In the modern world, a fireplace is no longer considered exclusively as a source of heat. This initial function, of course, is of great importance - especially for residents of private houses - but today the fireplace has also become an element of the interior, decor, adding originality and uniqueness to the entire room. Kindling the fireplace for many has become a real ritual, and the room in which it is located is a gathering place for the whole family, attracting with its atmosphere of comfort and peace.
Features and working principle
The work of the fireplace is based on the principle of the release of heat into the surrounding space, obtained from the combustion of wood in the firebox. The room is heated by convection: the movement of hot and cold air. The fireplace has a larger firebox compared to a conventional wood-burning stove, which improves air flow and impairs draft. It is because of the poor draft that the efficiency of most modern wood-burning fireplaces does not exceed 10-20%. For this reason, using a fireplace as the main source of heating is not a good idea; although in some cases this is also possible.
In addition to low efficiency, the features of the fireplace include a wide price range and many different designs and models: the buyer always has the opportunity to choose from an impressive number of options.
When choosing, it is necessary to take into account the general style and features of the interior and the size of the room. All this is a laborious process, but nothing creates a warm and cozy atmosphere like a fireplace!
Types of models
Wall-mounted
The traditional and most versatile models, as they come in a wide variety of sizes and can be installed in almost any home. They are usually rectangular in shape.
This category can be divided into two subgroups:
Fireplaces adjacent to the back wall of the room. There are many models in different sizes and designs. They are preferable for installation in spacious rooms, for example, in living rooms, since they themselves often have impressive dimensions
Fireplaces adjacent to the wall of the room with an end wall. Such models are usually relatively small in size, therefore they are best suited for installation in medium-sized rooms
Embedded
They form a single whole with the building wall. They can be built into both external and internal, delimiting walls. In the first case, the chimney is also located in the outer wall and does not take up space in the room, therefore, such models are usually more preferable. In the case of a fireplace built into the inner wall, only the portal goes directly into the room.
Built-in models are the most compact and often serve only as a decorative function.
Corner
These models, like wall-mounted, can be divided into two categories:
Located in the outer (outer) corner. These fireplaces are intended for spacious rooms with a non-standard layout. The combustion chambers are at the junction of two rooms, and the fireplace itself decorates two rooms at once, so the choice of design must be approached with special care
Located in the inner corner. Models of this type seem to connect the walls of the room diagonally. They are more common than the representatives of the previous category, and more compact, therefore they are suitable for installation in rooms with a relatively small area. Sizes and shapes are very variable; the presence of additional parts and elements is possible
Below are a few more categories based on the functional features of fireplaces
Long burning
Fireplaces capable of heating a room for ten or more hours from one kindling are usually referred to as long-burning models. However, in practice, such indicators are demonstrated only by special stoves with a gas generation function, therefore, in the everyday sense, a long-burning fireplace is called one that is capable of heating a room on one fuel tab for five hours or more. Such models, by the way, can work not only on wood: coal can also be fuel for them.
Floor standing
Floor-standing fireplaces are electric models, the advantage of which is the relative ease of installation and the visual component. In addition, such models are distinguished by the ability to move from one room to another.
Hinged
Models in this category can be either wall-mounted or literally suspended from the ceiling. The advantage of this type of fireplace is their graceful appearance, but they do not suit every interior.
Portable
Mobile electric heating models. There is a huge variety of shapes and designs that best suit Art Nouveau interiors. Many modern manufacturers of heating equipment rely on the mobility and compactness of their fireplaces, so they are presented on the market in a very wide range.
With boiler
Features of the layout and design of some houses allow you to combine a fireplace with the main heating system; in this case, the fireplace connected to the water circuit, in addition to performing the heating function, also becomes a solid fuel boiler. The boiler is functional and safe enough.
Of course, there are other models of fireplaces that are not singled out in a separate group, but deserve no less attention. There are many models on the modern market, among which there are quite original ones: for example, double-sided fireplaces with a panoramic glass firebox. These fireplaces are mounted on a wall separating two rooms and serve to simultaneously heat and decorate two rooms. In general, glass elements are widely used in the design of various models of fireplaces and stoves, adding additional charm and grace to their appearance.
Some firms specialize in the production of fireplaces without a chimney. Such models are called eco-fireplaces and instead of smoke they emit harmless combustion products into the environment. The purchase of a bioethanol-fueled fireplace will contribute to the preservation of the environment.
There are also fireplaces on the market without a foundation - in common parlance, "potbelly stoves". These mobile and compact mini ovens are used not only for heating, but also for cooking, which makes them an excellent option for summer cottages.
Home fireplaces have a wide range; for a bath, the best option would be a classic wood-burning fireplace with a closed firebox - it will allow you to quickly achieve the desired temperature in the room and hold it for a long time.
Selection features
Of course, choosing a fireplace in a house or apartment is a process that requires a significant investment of time and labor: it is necessary to decide on the preferred model, take into account all the nuances of the room, choose the appropriate option, and then also carry out the installation.
Special attention should be paid to some heating equipment manufacturers.
Teplodar (Russia). The company has existed since 1997 and offers a wide range of fireplaces: more than twenty different models and over one hundred stove modifications. In addition, the wide price range and reputation make the brand especially attractive in the eyes of a potential buyer.
"Meta" (Russia). Another veteran in the domestic market. The company guarantees the buyer the reliability of its goods, an impressive assortment and a wide price range (a large assortment allows you to find models of both economy and premium class). In addition, an indisputable advantage is the service of creating a fireplace on an individual request, which allows you to satisfy the needs of even the most picky customers. On the basis of the company there is a workshop that implements such orders.
Viking (Russia). A series of models from the Meta company. Fireplaces of the Viking range are distinguished by their efficiency and reliability. Their advantages include safety, the ability to regulate the draft, quick heating of the room and the duration of burning.
Vesuvius (Russia). The manufacturer assures that, using advanced technologies and the latest developments in the field of heating equipment, it has been possible to achieve a quality comparable to the Finnish stoves recognized all over the world. The company bribes with reasonable prices with high quality and reliability of models.
Foreign manufacturers also offer a wide range of fireplaces to suit a wide range of customer needs. Among them you can find both technological and expensive premium models (for example, fireplaces manufactured by Konig Feuer and Thorma), as well as more economical options.
The most famous in the Russian market are foreign manufacturers Kratki (Poland), Ferlux (Spain), Nordica (Italy) and Hitze (Poland), and they are in high demand. For example, Polish fireplaces "Kratki" captivate the client with a variety of models that differ significantly in price and functionality.
All over the world, Finnish stoves and fireplaces are widespread and very popular. The most famous companies are Tulikivi and Nunnauuni. Using the recognition of buyers all over the world, Finnish manufacturers force other firms to look up to themselves.
Economy class
Inexpensive fireplaces of the already mentioned firms "Meta" and "Teplodar" are very popular. The simplest models are distinguished by their pragmatic design and low price, which makes them preferable for buyers. In Russian online stores, Polish and Czech fireplaces are also widely represented, for example, by the firms "Kratki" and "Liseo".
In general, buyers leave quite positive reviews about fireplaces of both domestic and foreign production.
Shape and dimensions
The dimensions of the fireplace should be determined by the dimensions of the room in which the installation will be carried out. In the spacious halls and living rooms, a large fireplace can be installed, which will change the vision of the entire interior; in the room, it is advisable to use small and narrow electric fireplaces that complement the interior, but do not radically change its appearance.
Although the classic rectangle is the traditional shape of the fireplace, there are original design models. They can be of any shape, including round, trapezoidal, and rounded rectangles.
Materials (edit)
The material affects the ability of the fireplace to transfer heat, its reliability and service life.
Brick models of wood-burning fireplaces are traditional and serve to heat the room as quickly as possible. Their efficiency is low, but they do not require a lot of fuel and are presented in a very wide assortment and price range.
Metal - cast iron and steel - fireplaces have a higher efficiency factor, since they are assembled using materials and technologies that provide the best heat transfer. The firebox can be both open and closed. Models of this type are somewhat more versatile than their brick counterparts: in addition to the surface for cooking, many metal fireplaces are also equipped with a water or air circuit for using it for heating purposes (fireplaces-boilers).
Glass is also often used in the assembly of fireplaces, although more often for decorative purposes. There are also models made entirely of glass. This design approach allows you to enjoy the contemplation of the flame from anywhere in the room. Of course, glass for wood-burning fireplaces must meet a number of requirements, first of all, be durable and heat-resistant.
Accommodation
Most often, fireplaces are installed in private houses: in country cottages and in summer cottages. The requirements for the model in this case are not too complicated and are dictated mainly by the area of the room and the interior design. Sauna fireplace stoves require a lot of power and heat transfer. Indoor models should be compact, reliable and mobile, since a relatively small area of space is at the buyer's disposal.
Country fireplaces usually do not differ in exquisite design, for them reliability and functionality are more important. Like sauna stoves, they must quickly and efficiently warm up the room, using minimal fuel; often a country fireplace is also used as a boiler or mini-stove.
Portal decoration
Cladding is one of the most important design details that shape the look of the entire fireplace. Most often, tile is used in the decoration of the portal - the simplest and most common option. Quite a few people independently undertake the installation of such a finish. The most commonly used materials are porcelain stoneware, majolica and terracotta tiles.
Artificial stone is also often used when facing a portal. Its advantages include strength, ease of installation and versatility. Using artificial stone as part of a fireplace design is often a winning solution.
For wood-burning fireplaces with panoramic glass, it is advisable to use a radius portal. This can create a more harmonious combination.
Despite the fact that you can tiled the fireplace yourself, it is better to entrust the selection and installation of materials to professionals: this will help to avoid mistakes and inaccuracies that lead to difficulties in operation and deterioration of the appearance of the fireplace.
Interior design examples
In the living room
Most often, fireplaces are purchased for installation in the living room. This is not surprising - it is the living room that is the traditional gathering place for the whole family, and it requires warmth, coziness and a homely atmosphere. Beautiful fireplaces are a great tool for creating such an atmosphere. Various design options, decorative portals, claddings from various materials - manufacturers offer a lot of options for a wide variety of interior types.
There are several common styles of interiors and their corresponding varieties of fireplaces
Classic
Usually these are brick wood-burning fireplaces. The traditional look is versatile enough to suit the interior of different rooms, including living rooms and offices. Simultaneously austere and stylish appearance will never go out of fashion and will always be popular. It is characterized by clear geometry, symmetry of shapes and a neutral color palette.
Modern
In living rooms and rooms, made in a modern "modern" style, electric fireplaces are most often used: suspended, floor-standing and portable. The design of such fireplaces is distinguished by originality, extravagance and at the same time attractiveness and harmony. The goal of people choosing this style for interior decoration is to find an unusual combination of elements, to create a beautiful and expressive artistic ensemble.
All these features should be taken into account when choosing a fireplace both in the cottage and in the apartment, both in the living room and in the living room or office. It is important to remember one thing - in interior design, the main role is played by its harmony and completeness. A beautiful and stately fireplace will look ridiculous in a small, sparsely furnished living room. A correctly selected model will not look shocking, but at the same time it will emphasize the originality and uniqueness of the entire room.