WOOD
he ambient glow from a wood-burning
ireplace will create an inviting living
space. Most are installed in central
living rooms, where they operate most
eiciently at spreading radiant and
convection heat through the home.
Traditional open hearth brick or
stone ireplaces are probably the least
eicient wood-burners. Modern versions
are far more eicient because they are
designed not to lose most of their heat
up the chimney. In fact, they can heat
a larger space than a gas ireplace.
Modern designs include ireplace
inserts, wall-mounted ireplaces,
enclosed ireplaces, wood-burning
stoves and freestanding models.
Wood heaters emit smoke, so any
sold in Australia must comply with
clean air emissions standards by having
an acceptable eiciency rating.PROS
- Creates a cosy ambience
and a focal point. - Uses a renewable fuel.
- Creates a large heat zone.
- Provides heat during any
power outages. - Cost-efective fuel source.
CONS
- Emits smoke.
- Creates the most mess.
- Requires daily cleaning.
- Needs a well-maintained
chimney flue. - Can lose heat up the
chimney. - Can release hazardous
sparks and embers. - Can pose a safety risk for
young children.
94 JULY 2018 Australian Handyman
SAFETY TIP
Use a metal screen to
cover an open fireplace
to protect your floor
from sparks, reduce
potential fire hazards
and protect children.Contemporary wood-burners are
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