Another winter approaches, and many homeowners prepare to battle the cold weather by getting their preferred heating system ready, whether it’s a gas furnace or electric heater. However, you might consider adding a wood-burning fireplace to augment or replace your heating system, and here are a few reasons why.
Timeless Aesthetic
If fireplace owners are honest, they’d tell you that using a fireplace is more about the atmosphere and the feelings a roaring fire provides. Humans have spent hundreds of years gathered around crackling fires not only for warmth but for swapping stories and building bonds. Fireplaces and campfires are in our DNA. And although wood-burning fireplaces aren’t always the most efficient heat sources, nothing can beat their authentic old-world charm.
Inexpensive, Environmentally Friendly & Renewable Fuel Source
One of the main advantages of installing a wood-burning fireplace is that it uses a cheap, renewable fuel source that can significantly cut down your energy expenses if you’re relying on gas or electricity. Purchasing seasoned firewood is less expensive than paying for gas or electricity. If you’re not afraid of a little effort, you can save even more by cutting and seasoning the firewood yourself. Furthermore, wood-burning fireplaces are more environmentally friendly than using fossil fuels. Wood is renewable, sustainable, and more cost-effective than drilling for natural gas or burning coal for electricity. Finally, when wood burns, it doesn’t release nearly the amount of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere as gas or other fossil fuels. Another thing to consider is how renewable wood is as a fuel source. Companies that provide wood for sale are committed to planting new trees for each one they cut down, so there’s no worry of running out.
It Doesn’t Require Electricity
Losing heat during winter isn’t just uncomfortable; it can be dangerous if you have vulnerable family members living at home, like young children or older adults. Unfortunately, it’s common for winter storms to wreak havoc with power grids, causing downed lines and outages that can last for days. Living through a power outage can be a nightmare if you rely on an electric heating system. However, if you have a wood-burning fireplace, you never have to worry about being without heat. Even if the fireplace doesn’t heat the entire house, it’s better to cozy up in a warm living room or den and be comfortable than shivering and waiting for the electricity to come back on.
Lower Energy Bills
The price of everything is going up, and there’s no end in sight. So, it’s prudent to reduce expenses wherever you can to keep more money in your pocket. If you add a wood-burning fireplace to your home, you can reduce your reliance on your furnace or electric heater, reducing your energy bills.
Boost Home Value
Depending on the location and market, a fireplace can add value to your home if you decide to sell it down the road. For example, suppose your home is in a region that experiences long, harsh winters. In that case, a fireplace may be a must-have for a homebuyer; However, for a home on the Florida coast, not so much. However, remember that many people like fireplaces for the atmosphere more than the heat.
Strong Focal Point
Another advantage to having a fireplace in your home is that it provides a beautiful, natural focal point and can be the center of attention when you have guests over. Moreover, a fireplace with a mantle gives you countless opportunities for decorating, or you can even integrate a TV into the design to make it more eye-catching.
Cheaper Than Gas
People who use fireplaces fueled by natural gas would argue that gas fireplaces are easier to use, safer, and require less maintenance, which is mostly true. However, they fail to mention that gas is still more expensive than wood despite having dropped in price in recent years. If getting the most bang for your energy buck is essential,
you can’t beat a wood-burning fireplace. If you’ve considered installing a wood-burning fireplace but have questions or are on the fence, call the chimney and fireplace experts at Fluesbrothers. We’re the trusted fireplace and chimney company in the Kansas City Metro area and beyond, with over a decade of industry experience. Contact one of our experts today at 913-236-7141 or click here to request an appointment.
