Showing posts with label instalation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label instalation. Show all posts

Saturday, June 28, 2008

Do It Yourself Fireplaces Shouldn't Be This Easy

An electric fireplace can usually be installed in 15 minutes with two people.

You probably think that a do it yourself fireplace is way too much work. First, you need to know the local codes so that your chimney can meet them. Gas fireplaces will require the assistance of a professional to connect the gas line. You also have all the work and materials that goes into building the fireplace itself. You will be burned out before you have a chance to burn a log.

There are, however, do it yourself fireplaces that do not require all this work. With an electric do it yourself fireplace all you need to do is plug it in and flip a switch. No more worrying about gas lines or proper venting. It works just like any other electric appliance; all you need to get started is an outlet.

An electric fireplace can usually be installed in 15 minutes with two people. You don’t need to worry about codes, inspections, or venting. All you need is a standard 120 outlet. Some models can even be assembled without the use of tools.

One idea is to install your electric fireplace inside an existing wood burning fireplace. Simply seal up the chimney and soon you will be enjoying the realistic flames of an electric fireplace without the soot and smoke associated with a wood fire. While it will look just like a traditional fireplace, it comes without the hazards or maintenance. You can even decide how much heat to have it emit, if any.

Source : leaferelectricfireplace.com

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Checklist : How to Select a Fireplace Insert

The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA) recommends considering the following information when selecting a fireplace insert:

TYPE: Fireplace inserts are distinguished by fuel. There are six different types: natural gas, propane, electric, EPA-certified wood, pellet and coal.

SIZE: There are many sizes of fireplace inserts, from small to extremely large. The key factor in selecting the size is based on the opening of the existing fireplace. To determine the right size, measure the following: opening height; opening width; opening depth (top and bottom); rear width and the depth of the hearth (area in front of fireplace).

LOCATION: A fireplace insert needs to be placed in an existing masonry or factory-built fireplace with a working chimney.

VENTING: Fireplace inserts are either vented naturally through a working chimney, direct vented or vent-free, depending on fuel choice. In most cases, a chimney liner is required. The type and size of the liner is specific to the fuel.

FEATURES: Fireplace inserts are made from steel or cast iron and may also have optional fans to better distribute heat into a room, as well as wall thermostatic, or remote controls, to help regulate the fire automatically.

STYLE: The style of fireplace inserts varies among fuel types. But, no matter what the fuel type, all fireplace inserts come in a variety of colors, finishes and designs, from modern to traditional.

INSTALLATION: To ensure the safe and reliable installation of a fireplace insert, the HPBA recommends that people use a specialty retailer and a certified professional installer. In addition to assessing the construction of a house, the professional will obtain the necessary building permits and make sure that the installation meets all local and state codes. He or she will also ensure that the insert is as airtight as possible, using approved fireplace insulating materials, to make the fire easier to control and increase the heat output. In the case of gas, the professional installer will carefully adjust the fireplace to ensure the proper appearance of the flame.

MAINTENANCE: The level of maintenance required for fireplace inserts depends on the chosen fuel type. A fireplace insert generally needs to be removed when the appliance is being maintained. But, no matter what type of fireplace insert is selected, the HPBA suggests that the chimney be inspected on an annual basis by a chimney sweep certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America.

AVERAGE COST: The price of the unit itself is only part of the total cost of owning a fireplace insert. Other requirements include installation, delivery, annual fuel costs and annual maintenance.

Source : fireplaces.com