There are many benefits of using a wood fireplace. The flames cast a beautiful display and the smell of burning wood create a relaxing atmosphere. Today, fireplaces are a common feature of new homes in the U.S., with six out of 10 new homes including one. Only 36% of new homes built in the 1970s included a fireplace. However, not all wood fires are equal, and certain species can burn more efficiently than others.
Choosing a wood burning fireplace should be based on your specific needs. Some are more efficient than others, but the latter is more expensive. A non-catalytic wood fireplace reburns particulate matter and gasses two or three times. This type of firebox is also more expensive. You may want to consider a triple-burn wood fireplace or a triple-burn wood firebox. The latter re-burns gasses and particulates once, then releases the heat twice.
A wood fireplace can be classified as non-catalytic or catalytic. A catalytic firebox is one of the most efficient, but is more costly than the former. A non-catalytic fireplace can emit more pollutants than a double-burn unit. A triple-burn wood fireplace has a catalytic combustor and uses less wood fuel to produce the same amount of heat. EPA-certified fireboxes are more efficient than their non-catalytic counterparts.
When choosing a fireplace for your home, it's important to choose a style that matches your decor. While there are several models available, many have louvers. You should choose the one that fits your style and budget best. The most popular type is the all-in-one version, which uses the same louvers as a circulating fireplace. This type of firebox is better for larger rooms, and it pushes heat into the room more efficiently.
Another option is a closed-combustion wood fireplace. These types have sealed doors that prevent air from entering the firebox. This type of fireplace is safer than an open-faced model, as it limits the amount of air that can escape. Its dual-wall design also prevents excess smoke. A closed-combustion fireplace is more efficient than an open-faced one. It is important to choose the type that fits your lifestyle and your needs.
When choosing a fireplace for your home, you should always consider the design of your home. A traditional open-faced fireplace is made of sheet metal. In modern homes, these fireplaces are more energy-efficient and require no glass doors. But if you have a wood-burning chimney, you should consider a closed-combustion model. It has no glass windows. In fact, it is airtight, preventing ash from entering the room.
Prefabricated fireplaces are a great choice because they will last a long time. However, if you choose a free-standing wood fireplace, you should hire a certified installer. This will ensure that the fireplace is installed properly and that the flue liner is properly installed. A wood-burning fireplace will save you money in the long run because it produces less pollution than other types of fuel. A wood-burning fireplace will give you the feeling of cozy warmth and comfort.