Fireplace Installation

What are the key differences between fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, electric fires, flueless gas fires and the rest?

Some fuels burn more efficiently than others in certain conditions. But it is also about the ambience that different fireplaces and stoves can create. If your chimney is functioning and the flue is in good working order then you might prefer a traditional wood-burning stove, log-burning stove or Victorian fireplace for your period property or cottage. Combined with a marble or stone fire surround, the latter will add a rarified sense of grandeur to any dining room or lounge, but it does take a while to get going. Ventilation is also an important consideration, as is practicality. You’ll be clearing away ash on a regular basis. First thing’s first though: check with your authority to see if you live in a Smoke Control Area – fireplace installation specialists may also know this.

Compact freestanding stoves, either multi-fuel, gas, oil or electric, have become very popular in recent years as homeowners try to rekindle the open-fire romance of yesteryear. But if efficiency, lower energy bills and fuss-free heating are more important, a gas fire scores highly, particularly the flueless gas fire variety, which draws waste gases out through a duct. You will also have much better control of the temperature. That said, the gold standard of sustainable heating and performance is the bioethanol fireplace – smoke-free, odourless and not a speck of ash to be seen. Meanwhile, fans of sleek and minimal design will melt away at the sight of a hole in the wall gas fire. These preserve valuable floor space, will comfortably heat a small living room and come in a variety of beguiling forms – a fire ribbon row of flames, a fire bowl or fire basket with pebbles. It’s like magic. Ask your fireplace installation expert or local showroom to show you all of the different types so you can clearly see the difference.

Tips on buying a fireplace, stove or burner for your home:

Safety is crucial when dealing with fireplaces so this is probably one to leave to the experts. Look for fireplace showrooms and installation specialists that are approved by HETAS, a government-recognised body that accredits the most competent installers and servicing businesses. Also, on new fireplaces, look for the CE mark on the fireplaces and stoves that they recommend. This confirms “the manufacturer’s declaration that the product meets the requirements of the applicable EC directives.”

When considering your options, talk with your fireplace installation specialist about the size of area you wish to heat, the current sources of heat (such as central heating), potential heat loss (through windows, for example) and degree of insulation. If your home is modern or well insulated it probably makes sense to choose a fireplace, fire or stove that works efficiently on a low setting to avoid over heating!

Where can I find the best fireplaces, specialist fireplace showrooms and fireplace installation?

Search on Houzz for fireplace experts and showrooms in the Find a Pro category and then start collecting your favourite images in an Ideabook. Contact your preferred company for a free consultation in their showroom or at home. Many will be able to offer a comprehensive service, from consultation and bespoke design to installation and aftercare. Don’t run straight to the cheapest. Build up your knowledge and balance price with quality of design and service.

Important questions for your fireplaces, electric fires or wood burning stoves expert

• Are your installers HETAS and/or CORGI approved?
  
• Are your products CE approved?
  
• Can you offer a free, no-obligation consultation at my house?
  
• Where can I read feedback from other customers who have undertaken a similar job?
  
• How will your fireplace or stove recommendation affect my energy bills?
  
• Is your quote inclusive of all parts, delivery, labour and installation?
  
• How long will the installation take?
  
• How much disruption and mess will this cause?
  
• How much maintenance and cleaning is required?
  
• Is your work covered under warranty?
  
• Do you have public liability insurance and employers’ liability insurance?
  
• Do you offer me a discounted rate to customers for servicing?

Search for fireplace showrooms and specialists that offer fireplace installation on Houzz and see past projects, photos and reviews in order to find the best fireplace and professional.