Types Of Fireplace

WALLS AND WINDOW TREATMENTS 3(1+2)
Lesson 13 : Wall Elements – Fireplaces

Types Of Fireplace

Traditional Fireplaces

The most familiar type of indoor fireplace is the typical "wall-mounted" model found in dens, living rooms, even bedrooms.

It may be made of brick, stone, cement, or ceramic, or some combination of these materials. The opening will usually be covered with a glass or metal screen of some sort. There will be a fireplace grate for holding the wood off the ground.

Fireplaces of this type frequently are surrounded by an exterior mantle, which can be made of wood, marble, metal, brick, stone, or some other material.

Mantle styles can range from simple to elegant to rococo to whimsical and, because of their prominence, often set the decorative tone for the entire room.

Mostly they burn wood for fuel, but some can also burn coal, peat, and other materials. Almost always, the intent is to produce flame and heat for warmth; but, most of the heat goes up the chimney, so fireplaces of this type are not particularly energy-efficient

Electric fireplace

It is an electric heater which mimics a fireplace burning of wood, coal, or natural gas. An electric fireplace does not require any ventilation system. Electric fireplaces consume about 1.4-1.6KW of power which can heat about 400 sq ft of a room. The main aim of an electric fireplace heater is to set the temperature in the room to a few degrees higher than the outside temperature.

Chimneys are not required for electric fireplaces. They can be installed on the wall and hence no remodeling is required by them. They are also portable and can be used anywhere in the apartments and homes

They are compact and can enhance interior decoration. A wide range of models of electric fireplaces are available in market. It is on the part of customer to select a specific model of fireplace that suits the room.

No combustion of gas and flames are associated with electric fireplaces. As smoke is not released, vent is not required. A flame effect can be given to these fireplaces which provides a beautiful look. Electric fireplaces can thus be considered as additions to provide warmth and act as simulation for traditional fireplaces without any mess of fuels and smoke

Gel Fireplaces

Gel Fireplaces are different from electric fireplaces in that they actually start a real fire. But instead of burning wood, these fireplaces burn an odorless, non-toxic, completely eco-friendly jelled alcohol compound. All gel fireplaces conform to EPA standards of cleanliness.

Propane Fireplaces

One of today’s top alternative fuels is propane, a highly refined substance that is a byproduct of processing crude oil and natural gas. Propane fireplaces burn hotter and a little more efficiently than other fireplace types, and they emit far less pollutants and particulate matter than wood-burning fireplaces. Propane fireplaces generally use a less expensive fuel than electric or gel-powered units as well, though they do tend to emit more pollutants (including carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide) than the other alternative fireplaces.

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Last modified: Monday, 19 December 2011, 5:57 AM