Fireplace or Wood Burning Stove?

Originally published in 1996, much remains the same. However, check with the latest information through our locally owned fireplace shops for any new or updated information.

t's still very much a matter of personal preference.

If you are looking for the tradi­tional romance once available only through wood burning fire­places, you may be happy to know the industry has made some major advancements these last few years.

For the classic, traditional fire­place supporter, however, nothing may replace the comforting glow of firelight and the crackling flames. In fact, according to Paul Geiger, GEIGER SUPPLY the trend several years ago was definitely toward atmosphere vs. heat. While Geiger still sells many fireplaces, primarily Zero Clearance units, he sees heat effi­ciency becoming more of a con­sideration. Today he often sees more combination purchasing - perhaps a traditional fireplace, but also a more efficient heating or woodburning stove unit.

For many of the older cabins and homes where a masonry fire­place has been such an important focal point, it may be hard to give up that important part of the home. In cases where the chim­ney has been damaged or cracked, but the firebox and interior face remain intact, Geiger offers an approved anchor plate, allowing replacement of the chimney with piping. Not only does this pre­serve the natural beauty of the original design, it can be a big cost saving factor in reconstruct­ing an unsafe chimney

But, no matter how you look at it, traditional fireplaces do not provide efficient heating. In fact, it is estimated that between 80 to 100 percent of the heat it gener­ates escapes, right through your chimney in traditional wood burning fireplaces.

So how do you keep that tradi­tional fireplace and lower your heating bills? Lowell Wilson, SUMMIT FIREPLACE & PATIO suggests popular fire­place inserts in those cases.

Hearthwarming Magazine contents, "For maximum heating potential, choose a fireplace insert that extends out onto the hearth. Adding a thermostatically or manually-controlled blower can go a long way toward compensat­ing for reduced heating capacity, because an insert is a bit lower in overall efficiency than a wood stove. But, adding a fireplace insert can boost a negative effi­ciency to well over 60 percent."

Traditional wood stoves seem to be the biggest seller today for those looking for both efficiency and charm. "Today's stoves are nothing like the black boxes of the 70's...From contemporary to country to classic, they define decor in dramatic style. Elegant options include viewing doors and trim of 24 karat gold plating or solid brass, or handcrafted etched glass to add dimension to the flames."

Brian Rogers, FIRESIDE SALES sees a newer trend toward gas stove units. Available as an insert unit or free standing, these units qualify as a wall heater in construction, and offer both cleanliness and romance. He sees gas stoves being used often in master suite additions and as an excellent alternative for seniors or indi­viduals tired of hauling wood.

With a fan to circulate the heat, Brian contends the electricity is minimal, and your additional gas bill is usually under $30.00 per month.

You'll find numerous options available to heat your Big Bear home. Before you make any firm decisions about your situa­tion, take time to talk with your Big Bear professionals in the area. Not only will you find them extremely knowledgeable about the options that work best in our climate, they can educate you about the new changes available in an extremely chang­ing industry. From the archives of Big Bear Magazine, January/February 1996 © Big Bear Magazine