Our Company Blog

Maximizing the Heat

Enjoy the warmth your fireplace has to offer by maximizing it’s heating potential and increasing energy efficiency.

Our fireplaces create a comforting ambiance on a cold winter day, but the warmth, unfortunately, is usually more show than substance. The explanation is firmly entrenched in the realm of science. We’re all aware that hot air rises; as such, the majority of the heat produced by your fire attempts to escape through your chimney. Not only that, this fleeing hot air creates an updraft that sucks even more warm air up and out of the room. The goal here, then, is finding ways to keep the hot air from fleeing and, instead, coaxing it to remain in your living space.

The Benefits of Burning Seasoned Wood

An easy first step to increasing the performance and heating efficiency of your fireplace is to burn seasoned firewood. Freshly cut wood—also referred to as green firewood—burns inefficiently and produces large amounts of smoke with little to no real heat to speak of. The majority of the heat energy produced from burning the wood is used to evaporate the excess moisture in the wood rather than going into actually heating your home; this excess moisture also attempts to put the fire out as it’s burning. Seasoned wood, on the other hand, has had ample time to dry and burns much more efficiently than its green counterparts.

Adjusting your Damper to Maximize Heat Output

Once you’ve got your seasoned firewood arranged in the fireplace, you can open the damper as wide as possible to increase the amount of air to the fire. This will improve the combustion and increase the amount of heat produced by the fire. It’s important to note here, however, that one drawback to this increased combustion is that your wood will ultimately burn faster, which will cause you to have to add seasoned wood more often to get a nice continuous flow of heat.

Annual Chimney Inspection and Sweeping

Having your chimney inspected and cleaned by a CSIA-certified chimney sweep yearly can also make it possible to boost your heating performance, as the process removes creosote buildup inside that can significantly restrict air flow. Once your fireplace and chimney have been cleaned, you can replace the screen in front of the fireplace with tempered glass doors, and keep the doors closed while the fire is burning. Doing this will increase the temperature of the fire in your fireplace and reduce the amount of warm air that the fire draws from the room.

Following the steps mentioned above will enable your fireplace to provide your home with more heat than it might have otherwise produced. Beach Stove & Fireplace takes pride in the services provided to each and every one of our customers. We encourage you to take a minute to call or ask one of our technicians what is available for your particular unit that can help it last longer and/or perform better. You won’t be disappointed that you called!

Keeping Proper Draft

Keeping Chimney Draft Efficient

If you had a balloon with holes in it, no matter how hard you try to inflate it, the air just keeps escaping the wrong way. A similar problem could also happen with our chimneys. There may be instances when we wonder why there’s smoke coming out of the fireplace instead of going up the chimney. When this happens you can almost immediately assume that your chimney draft has been compromised.

Some people might think that somehow the problem can fix itself, but it won’t. There’s something seriously wrong going on inside your chimney that needs to be addressed right away. This requires the expertise of a professional  to check what is going on with your chimney. Beach Stove and Fireplace can tell you everything you need to know about chimney draft and how to keep the smoke going out the right way.

About Chimney Draft

Chimney draft is the term used to describe the passage of air through the flue when the combustion process starts. Draft inside your chimney is necessary because it allows hot air and unwanted smoke to go out of the house in a uniform manner.

The draft inside your chimney is better when the temperature outside is cooler and the warmth created in the fireplace can be felt more. The reason behind this is that the difference in temperature increases the pressure in the building and when it does, more draft is made because it pushes air from the firebox into the flue – the hotter, the better. This would be the ideal scenario, but sometimes draft can be compromised and decrease tremendously.

It increases and decreases depending on the structural integrity of your chimney. This means that if there are blockages inside the chimney, it makes it harder for the drafting process to take place. If this happens, then the draft decreases. When you say that draft has decreased or is compromised, not all or not enough smoke is taken out through the flue efficiently. The flue plays a vital role in this process and once it malfunctions, bigger problems will soon arise. Chimney or house fires and the possibilities of carbon monoxide poisoning could be potential hazards.

What to do

To increase the draft inside your chimney, the flue needs to be clean and free of obstructions. This will allow smoke to properly flow out of the flue and into the open air. Also, the structure of your chimney needs to be tough, secure and tight so that the smoke will only come out in the right place – the chimney opening – and not in various places.

Eventually when you need to replace your flue, our CSIA-certified experts can do the work for you. Replacing it means increasing draft efficiency and ensuring chimney stability at the same time. Two for the price of one. Call us now!

Fire Safety Infographic

Having the knowledge on fire safety can lessen the risks of untoward accidents due to fires. Make sure you are well-prepared for a house fire. Even better, know how to prevent them!

Knowing the basics to fire safety can give you assurance and peace of mind.

What’s Blocking Your Chimney?

A chimney’s job is to safely transport the toxic byproducts of combustion up from your fireplace or stove through the flue and into the atmosphere. When your chimney is clogged by debris, nests, or any other form of blockages, you may be facing several problems including:

• Your chimney won’t be able to draft correctly
• Your fireplace/stove and chimney will become less efficient
• The blockage can become a fire hazard
• The blockage can cause carbon monoxide or other toxic fumes to vent into your home
• The blockage can create unpleasant odors (as in the case of a dead animal) or sounds (as in the case of nesting animals)

If you have a chimney that’s been properly maintained, cleaned annually, and outfitted with the necessary components to keep debris and Mother Nature out and sparks inside, then you shouldn’t have to be concerned with anything getting inside your chimney. However, if you’re unsure if your chimney has a cap or top-sealing damper or if you’ve been hearing the twittering of birds inside your chimney or smell a dead animal, then there’s a very good chance that your chimney has become a home to unwelcome guests and needs a professional inspection and sweeping.

Those of us at Beach Stove and Fireplace will be able to quickly and completely remove your chimney blockage so that you can feel confident that your fireplace and chimney are once again safe for your enjoyment. Our sweeps are all certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America. You will even be able to see for yourself that your chimney blockage is gone via one of our closed circuit cameras. We’ll also be able to suggest ways to keep blockages out of your chimney for good. (See our suggestions below.)

6 Things That May Be Clogging Your Chimney

The truth is that we never quite know what we’ll find inside an uncapped chimney. We’ve found some interesting and sometimes perplexing things—petrified animals, stray toys, etc. Here are our most common discoveries:

1. Birds’ Nests: Because birds are always searching for someplace warm, dry, and away from predators, the chimney is often an ideal home for them. Believe it or not, we are not able to clear any and all nests out of your chimney. If we determine that the nests belong to a type of bird called a “chimney swift,” then the Migratory Bird Treaty Act prevents us from removing them. The law exists to protect these birds, which got their name specifically because they nest almost exclusively in chimneys, as they want to nest on vertical walls in dark, enclosed areas such as inside chimneys, hollow trees, or caves. Believe it or not, the chimney swift has become far less common since fewer people use their chimneys than once did.
2. Vermin: We commonly find insect infestations inside chimneys, as well as opossums, squirrels, raccoons, and mice who use the chimney as their den. As you can imagine, animals can create quite a big stink and plenty of noise. And because they multiply, this problem only tends to worsen if not dealt with.
3. Foliage: An uncapped chimney, especially one that’s near one or more trees, may quickly collect leaves, branches, flying seed pods, and other tree debris.
4. Debris and Trash: In addition to Mother Nature’s debris, we sometimes find bits of paper and plastic that have ended up inside the chimney.
5. Creosote and Soot: The byproducts of combustion can build up so profoundly that they impede the flow of air inside your chimney. A good cleaning by one of our C.S.I.A. certified professionals  can clear this issue up for you.
6. Assorted flying objects: This may sound like a joke, but we’ve been known to find golf balls, Frisbees, kickballs, Christmas decorations, and other surprises inside chimneys.

How to Prevent Chimney Blockages

Following a professional cleaning, the very best way to keep animals, debris, and trash out of your chimney is to have a chimney cap or top-sealing damper installed. These components have additional advantages, too, and can add years to the life of your chimney by keeping damaging rainwater out.

If you suspect something is blocking your chimney, call Beach Stove and Fireplace today. We can be reached at 631-998-0780.

Levels of Chimney Inspection

Chimney sweeping is one of the most important parts of chimney maintenance, along with your yearly inspection. Without a chimney sweep, creosotes can begin to block your chimney, which can cause draft problems. So what does this mean for you and your family? Blockages can cause chimney fires, and back draft can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Stay safe and call Beach Stove and Fireplace to schedule your appointment today!

Inspection Level 1

There is more than just one level of chimney sweeping. The first of three is the most common and most basic level of inspection. This is what your technician will do every year if nothing has changed within your chimney and fireplace structure. This is when you get a sweep and inspection of any visible parts of the chimney. They will also test your flue to make sure that it is working properly.

Inspection Level 2

The other two levels of inspection go more in-depth than a Level 1 inspection. Your technician will typically suggest a Level 2 inspection if they notice anything that could become a problem in the original checkup. If they find a problem inside of your chimney, do not use it because it could become hazardous. A Level 2 inspection is also for anyone who wants to change the way they use their chimney. For example, if you are switching how you fuel your fire, experience relining, or have just added or replaced part of the appliance, you need a thorough check. New homeowners are also ones who fall into this category because you should always have a fireplace and chimney inspected before its first use.

Inspection Level 3

A Level 3 inspection is the most in-depth form of inspection. This is usually what a technician will conduct if you have had fairly serious damage to your home or chimney. An example would be if you have mold growing in your home and the technician having to take out part of your chimney so it doesn’t spread to your foundation. If you feel like your home is in danger you can always call for help in understanding the situation. It is important that whatever company does your chimney inspection is Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certified.

Tax Credits: 2013

Who doesn’t like saving money?  We wanted to make sure that you were aware of a soon-to-be expiring tax credit relating to wood and pellet stoves as well as fireplace inserts.  It’s not too late to invest a little money to do some last minute improvements to your heating system before heating season really gets ramped up. Every dollar you save can go toward a summer trip to the beach.

On January 1, 2013, Congress passed a bill addressing parts of the now infamous fiscal cliff.  This bill included a reinstatement of the $300 tax credit for biomass heaters; the tax credit initially expired at the end of 2011.  The provision allows taxpayers to receive a tax credit for the full cost of the equipment and installation up to $300 for stoves bought in 2013 and is retroactive, which makes it possible for stoves purchased in 2012 to also get the credit.

The credit applies to energy efficiency improvements including but not limited to the purchase of high-efficiency heating, cooling and water-heating equipment.  The efficiency improvements or equipment must be for a home in the U.S. that is owned and used by the taxpayer as his/her primary residence.  The maximum tax credit for all improvements in 2011, 2012, and 2013 is $500.  The cap includes tax credits for any improvements made in any previous year.  If a taxpayer claimed $500 or more of these tax credits in any previous year, any purchases made in 2011, 2012, or 2013 will be ineligible for a tax credit.

The are a few conditions associated with the tax credit.  The equipment must be at least 75% efficient and have been purchased in 2012 or 2013.  The taxpayer cannot have claimed an aggregate of more than $500 in previous years for this same tax credit; this means that every new EPA-certified stove purchased is eligible for the full $300 tax credit, as they all meet the 75% efficiency threshold and cost more than $300.  However, a taxpayer could not collect the full $300 if they have already received tax credits under this provision in previous years and the total amount was over $500.

Numerous websites have reported that the credit is only for 10% of the purchase price, up to $300, but this is incorrect.  As long as you know that you haven’t claimed this tax credit in previous years, feel free to do your pellet stove and/or fireplace insert shopping knowing that, there’s going to be a $300 credit waiting for you at the end of the rainbow when tax season rolls around.

The Chimney Safety Institute of America

The C.S.I.A. Trains Chimney Sweeps

Anyone who has a chimney in their home should be familiar with the Chimney Safety Institute of America. This important organization has resources not only for professionals, but also homeowners. Even those who are familiar with the CSIA may not realize how many services and resources they actually provide. Becoming familiar with them may help prevent many chimney problems for homeowners. We are proud to say our technicians are CSIA certified.

One important thing to know about The Chimney Safety Institute of America is that they do not only deal with chimneys. In addition, they provide resources for people who are concerned with dryer vents. The two may seem unrelated but they actually create many similar concerns for homeowners. Both need to be properly maintained and inspected each year in order to avoid putting the home at risk for a fire. Many homeowners do not realize how much care their dryer vents require, but the CSIA helps to educate them.

Any reliable chimney sweep or dryer vent technician should be familiar with The Chimney Safety Institute of America because they provide many important training opportunities. Most importantly, they provide the training necessary to be come a certified technician. Even after they have become certified, professionals can brush up their skills and participate in online review programs. This helps to ensure that they have the most up to date information and can provide the best possible service to their clients.

In addition to providing online training, certification and review programs, the CSIA actually runs a training school. The program at the school is a six-day intensive program that covers every aspect of chimney repair and maintenance. Participants learn about the practical elements of chimney care as well as the chemistry that is involved with safely burning a fire. When the program is over, they are fully prepared to handle any chimney related issue that may arise.

The CISA provides resources for homeowners who have questions about their chimneys. In fact, they have a mobile app as well as a blog on their website to provide easy access to this information. They have articles that cover everything from hiring the right chimney sweep to safely burning wood in the fireplace.

Since they train chimney sweeps and dryer vent technicians, the Chimney Institute of America can make the best recommendations to homeowners when they need work done. Their website features a very easy to use tool that finds professionals in the area. Homeowners can find peace of mind in knowing that they have hired someone who was properly trained and has the CSIA seal of approval.

The chimney and dryer vents are two of the most important things in the home when it comes to proper maintenance and inspection. If they are not properly cared for, the entire household may be at risk for a fire or even, in some cases, illness. The Chimney Association of American trains professionals so that they can provide the best possible care to these vital elements of the home. They also offer resources that help homeowners understand these elements and to find the right professionals to care for them. Their easy to use website and mobile app make it possible for everyone to get the information they need.

Make Your Wood Stove More Energy-Efficient

On top of staying warm and cozy this winter, many homeowners are looking into how they can make their heating sources more energy efficient.  Switching over can not only save the environment, but keep some cash in your pocket as well.  Today’s models will also be safer for the people inside of your home, as they produce almost no smoke, minimal ash, and require less firewood for use.  The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) places labels on the backs of stoves they believe are energy efficient.  Before deciding on a fireplace or wood stove unit, talk to a professional, as they will know special tips or requirements for the different models.  Beach Stove and Fireplace has a highly informational website to start you on your journey to the right product.

First, wood stoves come in a variety of sizes and the area to be heated should be considered when choosing your model.  Smaller stoves are meant for heating one room or a small cottage.  Zone heating is another common use in larger homes that have central furnaces.  Medium sized stoves are used for heating small homes, mid-sized energy-efficient homes, and somewhat larger cottages.  Lastly, you would need a large stove for large or open plan homes.  If you go out to look at a store for your new appliance, it is recommended that you take a floor plan of your house so that the sales associate can better determine what you will need.

Clean wood burning stoves can reduce your fuel bill and contribute to protecting your health.  The internal design of wood stoves has changed completely since 1988.  This is because the EPA issued new standards of performance and limits in levels of smoke emission.  There are two different types of wood stoves; non-catalytic and catalytic.  Even though both are effective, there are some noticeable performance differences.  Most of the stoves on the market are non-catalytic, however the high-end stoves are catalytic.  Because these stoves are more difficult to operate, people who are prepared to keep the stove properly maintained to assure the highest level of performance should only own them.  As mentioned, any professional would be glad to give advice on which type of stove would be suited for your needs.  For more information on these stoves, check out the different products offered by Beach Stove and Fireplace.

What is a pellet stove?

Pellet Stoves Are A Good Option 

Most people know that wood-burning and gas-burning units are options if they’re looking for a new heating appliance. But pellet-burning units can be worth considering too — they offer a lot of the benefits of wood and gas, combined.

Whether you’re looking for a bright and arresting, modern-looking appliance or something more classic and woodsy cabin-esque, Beach Stove And Fireplace has a pellet stove that’ll appeal to you. And if you’re not familiar with the ins and outs of a pellet stove, here are some details to think about:

The Vibe Of Wood, The Convenience Of Gas

It’s hard not to love a classic wood-burning stove — it’s what comes to mind when we think about sitting by a fire. But using wood involves a fair bit of effort, between gathering, stacking and storing wood and making and tending the fire each time you use the stove. Pellet-burning appliances burn wood, essentially, but the experience is different — you’ll load a supply of fuel into your stove, and an electric hopper will feed the pellets as needed to keep a consistent burn.

The pellets are largely made out of waste materials (sawdust, for the most part), so they’re a great option for people who keep a focus on using renewable, earth-friendly materials in their home. Pellets also tend to be a really affordable fuel choice.

While pellet-burning stoves aren’t 100 percent as effortless as using gas, they’re really close. Beyond refilling the fuel and a little cleanup, a pellet-burning stove more or less does the work for you. You’ll enjoy the vibe of a wood fire with much less mess and work. And pellets don’t take up a ton of space, so you get that benefit as well.

If You’re Looking For Efficiency, Pellet Stoves Deliver

Pellet-burning stoves like the ones Beach Stove And Fireplace offers are designed with a focus on high efficiency — they’re produced to work with a very specific fuel-to-air ratio that keeps a consistent burn, leads to more complete fuel combustion and results in lower levels of byproducts, including smoke and other emissions. That efficiency means lower levels of creosote in the chimney, too, which means a safer chimney system.

From an environmental standpoint, pellet-burning stoves bring a plus, too. The Environmental Protection Agency says that, “Pellet stoves are typically among the cleanest wood-burning heating appliances available today and deliver high overall efficiency.”

If you’d like to learn more about pellet stoves, and check out the wide variety of sizes, shapes and styles available, Beach Stove And Fireplace can help!

Gas Logs Advantages

Converting a Wood Burning Fireplace to Gas Logs Is Easier Than You Think

In the wintertime, there are few things cozier than curling up next to a nice, warm fire. These days, many homeowners are making the choice to enjoy a fire via gas logs rather than their wood burning fireplaces. Some think that the conversion is complicated or overly expensive and haven’t researched its viability.  However, changing from a wood burning fireplace to gas logs is surprisingly simple and can be done in an affordable manner.

There are some homeowners who like the smell and sound of a real fire and cannot imagine why they would want to change to gas. One reason you may consider a switch is that a wood burning fireplace does not create much heat, while a gas fireplace heats more more efficiently. This is a great way to save money on the energy bill, which can often spike during the winter when the heat is running around the clock.

Another reason that many people prefer a gas fireplace is that it is simply more convenient than a wood burning fireplace. There is no need to wait for wood to season properly and no need to go to the backyard or the garage to gather logs for a fire. With many models, starting a warm fire only takes seconds and is as easy as hitting a button on a remote control. After a long day, many homeowners value the convenience and simplicity of this choice.

For those who are afraid that gas logs are out of their price range, vented gas logs are a very affordable option. They come in varieties that simulate many different types of wood and do a great job of simulating the experience of a wood burning fire. If someone has a bit more money to spend on the conversion, they may want to consider a gas fireplace insert for their home. They do not require electricity to run, which means that they can be used even in the event of a power outage. For many people, the ease and the heating power are worth the extra investment.

Before installing a gas fireplace insert or vented gas logs, it is important to do a bit of research. In many towns, there are permits necessary to do any work on an outline and restrictions that must be carefully adhered to. The technician doing the work may have information about this, but it is still a good idea for homeowners to contact their township and research the necessary requirements on their own.

Installing a gas burning fireplace in place of a wood burning option is a change that many homeowners find to be a positive addition to their homes. In addition to the quickness (and lack of ashy mess)  of starting a fire with the push of a button, many people enjoy cutting energy costs by heating their entire home with the fireplace. If a gas insert is out of the budget, vented logs are a great, affordable option. Here at Beach Stove & Fireplace, we will be glad to discuss which option is best for you.