For centuries, fireplaces have been central to warmth and comfort in homes across the globe. Whether it was the year 1821 or 2021, the unparalleled feeling of relaxing by a warm, inviting fire on a cold winter’s night is a timeless pleasure that resonates through generations.
When you think of a fireplace, you likely conjure an image of a beautiful open hearth, with tall flames and crackling logs. This classic image is of a wood-burning system. While wood-burning systems are common and effective, many people don’t realize there’s a wide variety of other types that can warm your home, enhance its style, and even increase its financial value.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Varieties of Wood Fireplaces
- Varieties of Gas Fireplaces
- Varieties of Electric Fireplaces
- Alternative Flame Options
What are the Different Kinds of Wood-Burning Fireplaces?
A wood-burning hearth is the conventional fireplace used worldwide, maintaining its status for centuries. It’s the primary image that comes to mind for most when envisioning a beautiful fire in a living room.
Wood-burning fireplace systems typically come in these forms:
- Site-Built Masonry
- Prefabricated
The inherent beauty and ambiance of the standard open hearth are virtually impossible to replicate with other systems.
While traditional wood fires might seem straightforward, there’s considerably more to this type of system than initially meets the eye! They vary significantly in terms of heat output, style, and cost.
Site-Built Masonry
The traditional fireplace is a site-built hearth, meticulously constructed from masonry, brick, or stone, and includes a chimney flue. It bears repeating: the ambiance and authenticity of an open hearth are simply unmatched. However, they can produce substantial amounts of smoke and are not always an efficient heat source. If you encounter issues with smoke or draft, rest assured there are solutions to these problems. Contact your local certified sweep for assistance.
Open masonry hearths are, in most cases, built on-site, meaning skilled masons carefully handcraft them within your home.
How Much Does it Cost to Build a Masonry Fireplace?
If you’re planning to construct a new brick or stone fireplace in your home, be prepared for a significant investment. This is especially true if you don’t already have an existing hearth and chimney.
The overall expense for such a major project will be high due to the requirements for home restructuring, materials, and labor. You will also need to schedule annual inspections and cleanings to protect your system from creosote build-up and other potential hazards.
If you’re interested in learning more about our process for building a complete residential masonry hearth system, click the button below.
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Prefabricated Fireplaces
Prefabricated systems, sometimes referred to by retailers as “zero-clearance” units, are relatively newer alternatives to standard masonry. These systems consist entirely of factory-built metal components that are assembled at the job site.
Prefabricated fireplaces have steadily gained popularity over the years because they offer several distinct advantages over traditional masonry.
The labor and material costs for prefabricated fireplaces are considerably lower because the factory-built parts are simpler to install. Not only are they easy to install, but they also come in a diverse range of styles, sizes, and shapes to complement your home’s aesthetic.
Prefab models often include a blower motor, insulated walls, and metal construction that enhance heating efficiency and air circulation.
While these systems have made significant advancements, masonry still holds the advantage in terms of durability. It’s inevitable that a factory-built unit will show wear after extensive, repeated use over time. This provides even more reason to always schedule annual cleanings and inspections.
Construction Project:
Check out this post detailing a Prefab Chimney Chase Installation Project. See the before and after pictures completed by our team of Certified Technicians.
What are the Different Kinds of Gas Fireplaces?
As you might have guessed, unlike wood-burning systems, fire in a gas fireplace is produced by… drum roll… gas! More specifically, natural gas or propane generates the flames.
You can enjoy the warmth and appearance of a wood-burning fire without any of the hassle of splitting and seasoning wood, dealing with ash mess, or constant fire maintenance. A simple turn of a knob or flip of a switch will ignite your flames. In many models, you can even control the amount of gas output, thereby regulating your heat and flame levels.
As you’ll discover in the different types described below, what gas fireplaces might lack in raw authenticity and traditional comfort, they more than make up for in terms of cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and ease of operation.
Direct Vents (DVs)
Direct Vent Gas Fireplaces have become a popular choice for homeowners due to their efficiency, promotion of healthy indoor air quality, ease of operation, and visual appeal.
Unlike traditional gas fireplaces, direct vents are highly effective because they expel exhaust gases, either vertically or horizontally, outside the home while drawing outside air for combustion instead of indoor air. As a result, DV units feature two vents: one draws in fresh outdoor air, while the other expels combustion byproducts.
Direct vents are highly customizable and versatile. Various styles are available that can improve your home’s aesthetic value and efficiently heat almost any room.
Cost to Install Direct Vent Systems:
Depending on your chosen DV brand, specific venting requirements, and appliances, direct vent installation costs can range from $4000 to $7500.
Vent-Free Gas
Natural gas or propane ventless gas fireplaces, as their name suggests, do not require any vent or chimney. Vent-free systems are designed for heating efficiency and straightforward installation. These no-vent fires come in different varieties:
- Built-In Vent-Free Gas
- Ventless Gas Logs
- Indoor and Outdoor models
- Dual-Sided Glass Fireplaces
Whether you choose to install one into existing masonry or on a wall in your home office, it provides an attractive, cost-efficient fire that effectively heats a room.
However, there are a few important caveats to consider when opting for a ventless system. Given that your gas exhausts are not vented to the outside, there is a risk of carbon monoxide entering the home.
WARNING: Several U.S. cities and states prohibit these ventless systems due to safety concerns. If you are considering purchasing a ventless unit, we strongly suggest first weighing your Pros & Cons.
B-Vent Fireplaces
B-vent, or natural vent, gas fireplaces offer the comforting look and feel of a wood-burning system without any of its associated inconveniences. B-vents are prefabricated units typically open to the room, meaning they utilize indoor air for combustion and vent gas exhausts outside through a vertical flue.
A substantial amount of the heat produced will escape through the venting. With this in mind, a B-vent is excellent for aesthetic and stylization purposes, rather than as a primary heat source.
The price of a B-Vent Gas Unit before installation can range from as low as $229 to $7900 or more, depending on the style you choose. This project should never be attempted without professional assistance.
[Learn more about this sort of chimney and its requirements on our chimney types page.]
What are the Different Kinds of Electric Fireplaces?
A variety of electric fireplaces are simple to install, easy to operate, and, without a doubt, the most cost-effective choice for homeowners facing diverse chimney system issues.
It doesn’t get more convenient than electric, as all it takes to experience subtle warmth and a beautiful LED flame is clicking a remote-controlled button. Some electric systems even allow you to maintain the burning flame LED display while turning off the heat output.
There are different types of electric fire systems, each offering a wide range of options:
- Built-In Electric
- Electric Mantels
- TV Stand Fireplace
- Wall Mounted
Say goodbye to concerns about creosote build-up, chimney inspections, and other maintenance. These electric wall-mounted fireplaces only require a standard 110-volt outlet to function. No flues, chimneys, or specialized venting are needed. This makes them a solid choice for homes without a gas line or an existing fireplace hearth.
Whether your current chimney system has various issues that prevent safe wood or gas burning, or perhaps you’re simply looking for something reasonably priced, a brand new electric unit is an excellent choice for your home.
Electric Fire TV Stand
An electric TV stand combines two essential household items: a TV stand/entertainment center with an integrated fireplace. These factory-built models are ideal for individuals who desire the fire experience but have limited available space in their homes.
These TV stands come in a variety of options, from modern to traditionally styled flames. Regardless of the design you choose, the aesthetic will add character to any room without the hassles of needing fuel to burn.
Price of Entertainment Centers with Electric Flames:
The costs for electric TV stands typically range from $500 to $1500 on the higher end. No installation is required.
Mantel Electric
Similar to electric TV stands, mantel electric fireplaces combine multiple functions. This unit, however, aims to recreate the complete vintage wood-burning experience. Not only does it produce flames and heat, but it also comes with a charming mantel!
Reconstructing a section of your home for a new chimney system is unnecessary. With an electric mantel, you can enjoy a relaxed and comforting ambiance in any room. Some of our customers who have real fire hearths in their living rooms opt for electric bedroom fireplaces for a lovely atmosphere and added convenience.
Cost of Electric Mantels:
The cost of an electric mantel unit depends on its size, type, and chosen style. However, high-end models are typically priced between $1200 and $2000. It’s essentially a very expensive, luxury space heater.
Decorative Flame Alternatives
Your more decorative alternative varieties are listed below. They are purely for convenience and beauty.
Please Note: Here at Full Service Chimney, we do not install nor service these options; however, we hope these choices provide you with inspiration and education!
If household restrictions prevent you from having the fire you desire, there are other modern alternative fuel options:
- Ethanol Flames
- Gel Flames
- Ultrasonic Flames
Ethanol Flames
Ethanol is a modern, intuitive, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional wood-burning systems. Ethanol is a ventless option that burns alcohol-based fuel to create a real, smokeless flame. It is highly versatile, as it does not require a chimney or venting to operate.
To ignite your fire, simply pour the ethanol fuel into a container and light it with a long lighter. You can limit the burner opening to decrease your flame size and close it completely to extinguish the flame.
The unique ability to pour the fuel source directly into the unit distinguishes it from the others listed. This means you can install it in the middle of a wall, within existing masonry, outdoors, or even in the centre of your room. The most common styles are wall-mounted, tabletop, and conversions of existing masonry, but the creative possibilities are truly endless.
The question remains: are ethanol fireplaces safe? Yes, they are safe for your overall health and are eco-friendly.
Burning ethanol fuel for three hours emits a similar amount of carbon dioxide as two candles would. We generally prefer to keep ethanol fires outdoors, as there is always some safety risk involved whenever an open flame is present.
Safety Warning: Complete combustion produces a translucent blue flame. If an ethanol fire burner produces a yellow flame during use, it indicates incomplete combustion, which results in Carbon Monoxide (CO).
Ethanol won’t produce substantial heat, but these are eco-friendly and cost-effective options that will look stunning in a simplistic and modern home. However, when compared to the “big 3” (electric vs. gas vs. wood-burning), the ethanol fire experience might be a bit underwhelming for traditional hearth enthusiasts.
Gel Flames
Gel and ethanol fireplaces are often grouped together due to their many similarities; however, they are not identical. Yes, they both utilize alcohol-based fuel sources and are primarily for aesthetic purposes rather than significant heating. But the gel fireplace flame doesn’t flicker as frequently and is considerably thicker.
Gel fireplaces also offer the user-friendly option of inserting a 30 oz (approximately 850g) fuel-can, which is easily placed into the container and lasts for up to 3 hours. The fuel also contains added elements that simulate the crackling sound of a real fire.
Naturally, they are easy to install, eco-friendly, and offer versatile installation options. Due to the wide range of sizes and models for both ethanol and gel systems, it is difficult to provide an accurate price range.
Tabletop Gel Fires are a wonderful addition to a backyard patio and can be purchased for less than $200. These tabletop versions also come with ethanol fuel options.
Ultrasonic Flames
If your primary interest is achieving the visual effect of an open flame without any concern for mess, heat, harmful emissions, etc., then this is the option for you! Ultrasonic, or water vapor, fireplaces use LED lights and water mist to create the illusion of an authentic fire.
Ultrasonic waves are vibrated at an inaudible frequency to produce water vapor. This misty water vapor is emitted into the air and reflects the LED lights, creating an incredibly realistic 3D flame.
Similar to the other alternatives mentioned above, this type requires no venting or chimney. This, of course, means you can install it anywhere in your home. It’s also safe to touch and produces no harmful toxins or smoke.
How Much Do Ultrasonic Flame Systems Cost?
Again, these come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and installation types. Prices can be as low as $45 or as high as $4500. Regardless, this is a unique option to satisfy your desire for realistic flames!
What Fireplace is Best For You?
Many people are unsure what type of fireplace they have in their home, and this page aims to clarify that. But perhaps you don’t yet own a fireplace and need guidance on how to choose the right one for your home.
Various types and styles exist, each with specific advantages and disadvantages depending on what best suits your house.
Studies indicate that over 50% of people prefer a stone surround, and nearly 78% of people own a standard hearth. This suggests that the Most Popular Type of Fireplace is a Traditional Masonry Style Hearth. | Source
How Do You Know What Type of Fireplace You Have?
Perhaps you already have a fireplace but are unsure of its type or how to maintain it. If you’ve reviewed each section on this page to determine if you have a gas, wood, or electric system and are still uncertain how to identify your specific system, here are a few more helpful resources:
- Check out our Anatomy Page to understand the parts of each kind of burning system.
- Visit the CSIA website for a breakdown of how to identify the type of system you currently have.
Summary
A fireplace can be much more than just a heating method; when properly installed and cared for, it can transform the way your home looks, feels, and functions. However, choosing the right one for your home can be complex. Some require specialized venting and extensive reconstruction to operate correctly, while others simply need a standard 110-volt outlet.
Whether you’re ready to convert or install something new, or simply need an inspection to know where to begin, Full Service Chimney is here to assist you, the people of Kansas City, in achieving your fireplace goals.
Call us today at 913-642-6171 for help with your fireplace’s annual care plan.