3 Reasons You're Not Getting Wood Burning Fireplace Isn't Performing (And What You Can Do To Fix It)
Why Does My Wood Burning Fireplace Produce Less Heat?
There's nothing like a warm wood fire in the middle of a cold evening. Many homeowners choose fireplaces made of wood as the primary source of heating for their homes.
To ensure that fireplaces that burn wood are operating properly, they require regular maintenance and a clean. This includes chimney sweepings and inspections, and avoiding burning wood that is wet or not seasoned.
Efficient Heating
Wood burning fireplaces provide warmth and comfort to any house. Many homeowners wonder why the fireplace doesn't seem to produce the heat they'd expect. The answer is contingent on a variety of factors such as the type and quantity of wood used in the fireplace, as well as the method in which it is constructed.
To burn, wood must be combusted to release hot gases. Wood combustion is a complicated process that involves three stages which are dehydration (drying out), gasification (gasification) and burning charcoal. In the first stage the water in the wood dries out and the organic materials in the wood begin to break down, releasing flammable gases. These gases then ignite, causing the wood to ignite, releasing lots of heat. The heat is measured using British Thermal Units (BTUs) which measure the amount of energy required to raise one pound of water to one degree Fahrenheit.
Fireplaces that are open can draw up to 200 cubic feet of air into the chimney. This heats the air inside your home, and also removes the undesirable byproducts of burning wood. This can reduce the heating capacity of your home and cause drafts. Utilizing a high-efficiency wood burning fireplace that has been EPA certified can help reduce this issue and improve the heating capacity of your home.
It is important to create a fire that has the longest time possible and use the right kind of wood. Wood that is seasoned or has been dried out burns more efficiently and produces less smoke. Dry wood is easier to light, and it burns at higher temperatures which maximizes heat production.
It is also beneficial to ensure that your home is well-insulated. Also, make sure that all vents are properly sealed, preventing cold air from entering your house through these sources. The use of fans is an excellent method of spreading the warmth from your fireplace throughout your home, instead of moving it up the chimney.
Environmentally Friendly
The crackling sound, natural scent and flickering flames that come from a wood fireplace create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Many homes also appreciate the traditional look of wood fireplaces. The fire itself is warm however it's the radiant heat of the smoldering ashes that makes the fireplace truly relaxing and enjoyable. Additionally, the ashes are useful in fertilizing gardens and soil and also in decreasing toxic compounds like lead and arsenic.
Traditional wood stoves have a low environmental impact if they are made with sustainable fuel and burned in a dependable fireplace. Unsustainable logging can cause deforestation and a disruption to ecosystems, causing environmental problems. To ensure proper combustion and reduce emissions, the wood used to make fireplaces should be properly cleaned and seasoned.
When it is combusted or rotted, wet, or moldy wood releases pollutants, such as particulate matter and CO2. These pollutants pose a threat to humans and can aggravate respiratory conditions, especially for those with health issues such as asthma. Fortunately, tighter regulations from the government are helping to improve air quality by requiring more efficient wood stoves.
Modern stoves offer more complete combustion, releasing less carbon and other harmful gases into the air. This is accomplished by using different fuels, such as pellets from recycled wood that burn more efficiently than logs. They also have catalytic combustors, which further reduce emissions.
Another option is a gas fireplace that makes use of electricity by fossil fuels derived from coal and produces less greenhouse gases than wood burning stoves. The process of combustion produces nitrous dioxides and other harmful pollutants, which could contribute to global warming and poor air quality.
Ask a professional for advice on fireplace installation and safety. This will ensure that your house is compliant with local building codes and you are in compliance with safety rules. This will help to avoid dangers from fire and carbon dioxide poisoning. A professional can guide you on how to maintain and utilize your fireplace to maximize its warmth and reduce emissions. Fireplace accessories that are specifically designed for fireplaces like blowers and heat exchangers can help distribute warm air throughout the home.
Aesthetically Appealing
A fireplace with wood burners provides warmth that can turn a cold evening into a welcoming space. small wood burning stove isn't just an a source of heat, it's also a focal feature, which encourages interaction and entertainment. A fireplace that is properly designed will add to the unique style of your home, no matter if it's modern and sleek or traditional with intricate stone details.
The roaring flames, the occasional firework-like sparks, and even the smell of wood like the smell of fir give fireplaces an organic look that creates a cozy ambiance to any space. If you choose to go with an open-hearth style fireplace including decorative elements and carefully selected accessories can improve the visual appeal of your home.
Wood fireplaces are stunning and unique, but they require regular maintenance. This includes cleaning. It is crucial to regularly clean out the ash and make sure that the chimney doesn't get blocked or overloaded. Gas fireplaces are a low-maintenance option for those looking for an energy-efficient fireplace that requires little maintenance.
As technology improves, consumers are increasingly looking for more efficient heating systems for their homes. Modern gas-powered fireplaces can provide many of the same advantages as traditional wood-burning fireplaces, without the requirement for maintenance or dependence on flammable sources for fuel.
Electric fireplaces are available in many styles and can be hardwired, or plugged into an outlet on the wall. They can be wall-mounted or freestanding and some models replicate the look of real flames using LED lighting and speakers that emit a variety of crackling sounds. They're not the most efficient type of heat source, however they're a good alternative to an inefficient wood-burning fireplace, or if you don't have a space for a traditional hearth.
It is essential to make the right choice for your home. The fireplace you choose will not only affect the way your living space is used, but can also impact the value of your home. Talk to a professional about the best choice.
Low Maintenance
Wood fireplaces can be the ideal choice for those who wish to decrease their dependence on fossil fuels. The wood can be bought locally and gathered from local forests. It's also more affordable than natural gas or heating oil. It is less pollutant-laden and creates a more natural atmosphere. It is crucial to make use of seasoned wood for your fireplace. The danger of creosote poisoning is lower when using seasoned wood.
Maintaining your chimney system is important to ensure it is working properly. A blocked chimney could release carbon monoxide, smoke and other harmful byproducts into the home. The chimney should be cleaned at least once per year to eliminate creosote, ash, and other debris that has been accumulated from the fire chamber and flue. It is a good idea to clean the firebox regularly to keep it tidy.
A fireplace that burns wood can serve as a backup source of heat in the event of an outage. Stockpiling seasoned firewood allows you to heat your home for a few days without the need to use your generator. This is a great way to reduce your dependence on utility companies and be prepared for power outages that could occur due to winter storms, ice storms and snowstorms which could damage trees or damage wires.
Wood burning fireplaces also add a unique touch to any room with their smoky crackling fire. Other options are not able to match the sound and smell of a fireplace that burns wood. It can make any room feel cozy and inviting and is perfect for hosting family and friends.
If you are considering a new wood fireplace for your home, our experts are able to discuss the benefits of this traditional source of heat with you. Contact us today to get started!