Keep your home warm and cozy during the chilly winter season with a fireplace. Whether it is a blizzard, snow or rain, keeping the home warm and safe is your topmost priority in the winter and a fireplace can help you in creating the perfect temperature.

Fireplaces may seem responsible for accidents and injuries, but in fact, it is not the fireplace that is responsible for the accident, but it is the negligence on the part of users. Alternatives like portable space heaters and kerosene heater are also dangerous, but that does not mean that one will stop using them. Rather, learn about the safety tips, the do’s and don’ts of using a fireplace and stay away from danger.

Maintaining your fireplace
The only way to enjoy a fireplace properly is to take care of it regularly. They are not hard to maintain, but with a little care, one can enjoy safe and cozy heat during spine-chilling winters.
Don’t let the ashes of wood burning fire pit create a mess in your yard. Remove it regularly and keep the fire pit clean for the next use. Covers for firepits and fireplaces will also protect you.

Some easy fire safety tips
Here we are sharing some more outdoor fireplace safety tips to protect you and your family from accidents. One cannot deny the chances of fire accidents while using a fireplace, so better keep sand or an extinguisher handy. While leaving the fireplace, make sure that the fire is completely out. Never put a fireplace near any tree or bushes or wooden surfaces as it might cause unintentional accidents. If you have young children or pets, then consider their safety as well.

• Call the experts for chimney inspection annually. Ensure that it is neither blocked nor coated with creosote. Always check the chimney for cracks as well.
• Empty hot ashes only in a fire resistant container and store it safely to avoid any accident.
• Never use gasoline or lighter fluid to start a fire in a fireplace.
• Remove fireplace damper before starting a fire. This will allow smoke and harmful gas to find an escape.
• Use a fireplace screen to avoid sparks and hot embers from popping out.

Just remember all these simple but useful tips and enjoy the warmth of a fireplace without any fear. Explore the fireplace alternatives online, learn how they can help you in keeping your home warm and cozy and choose the right one for indoor or outdoor purposes.

If you are in the market to find the best fireplace, 9 out of 10 times, you may get exasperated due to the large number of choices available. In fact, there are so many brands on offer that it is difficult to make a decision easily. Therefore, use the following tips to get the fireplace you need.

Identify the objective
If you do not require the device, do not buy it. In fact, the eventual choice depends on the aesthetics and the energy bills. Sometimes, people may have to purchase a stripped down version in order to control the electricity expenditure.

Only a single product
Whatever items you are buying, make sure that it is for a single room. A Fireplace doesn’t have the capacity to increase the temperature of more than one room; therefore it is vital to find the optimized device available in the market. In fact, heaters equipped with thermostat would go a long way in minimizing the energy expenses to a great extent.

Trim options for decoration
Fire place trim option is an essential factor in the final selection process. It can automatically shut down when the temperature of the room has risen to a certain threshold. In addition, the design style should be selected according to the requirements and specifications of the users.

Do not rely on the fan
When you are buying product, do not purchase the version that relies on a fan to dissipate the heat in the atmosphere. According to the experts, such products are not effective and might cause more harm than good to the users. In worst case scenario, they are known to increase the electricity bills by many notches.

Architectural theme
As far as the appearance of the device is concerned, it should match the design theme of the room. There are many instances when the product doesn’t complement the color of the walls or the furniture. If you are unsure about the choice, consult customer care experts who can provide valuable suggestions as well as advices.

Branded item
Do not fall for run-off-mill products or else you might get stuck with a shoddy fireplace. Instead, look for branded options online. They would do a world of good in not only maintaining the temperature of the room but also providing durability for a very long time.

Functional mechanism
One of the most important factors that have to be taken into account is the functional mechanism of the fireplace. Wood-burning ones are quite popular because they are quite easy to install and creates a warm feeling reminding people of bygone days. In addition, it also offers respite from the cold chilling winters.

Design perspective
Prefabricated fireplaces are preferred these days by people from all over the world. They can be easily assembled and transported to the client’s site. Moreover, strong metallic materials are used in the construction of the heater. Presence of the glass screen can add a mysterious charm to the fireplace and transform the ambiance of the home as well.

A wooden fireplace is all one can ask for to stay warm and cozy. However, just like any other part of the house, your heating system needs maintenance too. For instance, if the chimney connecting to the device is blocked by debris, it can have a detrimental effect not only on the temperature of the house but also on the health of the homeowners.

There are numerous tips that can help the fire place to burn with maximum efficiency. Some of them are mentioned below.

Inspection of the chimney
The chimney is made from steel and has to be cleaned regularly. It should be 12 inches high and any error in configuration needs to be rectified. In addition, wear and tear are of the bricks have to be monitored regularly so that it works with greater efficiency.

In case of worn out bricks, replace them with high quality cement bricks to withstand the rising temperature.

Preparation for cleaning
Before cleaning, you should always put on the respirator because the ensuing particles can pollute the air in the vicinity. Due to the deposition of combustible material in the chimney, it is important to take utmost care in its complete removal. In order to maintain the whole system, one should also chisel out the defective mortar in the heater.

Removal of the combustible matter is essential because prevents the threat of fire in the house. After removing the residual ashes, you should always spray them on the flower beds to increase the fertility of the soil. In short, every ounce of waste from the heating system can be utilized for the benefit of nature.

Cleaning the wall
In order to clean the wall, you can use powerful vacuum cleaner as it utilizes the high pressure air to accomplish the task. Manually, one may have to scratch the wall that would damage the fireplace, therefore state of art tools are used to make the job easier.

Installation of the chimney cap is an important step to ensure seamless flow of hot air during winter season. It is a vital covering that prevents debris from entering into the chimney.

Call qualified support
If you are looking to enhance the working of the fireplace, it is vital to call for qualified customer care support. The individual should be a master technician with sufficient years of experience. In addition, you can also ask for his license and insurance so that you do not have to pay compensation for the injuries.

Adhere to safety guidelines
Users need to be vigilant about the deposition of the dust particles inside the chimney. Strict monitoring mechanism goes a long way in making the heating system more efficient over a period of time.

If the debris is not removed within the specified time period, acid from the residual material could spell doom for the fireplace. As far as cleaning is concerned, it should be completed by the start of the winter season because in November and December months, the chill can set in quickly.

Nothing makes a home warm and cozy like a fireplace. If you live in a cold region, then you can easily understand how crucial they are for residential and commercial buildings. Though HVAC and other heating machines have become increasingly popular among most people, the charm of a fireplace is still unbeatable. Adding a fireplace to your property will improve its market value as well. So if you want to make any investment in your home, then opting for a fireplace won’t disappoint you. Consult your building authority before installing the fireplace, as some may have restrictions.

The cost of installing a fireplace can range from $400 to $10,000; choose one that fits your budget and requirement well. There are readymade units available as well as brick-lined hearths or custom mantels.

For those who do not want to spend too much on fireplaces can opt for a free-standing gel fuel or electric fireplace. The best thing about electric fireplaces is that it eliminates the installation cost.

Costs of a wood-burning fireplace
Wood burning fireplace has always been a popular choice due to its elegance and style. Installing a wood burning fireplace will require skilled masons and a high budget. So if you are ready to spend about $10,000, this is the right choice for you. One can fix the fireplace in existing home as well, but for that one has to spend on a chimney and other essentials. It may increase the cost by $7,000 to $10,000. To save on your wood burning fireplace choose drywall surround and a simple, wall-mounted mantle.

Costs of a gas-burning fireplace
Gas burning fireplace unit uses natural gas or propane it requires $2,000 for the basic materials package. The Installation and finishing will demand $2,500.
Cost saver tip: To reduce the cost of the fireplace use simpler surround and mantle, replace chimney with a direct-vent fireplace and save on your chimney. Another option is vent-free gas fireplace; it will cost only $400 or so. Hiring a professional to install a gas line or a connection to a propane tank adds about $1,000.

Least-expensive option
For those who want to install a fireplace in less than $1000 can opt for a gel-fuel fireplace or an electric fireplace. It starts under $400. It has a portable unit, so just remove packaging and start using, no costly installation or renovation is required to get it fixed.
For a stylish look one can include a mantel package, but then its cost will increase to $800 and can go up to $1,600. What makes this gel fuel fireplace really interesting is its sound that matches the crackle and pop of a real fire.

Ongoing costs
To get a realistic idea about the ongoing cost, estimate the energy cost. You can use a fuel cost comparison calculator for this. A wood-burning fireplace demands $100 to $200 a year for chimney cleaning. Gas fireplaces require an annual service check ($100 to $150) plus a chimney inspection. Gel-fuel and electric fireplaces don’t need regular maintenance, so they are cheaper and better alternatives.

A fireplace in the home looks inviting, cozy and also romantic. It creates a special ambiance with its crackling sound of wood, flickering flames, the glow and the warmth. Fireplaces are captivating and you cannot stop staring at them. They instantly make you sit in from of them with a fuzzy blanket and a cup of hot chocolate.

However, you cannot have a traditional fireplace if you are living in a condo or an apartment complex. For people who want to have a fireplace but cannot install one, electric fireplaces are the way to go. They can be installed quickly and do not require any vents or chimneys. When you are planning to buy a fireplace for your home, the following are the things that you need to consider.

Heating capacity
First, determine what capacity heater you really need. Most of the electric fire units work on a standard 120-volt outlet, 12.5 amps, and 1500 Watts. To understand the heating capacity of a fireplace, divide the watts by 10 and the answer would be the approximate area of square feet that it would be able to provide heating. Depending upon your requirement, you can choose a higher range one or a lower range one.

Easy installation
Electric units are very easy to install and are inexpensive. All you need to do is bring in the fireplace and plug in to an electric outlet. You can also move the fireplace from one room to another. You can keep this fireplace wherever you have an electric point. This is the main advantage of fireplace electric version over the gas ones. Gas fireplaces need more serious installation. A permanent gas line needs to be drawn and once you install it, it cannot be moved.

Advantages
Electric units are always a better option because if you have kids or pets, you are in constant fear that they might get hurt from fire. But if you buy the electric one, you get heat and there is no fear of getting burnt, because its surface will be cool to touch even when it is working. Some of the other benefits include:

Mobility
You can move your electric unit anywhere you want inside the home or to you RV when going on a vacation or to a new home if you are relocating.

No refills
To keep the traditional wood-burning fireplace burning, you need to stock wood mindfully. If you run out of the logs, there will be no fire. Similarly, the natural gas fireplace also needs a constant supply of gas. But with electric ones, you only need the electricity to generate heat. If there is a power cut, it can also run on a generator.

Easy operation
Operating an electric fire unit is very simple. With the push of a button, the unit starts generating heat. You can also adjust the temperature settings with a remote.

These units come with various options and features. The more you pay the more options you get. Do your research and pick an electric fireplace that suits your home decor and needs.

An electric fireplace is nothing but an electric heater that gives you the look of a traditional fireplace. A mirror element rolls and reflects the light from the LED and creates the fire-like effect. Fireplaces, electric or conventional, always create a cozy feeling at home. Usually, the electric ones are easy to operate and have heat regulations. They have an inbuilt thermostat and the temperatures can be controlled using a remote. However, these fireplaces cannot work without power unless you have a generator.

Types of fireplaces
Electric fireplaces are available in traditional, transitional and modern styles so you can pick a fireplace that suits the style of your home. They are easy to install and are inexpensive when compared to the traditional ones.

Fireplace and media console
You can combine the fireplace with the entertainment center, and create one big piece. These fireplaces are cool to touch even when in use, and they do not require any vents. All you have to do is plug in and enjoy the heat. This unit conceals the electronic components.

Fireplace Mantel
These pieces replicate the traditional built-in fireplaces that burn wood. These fireplaces do not require any chimney or vents. You can put these pieces in any room without hassle. You can enjoy the realistic look of wood and flames like with any traditional fireplace.

Wall mounts
Wall mount fireplaces come in glass, stainless steel, gunmetal, chrome, stone and wood finishes. These pieces add elegance and a modern look to your rooms as part of a home decor. They come with an inbuilt thermostat and flammable options like rocks, glass or traditional logs. These fireplaces are made to cover small areas like lofts, condos, apartments or offices.

Electric built-in fireplaces
These are great alternatives to the traditional wood burning fireplaces and gas fireplaces. Since they do not require any vents, these electric units can fit anywhere in the home on an inside wall or on an outside wall, below the grade or above the grade, or in the corner of the room.

Electric Inserts
These are the latest models that can heat your home electrically. They are safe and make your room comfortably warm. You can change your traditional wood or gas fireplace to an electric fireplace instantly with the inserts.

How do they work?
All fireplaces that give heat with electricity work on the same principle. They operate on a 120 Volt standard outlet. They usually work on two different types of heat, infrared quartz or forced fan.
Forced fan is a silent fan that blows over the coils that get heated when plugged in to produce heat.

In the infrared quartz model, the heat is generated through the infrared light which is invisible. The light instead of heating up the air, heats up the things that it touches. This is a great option for people with young kids and pets.

For people who do not have a fireplace already, electric units are good. If you have a traditional wood burning one and want to change it to electrical, you can quickly do it with an electrical insert.

When we enter a room our eyes are always drawn to a specific item’s focal point “ it may be a TV, painting or a fireplace. When your room has a focal point, you need to arrange the furniture around that focal point to create a symmetrical space, else it might look out of scale. Decorating your room becomes complex when it has more than two focal points. Houses in the snowy region must have a fireplace and a television to feel warm and welcoming. It is very important to balance these with two focal points by planning precisely.

Some of the ideas here will let you rock the house with the combination of fireplace and television and help you get a congruous look:

Solidarity look
Suppose you have a TV that is as wide as the area of the fireplace. You can directly fix the television above the fireplace making the two focal points drawn to one place. To have a harmonious look, arrange the room with couches facing the television and wooden moldings and detailing of the similar style. To make the place more attractive, paint the TV and fireplace area with the same color.

Side by side
In case you have a bigger television or you don’t want to place both the TV and fireplace at one side, you can separate them and place it side by side by fixing the television as the main focal point and the fireplace complementing it. Plan carefully while organizing the furniture when there are two focal points. Some of your guests would prefer to sit next to the fireplace just to embrace the warmth.

Artistic
This type artistically combines the television and the fireplace on the same wall. Modern Modular homes have come up with a good storage system where you can just dump all your magazines, books, DVDs and even your TV extensions. The television can be fitted by the hearth for balance and the fireplace under the recessed cavity when it’s put off.

Texture Twist
Setting the television directly above the fireplace does not work well for textured walls. The best way to make it look cohesive is the arrange them according to the design of the texture. The extended texture makes the components subtly. The eyes are brought to meet at the focal points rather than running over.

Identical scales
If your fireplace is as big as the television you can line them by placing one on top of the other and give a style statement. As they are a perfectly sized flattery potions, they would look well combined. When you are placing the TV above the fireplace make sure it is as low as possible so that nobody cranes their neck when trying to relax and watch the TV.