5 Step Guide for Choosing a Fireplace

If you’re shopping for a new fireplace, there’s most likely a specific reason that sparked your search. Whether it be for style purposes to update the room, for additional heat, upgraded efficiency, etc., the reason for the fireplace will have an impact on which fireplace will best suit your needs. Think about your “why” and start there. Use the following steps to help make the next few decisions. 

Type of Fireplace

Next, understanding what type of fireplace to get is key. Will you need a fireplace insert, stove, or new built in fireplace? If you have an existing hearth, you’ll be looking to purchase a fireplace insert to place inside. Inserts are a great option, providing several benefits including improved indoor air quality, a potential decrease in your heating bill, and an upgraded appearance in your room. If you’re building a new home or installing a fireplace where there isn’t already one built in, you’ll be looking for a new fireplace. With direct vent technology, it makes it easy to install a fireplace in almost any room. There are also many styles available to suit your  taste: modern, contemporary, traditional, or classic. Or, it you prefer a stand-up style fireplace, you’ll want to limit your search to stoves. These are available in wood, gas or pellet, and can be customized to fit your style. A stove provides powerful heat and typically have great efficiency.

Fuel

Choosing which type of fuel you’ll burn in your fireplace is the next step. You can pick between gas, wood, electric or pellet, depending on which style you selected. Natural gas is a good choice if you want an easy, low maintenance fireplace that can be adjusted with the push of a button on your remote control. It is also the cleanest burning fossil fuel. However, if you prefer the traditional crackling sound of a fireplace to cozy up to, wood is also a great choice since it is a renewable resource. It will just require a bit more manual work. Pellets give the best of both worlds if you want the convenience of a gas fireplace, but want a renewable fuel. Pellets are small pieces that produce heat and flame when burned. Lastly, electric is a good option if you want the aesthetic benefits of a fireplace, but are not necessarily looking for high heat efficiency. These can be a particularly good option in warmer climate homes.

Measurements

You’ll now need to think about the room in which you’re installing it, and what sort of space you have to work with. If you’re going with an insert, you’ll need to know the size of the opening in your existing masonry. Or if you’re installing a new fireplace, you’ll want to take measurements of the room and wall space you have to work with.

Where to Buy From

When purchasing a fireplace, it’s always best to purchase from an authorized fireplace dealer. While it may seem convenient to buy from a local “big box” store, there’s a good possibility that the quality will be compromised. Buying from used product websites is also risky, as safety is crucial when it comes to your fireplace, and you never know what you’ll get from one of those sites. By visiting your local authorized dealer, you’ll have the opportunity to speak with a fireplace expert and get recommendations on which fireplaces will best suit your needs.

Contact New England Hearth & Home

If you’re starting your search for a new fireplace, whether it be for an existing structure or new installation, contact the experts here at New England Hearth & Home or stop by our showroom. Our team can point you in the right direction and assist you from the initial purchase, to installation and future maintenance.