It used to be that a fireplace was the lovely, brick designed, enclosure that housed the wood burning fire in the living room, to give the room's occupants warmth and ambient lighting.
But, as with most things over time, we have found that these fireplaces have flaws and as man is want to do, we have developed technology that addresses these problems.
For example, the traditional fireplace has only 5-10% heating efficiency, as it draws it's air from the room much of it's heat is lost through the chimney (along with the polluting smoke it creates) and the wood is burned quickly, meaning greater fuel costs.
In order to continue to be able to enjoy the unique aroma and atmosphere that a wood burning fireplace creates and, at the same time, take advantage of the economical, energy efficient and eco-friendly improvements that are available, many have found that with the use of cast iron inserts that have been made for this purpose, along with glass doors or bevelled glass screens, the reduction in heat loss is almost 65% meaning a warmer room, in less time, and with more savings left in your pocket.
However, if you're not too attached to the use of wood as fuel, there are other options that are even more economical and convenient, and that don't require cleaning accessories.
One such option is the ventless gas fireplace.
As the name suggests, no vent is required and the warm air created stays within the room, maintaining an even temperature without the need to stoke or refuel the fire.
All that is required is to be able to hook into a natural gas pipeline or propane tank.
An even more contemporary solution is the use of electric fireplace inserts.
Simply slide these into the enclosure, plug them in and turn them on for instant heat, glowing logs and a flickering flame effect using 'virtual flame' technology.
They tick all the boxes, warm, cheap to run, safe for the environment, and ultra portable, so anyone can use them, even if they're renting.
You don't have to have them in an existing fireplace enclosure either, some people have them on the wall, all you need is electrical socket.
Another evolution of the fireplace has seen it moved into the backyard and patio area.
Outdoor fireplace designs can be as simple or elaborate as you like and the advent of prefabricated kits mean that the price can be kept affordable if you are the do it yourself type.
And as these are often portable, you have the added luxury of being able to take your fireplace with you if you should happen to move house.
As you can see, even in just this short overview, fireplaces now come in many sizes, shapes, colors, materials and designs and there is a style that can meet everyone's needs in terms of economy, efficiency and personal tastes.
You can have a look online for all kinds of design ideas and compare prices of the various types available or visit a builder in your local area, (that specialises in fireplaces), for advice.
There will surely be one that is right for you.
But, as with most things over time, we have found that these fireplaces have flaws and as man is want to do, we have developed technology that addresses these problems.
For example, the traditional fireplace has only 5-10% heating efficiency, as it draws it's air from the room much of it's heat is lost through the chimney (along with the polluting smoke it creates) and the wood is burned quickly, meaning greater fuel costs.
In order to continue to be able to enjoy the unique aroma and atmosphere that a wood burning fireplace creates and, at the same time, take advantage of the economical, energy efficient and eco-friendly improvements that are available, many have found that with the use of cast iron inserts that have been made for this purpose, along with glass doors or bevelled glass screens, the reduction in heat loss is almost 65% meaning a warmer room, in less time, and with more savings left in your pocket.
However, if you're not too attached to the use of wood as fuel, there are other options that are even more economical and convenient, and that don't require cleaning accessories.
One such option is the ventless gas fireplace.
As the name suggests, no vent is required and the warm air created stays within the room, maintaining an even temperature without the need to stoke or refuel the fire.
All that is required is to be able to hook into a natural gas pipeline or propane tank.
An even more contemporary solution is the use of electric fireplace inserts.
Simply slide these into the enclosure, plug them in and turn them on for instant heat, glowing logs and a flickering flame effect using 'virtual flame' technology.
They tick all the boxes, warm, cheap to run, safe for the environment, and ultra portable, so anyone can use them, even if they're renting.
You don't have to have them in an existing fireplace enclosure either, some people have them on the wall, all you need is electrical socket.
Another evolution of the fireplace has seen it moved into the backyard and patio area.
Outdoor fireplace designs can be as simple or elaborate as you like and the advent of prefabricated kits mean that the price can be kept affordable if you are the do it yourself type.
And as these are often portable, you have the added luxury of being able to take your fireplace with you if you should happen to move house.
As you can see, even in just this short overview, fireplaces now come in many sizes, shapes, colors, materials and designs and there is a style that can meet everyone's needs in terms of economy, efficiency and personal tastes.
You can have a look online for all kinds of design ideas and compare prices of the various types available or visit a builder in your local area, (that specialises in fireplaces), for advice.
There will surely be one that is right for you.
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