The old type of wood burning fireplace can present issues with respect to energy usage and compliance as the heat is absorbed by a masonry chimney. When this kind of fireplace is used, cool air accesses the firebox, feeds the flames by way of combustion, and heat is produced.
The heat which is generated radiates indirectly throughout a living area. However, in order to keep a room heated, you also have to keep feeding the fire with wood, kindling or other types of flammable materials.
In addition, heat is not the only by-product that is manufactured. By-products, such as ash and creosote, also are produced. Such products clog the chimney and, every now and then, are released outside the firebox into a living space.
With respect to fuel consumption, the old-style wood burning fireplace is not as efficient as modern wood-burning fireplaces. Most of the generated heat is absorbed by the brickwork or the chimney. Therefore, the fuel-to-heat ratio is poor.
EPA-endorsed Fireplace Styles
However, wood burning fireplaces can be installed today that are EPA-certified. Certain product lines do feature non-catalytic fireplace designs that decrease the level of flammable creosote inside a chimney by 90%. The fireplaces also burn 33% less fuel. Therefore, when selecting a wood-burning fireplace installation, you want to seek wood burning fireplace models that feature a non-catalytic design.
How Non-catalytic Fireplaces Work
A non-catalytic wood fireplace utilizes an air injection type of approach when igniting smoke and creosote. Heated jets fan the smoke of the fire into a warm and inviting flame. As a result, more smoke is used to maintain the glow of the flame and less of it is wasted or disbursed in the living space.
Zero Clearance
Wood burning fireplace installations and inserts come with zero clearance today, meaning that 0 inches is required between the combustible materials and the fireplace. As a result, the unit can be placed right next to exterior or interior walls for a tighter and streamlined fit. However, manufacturers do suggest that installers allow ¼” for expansion.
Zero clearance does not refer to the furnishings or rugs located outside the firebox. Any type of flammable object or accessory should be placed at least 4 feet from a wood-fired hearth.
Fireplace Features and Amenities
Besides zero clearance, wood burning fireplace styles today feature such amenities as secondary combustion chambers, high-quality ceramic glass, air-wash systems which keep the viewing area clean, air-seal cast iron doors, and a large burning area. Some fireplaces can accommodate almost two-foot length logs.
Less Waste and Better Distribution of Heat
Wood-burning systems are designed today to utilize 100% of outside air for combustion, thereby significantly reducing the pollutants in the house. Intake and exhaust air dampers are featured as well.