Numerous models of fireplaces and stoves are flooding the market and shops offer a wide range of increasingly modern items. However, it is necessary to go beyond the aesthetic aspect and take into account other criteria such as: cost, installation, performance, comfort etc. Here is a small guide that will help you determine which type of fireplace or stove best suits your needs.
The different heating appliances
In addition to providing warmth to your cozy nest, the fireplace can also bring style to your home and also do good for the environment depending on the heater you choose. If you are a fan of the traditional style, you would probably prefer a good old-fashioned fireplace: the open fireplace. There are also closed fireplaces and fireplaces with inserts. Those who like the modern and practical touch will opt for a stove. The type of fireplace or stove should be chosen according to your environmental, aesthetic and, above all, financial convictions. It can also depend on the architecture and space of your house.
Question chimney
Everyone agrees that the most important criterion in the purchase and installation of an energy source for heating is the efficiency and economy of that energy. Unfortunately, the chimney is not considered to be a very economical or environmental heating device. It can only be fuelled by wood and only wood. In order to improve energy efficiency, it is possible to insert an insert or install a fireplace in the traditional chimney. So which fireplace to choose? If you like the vintage side with a touch of modernism, we recommend fireplace inserts. This is a cost-effective solution in terms of heat and capacity. To push the economy even further, you can now invest in a second-hand fireplace. However, the installation of these inserts requires a great deal of know-how and sometimes some work on your house. You also need to be meticulous in the maintenance and follow-up of these inserts such as collecting ashes and sweeping the chimney hood.
The stove in all its states
Today, the trend is towards the stove. It is a popular choice among buyers because it is both economical and modern. Its advantages lie in its ergonomic design. Easy to transport, it does not take up too much space and gives style to your interior. There is a very famous type of stove: the wood stove. Even more economical variants have emerged, such as the pellet stove, hybrid stoves that use both logs and pellets. Gas stoves also exist but are often categorised as simple radiators. So which stove to invest in? There are several very modern and stylish stove types on the market. But if you like vintage or are looking for attractively priced items, invest in a second-hand stove.
How a heat pump works
The principle of a heat pump or more commonly heat pump (HP) is simple, the heat pump is a device consisting of an evaporator, a compressor generator and a condenser that replaces the traditional gas or oil boiler. This device is a thermodynamic device capable of heating a room.
Different models of thermal insulation
Mineral insulation: expanded clay, cellular glass, rock wool, glass wool... Natural insulation: wood fibres, flax fibres, hemp, cork, duck feathers, cellulose wadding, green roofing... Synthetic insulation: extruded/expanded polystyrene, polyurethane, polymer foam, new generation insulation: cellular concrete, aerogels, cellular formwork...
How can thermal comfort be improved?
To succeed in improving thermal comfort, it is not enough to multiply the thickness of insulation, as this approach is expensive and has limited effectiveness. The best solution is to carry out work that complies with regulations, carry out a heat balance, track down thermal bridges and call in specialists.
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