How to Consider the Right Fireplace for Your Living Room? (User’s Guide)

Every room in the house has its own personality, and when it comes to fireplaces, they can make or break a living room. There are many different types of fireplace designs available today and if you’re not careful about what you choose, your living room might end up looking outdated or cluttered.

The first thing that you should do is consider how much space there is in your living room; some fireplaces take up more than others so be sure to measure your space before deciding on a design. Next, think about the style of the rest of the furniture in your living room; most people prefer either modern or traditional styles for their home décor which means that choosing one type over another will help tie everything together nicely.

A fireplace is an important investment for your living room. It provides warmth, ambiance, and can help you create a welcoming space to gather with friends and family. With so many options available, it’s hard to know where to start looking or what features are most important. We’ve created this User Guide to help you find the right fireplace for your living room!

Size of your Living Room

You should consider the space you have available for a fireplace. It is important that there be adequate room around all sides of your choice to allow proper ventilation and heat dissipation. Some fireplaces, especially those with decorative elements such as marble mantels or wooden surrounds may require additional clearance from combustible materials like wallpapers, drapes or furniture.

If your living room is on the smaller side, you may want to consider fireplaces with less depth so as not to take up too much floor space. However if you have a very large fireplace or hearth that will be visible in open plan rooms then there are lots of options out there for larger surrounds and mantels which can still look very stylish and not take up too much room.

If you have a large fireplace with an open hearth design, then this will allow for more of the heat created by the fire to dissipate into your living space quickly and efficiently leaving less likelihood of it building up and causing discomfort or damage to any furnishings within immediate proximity such as couches, tables and rugs.

Having a fireplace that is not properly vented or situated in an enclosed room could cause the temperature to rise too much which can prove uncomfortable for those sitting near it as well as potentially putting your home at risk of fire damage. It’s important to consider any potential ventilation issues when choosing a living room fireplace so you can be sure that the heat created by your fireplace is being properly dispersed.

Type of Fireplace – Gas Electric or Wood-burning Stove

A source of heat is obviously required in any living room, but the method you choose to provide your heating can vary depending on a number of factors. For instance, if it’s aesthetics that are most important to you (the design and style), then wood-burning stoves or electric fireplaces may be more what you need. However, if you want the most efficient way to heat your living room then gas fireplaces are likely what you’ll need.

There are plenty of other factors that come into play when choosing a fireplace for your home, but it all depends on personal preference and budget as well as whether or not you have access to natural gas in your home. If you are considering a gas fireplace then it may be worth checking to see if there is already a natural gas line in your home since the installation of this technology can cost up to $100 dollars an hour depending on where you live.

Another thing that needs consideration before buying yourself a new fireplace for your living room, or any other room in your home for that matter, is the placement of a gas fireplace. There are a number of factors you need to take into account before deciding on where exactly the best spot would be for this type of heating system. First and foremost, it needs to have access from outside so that natural gas can flow through as needed without having to shut down the system.

Next, it’s important to consider the orientation of your room and where exactly you want heat to come from so that there is uniformity throughout the space. The fireplace should also be installed in a way that allows for ventilation as well because natural gas does produce carbon monoxide which needs an escape route or else breathing these fumes can be fatal.

While gas fireplaces are extremely efficient, it’s important to remember that they do require some level of maintenance as well. There will likely need to be piping repairs or replacement at least once every ten years for this type of fireplace so having a skilled contractor on hand is not only recommended but necessary if you want to avoid costly repairs.

Traditional look

Electric fireplaces offer the same ambience and warmth as traditional wood-burning ones but without the hassles of cleaning up after fires or hauling in heavy logs of wood. If you’re looking for something to heat your living room that doesn’t require venting then this is a good choice.
Modern look consider an electric fireplace that’s wall-mounted and plugs into a standard outlet, or maybe even one of the new freestanding models with enclosed heating elements that can be installed anywhere in your home. They’re easy to install, adding instant warmth without any fuss. These are also great for renters since they don’t encroach on the space of a traditional fireplace or take up any additional floor area.
These are also great for renters since they don’t encroach on the space of a traditional fireplace or take up any additional floor area.
Modern look consider an electric fireplace that’s wall-mounted and plugs into a standard outlet, or maybe even one of the new freestanding models with enclosed heating elements that can be installed anywhere in your home. They’re easy to install, adding instant warmth without any fuss.
Electric fireplaces offer the same ambience and warmth as traditional wood-burning ones but without the hassles of cleaning up after fires or hauling in heavy logs of wood. If you’re looking for something to heat your living room that doesn’t require venting then this is a good choice.

Oil-fired cast Iron Stove or Fireplace.

Modern and sleek an electric Fireplace

Electric Fireplace is a great alternative to the traditional wood-burning fireplace. Electric Fireplaces are available in a wide range of sizes and styles, from inserts that fit into your existing opening or freestanding models with contemporary designs and finishes such as marble or stone surrounds. Keep it on all year round for instant ambiance on chilly nights, easily switch between heat mode and flame mode, and enjoy the view of dancing flames without any hazardous emissions.

Choosing an electric Fireplace that matches your decor is easy with today’s wide selection of models designed to complement contemporary or traditional styles while delivering warmth to living rooms in even large spaces. Whether you are looking for a simple wall-mounted unit or one with a more elaborate mantel and surround, you can find one that fits your décor.

Electric Fireplace inserts are also designed to fit into existing fireplaces with little or no modification needed if the opening is large enough for the size of the insert you select. Freestanding electric Fireplace models give you greater freedom in matching them to your room’s décor. They come in a wide range of styles, from simple designs to more elaborately decorated ones with detailed moldings and trim work.

Traditional Electric Fireplace models look just like the real thing—but without the hazards associated with burning wood or fossil fuels inside your home. Some have realistic logs that glow eerily, while others have LED or crystal ember bed effects.

Keep it on all year round for instant ambiance on chilly nights, easily switch between heat mode and flame mode, and enjoy the view of dancing flames without any hazardous emissions with modern electric Fireplace models that fit your décor in contemporary rooms to further enhance your home’s look and feel.

Electric Fireplace inserts are designed to fit into existing fireplaces with little or no modification needed if the opening is large enough for the size of the insert you select. Freestanding electric Fireplace models give you greater freedom in matching them to your room’s décor. They come in a wide range of styles, from simple designs to more elaborately decorated ones with detailed moldings and trim work.

How much space would it take up in your Living Room?

The size of the fireplace would have to be taken into account when you are choosing a fireplace. You should know that not all fireplaces will fit your living room, so it is important to keep this in mind before making any purchases. For example, if you live in an apartment or small home then most traditional wood burning fireplaces may not be the best choice because they take up a lot of space and can’t always fit in smaller rooms. There are however, some other options such as electric fireplaces which do not require venting or gas powered fireplaces that need to hook into your home’s gas line.

Consider whether or not the Fireplace will work with your Home’s Décor?

Fireplaces come in a wide range of styles and designs. When you’re choosing one, consider how it will work with your home’s décor. If the fireplace is not going to fit well into its surroundings, then choose another model or style instead.

Consider the Room’s Purpose: What Will You Be Using it for?

The room you choose to place your fireplace in should be one that is used often. If there isn’t a lot of foot traffic, then make sure whatever space you select will get some use and not go unused most of the time. This also helps prevent accidents.

Consider Where You Will Be Placing the Fireplace? How Much Space Do you Need Around it to Feel Comfortable?

The fireplace should be placed in a location where there is enough room around it for people to stand comfortably. This also means that if you are placing your new addition into an existing area, then make sure there is enough room for it to fit and be used properly.

Consider How Much Space You Need Around the Fireplace? Is There Enough Room on Each Side of It, as Well as Above and Below?

When you’re considering where your fireplace will go in the house, think about how much space is surrounding it. Will there be enough room on all sides, as well as above and below it? This is an important question to ask yourself because if the answer isn’t yes, then you may want to rethink your placement.

Consider How You Will be Lighting the Fireplace?

Every fireplace needs to have fire lighting options. This includes things like matches, lighters, and electric ignitions. Make sure that you are able to access these elements easily if you need them in order to light the flames at any time of day or night. There should also be enough room around the fireplace to use these options without knocking anything over.

Consider the Functionality of the Fireplace’s Exterior?

When you’re choosing a new fireplace for your home, check out its exterior and interior parts. Is there enough room inside it to put things like logs or fire starters into it when needed? Can you move about easily around all of the exterior pieces of wood without knocking anything over?

Consider the Fireplace’s Energy Efficiency: Does it Use More, or Less Energy than Others? Is It Energy Efficient Compared to Similar Models on the Market?

Don’t forget that a fireplace is usually an energy-consuming appliance. Make sure you’re getting one that won’t cost you more money in your monthly bills. You can find out this information by checking the fireplace’s energy rating. This is usually found on its specifications sheet or in a brochure detailing it.

Consider How Much Maintenance Your Fireplace Will Require? What Kind of Cleaning, Repair Work, and Replacements are Involved?

No matter how careful you are with your new fireplace, you’re going to need some regular maintenance and upkeep. Cleaning the glass doors is an important part of this process; make sure yours can be easily accessed for cleaning purposes by checking their orientation on the fireplace’s exterior.

Environmental Protection

Safety Tips

Before you start shopping for a fireplace, check your local zoning laws to see if it’s legal in that area.
Make sure the room where you want to install the fireplace is large enough and can accommodate heaters safely. It should have proper ventilation as well.
The hearth of wood burning fireplaces should be made of stone or brick.
Make sure the hearth is at least 12 inches away from all combustible material and 18 inches if you have carpeting on your floor.
Only burn seasoned wood in your fireplace. It should be dry so it can catch on fire quickly and produce less smoke.
Wear gloves while you are stacking the logs inside the hearth. Make sure kids don’t touch them because they could get burned easily if their hands are wet or not clean enough!
If you are using a gas fireplace, it is safer than wood burning. You shouldn’t have to worry about the heat output of your unit because they all come with proper safety features and shutoff devices in case something goes wrong.

FAQs

What are the most popular types of fireplaces?

There are many different kinds of wood burning, gas and electric fireplace options available on the market. Some homeowners prefer traditional brick-lined masonry or stone inserts, while others may choose a more modern design for their home. Other considerations include how you plan to use your fireplace (as an entertainment system, for example) and the climate in your area.

How do I decide on a Fireplace design?

We suggest taking careful measurements of your living room’s dimensions (length x width), including doorways, hallways and other interior features to help you determine which fireplace will work best with your home layout. It is important to consider the size of your fireplace and how it will fit into your room. If you feel like a certain style is more suited to another part of your home, such as the kitchen or dining area, we recommend considering an alternative option for that space.

When should I plan on installing my new fireplace?

We suggest contacting professional contractors to have your new fireplace installed. This should be done well in advance of the holiday season, as it can take a few weeks to complete construction and installation.

What other features might I want my electric/gas fireplace to have?

Many homeowners add additional features along with their fireplaces such as built-in speakers for sound systems or remote control operation. You may want to install a new mantel or shelf unit, and if you have children in the home, we suggest adding safety features such as glass doors for added protection.

How do I maximize heating with my fireplace?

Before purchasing any of these items, please consult your local building codes and ordinances regarding hearth size, any required clearance around the fireplace opening and proper ventilation.

How do I seal my fireplace?

There are several options available, from basic weatherstripping to more advanced products such as a fireplace door gasket. Please contact your local building department for detailed information about any requirements or permits needed before installing these items.

What should be considered when purchasing gas fireplaces?

The most popular gas fireplace options are vent free, direct vent and natural gas. A professional contractor can help you determine which of these is right for your home based on the size of your living room or family room.

What should be considered when purchasing electric fireplaces?

Electric fireplaces come in a variety of styles including traditional inserts with logs, contemporary designs with glass panels and more modern options such as fire tables. A contractor can help you determine which of these is right for your home based on the size of your living room or family room.

What should be considered when purchasing masonry fireplaces?

Masonry fireplace design varies widely, from traditional brick-lined inserts to contemporary designs with glass panels to more modern options such as fire tables. A contractor can help you determine which of these is right for your home based on the size of your living room or family room.

What should be considered when purchasing a stove fireplace?

Stove fireplaces are extremely effective because they also provide heat in addition to warmth from an open flame. These types of fireplaces can add value to your home and be an attractive focal point in any living room or family room.

When should I install my fireplace?

We suggest having a professional contractor complete the installation process, as this will make it easier for you to ensure that there is adequate ventilation and proper clearance around your fireplace. Please contact your local building department for detailed information about any requirements or permits needed before installing these items.

When should I plan on having my new fireplace installed?

We suggest contacting professional contractors to have your new fireplace installed well in advance of the holiday season, as it can take a few weeks to complete construction and installation. It is also a good idea to have your new fireplace installed before you start decorating the rest of your home as it is likely that this will be one of the first rooms visitors see when they arrive.

Conclusion

If you want to buy a fireplace that will work for years, we suggest focusing on three things. The first is the overall design and aesthetics of your living room – if the doors and windows are modern and it has an open floor plan then maybe a traditional stone or brick fireplace won’t be in keeping with the aesthetic!