Improving Fireplace Efficiency

Fireplaces are known to be inefficient ways of heating a home. Some rate fireplaces as being -15% efficient as they suck more heat out than they create. They can create a convection current that can pull heated air out of the room and up the chimney, causing your regular furnace to work harder. Fireplaces also generate a lot of air pollution.

When a fireplace is not in use, make sure you close the damper and that it is shut tight.  Cold air can leak into your home through leaks in a fireplace.  Consider adding a Top Sealing Damper on top of your chimney to prevent heat loss.  A fireplace glass door will also help prevent heat loss from a fireplace. You can also buy blow up Balloon Draft Eliminators that stick in the chimney and prevent air from leaking out. A $50 Black & Decker Thermal Leak Detector can also help you pinpoint air leaks.

If you want to optimize your fireplace’s energy efficient, consider adding a fireplace insert that will prevent hot air from escaping when you are using your fireplace.

Related posts:

1. Federal Tax Credit for Energy Efficiency on Windows, Doors, Skylights
2. Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency – Wood Stoves, Pellet Stoves, Fireplace Inserts
3. Federal Tax Credit for Energy Efficiency on GeoThermal Heat Pump
4. Federal Tax Credit for Energy Efficiency – Insulation
5. Amish Heaters – Free Heat Surge Miracle Convecta-red Fireplace Heater Advertisement
6. Long Island Power Authority Energy Energy Efficiency Rebates
7. Detroit Edison, DTE Energy Energy Efficiency Rebates
8. Georgia Power Energy Efficiency Rebates

Posted on January 10th, 2011
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