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Fireplace FAQ: Can One Hearth Heat Up an Entire Home?

fuzzy socks in living room with fireplace on heating entire home with wood or gas fuel source for efficiency and insulation

Heating Your Home: Can One Fireplace Keep Your Entire Home Comfortable?

If you are considering installing a new fireplace in your home, you may have several questions about how to find the perfect model for your space and whether it will be able to keep your entire home warm. It is becoming more important to homeowners now than ever to find cost-effective, energy-efficient heating solutions that can be used to keep their homes comfortable throughout the year. Fireplaces are a sustainable and environmentally friendly choice when it comes to heating, and more homeowners are choosing to install new stoves and inserts. In this blog, we will discuss how a fireplace can be used to heat your home and if one hearth is enough for your entire space.

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Fireplaces are a Sustainable & Stylish Home-Efficiency & Insulation Solution

When it comes to heating your home, fireplaces can be an effective solution. Not only do they provide a cozy atmosphere that is perfect for the winter months, but they are also energy-efficient and cost-effective. By using proper insulation techniques and sustainable fuel sources, a fireplace can provide an efficient way to heat your home without spending a fortune on heating bills. Fireplaces are also a stylish choice for home décor, and they can improve the visual appeal and value of any living space.

The Short Answer: Fireplaces CAN Heat an Entire Home

The short answer to the question of whether one fireplace can heat up an entire home is yes. With the right design and proper insulation, a single hearth can provide enough warmth to keep your entire house comfortable. However, depending on the size of your space, your personal preference for internal room temperature, the location where you plan to install the fireplace, and other determining factors, one fireplace may not be enough to heat your home adequately.

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How to Get the Most Effective Insulation & Heating from One Fireplace

It is important to follow a few simple tips to get the most effective heating from your fireplace.

Place Your Fireplace Near a Central Location

When you are first installing your new fireplace, the location you decide to place it can greatly impact how it will heat your home effectively. Choosing a spot in a central location of your home, such as a living room, front entry, or kitchen, will make it easier for the warmth to spread evenly throughout your space. Additionally, you may want to place the fireplace on an exterior wall as this will help facilitate better heat transfer.

Close Your Fireplace Doors When Not in Use

The glass doors on your fireplace are designed to keep heat in and cold air out when the fireplace is not in use. This helps maximize the heat that remains in your home and prevents it from escaping through your chimney. You can also invest in a draft stopper, a specially designed device that fits just above your fireplace opening and helps reduce the amount of cold air flow coming into your home.

Use Insulation & Sealing Techniques

Your fireplace is only as efficient as the insulation around it, so proper sealing techniques are important for keeping warm air in and cold air out. Make sure to inspect areas around windows, doors, and other openings to see if any air leaks need to be re-sealed. You may also want to consider insulating areas around the fireplace with sheets of ceramic fiber blanket or insulation board.

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Keep Your Fireplace Clean & Routinely Remove Debris

Having a build-up of soot, ash, and other debris can block airflow and reduce the heat your fireplace produces. Make sure to routinely clean your hearth to remove any build-up and keep the fire burning efficiently.

Incorporate Other Home Heating Solutions

If you are worried that one fireplace still won’t be enough to heat your entire home properly after following the tips outlined above, you may want to consider incorporating other home heating solutions. Depending on the size of your space, you may need more than one hearth, or you could invest in space heaters or a central heating system. The specific needs of your home should be discussed with a qualified professional to determine the best solution for you.

Contact New England Hearth & Home in Canton, MA for Professional Fireplace Services & Advice for Effective & Sustainable Home Heating

If you are looking for advice on the best fireplace for your home or want to learn more about how to maximize the heat from your current model, contact New England Hearth & Home. With a team of fireplace experts specializing in gas, electric, and wood-burning stoves and inserts, we can help you with anything you need. From scheduling installation services to answering all of your operation and troubleshooting questions, we are here to help. Call us today at 781-562-0771, or visit our website to learn more.

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How to Convert a Wood-Burning Fireplace to a Gas-Operated Hearth

renovating a home and upgrading a wood burning fireplace to a gas operated model

Upgrading Your Fireplace: How to Convert Your Wood-Burning Appliance to a Gas Insert or Stove

Although a wood-burning fireplace can bring warmth and coziness to your home, they are not always the best choice for everyone. These fireplaces require constant restocking of seasoned wood and cleaning out soot, and they can be unpredictable and difficult to start or maintain. If you’re looking for an upgrade, consider converting your wood-burning fireplace into a gas-operated hearth. In this blog, we will discuss this process and how to get your home ready for a gas appliance.

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Benefits of Upgrading a Wood-Burning Fireplace to a Gas Model

When choosing the best fireplace for your home, many homeowners quickly choose wood-burning models for their classic feel and cozy atmosphere. However, consider upgrading to a gas model if you’re looking for a more modern option and the convenience of controlling your appliance with a switch or remote.

Gas Fireplaces Require Less Maintenance

Fireplaces that run on natural gas require less maintenance than a wood-burning option. With no need to restock the woodpile, you can enjoy consistent heat with minimal effort.

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Gas-Fueled Stoves or Inserts Offer Operation Convenience

Gas fireplaces come with a switch or remote control for easy operation. This makes starting and adjusting the flame from anywhere in the room simple and convenient.

Save Money on Energy Bills with Gas Fireplaces

Due to their high efficiency, gas fireplaces offer a great way to save money on energy bills. Compared to wood-burning models, gas fireplaces are more efficient at producing heat. You can watch your bills drop by up to 20% by creating more heat with less energy.

How to Convert a Wood-Burning Fireplace to Gas

When it comes to converting a wood-burning fireplace to gas, there are several steps to follow to ensure a seamless transition.

Inspect Your Home's Current Insulation & Ventilation

Start by inspecting your home for the necessary insulation and ventilation to support a gas-fueled appliance. Gas fireplaces require different venting than a wood-burning model, so it’s important to check ahead of time that your home can support the installation. When looking for the proper insulation, look for chimney liners that are specifically designed to draw cold air from outside the home into the flue.

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Check Your Home's Gas Supply

Next, you need to assess the current gas supply in your home. If you already have an existing gas line, you can skip this step. However, if you’re converting your fireplace to a gas model for the first time, you need an expert to inspect your home’s current gas supply system. The best way to do this is to call your local natural gas company for a professional inspection.

Remove the Old Firebox

Once your home is inspected and prepped for installation, the next step is to remove the old firebox. This process usually requires professional help since it involves disconnecting gas lines and breaking out walls. Depending on how extensive your remodel is, you may need additional help from a contractor to execute this task safely.

Attach All Gas Components

After removing the old firebox, you’re ready to attach all your gas components. Depending on the type of appliance you’ve chosen, these can include flexible connectors, valves, a thermostatic control unit, and more. To ensure proper installation, make sure to check all connections for leaks and read and follow the instructions carefully. It is also always recommended to call in a professional for this step, as anything that is set up incorrectly can lead to costly repairs in the future.

Install a Majestic Gas Insert with New England Hearth & Home in Canton MA & Receive $200 Until October 9, 2023!

If you are currently in the market for a new gas fireplace to replace your old wood-burning model, contact New England Hearth & Home in Canton, MA. Until October 9, we are offering $200 off select Majestic gas fireplaces and inserts with our installation services. Whether you need help converting your wood-burning fireplace to a gas model or are just looking for a new and improved hearth, contact us today and take advantage of this offer! To learn more and start saving, call us at 781-562-0771 or visit our website!

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How to Measure Your Deck to Determine What Size Awning to Install

yellow retractable awning on the side of a home to protect the people and deck from sun's rays

Measurement Made Easy: Learn Exactly What Size Awning You Need for Your Home

When the Summer comes in, and the sunshine is inviting, you may find yourself wanting to spend more time outdoors. An awning is a great way to make your outdoor space enjoyable and comfortable. Not only do retractable awnings protect from the Sun’s harsh rays, but they also add beauty to your home. Before you purchase and install an awning, it is important that you properly measure your space to determine what size you need. In this blog, we will discuss exactly where and how you should measure to find the best fit for your home.

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Benefits of Installing a Retractable Awning on Your Deck or Patio

Retractable awnings are great for creating a comfortable outdoor space and protecting your home and self from the Sun.

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Skin Protection from Harsh UV Rays

When exposed to too much Sun, the risk of skin damage increases significantly. With an awning installed over your deck or patio, you can enjoy the outdoors without worrying about these harsh rays.

Reduce Deck Fading

Fading is a common problem with wooden decks caused by excessive UV exposure. An awning will help reduce fading and keep your deck looking new.

Protect Your Home from Sun Damage

The sun can cause damage to the siding, windows, and other elements of your home. Installing an awning will help protect your home’s exterior from these harmful rays.

How to Determine What Size Awning You Need

Now that you know the benefits of installing an awning, let’s discuss how to measure for the best fit. Depending on the size of your space, you may need a smaller or larger model.

Measuring Your Space

  1. Measure the width of the area that you want to cover with your awning.
  2. Measure the projection, or how far out from the wall you want your awning to extend.
  3. Measure the height of the area that you are covering.

When measuring these distances, the best tool to use is a steel tape measure, as it will provide you with the most accurate measurement. If you cannot reach the height that you would like to cover, you can use a ladder to assist.

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Calculate Your Awning Size

After you have taken the measurements, you can calculate the size of your awning. To do this, you simply need to multiply the width, projection, and height of the area that you are covering. For example, if you have a space that is 8 feet in width, 6 feet in projection, and 7 feet in height, then your awning size would be 336 square feet. When you visit a store to purchase an awning, you can give them this size, and they will be able to provide you with the best model for your space.

Summer is the Best Time to Install Retractable Awnings

Now that the Summer is in full effect, it is the perfect time to install an awning on your home. It is never too late to start protecting your family and home from the harsh UV rays of the Sun while also creating a comfortable outdoor space for you to enjoy.

Contact New England Hearth & Home in Canton, MA for Professional Awning Installation & Replacement Services

Installing an awning is not something you should attempt on your own. It is important to have the right tools and experience to ensure that your awning is installed properly. Contact New England Hearth & Home in Canton, MA, for professional awning installation and replacement services. With years of experience and the best quality products, we will ensure that your awning can be enjoyed for years to come. To learn more and schedule a service request, visit our website or call us at 781-562-0771.

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Top Summer Fire Safety Tips for Backyards & Campsites

fire pit in a backyard being maintained with fire safety tips and tools

Keep Your Home & Campground Safe with These Summer Fire Safety Tips

For many New Englanders, Summer means spending as much time in the outdoors as possible. From backyard barbecues to overnight camping trips, a fire is often involved in many Summer outdoor activities. While fires can provide both function and aesthetic, they need to be managed carefully to keep your family and home safe this Summer. In this blog, we’ll discuss the best tips for Summer fire hazard safety.

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Summer Heat Means Increased Fire Hazards & Risks

When the Summer rolls in, it brings very humid or dry air. Both conditions can increase the risk of wildfires, even in your backyard. Dry heat creates an atmosphere of low humidity, which can cause any fires to spread quickly and unpredictably. This can also create a challenge when you try to extinguish any runaway flames or sparks. On the other hand, humidity can be dangerous if it reaches extreme levels. This can lead to a lot of smoke, which is unpleasant and creates hazardous air quality conditions.

Stock Up on Fire Safety Supplies Before Igniting Any Size Flame

Whether you’re using a charcoal grill or a small firepit, always make sure to have the necessary safety supplies on hand before lighting any fire. In the case of an emergency, you must have the tools to quickly and safely extinguish the fire. Some of these supplies include:

  • Fire extinguishers
  • Water buckets
  • Shovels
  • Rakes
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Fire Safety Tips for Grills & Barbecues

One of the most popular ways to enjoy outdoor time during the Summer is by grilling. To make sure you and your family are safe when using a grill, always follow these guidelines:

Place the Grill a Safe Distance from Any Structures

When placing your grill, always make sure it is far enough away from any structures like homes, garages, trees, or plants. A minimum of 10 feet is recommended. If you have a grill that runs on propane, never place it directly underneath overhanging branches or other combustible materials.

Check for Leaks & Cracks

Before you light up the grill, check the connections and valves to make sure there are no gas leaks. If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, turn off the valve immediately.

Clean Your Grill Regularly

Grease build-up can cause flare-ups and fires. Make sure you clean any grease and debris from your grill after each use to prevent any problems.

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Fire Safety Tips for Campfires & Fire Pits

In addition to grilling, many people also enjoy having a campfire or fire pit burning in their backyard. Here are some tips to help you safely build and maintain a fire outdoors.

Make Sure the Fire is Legal

Before you start building your campfire or fire pit, make sure it is legal in your area. Some areas have restrictions on when and where fires can be built.

Check for Clearance & Airflow

When choosing a spot to build your fire, make sure there is enough clearance between the flames and combustible materials. This will help prevent any unexpected flare-ups. Also, make sure to use a screen to keep sparks from flying and causing problems.

Always Extinguish Fully

It’s important to make sure you extinguish any fires you build completely. Put out the flames, stir the ashes, then soak them with a hose or bucket of water.

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Emergency Planning for Uncontrollable Fires

Even if you take all the necessary precautions, it’s possible for fires to reach a point where they become uncontrollable. In these cases, it’s best to have an emergency plan in place so you and your family can be prepared. Have a designated meeting area or evacuation plan if the fire spreads quickly. Additionally, ensure you have all the necessary materials in case you need to evacuate your home quickly.

Contact New England Hearth & Home in Canton, MA for Summer Fire Safety Tips & Professional Outdoor Firepit Installations

After preparing your outdoor area this Summer, make sure to keep the fire hazard safety tips in mind whenever you are building or maintaining a fire. If you need help with fire safety, fireplace maintenance, or outdoor firepit installations, contact the professionals at New England Hearth & Home in Canton, MA, today. Our team of experienced technicians can help you stay safe this Summer while enjoying the outdoors. Visit our website or give us a call today at 781-562-0771 to learn more and fill out a service request!

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