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Homeowners are no stranger to rising energy and utility costs. In fact, recent reports show that heating costs within the US have risen around 20% for certain fuel types, particularly those utilizing electric or oil heat. And when you live in an area like Central Virginia, which has frequent temperature shifts, simply going without heat is not an option.
To supplement these rising costs but maintain a similar level of comfort, you may want to consider a fireplace or two. Installing gas or wood log fireplace inserts can easily add warmth to the specific rooms you and your family tend to spend the most time, like your living room, kitchen or basement. The latest energy-efficient models on the market provide a cost-effective strategy for heating your home through a method called "zone heating."
Traditional central heating systems warm the entire house, including unoccupied rooms like your spare bedrooms and unfinished basement, leading to unnecessary energy use and inflated bills. Zone heating, on the other hand, allows you to focus heat where it's needed most. By installing a fireplace insert in frequently used areas like the family room or open-concept kitchen and living space, you can create a cozy, warm living environment while turning down the thermostat for the rest of the house.
For instance, during chilly evenings when the family gathers in one room, a gas or wood-burning insert can efficiently heat the space, reducing reliance on the central system. This localized heating can provide significant energy savings, especially during off-peak hours when many rooms remain unoccupied.
High-efficiency fireplace inserts are designed to maximize heat output while minimizing waste. Unlike traditional fireplaces, which can lose heat through the chimney when not properly maintained or installed, modern inserts are engineered to trap and distribute heat effectively within the home.
These are a top choice for convenience and efficiency. Gas inserts ignite at the push of a button, provide consistent heat and often come with programmable thermostats for precise temperature control. Many gas inserts boast efficiency ratings of 70-90%, ensuring most of the energy goes toward warming your space. Take the 24 DVL Deluxe Ember-Glo from Fireplace Xtrordinair, which can effectively heat up to 2,000 square feet. This model can also be customized to your taste and style.
For those who love the crackle of a traditional fire, high-efficiency wood-burning inserts are another great option. They have blowers to help circulate the heat and provide consistent warmth even during power outages. These models use advanced combustion technology to burn wood more completely, producing more heat and less smoke. We carry a variety of wood inserts to fit multiple styles and needs, including the Lopi Evergreen NexGen Fyre, Blaze King Sirocco 25 and Napoleon Oakdale EPI3T.
Beyond the cost-efficiency and energy-saving qualities fireplace inserts offer, they also provide additional advantages like:
By embracing zone heating with a high-efficiency gas or wood log fireplace insert, you can lower your heating costs while enjoying a warm and inviting living space. Whether you're looking for the ease of a gas model or the charm of a wood-burning option, there's a fireplace insert to suit your needs and budget.
This winter, let your fireplace do the heavy lifting for heating—efficiently, stylishly and affordably.
8151 Mechanicsville Turnpike
Mechanicsville, VA 23111
Next to Cold Harbor Restaurant and Cold Harbor Antiques