Having a low cost fire place can be a great way to get that cozy feeling of a fireplace without breaking the bank. There are so many different types of fireplaces out there such as Wood Burning Fireplaces, Gas Fireplaces, Electric Fireplaces and so much more. If you are planning to buy a new fireplace for your home, you should check out all of the options out there.
Gas fireplaces
Using gas fireplaces can be a great way to stay warm during the winter months. Gas fireplaces are energy efficient, as they use less gas than furnaces. However, they can be a bit pricey. Depending on the type of fuel you choose to use, the cost to run your fireplace can range from $60 to $2000 a year. In addition, you may need to have a chimney installed, which can cost upwards of $200.
While the cost to run a gas fireplace may seem prohibitive, it is actually quite affordable. The cost of the unit can range from around $2,750 for a freestanding model to $7,300 for a built-in model. The cost of running a fireplace is calculated by multiplying the cost of running the unit by the amount of BTUs it produces. For example, a fireplace with a 20,000 BTU input will cost $0.22 per hour to run. A fireplace with a 30,000 BTU input will cost $0.49 per hour.
Using a gas fireplace will cost you on average $60 a year. This amount varies depending on your home size and location. In addition to the cost of the fireplace itself, you may also need to install a gas line. A new gas line can cost anywhere from $300 to $800.
Gas fireplaces are not only great for heating your home, but they also provide a decorative touch. Most models come with a surround, and some even have flames or backlights. In addition, you can even add a steam option to simulate smoke.
Some gas fireplaces have a “Green Smart” feature that automatically adjusts the size of the fire to match the heating needs of the room. These models are more efficient than their predecessors, and can save you money.
The best way to figure out what size gas fireplace you need is to calculate the size of the room you plan to install the fireplace in. Keep in mind that a larger room will need a higher BTU input. If you live in a cold climate, you will need a smaller fireplace than you would in a warmer climate.
The amount of gas you use is also based on the frequency of use. A gas fireplace with a 20,000 BTU output will cost $0.22 per hour to run. If you are using the fireplace eight hours a day, it will cost you $132 a month to run.
Gas fireplaces can also be a fire hazard. They have a tendency to get very hot, and may develop gas leaks. If you are using a ventless model, you may want to install a damper to prevent CO poisoning. You can also have the fireplace cleaned by a certified technician.
Gas fireplaces are a great way to get heat in your home, and you should know what you are getting into before you start a project. It is also a good idea to budget wisely.
Electric fireplaces
Unlike other types of fireplaces, electric fireplaces are extremely energy efficient. In fact, they use about the same amount of energy as a standard coffee maker. And, they last longer. They are also safer for children and pets.
Electric fireplaces come in a wide range of styles and sizes. Many have remote controls that let you control heat and brightness. And, newer models feature realistic 3-D flames in a variety of colors.
You can find wall-mounted electric fireplaces that are designed to be placed directly on the wall. Almost all of them feature backlights, which are energy-efficient LED bulbs. In addition, some models have a built-in heater.
If you want to create a cozy ambiance in your living room or bedroom, consider adding an electric fireplace. These are easy to install and provide instant heat. Some models even support your television. However, they do require a little extra carpentry. You may also need an electrician for installation.
In addition to their energy efficiency, electric fireplaces are safe and easy to operate. They do not pollute indoor air and don’t produce toxic fumes. And, they are also safe to use in homes with small children or pets.
They also have the capability to change their color. Most fireplaces come with a built-in remote control that lets you change the color of the flame. Other remotes have more features, such as sound control and fan speed. In addition, some models come with thermostats.
Electric fireplaces are easy to install and can be placed almost anywhere in your home. They are also surprisingly easy to maintain. However, you will need to clean the inside and outside of the unit occasionally. And, some models need to be replaced with a new light bulb every couple years.
The LED light bulb is a new feature on some of the electric fireplaces available today. These are energy efficient and have a serving time of 50,000 hours or more.
Unlike traditional gas or wood burning fireplaces, electric fireplaces have no ashes or soot. They are also safe for small children and pets, which is why many people consider them to be a healthy choice. They are also more affordable than other types of fireplaces. They can even be mounted on a wall for a stylish look.
When you’re shopping for an electric fireplace, consider the size, the flame presentation and whether the model you’re considering has a remote control. You’ll want to choose a model that works with your existing fireplace. And, be sure to choose an electric fireplace that has a good warranty. In fact, the manufacturer’s warranty may even extend to 10 years.
In addition to the LED light bulb, some models also feature a simulated log. These look like the real thing, and they can also be used as a fireplace insert. In fact, some electric fireplaces come with a mantel.
Wood burning fireplaces
Adding a low cost wood burning fireplace to your home can be a great way to cut down on your electricity bills. It also can be a great way to add value to your home. However, there are several things you should keep in mind before adding a fireplace.
First, you should know how much heat your fireplace can produce. Typically, you can choose from fireplaces that produce from 25,000 to 80,000 BTUs. These are enough to heat an entire house. However, some models are more powerful and can heat up to 100,000 BTUs.
Another important thing to consider is the safety of your fireplace. It is important to make sure it is installed correctly and not put into an area where children or pets might get burned. You should also have the chimney inspected annually to make sure there is no buildup or a pilot light. If there is a problem, you can call a chimney sweep to have it repaired.
Another thing to keep in mind is your local laws. Some counties have specific laws regarding the use of fireplaces. You should also check with your homeowners association to get information about the building codes for your area. Many states offer tax breaks and discounts for fireplaces. You can also find out if you can get a rebate for converting your fireplace to gas.
The best way to get a good price for your project is to find a contractor who will come out and give you a quote. Make sure to check their credentials and get a few online reviews. It is important to find a company with a good reputation and a long history. You should also make sure you choose a company with a good warranty on labor. Often, inexperienced contractors will offer low estimates.
Another factor to keep in mind is the type of wood you plan to use. If you are planning to use wood, make sure you choose an EPA approved fireplace. Wood fireplaces are more energy efficient than other heating systems. They also are cheaper to run over time.
You can also choose to install a ventless fireplace. These fireplaces are less expensive to install but you will need to install vents and ventilation. However, ventless fireplaces have less smoke than other fireplaces. They can also be easier to install. You will also have to remove your old fireplace. Depending on your home’s design, the length of vents and ventilation can vary.
You can also install a gas log set in your existing wood fireplace. Gas log sets include a grate, burner pan, and a knob to start the fire. They can be installed in most wood fireplaces. However, vented gas logs produce more smoke than ventless logs. They also release more carbon monoxide.