Chicago Chimney Sweep Pros

Fireplace Options

For All Your Fireplace Needs

Fireplaces are one of the top three desired features that new homeowners are requesting. Fireplaces are not just here to heat a room or home, they are placed strategically for a desired aesthetic look. They can enhance the overall feel and mood of a room. They also increase the home value by as much as $5000. As the appeal grows, so do the choices you have on design, use, and type of fireplace.

The three most common types of fireplaces are the wood burning fireplace, the electric fireplace, and the gas fireplace. Within each category there are many styles and variations to choose from.

Wood Burning Fireplace

The wood burning fireplace is the most typical fireplace that comes to mind when picturing a fireplace. It does a pretty good job heating a room or home but some of the heat does get lost in the chimney. You also need to keep replacing the wooden logs and this adds up and can add to the overall costs of the fireplace. After the logs burn out, you will have the ashes to clean up. You must be very vigilant when the fire is lit as this can be a pet and child hazard. You also, must be very careful never to miss a chimney inspection as soot and ashes can build up and become a fire hazard.

Gas Fireplace
A Gas fireplace burns natural gas which is a relatively inexpensive form of energy. It produces much less pollutants into the air than wood. Although it releases less heat up the chimney, some warmth from indoors is lost up and out the vent. 
Electric Fireplace
An electric fireplace is the most energy and cost efficient option available today. All heat that it produces is used to warm up your home. No pollutants are released into the air and there is basically no maintenance or upkeep. It is also the safest option when there are children or pets around that can not be trusted near a fireplace.
Vent less vs. Vented
Since unvented fireplaces have come to market, many have questioned their safety and integrity. Some states do not even allow them to be installed! The pros of having a vent free fireplace is that they are eco-friendly, easy to use, more affordable, produce enough heat to be used as a secondary heat source, and can be installed in practically any room in the house. The cons are vent less fireplaces release oxygen and carbon monoxide into the room which can cause a slight odor. They also do not look as realistic as the flames are directed through specific pipes and holes. Unvented fireplaces have safety features built in so no excess oxygen or carbon monoxide will leak into the the room. Not withstanding, people are still a bit wary of installing vent less fireplaces in their home.