Fireplaces are a beautiful, elegant addition to your home. They add class to any room, and they’re functional as well! It’s always wonderful to sit in front of a cozy fire on cold winter days with a mug of hot chocolate or tea. A fireplace is the perfect place to gather around with friends and family, make memories, and pass the time as snow swirls by. If you’re in the market for a fireplace, you might be wondering what your options are and if you’re ready to add this new feature to your home. First, let’s take a look at the 3 types of fireplaces.
Wood-Burning Fireplace
Wood-burning fireplaces are a classic: They have stayed timeless over the decades. They were just as charming in Victorian England as they are now. Like everything, this type of fireplace comes with pros and cons, though you really can’t go wrong with this choice, in our opinion.
Pros
The ambiance of a wood-burning fireplace is one of the number one reasons to install one. They look beautiful with any interior, you can choose from a wide selection of woods, and they are extremely efficient. When the power goes out, you’ll still have a source of heat, and a strong one. Wood-burning fireplaces give out high heat without the soaring costs that accompany an HVAC system.
Cons
The biggest con of a wood-burning fireplace is the initial purchase costs and installation costs. A wood-burning stove can cost up to $4,000 altogether. Other cons include a need to store firewood and high-maintenance requirements. You will have to get annual inspections and care for your wood-burning fireplace regularly to prevent it from becoming a safety hazard.
Gas Fireplace
Gas fireplaces are a modern option for those who do not want to go through the cost and maintenance requirements that accompany wood-burning fireplaces. You can expect many benefits from gas fireplaces and few drawbacks. Here are the pros and cons:
Pros
Gas fireplaces are more efficient than wood-burning options, and they provide instant warmth. All you have to do is turn a knob or press a button, and you’ve got heat! You don’t have to go out to the shed and gather wood. They are less expensive than wood-burning fireplaces as well, with the most expensive options costing up to $2,500.
Cons
Gas fireplaces lack character and ambiance. You won’t get that nice snapping and crackling as you do with wood-burning options. Installation costs might also add up for this type of fireplace if you need a gas line run.
Electric Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are another newer option. As with other fireplaces, they have their pros and cons. However, many homeowners find them to be the perfect fit.
Pros
Electric fireplaces cost up to $700. That means they are the cheapest option, making them optimal for homeowners on a budget. Electric fireplaces are easy to install, and they can fit in small spaces. That means they can work for homes of any size, which is a huge plus.
Cons
If you’re thinking about how great and inexpensive electric fireplaces are, there are a few things you need to be aware of. First, you’re paying for fake fire. You’re not going to have any ambiance at all. Second, if the power goes out, you won’t be able to use your electric fireplace. Third, you’re going to raise your utility bills with this type of fireplace. Styles and designs are also very limited, whereas you get more customization options with wood-burning and gas fireplaces.
We Can Install Your Dream Fireplace!
No matter what your fireplace installation needs are, the team at Fresh Air Duct Cleaning can help. Our efficient professionals are happy to consult with you about the different types of fireplaces available, then walk you through the installation process. Contact our team today for assistance!