Are you contemplating installing a fireplace in your home? Choosing the right one can be confusing since there are many options available. This quick guide to different types of fireplaces will help you understand your options and make the best decision.

Wood-Burning Fireplaces and Stoves

There's nothing quite like the crackling sound and smoky smell of burning wood. Wood-burning fireplaces and stoves provide a warm, cozy atmosphere that other types can't replicate. They are traditional and timeless and become the focal point in any room. Moreover, they offer a sustainable heating option if you have access to firewood. New wood-burning stoves come with EPA certifications, showing that they meet emissions standards for particulates and other pollutants.

Contemporary wood-burning fireplaces can be much more efficient than they were in the past. Still, keep in mind that their ability to burn hot and clean depends on you using seasoned wood with low moisture content.

Pellet Stoves

Pellet stoves are modern alternatives to wood-burning options. They burn balls or discs of compressed sawdust and other biomass. These stoves are known for their high efficiency, producing very little ash and fewer emissions than wood-burning fireplaces. They also come with EPA certifications and a built-in hopper for automatic feeding, making them convenient and safe. However, pellet stoves require electricity on a separate individual circuit, so consider whether you’d need electrical work in your home to install a pellet stove.

Gas Fireplaces and Stoves

Gas fireplaces and stoves offer the convenience of instant heat at the flick of a switch. They are clean, efficient, and easy to use. You won’t have to worry about chopping wood or cleaning up ash, and they burn more efficiently than wood-burning options. Plus, they come in a variety of styles to suit your home’s décor. Depending on your preference, you can choose between natural gas or propane models.

Electric Fireplaces

Electric fireplaces are popular for their ease of installation and use. All you need is a standard electrical outlet. These fireplaces offer the visual appeal of a traditional fireplace without the need for a chimney or vent. They are also efficient and safe, making them ideal for apartments and small rooms.

Fireplace Inserts

Fireplace inserts can fit into an existing hearth, transforming it into a more efficient heat source. They come in a variety of types, including wood-burning, gas, and electric. Fireplace inserts can significantly improve the heating efficiency of your old fireplace while maintaining its aesthetic appeal.

Find different types of fireplaces, like electric wall-mount fireplaces, at Fireside Hearth and Stove, serving northeastern Arkansas. We can help you choose a fireplace that best fits your home and lifestyle!