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Fireplace inserts are a cost efficient and attractive alternative to traditional gas or wood burning masonry types. Besides having a large variety of styles to choose from that will fit any budget, you will save on energy and maintenance costs. Here are just some of the benefits. Improves Energy Efficiency and Cuts Heating Costs Traditional methods that burn through an open hearth pulls much of the heated air back into the fire. This means it will burn faster and at a much lower temperature, making it inefficient for heating the area. Inserts have a sealed, airtight door that allows the wood or gas to burn slower and at a higher temperature. Their overall efficiency ranges from 65% to 80%, depending on the type, which makes this a much more affordable method of heating your home. Also, the way these models are installed provides additional energy savings. The insulation that surrounds the equipment allows less heat to escape during cold weather and keeps cool air inside in the hot summer months. The sealed doors prevent cold drafts blowing down your chimney from coming into your home. Good for the Environment Fireplace inserts produce less smoke and lower emissions of harmful gasses that are caused by other types of heating equipment. The traditional method produces an average of 40 grams of smoke per hour, compared to the one gram of smoke per hour that an insert produces. The wood burning and pellet burning models also use renewable fuel sources. The carbon footprint produced by burning wood in this appliance is no different than wood burning in the outdoors. Cost If you ever need to rebuild or remodel your traditional fireplace, you may be in for significant costs for the materials and labor, depending on the size of your chimney and surrounding walls. Since the insert is a self-contained piece of equipment that slides directly into the hearth opening, repairs do not normally affect the rest of the room. This means less headache for you and fewer costs for repairs and maintenance. Design Options No matter what style home you have, there is a variety of design and feature options for fireplace inserts. Consider how you will need to vent the exhaust, depending on your existing chimney design and location. Ventless heating models are available if needed. You can choose for the equipment to be flush with the wall or extend out from the hearth. Remember that heat will be distributed from the equipment itself, so the hearth area should help support the insert's ability to radiate heat into the room instead of the chimney's bricks and exhaust piping. Other features you may enjoy include self-cleaning glass doors that burn off the creosote build-up, heat distribution fans, adjustable air flow, thermostats, remote controls, and more. You can choose a model that uses wood, pellets, gas, propane, or even coal. When you are considering a fireplace insert, talk with a knowledgeable salesperson about your home design and models that may interest you. They can help you decide the options that will work best for your lifestyle and budget. When looking for quality fireplace inserts, visit NW Natural Appliance Center. Learn more at http://nwnaturalappliances.com/fireplace-inserts/.
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