When it comes to your home, safety should always come first. That’s why it’s important to know the best practices for heating and fireplaces.
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Open or Glass-fronted Fireplace
Since most homes in North America are heated by one of three systems: central gas, electric, or heat pump. Homeowners must know when their primary heating system should be turned off during the operation of an open or glass-fronted Fireplace.
There are many reasons why you might want to use an open or glass-fronted fireplace. You might want to show off your beautiful mantel, enjoy the warmth of the fire on a cold day, or heat your house with a smaller space heater. Whatever the reason is, you must turn your primary heating system off during this time.
It’s important to know that if your primary heating system is central gas, electric, or heat pump system, it should be turned off during the operation of an open or glass-fronted fireplace. Turning it back on once the fire has gone out can cause carbon monoxide (CO) gas leaks and malfunction in the furnace. Be sure to turn off any other heating systems as well; such as electric baseboard heaters and radiant panels.
Wood Heaters and Fireplace Inserts
On the other hand, wood heaters and inserts work differently. A wood heater is essentially an attachment that sits on top of a working fireplace or stove and allows you to have the benefits of heating with wood without the mess that usually comes with it. Fireplace inserts are a replacement for a gas or electric fireplace that installs in the existing fireplace structure. They’re made from metal and have a door with adjustable louvers to control airflow. These devices can be used together with a central system for maximum efficiency.
Did you know that the fireplace inserts are capable of warming up your home with the same efficiency as a wood heater? And, if you combine these two heating sources, it will provide you with an even better heating system. Wood heaters and fireplace inserts are both very efficient, easy to install, and they can be operated together with a central system.
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Is It Safe To Use A Fireplace And An HVAC System At The Same Time?
In summary, it is safe to use a fireplace and an HVAC system at the same time with wood heaters and fireplace inserts. While you should turn off your heating system when using an open or glass-fronted fireplace. However, you should consult with your HVAC technician before doing so in case there are any issues that need to be addressed.
