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Enjoy a more efficient fireplace
Few things are as cozy and relaxing as a crackling fire in the fireplace. The warm glow radiates contentment and comfort during cold and dreary winter evenings. The truth, however, is that fireplaces are an inefficient source of heat and can actually draw warm air from your home. We wouldn’t ask you to deny yourself the satisfaction of a fire, so we are providing some tips to improve the efficiency of your fireplace and to increase your comfort.
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Have your chimney inspected and cleaned. Soot and creosote can build up and block your chimney preventing the fireplace from getting the necessary oxygen to burn properly. A build up can also put you at greater risk of suffering a house fire.
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Dampers should be tightly closed when the fireplace is not in use. Over the years, heat from fires can affect how well the damper seals. Consider installing a chimney cap/damper combo. These units seal the chimney better than traditional dampers. If this is not an option, think about purchasing a chimney balloon. These inflate in the chimney, sealing it and keeping your warm air inside. Just remember to remove it before starting a fire.
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Glass doors serve as a barrier to help prevent warm room air being pulled out of your home and up the chimney. Small vents along the bottom or sides control the amount of combustion airflow into the fireplace. When closed, heat from the fire will still radiate into the room.
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Inserts that fit into an existing fireplace are an efficient option. Inserts are generally equipped with glass or metal doors, outside combustion air vents, and circulation blowers that send heated air into the room. Fireplace inserts limit the amount of heat and conditioned air lost up the chimney. Fireplace inserts are recommended for fireplaces that are regularly used for space heating.