| Fireback |
Made of cast iron or stainless steel, a fireback
stands upright at the back of the fireplace absorbing
and reflecting heat into the room |
Efficiency: Unknown
Cost: $225 and up |
| Hearth Heater |
A series of hollow metal tubes which replace or
go under the grate. The tubes heat up and direct
the heat into the room. A blower attachment
helps move the warmth. Usually used in conjunction
with glass doors. |
Efficiency: From
10% to 30% when used with glass doors
Cost: $600 and
up |
| Glass Doors |
Can help stop the drafts from the flue. Can
cut down on the possibility of sparks leaving the
firebox. Doors with dampers included can limit
or control the air flow to the fire |
Efficiency: From
10% to 30% when used with a hearth heater
Cost: $350 and up for a good quality door. |
| Wood Burning Inserts |
A new firebox that fits within the old fireplace. It
uses the existing chimney to vent by connecting with
a liner. |
Efficiency: Up to 80%
Cost: Base prices start
at $1000 with most ending up in the $2,500 -$3,500
range depending on choices made |
| Vented Gas Logs |
Gas logs that are installed into your existing
firebox. The damper is often held partially
open with a damper clip |
Efficiency: Low
Burns 55,000 to over 100,000 BTU with most going
up the chimney.
Most often used with Glass Doors
Cost:
$100 - $1100
More expensive units tend to be more efficient, may
include remote controls. |
| "Ventfree", "Unvented", or "Room Vented" Gas
Logs |
Gas logs that are operated with the damper shut. |
Efficiency: 99%
Cost: $250 - $1100
Downside: All vent into home. Many
notice odor and moisture. |
| Gas Insert |
A new firebox that fits within the old fireplace. It
uses the existing chimney to vent by connecting with
a liner. Often includes a blower. Can
be operated with a thermostat to maintain set temperature
in an area. |
Efficiency: up to 80%
Cost: Average price between
$2,000 -$3,500 |
