When most people think of fireplaces, the first thing that comes to mind is the traditional closed fireplace. You know, the one where you have to light a match and kindle a flame before being able to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a crackling fire. While this type of fireplace is still popular today, many homeowners choose open hearth fireplaces instead. So what exactly is an open hearth fireplace? And how do you choose and use one? Let’s take a closer look.
What Is an Open Hearth Fireplace?
An open hearth fireplace is, quite simply, a fireplace that does not have a closed door. That means the fire is fully exposed, and you can enjoy the full effect of the flames, heat, and light. Many people find open hearth fireplaces to be more attractive than traditional closed fireplaces because they offer a more natural look. They also tend to be easier to use since there’s no need to fumble with matches and kindling.
There are two main types of open hearth fireplaces: wood-burning and gas. Wood-burning fireplaces are the more traditional, while gas fireplaces are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and ease of use.
How to Choose an Open Hearth Fireplace?
When choosing an open hearth fireplace, there are a few things you’ll need to consider.
1. Size of the fireplace.
You’ll need to ensure that the fireplace you choose is the right size for the room it will be in. If it’s too small, it won’t provide enough heat. If it’s too big, it will be overwhelming for the space. A compact wood-burning fireplace or a gas fireplace insert would be a good choice for a small room. You could go with a larger wood-burning fireplace or an outdoor model for a large room.
2. Type of fuel.
As we mentioned, there are two main types of open hearth fireplaces: wood-burning and gas. If you choose a wood-burning fireplace, you’ll need to have a supply of wood on hand. On the other hand, fireplaces use either natural gas or propane as fuel. Many people prefer gas fireplaces because they’re more convenient and easier to use than wood-burning models.
3. Ventilation.
All fireplaces need to be properly ventilated in order to work safely and efficiently. That means that you’ll need to have a chimney or a ventilator installed. If you’re not sure how to do this, it’s best to hire a professional.
4. Cost.
Fireplaces can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the size and type you choose. If you’re on a budget, plenty of affordable options exist. Just be sure to do your research before making a purchase.
5. Maintenance.
All fireplaces require some level of maintenance to keep them in good working condition. That means that you’ll need to clean out the ashes and soot regularly. Gas fireplaces may also require periodic servicing to keep them running smoothly.
6. Safety.
Of course, safety is always a top priority when it comes to fireplaces. Be sure to read the instructions carefully before using your fireplace and never leave it unattended while in use. Also, keep flammable materials away from the fireplace and ensure that there are a screen or glass doors in place to prevent sparks from escaping.
7. Insurance.
Lastly, you’ll need to make sure that your homeowner’s insurance policy covers any damage that may be caused by your fireplace. This is especially important if you choose a wood-burning model.
How to Use an Open Hearth Fireplace?
Now that you know how to choose an open hearth fireplace, it’s time to learn how to use it. Here are a few tips to get you started:
1. Start by building a small fire.
If you’ve never used an open hearth fireplace before, it’s best to start with a small fire. That way, you can get a feel for how much wood you’ll need to add and how to control the flames.
2. Add wood gradually.
When adding wood to the fire, do it gradually. If you add too much at once, the flames will become too high and could potentially damage the fireplace.
3. Use a poker to control the fire.
A fireplace poker can be used to control the size of the fire by rearranging the wood. If the flames are too high, you can use the poker to push some of the logs back.
4. Don’t leave the fire unattended.
As with any fire, it’s important never to leave it unattended. Make sure that someone is always there to keep an eye on it.
5. Extinguish the fire before going to bed.
Before going to sleep or leaving the house, be sure to extinguish the fire completely. To do this, simply close the damper and allow all of the oxygen to be sucked out of the fireplace. This will smother the flames and prevent them from reigniting.
6. Clean the fireplace regularly.
As we mentioned before, all fireplaces need to be cleaned regularly. Otherwise, they can become a fire hazard. Be sure to remove all ashes and soot after each use. You should also have the chimney cleaned at least once a year.
7. Inspect the fireplace regularly.
In addition to cleaning the fireplace, you should also inspect it regularly. Look for any cracks or damage that could potentially cause problems. If you find anything, be sure to have it repaired as soon as possible.
When inspecting your fireplace, it’s also important to check the damper. The damper is a metal plate that covers the opening of the chimney. It’s important to ensure the damper is fully closed when the fireplace is not in use. If it’s not, it could allow dangerous gases to enter your home.
8. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Last but not least, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your particular fireplace model. That way, you can be sure that you’re using it safely and correctly.
Open hearth fireplaces are a great way to add both warmth and ambiance to your home. But before you can enjoy all they offer, you need to know how to choose and use one. We hope that this guide has been helpful in getting you started.
Final Thoughts
Having an open hearth fireplace in your home can be a great way to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a fire without having to deal with the hassle of building one yourself. But before doing that, you need to know how to choose and use an open hearth fireplace.
And there you have it! Now that you know how to choose and use an open hearth fireplace, you can enjoy all of its benefits. Just be sure to follow the tips in this guide and always use caution when dealing with fire.
Do you have any other tips for choosing and using an open hearth fireplace?