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

What Does EPA-Certified Mean?

In years past, homeowners spend a lot of money on a fireplace unit and use it for years, despite new laws, advancements, and standards. The chimney and fireplace industry is ever-changing, always advancing in science and technology. This means that fireplace units that used to get the job done can now get the job done even better. All the top brands sell high-efficiency fireplaces and stoves, and we sell them at Beach Stove and Fireplace too.

EPA Certified

When you look at high-efficiency fireplaces, make sure you consider those which are EPA-certified. When you purchase an EPA-certified wood heat appliance, you may qualify for a tax credit. This certification means the unit and manufacturer has complied with certain standards and performance tests. EPA-certified appliances include wood and pellet stoves, fireplace inserts, hydronic heaters (outdoor wood boilers), and forced air furnaces.

An EPA-certified heat appliance can be purchased at many retail locations. Beach Stove and Fireplace sells the best products on the market and specializes in high efficiency, EPA-certified appliances. When a unit is EPA-certified, it will be indicated on the back of the appliance and a white hang tag at retail locations. If a stove is not certified, it is not possible to have it EPA-certified, as this must be done by the manufacturer.

Saving Money with EPA-Certified Stoves

When you choose an EPA-Certified stove, you can expect to use up to 1/3 less wood than a normal fireplace or stove. EPA-Certified stoves are highly efficient, as they use all the wood, burn more completely, and use most of the produced heat for the home. You save on firewood, hauling firewood, and household utilities from central heating systems. Not only will this save you money, but it will also do its part in saving the environment too. EPA-Certified units are environmentally friendly, as they produce fewer greenhouse gases and leave less of a “carbon footprint”.

Wood Stove Changeout Programs

When you exchange your old stove for a new EPA-Certified one, the old one will continue to be used, creating poor air quality elsewhere. For this reason, many organizations and companies will destroy older models instead of exchanging or buying them back. If you have an old wood-burning stove and would like to upgrade, it is best to think of it as an investment. The new unit will be costly, but the savings are worth it. Upgrading to a new unit will also bring value to your property while helping your family stay safe and warm.

For more information about EPA-Certified wood stoves, check out the EPA Frequently Asked Questions, or ask your local fireplace expert. At Beach Stove and Fireplace, you can speak with a fireplace expert about which EPA-Certified model is right for you. Visit our showroom to see our high-efficiency stoves in action. Call 631-998-0780 or stop by our Westhampton Beach location.

By Julie Dismore on June 25th, 2019 | Tagged with: Tags: , , | Comments Off on What Does EPA-Certified Mean?

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?

Gas Logs F.A.Q.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gas Logs

At Beach Stove & Fireplace we find that gas log sets continue to be a bestseller for us. Our customers love them for their ease of installation and ease of use. Plus, gas logs are better, warmer, and more realistic-looking than ever. Still, that doesn’t mean that people don’t come into our showroom with plenty of questions about whether gas logs are right for them, as opposed to all the other options out there. With more than 12 years invested in our Westhampton Beach, New York, business, we now consider ourselves pros at weighing the pros and cons of different heating options for our customers, with concern given to everything from budget to heat, ambiance to safety.

Have questions about whether or not gas logs are right for you? We hope our FAQ may be of some help:

You have questions about switching to gas logs and we have answers.

You have questions about switching to gas logs and we have answers.

What are the advantages of gas logs?

Most of our customers who prefer gas logs do so because they’re much easier to deal with than wood, which needs to be chopped or purchased, hauled inside, and then scooped out after the fire has died. Gas logs also allow you to turn off your fire when you go to bed or leave home, instead of waiting for the fire to go out naturally. Plus, many types of gas log sets can be activated by a remote control. You also should not have to have your chimney cleaned annually if you use only gas logs in your fireplace.

Can I install gas logs in my existing gas or wood-burning fireplace?

Gas logs actually aren’t safe to install in gas fireplaces. Instead gas logs are made to install in wood-burning fireplaces as a way to convert them to gas. It is very important to follow all installation rules so as not asphyxiate yourself or put yourself at risk for carbon monoxide poisoning. If your existing fireplace was designed to burn wood, there’s a good chance that you will be able to burn gas logs in it.

What is the difference between vented and vent-free gas logs?

Vented gas logs require the use of a chimney and a fully functioning wood-burning fireplace to operate safely while vent-free (ventless) logs can be installed in either a wood-burning fireplace or a fireplace specially designed for ventless gas logs. Ventless gas logs create more heat, but vented gas logs look more realistic.

How much do gas logs cost to burn?

The cost will vary greatly depending on which type of fuel you use—liquid propane or natural gas—as well as the BTU rating of your gas logs, but by most accounts you will spend between 55 cents and $1.15 per hour to use your gas logs. The national average cost of natural gas is about half the cost of propane.

Live in the Westhampton Beach or the Long Island area and have questions about gas logs? Beach Stove & Fireplace is here to serve you. Reach us at (631) 998-0780.

By Julie Dismore on June 25th, 2014 | Tagged with: Tags: , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Gas Logs F.A.Q.

What is a Pellet Stove?

It’s not really new, but some might say it’s hot right now. Interest in wood pellet heat is growing once again as oil prices keep hovering above $3 per gallon. While pellet stoves require up front costs and cannot be used as a sole heating source, the savings are substantial and allow consumers to cut their overall energy usage and costs. We urge you to continue reading to see why adding a pellet stove or insert to your home could be a huge money saver in terms of your future heating costs.

Today you can choose from a new generation of wood- and pellet-burning appliances that are cleaner burning, more efficient, and powerful enough to heat many average-sized, modern homes.

Today you can choose from a new generation of wood- and pellet-burning appliances that are cleaner burning, more efficient, and powerful enough to heat many average-sized, modern homes.

Why Should I Choose a Pellet Stove?

In colder climates, heating costs account for approximately one-third of a homeowner’s annual utility bill, which is why many are seeking thriftier ways to stay warm and toasty. Freestanding pellet stoves and inserts that fit inside an existing fireplace are an increasingly popular solution for homeowners. Pellet stoves create a tiny fraction of the ash produced by an older wood-burning stove or fireplace, so cleaning s much less frequent. If used daily, you’d probably find yourself emptying the ashpan once a week.

How Does a Pellet Stove Work?

Pellet stoves and inserts look like traditional wood stoves but operate more like a modern furnace. You need only fill the stove’s hopper with pellets made from compacted sawdust, set its thermostat, sit back, and get cozy. A mechanical auger deposits the pellets into a burn pot, where they are incinerated at such a high temperature that they create no vent-clogging creosote and very little ash or emissions, which keeps both indoor and outdoor air cleaner. The best part is that they are about twice as efficient at warming your home as older wood stoves that have not been certified by the EPA and are vastly more efficient than fireplaces.

Is a Pellet Stove a Good Option for my Home?

Depending on your home’s size and layout, a pellet stove could supplement the current heating system or be used as the sole source. And, despite its workhorse reputation, pellet stoves come in a variety of designs to complement any interior style. Unless you’re comfortable with cutting holes in your house for the venting, however, it is best to leave the installation to a professional. Pipes can run horizontally out an exterior wall, vertically through the roof, or up the chimney if adding an insert.

 

Component

 

 

Price Range

 

Pellet Stove/Insert

 

 

$1,000 – $5,000

 

Vent Pipe/Chimney Liner

 

 

$200 – $500

 

Labor (depends on job’s complexity)

 

 

$250 – $1,000

Pellet stoves are a great way to heat your home. The beauty of a fire, with the added advantages of a pellet stove, mainly better efficiency. With the fluctuating costs of home heating oil, a new pellet stove or insert might very well pay for itself in one winter. Depending on the particular model or style of the unit you select, you could own a pellet stove and the pellet fuel to heat your home for the winter for less than half the price of heating oil.

Whether you prefer the convenience of shopping online or would rather get up close and personal with your potential new pellet stove or insert, Beach Stove & Fireplace has you covered. Want to know more about a product or see and feel it for yourself? Simply call us at (631) 998-0780 or stop in and see us today.

By Julie Dismore on May 29th, 2014 | Tagged with: Tags: , , , , , , | Comments Off on What is a Pellet Stove?

Making the Switch to Gas

Converting to Gas

You have a wood-burning fireplace that you would love to use more often, but it is so inconvenient for you to operate. You forget about opening the damper, and smoke gets in your house, leaving you with a gigantic mess to clean, along with the normal ash residue that you get from burning a wood fire. Not to mention bringing in the firewood, and the heat and energy you lose with a wood-burning fireplace — is there any way you can easily convert that wood-burning fireplace to a gas fireplace? If you already have natural gas heating in your home, it is simple and relatively inexpensive to convert to a gas fireplace with a gas insert. Beach Stove & Fireplace can assist you in this conversion from selection of your insert to its installation, so contact us today to get started on your new gas fireplace insert.

Making the Switch to Gas - Westhampton Beach NY - Beach Stove & FireplaceAccording to a Washington Post article, “How To: Convert a fireplace to natural gas,” while a true gas fireplace insert eliminates the possibility of having an open fire, the positive is you do not have any of the worries of an open fire. More energy-efficient than any fire in a fireplace, you can leave this fire running for as long as you want. Your fire chamber will be sealed, and all the combustion air is piped in, and the exhaust air piped out. Also, the glass doors on your fireplace will always be shut. Gas fireplace inserts are so much more energy-efficient that the Environmental Protection Agency offers incentives to consumers for buying certain brands and types of inserts.

Not only will you be converting your old wood-burning fireplace to gas, but you will also be completely renovating its appearance. When you see the different options of styles and looks of gas fireplace inserts that Beach Stove & Fireplace has to offer you, you will not believe the gorgeous choices available to you. We carry many different brands, from Kozy Heat Fireplaces to Regency Fireplace Products. Taking a look at these inserts gives you a whole new perspective on converting to gas as now you can reimagine your living space in an entirely new way.

While the wow factor of the appearance is important, it is worth repeating how much energy you will save when you convert your wood-burning fireplace to a gas fireplace with an insert. The overall efficiency of your fireplace will be increased up to 75%! And, controlling your fireplace with a remote control is an out-of-this-world experience. If you are ready to convert to gas, contact Beach Stove & Fireplace today. Our experienced sales professionals are ready to guide you through your purchase, and our NFI-certified, in-house installers are here to install your insert, with a one-year labor warranty on all installation work.

By Julie Dismore on March 29th, 2014 | Tagged with: Tags: , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Making the Switch to Gas

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.

Tax Credits 2013 - Westhampton Beach NY - Beach Stove & FireplaceOn 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.

By Julie Dismore on November 18th, 2013 | Tagged with: Tags: , , , , , , | Comments Off on Tax Credits: 2013

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.

Make Your Wood Stove More Energy-Efficient - Westhampton Beach NY - Beach Stove & FireplaceFirst, 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.

By Julie Dismore on October 12th, 2013 | Tagged with: Tags: , , , , , | Comments Off on Make Your Wood Stove More Energy-Efficient

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:What Is a Pellet Stove - Westhampton Beach NY- Beach Stove and Fireplace

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!

By Julie Dismore on September 24th, 2013 | Tagged with: Tags: , , , | Comments Off on What is a pellet stove?

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.Gas Log Advantages - Westhampton Beach NY - Beach Stove and Fireplace

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.

By Julie Dismore on September 19th, 2013 | Tagged with: Tags: , , , , | Comments Off on Gas Logs Advantages

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)