear to be a relatively straight forward task – yet an hour’s searching and you may find that finding the perfect focal point for your home is an overwhelming experience. Fear not! We’ve put together a complete guide on how to choose a fireplace, covering everything you need to know to ensure that you find the perfect electric fireplaces that enhances your home and compliments your décor.
Initial Steps For Choosing A Fireplace
- Decide upon your budget: This should be decided before you begin shopping – Fireplaces vary in price, however there are options to suit everyone’s budgets.
- Choose your fuel type: There are many fuel types available, each with advantages and disadvantages.
- Check your chimney. Unless you are planning on making alterations, or installing a chimney it’s important that you pick a fireplace that’s suitable for your current chimney.
Select your design style to match the design of your home. - Measure up your chimney breast and decide upon the size and style Be sure to double check both your measurements to ensure a perfect fit
Fuel Types
Choosing a fuel type is an important step in buying a fireplace, though there are advantages and disadvantages to each, not everyone has access to every fuel source so it’s important that you select a source that suits your lifestyle.
Wood burning fireplaces
Wood burning fireplaces are currently witnessing a resurgence in popularity, adding a natural ambience to any household. Aside from the cosy atmosphere there are many other advantages, many are attracted to wood burning fireplaces for the price benefits as they are conventionally more cost effective than gas or electric counterparts and can also be more environmentally friendly when clean logs or pellets are used. Wood burning fireplaces aren’t for everyone however and some are put off by the need to source and stock wood and the smell of smoke in their homes.
Electric Fireplaces
Electric fireplaces create the effect of a traditional wood burning fireplace but without the need for wood. They are becoming increasingly more popular in modern homes, or apartments as they do not require a gas line or chimney. They are also popular with families, or homes that have pets as they are safer than traditional options. The disadvantages of electric fireplaces are that there are no flames thus they don’t emit as much heat as a wood burning fireplace and can’t be fitted to flat walls as they have a cast iron back, requiring a chimney breast, or false chimney breast to house the fireplace back.
Gas Burning Fireplaces
Like with electric fireplaces, choosing gas as a fuel type means that you don’t have to rely on logs as they supply a constant source of heat and can be controlled simply. As electricity is more expensive than gas they also tend to be a more cost effective way of heating a room, however they are more expensive to install and some modern homes or apartments do not have gas lines or flues. When considering gas as a fuel option you also need to consider what type of flue you have. You will have either Class 1, Class 2 or pre-cast which will determine which fireplace works with your chimney type.
