These days, fireplaces are used primarily for aesthetic effects and secondarily as a supplemental heating source in houses and other dwellings. Wood is the most common fuel for fireplaces, but coal and densified wood "logs" can also be burned. The user also intermittently manually adds fuel to the fire. Fireplaces can be divided into 2 broad categories: 1: Masonry (generally made of brick and/or stone, assembled on site, and integral to a structure) and 2: Prefabricated (usually made from metal, and installed on site as a package with appropriate duct work). ... Read More »

The ambiance of a flickering fire in the fireplace can take the edge off a hectic day and soothe away stress. For those of us with limited time or energy, building a welcoming fire isn't always a simple task. But there is a solution to be had. Install a set of gas logs into your fireplace and you can enjoy a fire in seconds, whether for an hour or an entire evening. Gas logs are easy to use, require very little maintenance, and enhance the aesthetic appeal of a fireplace, whether it's turned on or off! ... Read More »

The main features of gas freestanding stoves are ambiance and convenience. With a push of a button, or the turn of the thermostat, the glowing, dancing fire in a gas stove is instantly warm and tremendously soothing. Then, just as quickly, the fire can be turned off! Gas stoves are both beautiful and efficient, serving as heaters as well as interior design elements. And today, gas stoves can help people with older central furnaces save money on the cost to heat their home. The most exciting of these newest gas stove features is how much the fire looks like a real wood burning fire! ... Read More »

Selecting your hearth product fuel depends on many factors: the cost and availability of the fuel, desired heat output and efficiency, maintenance requirements, and the expected appearance of the fire. Another factor to consider is local air quality regulations that determine what types of hearth products can allowed to be installed within a particular area. ... Read More »

Ceiling fans can be a great addition to any home or room. They can provide a room with comfortable air movement, appropriate lighting, and a nice decorative touch. Choosing the proper ceiling fan or fans for your home is an important decision. This guide will help you better understand the way ceiling fans work, and the will highlight the different styles and options available. ... Read More »

You don't need to put up with splitting, stacking and lighting wood to enjoy the pleasures of a fireplace. Today, you can get the same warm glow and better heat through a clean-burning and efficient gas fireplace. As with most fireplace purchase, a professional installer and inspector are important people to have on your side throughout the process. ... Read More »

There is nothing quite like the atmosphere created by an open sky, twinkling stars and a warm fire. Many people now bring their living areas into the outdoors and choose an outdoor fireplace to provide warmth on cool summer or winter nights. There are many fireplace designs to choose from and this guide will help you determine which fireplace style will best meet your needs. ... Read More »

In the dog days of summer, most people choose to remain indoors rather than brave hot sidewalks and sunburns. But when the first serious heat wave arrives and shelter can't even be found indoors, stores sell out of relief in hours, sending hundreds of air conditioners on their way. ... Read More »

If you’re considering purchasing a fireplace, it’s important to investigate all of your options. There are three basic types of fireplaces on the market and each offers specific benefits. The type that you choose will depend upon a few factors, including the purpose of your fireplace, the amount of money you want to spend and the location in which it is going to be installed. ... Read More »

To enhance the look, feel, and heating efficiency of an existing wood burning fireplace and to give your space a functional and aesthetic makeover without dropping a fortune and doing a remodel, add a fireplace insert. The installation of an insert can transform an old, rarely used heat source into a convenient, supplemental area heater that can help reduce both energy bills and indoor pollution. ... Read More »