How to Choose a Home Fireplace

In this video, Ask This Old House host Kevin O’Connor walks through the best options for home fireplaces with expert Alan Davis.

What to Consider When Choosing a Fireplace

Alan describes several fireplaces options including a traditional wood-burning fireplace. Alan says this should be for ambiance only, not heating, as it is only 15 percent efficient. A gas log is another option but is equally as inefficient as a traditional wood-burning fireplace at 15 percent. However, there is zero clean-up involved.

A better option for heating a home would be a gas-fueled insert into an existing fireplace. These usually run at 70-80 percent efficiency. For those without an existing fireplace, there’s a gas zero-clearance fireplace. That can be built into almost any wall and exhaust directly out of an exterior wall. Alan also shows Kevin a standing gas-fueled oven. That can be placed almost any way and vented through an exhaust pipe.

A pellet stove is fueled by sawdust pellets and runs on electricity. It’s convenient for someone looking to burn wood and more efficient than a traditional wood-burning fireplace. However, if you already have a gas option Alan recommends you stick with gas.

Finally, Alan shows Kevin several electric fireplace options. These fireplaces produce some heat but are primarily for ambiance. They do not need any venting.