Manufacturers are turning up the heat with new technology that makes fireplaces more comfortable and energy-efficient.
Direct-vent or vent-free gas fireplaces
Natural gas fireplaces have significant advantages over wood-burning models. They're cleaner, more convenient and provide enough heat to warm a room.
Instead of a large, energy-wasting brick chimney, a direct-vent natural gas fireplace requires only a thin metal vent, which fits inside any standard wall.
Vent-free models need no chimney at all, because they burn gas so cleanly that virtually no emissions are created. Vent-free fireplaces can be placed virtually anywhere a gas line is accessible.
Both types of gas fireplaces offer realistic ceramic logs and a thermostat control that gradually moderates heat output and flame height to maintain a comfortable room temperature.
High-efficiency wood-burners
Traditional wood-burning fireplaces are notorious energy-wasters, and they can't meet today's stiff air pollution regulations and energy efficiency standards.
Factory-made masonry fireplaces are one answer for those who still want to burn wood. A state-of-the-art secondary combustion chamber burns away virtually all the smoke, making the fire so clean it meets the toughest emissions standards.
Another advantage of masonry is that it continues radiating heat long after the fire goes out because the natural brick or stone holds in heat. |
