Always Wanted a Fireplace? Consider the Pros and Cons

Has a fireplace always been on your home buying wish list? The article below relates to any fireplace anywhere, but I’ve included a few specific tips for homeowners in our region as well.

If you’re shopping for a home in Arizona your REALTOR^® should make you aware of air quality restrictions and exemptions before you consider a home containing a fireplace.

Maricopa County and the Greater Phoenix Area in particular, have a concerning air quality situation that has prompted the powers-that-be to institute strict codes on common offenders like gasoline and fireplaces. There are tight regulations on burning wood and other materials known to produce toxins and particulate matter. No-Burn days are strictly enforced for fireplaces both indoors and out. Only gas fueled fires are allowed on designated days. In fact, since January 1999, newly constructed homes in Arizona counties with populations greater than 1.2M, are prohibited from containing a wood burning fireplace at all. Maricopa County, the land mass in and around the city of Phoenix, is currently the only county fitting this criterion, but their next door neighbor, Pinal County is well on the way. Maricopa County encompasses the towns and cities of: Apache Junction , Avondale, Buckeye, Carefree, Cave Creek, Chandler, El Mirage, Fountain Hills, Gila Bend, Gilbert, Glendale, Goodyear, Guadalupe, Litchfield Park, Mesa, Paradise Valley, Peoria, Phoenix, Queen Creek, Scottsdale, Sun City, Sun City West, Surprise, Tempe, Tolleson, Wickenburg, and Youngtown.

If you reside in Maricopa County you can find current information on air quality regulations and no-burn days here.

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Many people love the idea of relaxing in front of a fireplace on a cold winter night. The sight, smell and sound of a fire can create a soothing, relaxing ambience. While the idea of having a home with a fireplace may be appealing, the reality does not always live up to expectations. The amount of heat given off, the amount of work required and the cost, all depend on the type of fireplace and embellishments.

Wood Fireplace
On the plus side, a wood fireplace can create a cozy atmosphere. If the power goes out, a wood fireplace can be invaluable in it’s ability to continue to heat your home. It can also provide light and a way to cook during a power outage.

Since most of the heat produced by burning wood escapes through the chimney, a wood fireplace is not very energy efficient. A fireplace insert can increase the amount of heat that remains in the house.

If the damper doesn’t fully close, the house may have drafts, which can result in higher utility bills.

Embers from a fire can spread causing nearby objects to catch fire. Curious children and pets can be seriously injured. If you buy a house with a wood fireplace, you will need to stay vigilant to prevent accidents.

Smoke from a wood fireplace can release pollutants into the atmosphere. A fireplace can also release carbon monoxide and other dangerous gases inside the house. Chimneys and fireboxes should be cleaned and maintained yearly.

Due to the risk and amount of work involved, many people who purchase a house with a wood fireplace use it only occasionally. The costs of cleaning, maintenance and wood may not make owning a house with a wood fireplace cost effective.

Gas Fireplace
Gas fireplaces have the distinct advantage of convenience. Some even produce an instant cozy fire with the press of a button. Though to a lesser degree than a wood-burning model, a gas fueled fireplace can provide heat in the event that you lose power, especially with the addition of glass doors.

A gas fireplace won’t produce the homey aroma and crackling comfort of a wood fire. On the other hand, gas fireplaces are easier to maintain than wood-burning ones.

There is no ash or soot to clean, but the fireplace should still be inspected every year. Gas fireplaces should have a safety screen, the damper should never be completely closed, and you will need to install a carbon monoxide detector within reasonable proximity.

Electric Fireplace
A big plus… no chimney needed! An electric fireplace is somewhat capable of providing heat and light and can be installed even in small spaces. It can be expensive to run and it won’t work during a power outage. An electric fireplace does not look “realistic”, however if your decor is more on the contemporary side, the appearance of an electric model will conform nicely. Cleaning and maintenance are close to nil.

Safety concerns with an electric fireplace don’t include any actual fire, ash, smoke, embers or toxic byproducts but they are by no means completely without risk. Warmth is generated artificially by a separate component and a fan, or infrared heater. An electric fireplace still carries the same risk as any other electrical appliance or space heater. Touching heated components can result in burns. Blocking the heater inlet of an electric fireplace can cause overheating.

Should You Buy a House With a Fireplace?
Many people search for a new home with a fireplace, then find that they don’t use it as much as they thought they would, and realize that they spent a lot more than they expected to maintain it. Before buying a house with a fireplace, be mindful of potential use, costs and safety issues.

Another consideration when buying a home with a fireplace is its impact on your homeowners insurance. According to policygenius.com: :Homeowners insurance covers fire damage, but certain wood burning fireplaces and stoves pose an increased risk to your home and could make it difficult to obtain coverage with some companies. The exact amount of any possible surcharge could depend on the type and quality of fireplace in your home.” Wood burning fireplaces pose the greatest risk, while gas will likely impact your insurance rate to a lesser extent, and electric? Possibly not at all.