If you and your valentine are seeking a warm, romantic atmosphere this Valentine’s Day, one of the best ways to get it is with a high-efficiency fireplace. Don’t be cold – be bold, and get the heat you want.

Keystone’s Fireplace & Stove of Mechanicsburg, PA, would like to share a little about the different fireplace styles and how they can bring you wonderful heat, beauty and performance on Valentine’s Day and every day of the year.

Why buy a new fireplace?

Most people who use masonry fireplaces aren’t satisfied with how much heat they produce, and they’re irritated by the drafts common with this type of fireplace. A new manufactured fireplace or fireplace insert is the perfect solution.

Let’s look at the most popular fireplace styles and some of their features and benefits.

Manufactured wood and pellet fireplaces

Wood and pellet fireplaces carry heat-efficiency ratings of 75% and higher. This tells you how much of the heat is retained versus lost. You can install these appliances in most walls of your home as long as there’s a way to add a venting chase outside near the unit.

Wood fireplaces require annual chimney sweeping to remove flammable creosote from the venting flue. Annual inspections are also advised.

Manufactured gas fireplaces

Gas fireplaces burn clean and retain a high percentage of the heat they produce. Vented versions require space to run a vent pipe; ventless gas fireplaces require no venting.

Gas units are simple to operate with a switch, remote or app. Most models offer thermostatic control. Maintenance involves periodic cleaning and annual safety inspections.

Both gas and wood fireplaces can be installed in large or small rooms.

Fireplace inserts

Inserts run on either gas, wood or pellets and are designed to be placed into the firebox of a masonry fireplace. You’ll get high heat production and far fewer drafts from your fireplace with a powerful insert.

Wood inserts need to have built-up creosote removed from the flue and be inspected once a year. Gas inserts need inspections and occasional wiping down.

Electric fireplaces

Electric fireplaces have no flames and are safe to install virtually anywhere in your home. They look beautiful and do a good job of warming a room and making it cozy.

Electric units require no maintenance or inspections.

How a fireplace heats a space

Several factors determine how much warmth a fireplace produces:

Efficiency: How much heat is retained versus how much is lost.

BTUs: The power of the heat – higher number for larger rooms; smaller number for smaller rooms.

Distribution: Forced air, convection and radiant heat are the primary distribution methods for modern fireplaces. 

Components: Insulation, the unit’s materials and the style of the venting system all play a part in heat production.

Distribution enhancers: These include air circulation systems and heat exchangers to push heat into a room.

Choosing the best fireplace option for your home

The first step toward the perfect new fireplace is a visit to our showroom at 6621 Carlisle Pike in Mechanicsburg, PA. We’ll show you all the latest and greatest models and help you decide on the one that will best meet your heating, maintenance and performance needs.

Our field crew will then install your new appliance safely and in compliance with local and Pennsylvania state code requirements. After that, we’ll walk you through how to use and care for the unit and get the most out of it on Valentine’s Day and throughout the year.

Speak with a helpful fireplace expert by phone, or reach out with our contact form.