What Are Fireplace Accessories?

Many homes have electric fireplaces that provide warmth and comfort all day and night. They also enhance the beauty and value of the home.

If your fireplace requires a facelift or just some minor repairs, these tasks are often completed by homeowners. Certain jobs that require gas service should be left to experts.

The Hearth

The hearth is a non-combustible surface that covers a fireplace or wood fireplace-burning stove. It may be a whole elevated area or just the foundation on which the fireplace electric sits. The word "hearth" is usually used to refer to the whole area of the fireplace, which includes the firebox, the floor and mantel and the chimney. It is nevertheless important to note that there are specific fire safety rules regarding how the fireplace and its components should be constructed, so consult your local governing body for more information.

Hearths are typically constructed of brick, stone or cement and can be a focal point of any room. They are designed to protect against accidental fires that could be caused by stray embers, logs or embers. They can also be used to store fireplace tools wood, tools, and other equipment.

Archaeological research has revealed that hearths were crucial to the early human era. Many believe that hearths provided warmth, light, food and even protection.

While a hearth has many advantages, it can cause serious health problems in the event that it is not properly maintained. Smoke inhalation increases blood nitrogen levels, which prevents red blood cells (methemoglobinemia) from transporting oxygen into tissues. At high concentrations it can cause dizziness, nausea and loss of consciousness.

Hearths used to be made of rock but they are now commonly made from concrete or brick. They come in many shapes and sizes. Some cooking cheap fireplaces have hearths that cover the entire wall, while others are smaller and solely decorative pieces that only cover the opening of the fireplace. The material used in the construction of the hearth has a significant impact on its appearance cost, as well as its the resistance to heat.

The Surround

A fireplace surround, also known as a "mantel" is the frame above the hearth that enhances the ambience of the room. In addition to its aesthetic value it is also a functional element as it keeps combustible materials away from the fireplace and reflects heat into the space. It also serves as a shelf for things like mirrors or paintings.

There are a variety of options based on the size and type of the fireplace. Some are non-combustible while others must be in compliance with local and national standards for clearance distances from fire-prone objects.

Some popular choices for the surround are concrete, brick and stone. Certain stone surrounds are carved with decorative features, such as bevels and bolection moulding. They can also feature plinths or cornices. These features can give a home an elegant design that matches the style.

Another option is plaster. It is an amalgamation of sand cement and water. It can be shaped to match any architectural style. For example, a plaster surround can be a perfect fit for a Mission-style home.

Tile is the final option for a wall. This material is available in a myriad of colors and patterns. It can be used as an accent to the surround or spread across the entire wall for an eye-catching focal point. Tile is also a good option for homes that have modern or contemporary style.

The surround is among the first things people notice when they enter a living space. For this reason, it is crucial to select an item that sets the tone of your space and add to the value of your home.

The Firebox

The firebox is a space behind the electric fireplace opening, in which a fire can be created and maintained. The firebox is usually covered by a chimney that allows the smoke to escape. The majority of these traditional structures burn wood, but they can also burn gas such as natural gas or propane.

Regardless of what type of fuel you use, the firebox is the location where the combustion takes place and must be properly maintained for safety and efficiency. The grate in the hearth, a fire poker and an air damper are all important components of the firebox to ensure efficient operation.

In addition to maintaining the firebox and its lining in good shape, it's important to clean your fireplace on a regular basis. The interior of the fireplace will be matted by soot and dust due to its continuous exposure to high temperatures. You can employ a scraper or wirebrush to clean the ash and soot that have been clogged on.

It's also a good idea to utilize steel slag or steel to line the inside of the firebox for longevity and durability. These metals are resistant to corrosion and will not get rusty. They also offer more uniform heat distribution and last for longer.

In the end you can add some visual flair to your fireplace with decorative fire logs or lava rocks. Some people choose decorative modern glass instead. Be sure that whatever you're using in your fireplace is UL approved for safety. This includes the fireplace, as along with any accessories or decorations you add to it.

The Burner

Burners are a great way to add warmth and style to your home. They are available in various sizes and shapes which makes it easy to find the ideal burner for your home. Some come with remotes so you can control flames from anywhere in the house. Fire-burners can be used indoors or outdoors, as they are safe.

There are a variety of burners. Each has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Some are more expensive than others, however all provide a variety of advantages for your home. Some are more secure than others, and some work with or without chimneys. No matter what kind of burner you select be sure to follow the guidelines provided in the manual. This will ensure that the burner is installed properly and is in conformity with all state and local regulations.

While burning wood is the traditional method of enjoying a fireplace, it isn't always the most practical. The smoke and soot produced from burning wood can be dangerous to you and your family. Ethanol fire-burners, on the other hand produce just CO2 and water vapor which is a lot more environmentally friendly.

A fireplace can also be beneficial in the event of an outage. In winter, trees may become weighed down by heavy snow and ice, causing them to fall and power lines below. If the power supply is not working in your home it is possible to use the fireplace to stay warm and cook food. This is a huge benefit for homeowners who want to be prepared for the unexpected.

The Flu

The flue is an inside tunnel inside a chimney that brings smoke and gases from your fireplace to your house. It is an essential component for a safe, efficient fire. A flue is a source of updraft, which draws air through the fire, allowing the fuel to fully burn and reducing smoke.

The drafting action of the flue stops the hot gas produced by the fire from billowing back into your home, and instead, they go outside, where they can cool. This regulated venting is what keeps carbon monoxide out of your home.

Inspect your chimney on a regular basis for leaks and blockages. The flue pipe is a steel tube or duct that runs through the middle of the chimney, must be cleaned using special cleaning chemicals and equipment. This includes a metal brush, a drill with a masonry bit, as well as masking tape and an utility knife for removing any creosote or sooty residue stuck to the walls of the flue pipe.

Close the flue when not using your fireplace to prevent conditioned air from escaping. This can also stop rain or wind gusts entering the fireplace and causing damage to your wood stove or gas furnace.

The damper, located near the bottom of the flue pipe or Electric firesuite flue tiles and on the top of the fireplace can be opened or closed via a latch or handle. It is designed to keep the flue open when the fire is burning however, it should be closed when not in use to help lower your energy bills and keep precipitation and animals from your fireplace.