If you’re in the market for a new fireplace these days, you have several different robust options when it comes to fuel type and design available. From traditional wood fireplaces to gas, electric and even certain specialty types gaining traction in recent years, your list of options is much longer than it would have been a few decades ago – but for some, making the choice between them can be tough.
At Uintah Fireplace and Design, we’re here to help. We offer a wide range of quality gas fireplaces, electric fireplaces, outdoor fireplace options and more for clients around Salt Lake City, Park City, Heber and nearby areas. Here are some basic questions you can ask yourself, whose answers will often help you determine which fireplace style is ideal for you and how to move forward.
What is Your Budget?
Just from a general preliminary standpoint, laying out a budget for yourself can help you narrow down the types of fireplaces available to you. For example, electric fireplaces tend to be the most affordable option, while gas and wood require more maintenance and cost slightly more up front.
That said, each of these options comes in varying price ranges depending on the features you’re looking for. Laying out your budget is important not only for this reason, but also for helping you plan how much you’re willing to spend on maintenance and fuel in the future.
What Is Your Design Aesthetic?
Another factor that might help determine which type of fireplace is right for you is your design aesthetic or home decor style. Each type of fireplace offers a different look, with electric fireplaces being sleek and modern, wood burning fireplaces offering a rustic charm and gas fireplaces giving you a mix of the two.
If your home decor style leans more traditional, for example, then choosing either a gas or wood burning fireplace might be the better option as electric models are notably more contemporary in looks. Also consider how much space you have available to house the unit, as this can have some bearing on which type is the best choice for your home.
What Is Your Maintenance Preference?
When it comes to maintenance, gas and wood burning fireplaces require more attention than electric models. For example, wood burning fireplaces need to be regularly cleaned and inspected while gas models often require annual inspection and cleaning as well. Electric fireplaces, on the other hand, are much easier to maintain as they typically only require an occasional dusting and minimal upkeep beyond that.
Now, you should also be thinking about the fuel source for each model, as this will help determine how much maintenance you’ll need to do on an ongoing basis. Wood burning fireplaces obviously require a steady supply of wood while gas models will require either propane or natural gas depending on what you choose. Electric fireplaces, meanwhile, only require periodic plugging in and usually don’t cost much electricity beyond that.
What Are Your Sustainability Preferences?
Another factor to consider when choosing between the different types of fireplaces is your sustainability preferences. Wood burning fireplaces are often much less efficient than gas models, while electric options tend to be more energy-efficient overall. Of course, the type of fuel you choose for gas and wood burning models can also have an effect on the efficiency level as well.
Sustainability also connects to the type of fuel you choose, as some options such as propane and natural gas are more sustainable than others. This can also extend to how much energy is needed to power electric fireplaces, so it’s worth researching each option before making a decision.
Is This a Long-Term Investment?
Depending on how often you plan on using the fireplace and how long you intend to live in your current home, this can also factor into which type is right for you. If you’re only looking to use it seasonally or move within the next few years, then electric fireplaces are usually a good option as they require less maintenance.
However, if you plan on using fireplace as a primary source of heat or living in your home for many years to come, then a wood burning or gas model might be a better long-term investment. Even so, it’s important to factor in how much the fuel will cost and how often maintenance will need to be done when making this decision.
Ultimately, each type of fireplace has its own unique benefits, so weighing all these factors can help you decide which model is right for you. With the right research and understanding of your own needs, preferences, and budget, you can pick the perfect option that will bring warmth and comfort to your home for years to come.
For more here, or to learn about any of our fireplace products and services for clients around SLC, Park City, Heber and nearby areas, speak to our team at Uintah Fireplace and Design today.
