Changing To A Energy Efficient Fireplace

While the coronavirus pandemic may have been the talk of the town over recent months, climate change remains a highly pressing issue in dire need of addressing.

And, as a result of this, many people around the globe are now starting to embrace the idea behind living sustainably, investing more time and money into improving the energy efficiency of their homes.

One of the key ways to do exactly this has come through altering the way our homes are heated – whether that be through investing in renewable energy or a new energy-efficient fireplace.

In this article, we are here to discuss the latter, highlighting some of the key things to consider when upgrading your fireplace for a more sustainable option.

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The first question you need to consider before changing your fireplace is whether your house will actually benefit from having one or not.

If, for example, you live in a relatively new build home, these are often so well insulated and airtight that adding a new energy efficient stove or fireplace could actually create an excess of heat in the home.

Therefore, it's important to consider how energy-efficient your home is already before deciding whether investing in a new, sustainable alternative is a good idea or not.

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The next thing you will need to consider is whether an energy-efficient fireplace will actually match the style of your home, and the materials it's made from.

Knowing this will then help you decide whether a free-standing or insert stove is the right option for you or determine whether you should fit an entirely new fireplace.

In other words, the decision isn't always as straightforward as it seems. So, if you would like our expert input and advice, please do not hesitate to contact our team at your earliest convenience.

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If you are opting to install a gas or solid fuel-powered fireplace, it's important to ensure you have sufficient heat and fire resistance surrounding the stove, in order for it to adequately deal with the considerable heat it will emit.

Likewise, you will also need to consider adding some form of dedicated ventilation into your design– especially when considering a gas-powered fireplace. Talking of which…

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The fuel you decide to use for your fireplace can make a big difference to how energy-efficient it functions.

Electric fireplaces, for example, have really improved over recent years and now offer a cost-effective, emission-free, easy to install option which won't require a flue to be fitted.

Alternatively, gas stoves and fireplaces require very little maintenance and provide instant heat but will burn fossil fuels and contribute in a greater way to overarching threat of climate change.

Another type of fuel many people are starting to use is bio-ethanol. This is especially useful in homes without a chimney breast or flue available, providing a real flame and level of heat while bypassing the need for excess heat or ventilation management.

If you are struggling to decide which type of energy-efficient fireplace is right for you, or are in two minds as to whether you even need one at all, give our team a call.

Here at Sussex Fireplace Gallery, we not only have a huge selection of stoves and fireplaces to choose between, but we also have a wealth of experienced staff on hand ready to answer any questions or queries you might have.

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