It is the perfect time of year to beat the fall rush and go ahead and get your home heating plans set up for the winter. You may even be looking at ways to save money on costs while getting more heat for your home.
Ashbusters recommends upgrading your existing masonry fireplace to a new wood-burning insert or a set of gas logs. Both of these hearth heating appliances will increase the energy efficiency in your home, and we offer sales and professional installation services of both wood-burning fireplace inserts and gas log sets. To be able to make the best decision for your home, it is important to know the pros and cons of each fireplace appliance. We would like to tell you more about the advantages and disadvantages to help you compare.
Wood-burning Fireplace Inserts
If you are on a tight budget this winter, you will want to consider a wood-burning fireplace. The cost of firewood is relatively inexpensive, and if you have access to your own wood that you can cut, your heating fuel costs will be free. Another benefit to this type of fireplace is the sensory experience and ambiance you get from a wood fire. While you may think wood is not very energy efficient, new technology allows inserts to burn wood more cleanly, and you can help by only burning seasoned wood.
A big downside to a wood-burning fireplace is a number of chores that come with it. You will have to consider exactly how much maintenance you are willing to do.
Gas Logs
Installing a set of gas logs into your existing fireplace opening can be an easy way to improve the heating efficiency in your home. One of the greatest benefits of gas logs is how easy and convenient they are to use. All you have to do to start a fire is to flip a switch or press a button on a remote control from your couch. You can turn up the thermostat if you get cold and not have to worry about going outside to get more firewood. You can also get more heat in your home with gas logs. According to This Old House, you can get up to 99 percent of the fuel back as heat. If you have gas service to your home but do not have a gas line extended to your fireplace, you will have to consider that extra cost. If you do not have gas service to your home, the cost of adding one can be a major disadvantage for a set of gas logs in your situation.
The more you know about the pros and cons of wood-burning fireplace inserts and gas log sets, the better you will be in deciding which type of fireplace is the best one for you. Contact us at Ashbusters to find out more about improving the heating efficiency in your home this winter.