Get matched with top fireplace pros in Decatur, MI

You can, but you shouldn’t. While you can still start a fire in your fireplace, the smoke and other fumes won’t have a proper way to escape if the flue is cracked. By continuing to operate your fireplace, wood stove, or furnace, you are putting your home at risk of absorbing toxic byproducts of the fire source.

A quality pellet stove that receives proper maintenance can last between 15 and 20 years, while most will last at least 10 years. The exact lifespan depends on factors like frequency of use and how well the stove is cared for. Proper maintenance—such as periodically cleaning the vents, vacuuming the ash pan, and refreshing the pellets as needed—can significantly extend its life, making it a worthwhile long-term investment.

Yes, removing a chimney is a difficult and major undertaking. Chimneys often provide structural support to a home, so if it's a load-bearing structure, you'll need to take extra precautions to maintain your home's integrity. A project of this complexity typically requires a structural engineer, a masonry contractor, and a demolition crew. The removal process may involve taking the chimney out brick by brick from inside the walls. The cost for chimney removal can range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the job's complexity. Due to the difficulty and cost, some homeowners opt to remove the fireplace and seal the chimney at the top and bottom, sometimes also removing the visible exterior portion at the roofline.

Running a gas fireplace costs approximately $0.35 per hour for natural gas and $0.62 per hour for propane, though these figures can vary significantly based on fuel prices in your area. On average, the annual cost to run a gas fireplace is between $400 and $640. The exact impact on your utility bill depends on several factors, including how often you use it, the size of the room you're heating, and the fireplace's BTU rating. Some models with a constantly running pilot light will consume a minimal amount of energy even when off, although many modern fireplaces do not require one. If you are looking for a more energy-efficient option, consider an electric fireplace.