During the winter months, your fireplace provides a cozy atmosphere for you and your family to gather around. However, fireplaces can waste energy, especially if not properly insulated.
The warm air is pulled up the chimney and leaked into the exterior. This process ends up drawing in more air to the space.
Traditional fireplaces also emit more carbon dioxide, which adds to global warming. Consider these tips when looking for a more environmentally friendly option.
1. Try Bio-Ethanol Fireplaces
The fuel is produced from the fermentation of agricultural products, such as corn. So, these fireplaces emit lower levels of carbon dioxide. They also have a sleek design adding a sense of luxury to your home. These fireplaces don’t require venting and are easy to install and maintain.
They can be free-standing or mounted to the wall. Free-standing ones provide you with greater flexibility. You can place them anywhere you want. Keep in mind that you want them safely distanced from your furniture. To protect your family from the flames, you should be at least 3 feet away when gathering around the fireplace.
2. Use Gas Logs
Gas logs are a more eco-friendly alternative to wooden logs. This is because when burned, they emit fewer pollutants into the air. They are also safer because they produce a more-tamed flame. Since they don’t create ashes, it also saves you time on cleaning.
There are two types-vented and non-vented. Ventes systems operate by a chimney flue or damper. They provide the look of a wood-burning fireplace and protect you from gas exposure. If you’re looking for a system that provides more heat, vents may be the way to go. Installing the log sets requires drilling holes for access to gas and electric lines.
3. Purchase Pellet Stoves
These stoves are made from organic material such as sawdust, wood chips, bark, and agricultural waste. They also give off minimal air pollution.
Pellet stoves are more convenient to use and more energy-efficient than ordinary wood stoves. They can be good to add if you don’t want to install a fireplace but still crave that natural warmth. These stoves cost around $1,000 and are more cost-effective than other options.
4. Try a Gas Stove
Like gas logs, this is an environmentally friendly option to warm up your home. It has lower carbon emissions creating less pollution. They are also easy to install. They can either be vented through an existing chimney or directly vented through a wall behind the stove.
There are certain features you want to look for when purchasing a gas stove.
Here are some to consider:
- Heating capacity: The rating tells you about the stove’s performance, and a higher rating is better. The ratings can range from 20000 British Thermal Energy (BTU) to 30000 BTU.
- Heating area: Consider the supporting area around your heating system. You can choose from options of 700 square feet to 1000 square feet.
- Fuel type: The stove uses gas fuel, but there are multiple types to choose from. Liquid propane or natural gas are two options.
5. Incorporate Wood Burning Stoves and Inserts
Firewood is an inexpensive and renewable source. The prices for this type of fuel are also relatively stable. Wood biomass can be locally sourced, helping both the planet and the economy. Also, removing dead trees helps to prevent forest fires from spreading. Using a wood-burning stove can be the perfect excuse to get rid of sticks from your yard.
Ways to Use Your Fireplace to Save Energy
Once you’ve determined the best fireplace for you, here are some ways to continue to conserve energy once it’s inside your home.
Use the Right Wood
When burning wood for your fireplace, make sure you’re using materials that have been dried for at least two years. Dry wood will help make the combustion process easier. Use kindling, a firelighter, and wood blocks to light the fire. If you’re using logs, then consider slow-burning wood, such as oak or beech.
Use Proper Combustion
To maintain proper combustion, you want to have as little smoke as possible. You can use tools to keep the fire burning, such as tongs or pokers. Shift and move the wood around to keep a steady supply of oxygen to the flames. As the fire is burning, continue to add new logs.
Make Your Fireplace Energy-Efficient
Your fireplace is essential in providing your family with warmth and comfort. However, it can waste energy and emit pollutants. To find an eco-friendly fireplace for your home, consider these tips.
