There is no comparison to the soothing sounds and aroma of relaxing beside a natural wood-burning fireplace, especially during the cold winter months. Although many homeowners have switched to gas fireplaces with ceramic logs, it doesn’t have quite the same ambience. A well-maintained wood-burning fireplace not only keeps you warm and cozy, but it’s also a natural focal point increasing the rustic charm of your living space. These are just some of the reasons why homeowners are falling in love all over again with wood-burning fireplaces.
Reduced Energy Bills
The price of electricity increases utility bills in the winter. It can get quite expensive to keep your home warm and comfortable, especially on cold days and nights. Firewood is a low-cost energy source compared to natural gas or electric home heating systems. For example, it costs approximately $4,511 per year for electric heating in Massachusetts. On the other hand, wood fuel saves consumers up to 80% in home energy costs – even less than natural gas heating. A wood-burning fireplace will pay for itself in approximately two years and produce the much-needed warmth during the winter at a fraction of the electricity cost.
Sustainable, Renewable Energy Source
Wood is a clean, sustainable, and renewable energy source when sourced from growers that use sustainable forest management practices. A significant concern for environmentally conscious consumers is the carbon footprint associated with greenhouse gases. The energy produced by oil and gas heating sources increases the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, thus increasing the carbon footprint. However, wood is a carbon-neutral fuel source and reduces the carbon footprint. That’s because wood heating releases the same amount of carbon dioxide that is absorbed during tree growth.
Wood Heating Not Affected During Winter Power Outages
A winter storm can knock out power when homeowners need it the most. A multi-year study showed that the Northeastern U.S. had a 159% increase, the largest gain in the country in weather-related power outages. Sporadic power outages are expected to increase in areas with aging electric grid systems. A power outage can last anywhere from a few minutes to several days or weeks. While your gas furnace that relies on electricity will be of no use, a wood-burning fireplace will provide continuous warmth when the power is out. It will also provide some light on a dark and chilly night. Just make sure to have a sufficient stock of firewood on-hand before the winter season arrives.
Increases Home Value
An increase in competition among new home developers has led some to cut costs and are foregoing fireplaces in many entry-level homes. A wood-burning fireplace is considered a luxury amenity. Over 60% of luxury homes feature a fireplace, according to a 2019 survey by the National Association of Homebuyers (NAHB). However, most real estate agents agree that homebuyers are always willing to spend more to buy a house with a wood-burning fireplace. The National Association of Real Estate Appraisers estimates that a fireplace increases the home’s resale value by up to 12%. Installing a wood-burning fireplace in your home will make it more desirable when it’s time to sell.
