Indoor Types Of Fireplaces

Wood

• Wood-burning fireplaces continue to be a popular choice for indoor use, as many people enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of an authentic fire. According to mechanical engineer James Dulley, there are two main types of indoor wood fireplaces: radiant fireplaces, which transmit heat directly into surrounding structures; and heat-circulating or convection fireplaces, which circulate heat through the air. Masonry fireplaces are an example of the former, and rely on thick sections of stone, such as soapstone, for absorbing the heat form high-intensity fires. The stone then slowly radiates the heat out throughout the course of a day. Central furnaces are a common example of heat-circulating fireplaces, and use fans to transmit heat from a burning fire throughout a home. They commonly consist of cast iron.

Gas

• According to Fireplace Info, gas fireplaces are the most common type of indoor fireplace. Instead of burning wood, they use heating elements to burn gas such as propane or natural gas. One of the most convenient features of gas fireplaces is that you can turn them on with the flick of a switch, which means no fussing with matches and kindling. It also means that you can never run out of fuel, unless of course, you forget to pay your gas bill. For those who still want the authentic look of a log on the fire, some gas fireplaces come with imitation ceramic logs, which look like they're burning. The three main types of indoor gas fireplaces are ventless, which gives off exhaust directly into a home; direct vent, which uses one pipe for bringing in air for combustion and other for channeling out exhaust; and top vent, which gives off exhaust out a chimney.

Electric

• Unlike wood and gas fireplaces, electric fireplaces do not generate real flames, but utilize electric heating elements for creating and dispersing heat. While you lose out on the soothing hissing and cracking sounds of a real fire, many electric fireplace models come with imitation flames for your viewing pleasure. According to Home Electric Fireplace Reviews, the earliest electric fireplaces had plastic, bland designs. Today's models, however, can match traditional, modern and rustic decors, and come with wood, brick, marble and other natural stone finishes. The main benefit of electric fireplaces is that they are easily adaptable to apartments and other spaces that do not have chimneys or existing gas hookups.