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.