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What is a Direct Vent Fireplace?

direct vent fireplace in living room

Unlike most fireplaces, a direct vent fireplace uses sealed combustion chambers, meaning it utilizes outside air rather than the air from inside your home. This unique styled fireplace escorts cold air through one chamber and releases exhaust through the other, resulting in a highly effective fireplace that maintains warm air within your home.

gas log set inside of a fireplace insert to bring warmth and ambiance without the mess or maintenance

The direct vent fireplace runs on either natural gas or propane and is heavily differentiated from standard  fireplaces with chimneys. Since there is no chimney necessary, the direct vent fireplace can be installed almost anywhere in your home and can be vented through the ceiling or a wall with use of its sealed combustion chamber. When the fireplace is not in use, the sealed combustion system denies any cold air from entering your home, which enhances the fire-burning efficiency. 

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Efficiency

The direct vent fireplace is arguably the most effective fireplace on the market today due to its high energy efficiency and ability to maintain heat. Since the direct vent fireplace obtains a sealed combustion chamber, the heat is able to be longer lasting in comparison to wood-burning fireplaces and lacks the scent of firewood. Since this type of fireplace is gas based, less emissions are produced which leads to cleaner air-quality within your home.

Safety

The direct vent fireplace denies all outside air pollution from entering your home with the use of its sealed air combustion, allowing strictly safe air quality within your home. Since this is not your usual fireplace with a chimney, there is zero risk of experiencing any type of backdraft or outdoor smoke that could potentially enter your home. The direct vent fireplace is the perfect alternative for those wanting a safer and cleaner fireplace within their homes. 

Easy to Use

The direct vent fireplace is very simple to use and requires almost no maintenance when not in use. The fireplace is controlled through a hand-held remote that controls basic functions such as temperature levels and on and off buttons. Other features usually included are automatic turn-off functions  and sensors that constantly monitor temperature levels. 

For More Information and Free Quoting

At New England Hearth & Home, we have a large variety of gas, wood-burning, and electric fireplaces for every home, each with a unique style and a specific budget. Read more about our services to receive a free quote on your next fireplace and submit an online request form or call us at 781-562-0771!

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Can You Install a Fireplace In a Condo or Townhouse?

fireplace installed in a townhouse by new england hearth and home for homeowners looking to install in their condo or shared community home

Fireplaces are desirable in any home, providing warmth, ambiance, and charm. However, if you live in a condo or townhouse, you may wonder if adding a fireplace to your living space is possible

suburban townhouse community

The answer may vary depending on whether you rent or own your unit. When living in a shared community, restrictions or limitations may prevent you from installing a fireplace. Consider the cost and logistics of adding a fireplace to a multi-unit building. Sometimes, you must obtain permission from your homeowner’s association or landlord before modifying your unit. Installing a fireplace is an excellent addition to any home and can transform your space. In this blog, we will discuss the possible options and considerations for adding a fireplace to your condo or townhouse.

To learn more about the benefits of installing a fireplace and how to get a free quote, contact our team at New England Hearth & Home for expert advice.

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Why Do Condos & Townhouses Have Different Renovation Rules?

When you own a condo or townhouse, you are typically part of a homeowner’s association, also known as an HOA. These associations have rules and regulations in place to maintain the aesthetics and function of the community. These rules also help protect the property values of each unit within the building or complex. If you live in a rental unit, your landlord may also have their own set of rules and restrictions for modifications to the unit. These rules can vary from complex to complex and are designed to protect the overall community.

Benefits of Installing a Fireplace in a Condo or Townhouse

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A fireplace can add both aesthetic and functional value to your living space. Some of the top benefits of installing a fireplace in a condo or townhouse include:

  • Increased comfort and warmth during colder months
  • Added ambiance and coziness to your living space
  • Potential cost savings on heating bills
  • Increase in property value

Do You Need Permission to Install a Fireplace in Your Condo or Townhouse?

As mentioned above, checking with your homeowner’s association or landlord before modifying your unit is essential. This includes installing a fireplace. Some associations may have strict fireplace rules and require specific permits or inspections before installation.

Does Installing a Fireplace Require Any Structural Changes?

Depending on the type of fireplace, where you want to install it, and the layout of your unit, there may be some necessary structural changes. For example, if you are installing a wood-burning fireplace, you may need to have a chimney built or installed. This could involve cutting through walls or floors to create space for the chimney. It is essential to consult with a professional contractor before deciding on installation. Gas fireplaces must be attached to a gas line, which may also require some extra work. Contact our team online or at 781-562-0771 to learn more about the process.

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Are Electric Fireplaces Safer for Condos & Townhouses?

Electric fireplaces differ from other models because they do not require a chimney or gas line. This makes them a popular choice for condos and townhouses, as there is no need for structural renovations. Electric fireplaces also do not emit harmful fumes, making them a safer option for units with limited ventilation. They also do not produce real flames, reducing the risk of accidental fires.

electric fireplace
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Get More Information & Request a Free Quote for Fireplaces in Canton, MA & Across the South Shore with New England Hearth & Home

At New England Hearth & Home, we are dedicated to providing high-quality fireplaces for all homes across Canton, Massachusetts, and the South Shore area. With our wide selection of gas, wood-burning, and electric fireplaces, we have something for every style and budget. During our consultation, we can help you determine the best type of fireplace for your home and discuss any necessary structural changes. To learn more about our services and receive a free quote on our products, submit an online request form or call us at 781-562-0771!

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What is the most eco-friendly fireplace insert?

If you’re looking for a fireplace insert for your home this winter, Electric fireplaces are essentially the most eco-friendly unit. While it may not have enough energy to heat your entire home on its own, most are very efficient and don’t use nearly as much energy as a gas or wood fireplace. You’ll also save money and energy compared to using no fireplace at all. 

If you aren’t quite sold on it yet, we’ve laid out some of the benefits of the electric fireplace, including its energy efficiency, heating capabilities, not to mention the great energy it can bring into a room.

Do Electric Fireplaces Produce Carbon Emissions?

Unlike wood or gas inserts, electric fireplaces do not produce any carbon emissions. They are the best source of all electric heaters. The heating process is very different from using natural gas or wood to create a flame, which is why there are no emissions produced by the fireplace. Electric fireplaces rely on electrical elements known as resistors to generate heat, producing none of the harmful carbon monoxide that some fossil fuels emit when burned incompletely.

How Fuel Efficient Are Electric Fireplaces?

Electric units run as efficiently as any other kind of electric heater, and they don’t require venting like a wood fireplace does either. In addition, some units can have their energy consumption precisely adjusted to provide just as much heat as you want, unlike with gas or wood fireplaces that have a set supply of heat. As long as you don’t set your thermostat to its maximum setting, it’s possible to save money every month.

Can Electric Fireplaces Save You Money?

An electric fireplace can help you save money on your energy bills by taking the place of other heating sources in your house. An electric fireplace can actually reduce your heating costs by 20-40% in total. They are especially useful for areas where you don’t want to use gas or wood and they allow you to turn off the furnace until they need supplementary heating (like at night). Our most popular models can even be programmed to come on at certain times – they include built-in timers – so they only run when necessary and thus increase your savings further! In addition to its direct benefit by reducing carbon footprint, an electric fireplace can lower your energy bill because it requires less overall heat to be effective in warming a space than a natural gas or wood fireplace does.

Find Your Next Fireplace Insert

With all of this information in mind, we understand many still prefer a more traditional wood or gas stove. However if you do use wood/gas and you’re looking to make a change in order to help the environment, we definitely suggest switching to electric. Regardless of the type of fireplace you’re looking for, give us a call at 781-562-0771 or contact us here for more information.

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What to Do When You Haven’t Used Your Fireplace in a While

brick chimney

If you just moved into a new house or decide to try the fireplace that hasn’t been touched in years, it’s a good idea to have it inspected and cleaned. You may wonder, why? It’s because fireplaces and chimneys serve as a ventilation system for your home. Even furnaces rely on chimneys to circulate fresh air. It takes carbon monoxide and brings it through the chimney to outside. If you don’t get your chimney inspected every year to check for issues, your home’s ventilation may not be up to code.

Checking For Animals

Smaller outdoor animals like squirrels, birds, and raccoons love using chimneys as a form of shelter. They end up building nests in chimneys made out of leaves, dirt, twigs, and branches – which are all flammable materials. They also may leave behind droppings which can cause bad odor in your chimney and fireplace. Before starting up a fire, make sure your chimney is clear of animals and their homes.

Musty Smells

Musty smells coming from your fireplace can mean there is a moisture issue within your chimney. If you think something may have passed away in your chimney, you’re probably right. That happens often, especially when animals have made homes up there. Make sure to not start a fire in your fireplace until the animal has been removed. Burning it will not make the smell go away.

Fireplace That Has Never Been Used

Even if you have a fireplace that you know has never been used, the right way to go about starting your first fireplace fire is to have it inspected prior. Homeowners there before you, environmental wear and tear, and outdoor creatures are still factors that could have changed the way your fireplace will function. The freezing winter temperatures can also take a toll on your chimney and how it holds up.

What Happens During A Fireplace Inspection

A simple and common chimney inspection includes a chimney sweep looking for damage, obstructions, soot, and creosote buildup, using a flashlight. If it is in need of being swept, they’ll use brushes, a vacuum, and extension poles to do so. If you just bought the house, or experienced harsh weather conditions, the inspection will continue on the roof, in the attic, and crawl spaces. They can use video scanning and other tools to determine the damage of the chimney.

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New England Hearth & Home wants to make sure you use your fireplace safely. Give us a call at 781-562-0071 or fill out our contact form. We look forward to taking care of your fireplace needs!

Frequently Asked Questions About Fireplaces:

How can I get rid of unpleasant odors coming from my fireplace?

Although a fireplace can add tranquility to your home, this can be interrupted by obnoxious fumes. Common practices to eliminate these odors include; spraying a fireplace deodorant, using charcoal to absorb the smell, placing an air purifier near the fireplace, and calling a professional for further inspection and potential repair.

What is the best way to start a fireplace?

When lighting a fireplace, there are two methods more widely used than others. The Log Cabin Method is performed by placing two rows of parallel logs on top of each other to form a simple log cabin-like structure. Layers can continue to be added, allowing for a bigger fire with more to feed on. The other option is the Top-Down Method. Instead of using rows of two parallel logs, this method involves organizing the wood by size, placing the larger pieces at the bottom of the pile. This approach is more commonly recommended and can be much more efficient than the Log Cabin method.

How does my gas fireplace get ventilation?

Fireplaces are able to release smoke and other toxins in exchange for fresh air by using a direct-vent system. This involves connecting your chimney to the air from outside, rather than the circulated air from indoors. As cool air rushes through a pipe that opens up to the outdoors, an inner chamber forces out toxins and exhaust.

Is it expensive to get my fireplace inspected?

As long as there aren’t unforeseen challenges or damage to your chimney, the average cost of an inspection is between $300-$600. Usually, the cost for cleaning services is included in this price as well. If there is anything that needs to be replaced or repaired, costs tend to add up quickly. By taking proper care of your fireplace, you can decrease the cost to maintain it and increase its longevity.

What is a safety pilot?

Most gas fireplaces contain a small flame, called the pilot light, that is constantly burning to allow for easy ignition. When this light flame starts to burn too hot or is blown out, the pilot valve will automatically close all the other valves in the system, stopping gas from entering.

Is it safe to shut off my fireplace pilot light during the summer?

Yes, it is safe to turn your fireplace’s pilot light off in the warmer months. By doing so, you can conserve energy usage and costs.

How do I know if my fireplace is ready to be used?

A fireplace is safe to use when it is able to ignite instantly, the presenting flame is blue in color, and all exhaust and fumes are able to be vented out properly.  It is almost a smart idea to thoroughly examine your fireplace for any damages, cracks, or hazards. You should never light your fireplace if you do not have a working and accessible fire extinguisher nearby.

Is it safe to hang a TV above my fireplace?

Although it can be aesthetically pleasing, mounting a TV on the wall above your fireplace can be very dangerous and is advised against. It is recommended that TVs are placed in an area that is 100 degrees Fahrenheit or cooler, or the risk for damage sharply increases.

Who can I call for to inspect my fireplace?

The only way to guarantee that your fireplace is safe to be lit is to call a professional for a full inspection. New England Hearth and Home is a team of experts who can help you with any questions or assistance you may need for your fireplace. Call us today at (781) 562-0771, or come to our store in Canton, MA.