Roasting chestnuts and marshmallows in your fireplace may be fun, but is your fireplace leaking heat (and money) out of your chimney? Here are a couple of tips to make your fireplace more efficient.
Do you use your fireplace often?
- Learn how to build an efficient fire. Does your fire generate a lot of smoke? That smoke is wasted energy, billowing up your chimney. Need some pointers? Check out this guide to efficient fireplace fires.
- Consider using a fireplace insert. Essentially, this is a woodstove that can be placed in an existing fireplace. While this is a significant purchase (it can cost $3000 or more), it will significantly improve the heating capacity of your fireplace. Be sure to look for an insert that is EPA approved.
Don’t use your fireplace?
- Invest in a secure, well-fitting damper, and make sure to use it! Your chimney is basically a vent, constantly releasing the pleasant temperature from your heater or air conditioner into the frigid winter or blustery summer outside. When your fireplace is not being used, close off this gap.
- If you are not using your fireplace at all, consider purchasing an inflatable fireplace plug. This form-fitting plug will temporarily seal your chimney, and reduce your heating/cooling costs.
Don’t have a fireplace?