381-8 Old Riverhead Road

Westhampton Beach, NY

Tel. 631-998-0780

Hours: Tues. - Thur. 9am to 3pm / Fri. 9am to 12pm (or by appt.) / Sat. - Mon. Closed

Our Company Blog

The Importance of Choosing an NFI Certified Installer

You own a home or business and it has a fireplace or fire-burning appliance. While a fireplace adds ambiance and value to your home, it can also raise the risk of fire and damage if not installed and maintained correctly.

The Importance of Choosing an NFI Certified Installer - Westhampton Beach NY - Beach Stove and Fireplace

Choosing a Professional for the Job

You wouldn’t hire just anyone to replace the breaks on your car. Not only would you hire a professional to do the work, but you would follow the recommended maintenance specified for your car model. You’d probably read the owner’s manual so that you know correct operation, and you’d schedule the routine maintenance as recommended. You’d probably do this because if a car isn’t properly maintained it can kill you. This is true of many things, including your fireplace.

The Industry Standard for Certified Installers

When you’re looking for a professional installer for your fireplace or appliance, it’s important to choose an installer certified by the National Fireplace Institute (NFI). An NFI certified installer is proficient in one or more fire-burning specialties including: wood-burning, gas-burning, and pellet-burning fireplaces and appliances.

When you hire an NFI certified installer you can rest easy knowing they are trained in:

  • compliance with code regulations and manufacturers’ instructions
  • size, type, features of the hearth appliance
  • Proper materials for heat protection of walls and floors
  • Appropriate size, type, configuration, and height of venting system
  • Selection of proper fuel
  • Guidelines for operation and maintenance of the hearth system.

To maintain certification, NFI certified professionals are constantly undergoing training and staying abreast of industry standards and changes, so they are ready for anything that may come up with a fireplace system.

A Company that Stands Out Above the Rest

Beach Stove and Fireplace stands out as the best chimney sweep company in the Suffolk County area because we make sure our professionals are the most highly trained and experienced in the area. NFI certified installers only have to specialize in one area, but all of our installers are fully trained in all three categories, wood, gas, and pellet-burning appliances.

So, when you hire Beach Stove and Fireplace you get the benefit of using one company, and even one installer, to manage your installation regardless of the type of fuel used, or if you’re interested in a change of fuel type.

Since we strive to offer the best and most expert services in the area, we also offer only top-of-the-line products for installation. We not only install these appliances, but we are able to complete routine inspections and maintenance to keep your fireplace operational.

At Beach Stove and Fireplace we also hire only the friendliest and most knowledgeable salespeople, so that our installers can focus fully on the installation and maintenance of our products.

Safety First

An NFI certification means that our professional installers are trained and fully aware of the dangers of mistakes at this job. Every installation requires the greatest of care, and attention to detail. Our installers at Beach Stove and Fireplace are experienced installing all of our products, so they can install them properly without adding extra time to the job.

Our goal is to get your home heating system fully operational in no time, and to ensure each home or business owner, that safety is not a question when using a Beach Stove installer.

To schedule your appointment today, call 631-998-0780 or contact us online.

By Julie Dismore on June 14th, 2016 | Tagged with: Tags: , , | Comments Off on The Importance of Choosing an NFI Certified Installer

Why Choose a Pellet Stove

Pellet stoves are an excellent option for your renovation or new home because they are suitable for small spaces, including apartments and condominiums as well as houses and cabins. They can work with an existing fireplace as long as it has been inspected and is safe. If you like the ambiance of a roaring fire but would like to avoid the hassle of cutting and splitting proper wood for burning you might consider a pellet stove for your home or business. Many homeowners prefer a pellet stove for the convenience they offer.

Why Choose a Pellet Stove - Westhampton NY - Beach Stove and Fireplace

Convenience

Instead of burning standard split wood, pellet stoves burn manufactured pellets made of wood byproducts. It looks like any other wood stove, but usually requires electricity. Pellets are poured into a hopper and distributed into the flame at a steady rate, resulting in a continuous burn and comfortable temperature. Choosing a pellet stove as your primary home heating system is not a bad idea because they are highly efficient.

Efficiency

Pellet stoves that are certified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are generally in the 70%-83% efficiency range. They burn hot, have a steady temperature because of the consistency of the pellet make-up, and have a clean burn. Pellet stoves are actually the cleanest solid fuel and can be a great alternative to wood stoves and fireplaces if family members suffer from chronic asthmatic symptoms. They are excellent in most spaces.

Versatility

Pellet stoves are manufactured as both free-standing stoves and fireplace inserts. Depending on your needs and your home design a free-standing stove might be a perfect fit for you, and it can even add to the home decor with the addition of a heat shield for nearby walls. A pellet insert is a great way to convert an existing fireplace. All that’s needed is a pipe for ventilation or a flue insert for the existing chimney.

Low-Maintenance

Standard wood stoves can cause a mess inside and outside the stove. Wood pieces in the carpet and accumulating on the floor can be a pain, as well as ash dust on shelves and in living spaces. Pellet stoves are less mess, with simple instructions for weekly maintenance. Homeowners should clean their pellet stove weekly, and have it professionally clean yearly. It’s a good idea to schedule this maintenance with your annual chimney inspection and to hire a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® (CCS) to do so.

Economical

Wood stoves in general are a great way to use valuable resources for home heating. Pellet stoves use wood byproducts (which decreases the waste from the lumber industry) and also have some of the lowest emissions of wood stoves on the market. Lower emissions means less particulate matter pollution in the air, and therefore, better for the environment.

If you’re ready to convert your fuel source, don’t forget about pellet stoves. Call Beach Stove and Fireplace today to learn the benefits a pellet stove can offer you.

By Julie Dismore on May 24th, 2016 | Tagged with: Tags: , , | Comments Off on Why Choose a Pellet Stove

Fuel Makes all the Difference When Choosing a New Fireplace

When you are ready to choose a new fireplace there are many things to consider. The size of your space, your home decor, and cost may affect what you choose to install. One of the major factors a home owner should consider is fuel. What will you use to fuel your heating system? When choosing a new fireplace you will choose between wood, gas, and alternative fuels. These are all great options, but each home and family’s needs vary.

Fuel Makes all the difference when choosing a new fireplace - Westhampton NY - Beach Stove and Fireplace

Choosing Wood

It’s important to note that wood fuel includes pellets, which is a manufactured product that works only with pellet stoves and inserts. Some individuals prefer these appliances because they are some of the most efficient on the market right now. If you’ve never experienced a pellet stove, stop by our location and see one in action!

The more traditional wood fuel that has been used for centuries is split wood and logs. It fuels a natural fire and offers the aesthetics many homeowners hope for when choosing a fireplace. It is also quite economical for people who can cut and split their own wood. Unlike pellets that are manufactured specifically for an appliance, however, split wood can be troublesome if not cut or seasoned properly. The wood can affect the safety and efficiency of a wood-burning fireplace or stove. While wood fireplaces have been less-than-efficient in the past, there are some great high efficiency fireplaces on the market which we offer at Beach Stove and Fireplace.

Choosing Gas

When looking at gas fireplace options there are a couple of things to note. Choosing gas is a great option if you are renovating and can’t use your chimney. In this case you can install a vent-free gas log set, which has a more artificial-looking fire with a blue frame, but burns hotter and cleaner. Gas inserts work similarly and more efficiently.

Other gas products include gas stoves and fireplaces. Gas stoves and fireplaces can be used with an existing chimney, and a gas stove is a great option if there is little space to work with. Gas appliances work when there is an electrical outage, and they don’t require wood splitting or hauling. They’re as easy as the press of a button, or flip of a switch.

Choosing Alternative Fuels

When a wood or gas fireplace is not an option, a bioethanol, or “alcohol” burner is a great option. They are perfect for small spaces, produce a beautiful flame, and need no maintenance. Beach Stove and Fireplace recommends and installs these burners with the same professionalism and safety standards as other fuel burners.

Before you decide on a new fireplace, contact Beach Stove and Fireplace today and find out what fuel is right for your home.

By Julie Dismore on May 9th, 2016 | Tagged with: Tags: , , | Comments Off on Fuel Makes all the Difference When Choosing a New Fireplace

Your Outdoor Fireplace Options

Outdoor Living

Your home is exactly what you have always dreamed, but on those cool autumn nights you want to relax on the patio. For all the wonderful products for your home’s interior, there are just as many great options for the outside. When you install an outdoor fireplace you can host parties, have an intimate marshmallow roast, or lounge on the patio to stargaze. The possibilities are endless, but first you have to find the outdoor fireplace that’s right for you. At Beach Stove and Fireplace we offer the highest quality products from Regency Fire.

Some of the gas products we install include:

The Regency Plateau fireplace burns natural gas and standard features include a stainless steel thirty inch or sixty inch linear burner, an easy access on/off switch, electronic ignition, safety valve to turn gas off manually, and requires no venting. This burner is a perfect option for renovators and home owners because of its endless design possibilities. This burner is available with the option of crystals or fire beads in various colors or volcanic stones in various colors. Homeowners can also choose to purchase a ceramic log set for a more realistic fire. Also available with this model burner is a tempered glass wind shield with seasonal weather cover, and various framing kits. If natural gas isn’t available, home owners can purchase a propane conversion kit.

The durable Regency HZ042 features a stainless steel faceplate and firebox, and 30 inch stainless steel burner covered with copper crystals. A tempered glass wind shield protects the flame, and clean lines create a picture frame for your fire. This model has an easy on/off switch as well as an electronic ignition. Homeowners have the option to use natural gas or propane and can also choose from several fire bed options of glass, stone, or logs to better fit their home decor.

Your Outdoor Fireplace Options - Westhampton Beach NY - Beach Stove and Fireplace

The Wood-burning Fireplace

A great alternative to gas burners, this fireplace is perfect for those who want an authentic wood flame. The 44 inch frame is clean and contemporary allowing for a beautiful fire for your outdoor space. Homeowners can choose a styling option to better match their home decor and their outdoor kitchen or patio.

Long Island’s Outdoor Fireplace Connection

At Beach Stove and Fireplace our experienced professionals offer the best advice, top-of-the-line products, and expert installation and service. Visit our gallery to view some of our outdoor installations. We work together with the homeowner to insure the finished product is a great addition to your dream outdoor space while making safety our highest priority. We get it right the first time and we do all the work ourselves, depending on our own excellent employees instead of subcontractors.

If you are ready to take the next step and add a fireplace to your outdoor space, contact Beach Stove and Fireplace today.

By Julie Dismore on April 25th, 2016 | Tagged with: Tags: , , | Comments Off on Your Outdoor Fireplace Options

Start Planning Your Outdoor Kitchen Today

When you purchased your home, you probably didn’t just see what it was, but also envisioned what it could be. When you look out on your back yard you may see a patio with a roaring fireplace, friends gathered for ‘smores on a warm summer night, or a barbecue on a chilly fall afternoon. You may want to bring this vision to life in your back yard, or you may already have it, but want to upgrade.

Start Planning Your Outdoor Kitchen Today - Westhampton Beach NY - Beach Stove and Fireplace

First Thing’s First

When you begin searching for products and creating the perfect outdoor space for your home, you want to approach it much like a home renovation. You have to plan the whole space because everything will work together, for ambiance, structure, and safety.

At Beach Stove and Fireplace we are happy to recommend, install, and service a wide selection of outdoor products. However, we recommend you browse and decide on appliances before you begin construction on your outdoor space.

While you browse products and ideas for your outdoor kitchen consider this:

  1.  The weight of the entire space. Like building a house, you will start with the foundation. It must be able to withstand the weight of heavy appliances, chimney system, furniture, and people.
  2.  Location, location, location. You should choose a place that is near to a water and power source if you are able. You should also look for a location that won’t need to be built up, as that raises the cost for you.
  3. Climate. Depending on your purpose for your patio and outdoor kitchen, you may want an outdoor heater in addition to your fireplace.
  4. Your purpose. You can browse photo galleries of outdoor kitchens and get a better idea of what you want before you decide on appliances.

Getting Started

There is a professional standing by for a consultation and quote during any part of this process. If your cannot decide what type of appliance is right for you, we can help. We offer products that range from patio heaters and fire pits, to chimneys and flame pots. You may want to coordinate these products with the type of flooring and furniture that you’ve chosen for your outdoor patio and kitchen area.

Keep in Mind

As with all appliances left outside, you can expect your products to experience some normal wear and tear. At Beach Stove and Furnace, we not only recommend the best products in the market, but we install them, service them, and repair and replace them as needed.

When you’re ready to invest in your home and family by adding an outdoor kitchen to your patio or yard, remember that Beach Stove and Furnace has everything you’re looking for. Our experts are CSIA certified and experienced in all of your outdoor chimney and furnace needs.

By Julie Dismore on April 11th, 2016 | Tagged with: Tags: , , | Comments Off on Start Planning Your Outdoor Kitchen Today

Vent-Free Gas Fireplaces and Log Sets: Risks and Rewards

There are many reasons to convert your fireplace system from wood-burning to gas. Many homeowners decide to convert to gas, and vent-free systems are an easy conversion, especially if use of the existing chimney is not an option. Although it can be an easy option for your heating system, vent-free gas fireplaces and log sets have their share of risks.

Vent Free Gas Fireplaces and Log Sets Risk and Reward - Westhampton NY - Beach Stove and Fireplace

Vent Free

These gas appliances are designed to be vent-free, so they are just that. They do not vent, which means they draw air from inside the home, and dispense exhaust back into the home. This type of system burns hotter because no heat is lost through the chimney, and it essentially converts a fireplace into an efficient room heater. Although they work well, and aesthetically, they burn with real flames, there has been concern about these vent-free systems. Home and business owners not only want a heat system that is aesthetically pleasing and efficient, but also safe.

Air Quality

If a vent-free gas fireplace or log set burns fuel, but doesn’t vent outside, that means that byproducts come into the room and the home. When these vent-free appliances hit stores in the 1980s, critics worried about carbon monoxide poisoning. This is a legitimate concern for homeowners, but consumers should be aware that anything sold in the American market is tested and abides by specific safety standards. In the case of vent-free gas products the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) has a document of 119 pages, and includes 33 separate tests that each product must successfully pass before approval to be marketed. One of these requirements is that each appliance should be equipped with an oxygen detection safety sensor.

The main by-products released from a vent-free system are:

  1.  Carbon monoxide (CO) is highly toxic and can cause death or permanent damage. It is released if the fuel isn’t burned completely. A problem in the gas line, with the burner, or an incorrect install can cause an excess of carbon monoxide.
  2.  Carbon dioxide (CO2) isn’t toxic, but causes sleepiness and a possible headache. Even under the best circumstances a vent-free fireplace or log set will release a large amount of carbon dioxide.
  3.  Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is a toxic gas, only released in small amounts from a moderately sized vent-free gas appliance. Constant exposure to even a small amount can cause respiratory problems, cough, sore throat, headache, vertigo, and nausea.
  4.  Water vapor isn’t toxic, and can actually add moisture to a dry home. However, if the home has adequate moisture, a vent-free gas fireplace can cause excess moisture and contribute to mold in the home.
    There are risks to a vent-free fireplace or log set. However, the safety and efficiency of these systems are always under review, and our manufacturers offer the best products on the market.

Getting Started

Beach Stove & Fireplace offers a variety of gas products, including gas log sets. If you’re ready to make the change to gas, we are ready to help. Homeowners should be aware of the differences between direct gas inserts and gas log sets ,and decide what is best for their home and family. Call to schedule an appointment  with one of our experts today.

By Julie Dismore on March 28th, 2016 | Tagged with: Tags: , , | Comments Off on Vent-Free Gas Fireplaces and Log Sets: Risks and Rewards

Converting to Gas: Direct Gas Insert or Gas Log Set?

When you consider converting an existing fireplace to gas, it is important to educate yourself so you’re aware of your options, recognizing the pros and cons of each option, and decide on the best possible appliance for your home.

If you are seeking a gas appliance there are a couple of good options, and although both use gas as fuel, they operate differently.

Converting to Gas Direct Gas Insert of Gas Log Set - Westhampton NY - Beach Stove and Fireplace

Converting Your Fuel Source

First, both a direct gas insert and gas log set can be used with your existing fireplace. Before deciding which type of appliance is right for you, make an appointment with a certified gas fireplace technician. A certified technician will look over your fireplace and make you aware of any changes that will need to be made to convert to gas fuel. This is an important step in the process. Also, most home owners insurance will require a level two inspection following a change in the type of fuel used in the home heating system. Your system will most likely pass the inspection if a professional has advised you during the process of converting your fuel source.

What’s the Difference?

All gas appliances are not created equal. Popular gas appliances that we install and service at Beach Stove & Fireplace are direct gas inserts and gas log sets. We carry these trusted products, install them, and insure our work. We stand by these products, but they work differently.

Direct gas inserts are installed directly into the existing fireplace following possible modifications, including a flue liner. They are typically used to convert an inefficient fireplace into an efficient room heater. Direct gas inserts are more efficient at home heating because it burns steadily instead of cyclically, like a wood furnace. Also, a fireplace releases a lot of the heat into the chimney, and a lot of particle matter and smoke into the home. This isn’t a problem with gas inserts. Gas burns cleaner than wood. Also, a direct gas insert draws air from outside the home, so it doesn’t pull from the room’s heated air. It draws air from outside, and vents exhaust out the chimney, so the air inside the home is unaffected, except that it’s heated.

Gas log sets are often preferred simply because they are a cheaper conversion, however it depends on what kind of log set you use. Ventless gas log sets draw from the air inside the home, and release it back into the home, so there is no need to repair the chimney, as they are only approved for use with the chimney damper closed. This is a good option for home owners who are looking for a simple way to add ambiance or equity to the home without any major repairs. Since these “blue flame” log sets don’t vent they are called “vent-free”. This vent-free system has raised questions among consumers and professionals about air quality in the home.

If this is a concern for you, you can consider the “yellow flame” log sets which look more like a real flame, but are less hot, and need the chimney to vent. Use of the chimney may mean more money for you, and more headache during spring cleaning.

If you think fuel conversion is for you and are interested in using gas heat, call and schedule an appointment with Beach Stove & Fireplace today.

By Julie Dismore on March 14th, 2016 | Tagged with: Tags: , , | Comments Off on Converting to Gas: Direct Gas Insert or Gas Log Set?

When, How, and Where, to Properly Dispose of Ash

Ash is a byproduct of wood-burning, and will always be present during burning season. Depending on the type of wood burned, there may be more ash at some times because softer woods produce more ash than harder woods.

Making Good Use of Ash

fireplace ashes - Westhampton Beach NY - Beach Stove and Fireplace

First, don’t be quick to remove ash from your combustion box. It’s not recommended to remove it every time you start a fire. Actually, the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommends leaving one inch of ash in the combustion box at all times. This ash helps the hot coals stay hot longer, making it easier to keep a fire burning. Leaving a layer of ash in your appliance also insulates your firebox, keeping the bottom cooler.

Depending on the type of appliance you use, removing some portions of the ash to allow air to circulate in the combustion box is a good idea. For instance, if a furnace is long and narrow that burns front to back, air in the front will help the fire burn to the back.

Tools for the Task

To properly remove ashes from a fireplace or furnace you want to have a few things on hand:

  • An ash bucket is made of a durable metal that can withstand the heat of hot ashes, and is usually designed to keep indoors or outside without burning or melting anything around it. However, you want to be sure it is left in a dry area, away from combustibles.
  • An ash shovel is needed to scoop the ashes from the combustion box. Do not attempt to improvise this tool, as you risk serious injury to your hand using a tool that may melt or burn, and if the handle is too short you can burn your hands or face.
  • Gloves can be useful, but aren’t required to get the job done. If gloves aren’t readily available, be mindful of the temperature of the fire before opening the furnace, and of the shovel handle.

Always be mindful of how close your hair and face are to the appliance while you are stoking the fire or rearranging ash and hot coals.

Where to Put the Ash

Ash is messy! It’s dusty and dirty, and can be a real headache. It’s important to have a plan for the ash from your furnace or fireplace so that you don’t end up with a mess on your hands later. You should have an ash bucket, and it should have a place in your home, or outside, safely away from combustibles.

The Farmer’s Almanac says that for each cord of wood burned, you’re left with about 20 pounds of ash. Depending on your city ordinance, you may be able to bag wood ash and place with your garbage for trash pick-up. If this is not a possibility for you, you may want to store it in a watertight, metal bin and seek more creative uses.

For instance, depending on the acidity of your yard or garden’s soil, the ashes can be very beneficial when placed in the soil around trees, plants, and grass. Also, some people keep ashes on hand to melt ice and provide traction on driveways and sidewalks.

Whatever your use for ashes, always make safety of top priority, and contact Beach Stove & Fireplace for any questions or concerns for all your fireplace and chimney needs.

By Julie Dismore on February 29th, 2016 | Tagged with: Tags: , , , | Comments Off on When, How, and Where, to Properly Dispose of Ash

Is Your Gas Burning and Wood Burning Appliance Created Equal

If you depend on a fuel-burning appliance to heat your home, you don’t only want to be warm. You also want to make certain your appliance is at its safest and most efficient.

The Flame May Look the Same

To an untrained eye, fire is fire. It burns fuel and produces heat. It may be pleasing to the eye if you have a fireplace or glass front appliance, but there is much more to that flame than you may realize.

The Fuel that Feeds the Fire

wood burning fireplacel - Westhampton Beach NY - Beach Stove and Fireplace

As their names indicate, gas burning appliances burn natural gas, and wood burning appliances burn wood. Wood can be in the form of chopped firewood or pellets. While any consumer can chop wood with the help of a chainsaw and axe (and some other tools if preferred), it’s important to recognize that all trees are not created equal either. There are hard woods, and soft woods, and both should be properly seasoned before burning. Click here to find out more about proper wood selection.

If you have a gas burning appliance, you will burn gas, either from a propane tank or piped in from a utility company. Like wood pellets, gas is processed before it’s purchased by the consumer, and if you have an appliance that uses wood pellets or gas, it is probably EPA-certified.

With so many options for heating appliances, there are several factors to consider.

Particle Pollution

When fuel is burned particles are released into the air. Cleaner fuels release less particles than others, and different appliances release less particles than others. For instance, a fireplace releases 28 parts per million of particulate matter, whereas a gas furnace releases only .0083 parts per million. That means there is about 3,373 times more particle pollution released from a fireplace than a gas furnace.

Why does particle pollution matter? If you are prone to bronchial illness, have any type of asthma, or certain allergies, particle pollution matters to your health. It also matters to your surrounding community, and to the Environmental Protection Agency.

Heating Efficiency

When you depend on a fuel-burning furnace to heat your home, you want it to be dependable—efficient.

Both wood-burning and gas burning furnace appliances can be highly efficient, especially those that are EPA-certified. Gas furnaces use a standard amount of fuel, and burn steadily, producing steady heat. Wood heat isn’t as consistent, though. A home or business owner must be proactive when using a wood-burning furnace. If proper wood isn’t burned, the furnace will not produce constant heat. Before choosing the wood burning appliance, consumers should educate themselves on the best habits to make the best use of the furnace.

For instance, wood is best burned in cycles. This means that when the furnace is loaded with wood, it should be allowed to burn completely, leaving a bed of coals. When there is only a bed of bright coals remaining, the furnace should be loaded again. When the fire is allowed to burn in such cycles the wood burns evenly, and heat is released steadily.

When in Doubt, Call and Find Out!

If you are choosing between a gas or wood-burning appliance, or have questions or concerns regarding the appliance you have, call us today!

By Julie Dismore on February 12th, 2016 | Tagged with: Tags: , , , | Comments Off on Is Your Gas Burning and Wood Burning Appliance Created Equal

Is An Electric Fireplace Right For Your Home?

If you’d like to improve the atmosphere of your home, adding a fireplace is a great way to do it! An electric fireplace is a great alternative to a traditional fireplace, but there are some pros and cons to consider when deciding which is best for your home. Is an electric fireplace right for your home - westhampton beach NY - Beach Stove and Fireplace

The Pros:

  • Electric fireplaces come in a variety of sizes, shapes, colors, and styles. Some can even be combined with furniture such as entertainment centers, mantels, or bookshelves for a more modern look, saving space while adding ambience in your home.
  • A typical electric fireplace has a much longer lifespan than that of traditional types; many often last ten years or more.
  • Installing an electric fireplace is exponentially easier than installing a wood or gas fireplace. Most of the time, it’s as easy as plugging in the unit, and turning it on.
  • Electric fireplaces are portable, so it’s possible to move into another room of your home or even move it to another home.
  • Electric installments are great for zone heating, keeping the room warm while allowing your house thermostat to remain at a lower level.
  • Electric is the eco-friendly option; they do not emit harmful gases such as carbon dioxide and/or carbon monoxide.
  • For those that suffer from respiratory issues, an electric fireplace is much less aggravating than a wood-burning fireplace.
  • Unlike the open flame of a wood-burning or gas fireplace, electric fireplaces are child and pet-friendly because they are cool to the touch.
  • According to CozybytheFire.com, electricity converts to heat with 99% efficiency while standard fireplaces heat with between 60% and 80% efficiency.
  • Electric fireplaces are low maintenance. Although they require some, such as changing a light bulb every couple of years, these minor costs are much lower than a traditional system.\

The Cons:

  • Sometimes nothing beats the ambience of an actual wood-burning fireplace: the scent, crackling sound, or light emitted by an open flame. If this is what you’re after, the electric fireplace option may not be for you.
  • While they’re great for zone heating, electric fireplaces are not best for heating an entire home.
  • If you live in an area with frequent power outages, keep in mind electric fireplaces cannot be used during any outages.
  • An electric fireplace doesn’t add value to your home like a traditional fireplace installation does.
  • Although many electric fireplaces are designed to run from a standard 120 volt household outlet, they typically run at max power, which may blow a fuse or circuit. For larger heaters, you might even need a surge protector.
  • Be aware of where the heated air comes out of the unit and the correlated safety hazards. For example, if your fireplace emits heat at the bottom of the unit, placing the fireplace on a carpeted or crowded floor might pose a safety hazard in your home.
  • According to Angie’s List, “…while you may save on maintenance costs, operational costs for electric systems are significantly more expensive than similar wood or gas models.” Because electric fireplaces utilize heaters and lamps simultaneously to create the “real fire” ambience, the units may use more energy and result in higher utility bills.

    Discover your fireplace possibilities today by giving Beach Stove and Fireplace a call at 631-998-0780, stopping by our showroom, or filling out the contact form on our website!

By Julie Dismore on January 3rd, 2016 | Tagged with: Tags: , , | Comments Off on Is An Electric Fireplace Right For Your Home?

Our Location

Beach Stove and Fireplace is located on Old Riverhead Road between Montauk Highway and Sunrise Highway. From Sunrise Highway take exit 63 south, travel 1.2 miles and turn right at the 381 complex (just north of Gabreski Airport)