It seems like the price of heating our homes is constantly going up these days. That’s why more and more people are finding out the new benefits of an old technology: the fireplace. In Surrey, Richmond, Vancouver, and more, fireplaces are becoming a way of cutting costs through the cold months in British Columbia. And while some may consider the fireplaces an old fashioned installment in a home, they have come a long way, and there are more options than you might expect. Here are some of the benefits of living in a home that has a fireplace:
What’s the Point of Having a Fireplace?
The hearth and the home have been connected in our minds since history began. In fact, the ancient Greeks even had a goddess, Hestia, devoted to the hearth. Fireplaces are where we’ve gathered as a family, cooked our food, or even hung our Christmas stockings. Having a quality fireplace can be functional, but it can also make your family and guests feel at home.
Can a Fireplace Heat My Home?
Modern fireplaces don’t just burn wood. There are also fireplaces that burn gas or even work by electricity. Some people choose to have a fireplace be their primary heating source, and for certain kinds of homes this is a great option. Not many people realize, however, that fireplaces can bring down overall heating costs when used in combination with traditional central heating. If you work from home, for example, and only use a few rooms in your house during the day, a fireplace can allow you to get heat only where you need it.
What is the Cost of a Fireplace?
The cost of your fireplace heating will largely depend on where you live, how much you’re in your home, what kind of house you have, what combination of heating techniques you’re using, and how well your fireplace was installed. You may not have easy access to wood for a fireplace if you live in downtown Vancouver, but an electric fireplace may work well in these instances. No matter where you live, one kind of fireplace or another can help you reduce costs from central heating systems, which heat your entire home whether you’re using the space or not. Most new gas fireplaces operate with thermostatic remote controls and pilot-free ignition systems. Be sure to consult an expert before installing a fireplace to be sure it’s done well and safely. Who knows? You may even qualify for a FortisBC Rebate!
