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What Is the Energy Property Tax Credit for Installing a Wood-Burning Stove?

In Massachusetts, residents can receive a state income tax credit for installing a wood-burning stove as an energy-efficient heating source. This tax credit is part of the Energy Property Tax Credit program, which aims to encourage homeowners to use renewable energy sources. At New England Hearth & Home in Canton, MA, we have a variety of wood models in our showroom that are eligible for this tax credit, allowing you to save money while making your home a cozy retreat. In this blog, we will discuss this tax credit, how to apply for it, what models are available, and how New England Hearth & Home can help.

calculating tax credit for installing a wood-burning fireplace stove in massachusetts
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What Is the Energy Property Tax Credit in Massachusetts?

The Energy Property Tax Credit is a state income tax credit available to Massachusetts residents to purchase and install certain energy-efficient home heating systems. This includes wood-burning stoves, which are considered a renewable source of energy because they use wood as fuel instead of fossil fuels, such as oil or gas. Homeowners can receive a credit when they purchase and install a wood stove in their primary residence.

How Much Tax Credit Can You Receive for Installing a Wood-Burning Fireplace or Stove?

The amount of the tax credit depends on the cost of the wood stove and installation. Residents can receive up to a 30% tax credit and up to $2000 back (Forge & Flame, ‘Rebates & Tax Credits’) when they purchase and install an eligible model. When you purchase a wood stove from our showroom, our team can help you determine the cost and potential credit amount.

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What Wood-Burning Stoves & Fireplaces are Eligible for the Tax Credit?

At New England Hearth & Home, we have a variety of wood-burning stoves and fireplaces that are eligible for the Energy Property Tax Credit. This includes models from top brands such as Regency and Vermont Castings, which are known for their efficiency and design. Our showroom showcases a range of styles and sizes so you can find the perfect fit for your home.

How Can I Apply for the Energy Property Tax Credit?

When our team helps you select and install a wood-burning stove from our showroom, we will provide all the necessary documentation for your tax credit application. We can help walk you through the process and find all the credits you may be eligible for. It is important to keep all receipts and documentation related to the purchase and installation of your wood stove to claim the tax credit.

Visit Our Showroom in Canton, MA, to Learn More About the Energy Property Tax Credit & Explore Our Wood-Burning Stove Models at New England Hearth & Home

Our team at New England Hearth & Home is dedicated to helping homeowners improve their homes while taking advantage of money-saving opportunities. Under the Energy Property Tax Credit, you can save money while investing in a wood-burning stove or fireplace that will add warmth and beauty to your home. We also offer 0% financing for 6 months on all major purchases, making it even easier to upgrade your home. To learn more, visit our showroom, contact us online, or call us at 781-562-0771!

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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.