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The Importance of Inspecting Your Fireplace Before Use

The Importance of Inspecting Your Fireplace Before Use

Having a fireplace is nearly a necessity in New England. Especially with the weather dropping to extremely cold temperatures at a rapid pace. Having a fireplace can be very cost-effective whilst also making the rest of your home feel comfortable. With few heating alternatives that are as renewable and effective, it can be tempting to immediately turn on your fireplace. Whilst this may seem like a harmless action, it can have the potential of hurting you or your home at some point in time. Regardless if your fireplace is new or old you should always do a thorough inspection before use. In this blog, we will be discussing the benefits of inspecting your fireplace and why it’s so important before use.

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Inspecting Gas, Electric, and Wood Fireplaces

Gas, electric, and wood fireplaces are very different from each other but they all possess harmful effects if not taken care of properly. Wood Fireplaces are the hardest to maintain and can eventually create a build-up of Creosote which can lead to illnesses. Gas fireplaces may seem very safe but they can be the most dangerous on this list if they have a gas leak. Electric fireplaces are the easiest on this list, however, their wirings can also fail at times and leave you without heat in important scenarios. Inspect your fireplace or have a professional make sure it’s running properly to avoid these issues.

The Structure of Fireplaces and Why They Matter

Making sure the structural integrity of your fireplace is up to par is essential. Inspecting the structure of your fireplace can help you decide whether there are major flaws that need to be addressed. For example, wood fireplaces can cause serious damage if their structural integrity is poor. It can lead to chimney fires and many illnesses if not maintained to the correct standards. Gas fireplaces whilst easier to maintain must be inspected thoroughly to make sure it has proper ventilation.  Without proper ventilation, all the dangerous gasses can build up leading to carbon monoxide poisoning within your home. Carbon monoxide is extremely dangerous and should not be avoided. Electric fireplaces do not carry the same amount of risk as the others. However, they can become damaged or not given enough power leading to them not being beneficial once the cold season begins.

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Sufficient Heat Output

The winter is around the corner and you want to use your fireplace to stay warm. However, if you didn’t inspect your fireplace before then how would you know it works well?  Inspect your gas and electric fireplaces before the winter, therefore you will know what issues may be present. If some areas are malfunctioning or completely broken without your knowledge, then your home may get some lackluster heating results. If your home isn’t getting the heat it needs then you’ll need a professional to quickly check on the product. Don’t wait until the last minute to get an inspection, that way you can avoid trouble altogether when the cold weather arrives.  You can consider getting a wood fireplace that wouldn’t have as many problems but their maintenance may not be worth it to you. 

Illness From not Inspecting a Fireplace

Unlike electric fireplaces gas and wood alternatives can cause severe illnesses when not inspected properly. These illnesses can be caused by many factors such as animal droppings, malfunctions, build-up of debris, and much more.  Wood fireplaces are great but if they are not inspected for animal droppings or build-ups of creosote then you may experience harmful flu-like symptoms. Gas fireplaces whilst not needing the same amount of cleanliness or maintenance can still cause harmful effects.  Specifically, carbon monoxide which can potentially be deadly if exposed long enough. These effects can be avoided with an inspection by professionals to help uncover future problems before they arrive.

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Contact New England Hearth & Home in Canton, MA for Professional Fireplace Inspections and Advice

If you are looking for advice on maintenance regarding your fireplace for your home or want to learn more about how to maximize the heat from your current model, contact New England Hearth & Home. We are an experienced team that can help put you on the right track no matter the problem. We can handle all things fireplaces whether it be inspections or installations we do it all. Call us today at 781-562-0771, or visit our website to learn more.

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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

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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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Fireplace Inserts vs. Stoves: What’s the Difference and Which Is Right for You?

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Fireplace Inserts vs Stoves: 5 Key Differences to Consider

If you are a Massachusetts resident, you are well aware of how cold and harsh the winters can be. Installing a fireplace is a great way to add warmth and comfort to your home during the winter months. With so many different types on the market, finding the best one for you can be challenging. The two main structures you will come across are fireplace inserts and stoves. Depending on the size of your home, the room your plan to install it in, and your budget, one of these options may be better for you than the other. In this blog, we will discuss five of the main differences between inserts and stoves to help you determine which one is right for you and your home.

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Benefits of Installing a Fireplace in Your Massachusetts Home

New England residents are no strangers to cold weather. With temperatures dropping well below freezing each winter, having a fireplace in your home can make a world of difference when it comes to keeping warm and comfortable. Additionally to having a well-heated home, fireplaces also bring a feeling of coziness and ambiance.

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Types of Fireplaces to Choose From

When it comes to the types of fireplaces for your Massachusetts home, you can choose from many different models and styles. While some fireplaces come in the form of a traditional masonry structure built into your wall or chimney, other more modern fireplace units are designed as free-standing stoves. The two most common types of fireplaces available today are fireplace inserts and stoves.

What is a Fireplace Insert?

A fireplace insert is an insulated unit that fits into the opening of your current masonry fireplace. These models are embedded into the existing structure of your fireplace and provide an efficient way to heat your home. Inserts are available in a variety of materials, such as metal, ceramic, or cast iron, depending on the design you are looking for.

What is a Cast-Iron Stove?

A cast-iron stove is a type of fireplace that stands on its own. These stoves are typically made from steel or cast iron and are designed to provide more heat than traditional fireplaces can. Cast-iron stoves are often mobile, meaning they can be moved from one room to another if desired.

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Key Differences Between Fireplace Inserts vs. Stoves

Now that we’ve discussed the different types of fireplaces available let’s dive into the five key differences between fireplace inserts and stoves.

Free Standing vs. Embedded in Home Structure

One of the most notable differences between these two types of fireplaces is that inserts are embedded into the existing structure of your home, while stoves are free-standing. Stoves don’t need to be connected to an existing fireplace or chimney and can be moved from one room to another if needed. On the other hand, inserts must be installed directly into the existing masonry structure of your fireplace.

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Heat Output

The next difference between these two models is the amount of heat they can produce. While both inserts and stoves are designed to provide warmth when needed, stoves typically have a higher BTU output than their insert counterparts. If the main reason for purchasing a fireplace unit is to provide as much heat as possible to your home, then a stove may be the better option.

Fuel Type

If you are looking for a more efficient heating solution, the type of fuel used can make a big difference. While inserts and stoves offer traditional wood-burning models, some also feature gas or electric-powered models. Gas and electric models are often easier to use and require less maintenance than wood burners, however, they tend to be more expensive upfront.

Ventilation

Depending on the room you plan to install the fireplace in, ventilation can be a major factor to consider. When installing an insert, you must use an existing chimney and ensure that it is properly vented. On the other hand, stoves do not need to be connected to an existing structure and can be installed with either direct venting or using a chimney.

Maintenance Requirements

As you continue to ignite your fireplace, routine maintenance and cleanings are essential to keep it working safely and properly. Inserts usually require a more intensive cleaning than stoves because of the existing structure that they are embedded in. Stoves, however, typically do not need to be cleaned as often since they don’t rely on an existing fireplace structure.

Contact New England Hearth & Home in Canton, MA for Expert Advice on Choosing the Right Fireplace for Your Home

Now that you know the five key differences between fireplace inserts and stoves, it is time to decide which one is best for your home. If you are still unsure of which model to choose, the team at New England Hearth & Home is here to answer all of your hearth questions. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, we are one of New England’s leading providers for installing, servicing, and maintaining your fireplace. To learn more about our services and schedule an installation, visit our website or call us at 781-562-0771.

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