Q: Can I put a pellet stove in a corner?

• <div><p>Yes, you can put a freestanding one in a corner if you&rsquo;re tight on space. Because pellet stoves don&rsquo;t get as hot as other types of wood stoves, there only needs to be 3 inches of clearance from the wall on each side. Placing it in a corner should not impact the ventilation&mdash;you&rsquo;ll still need to follow safety precautions by not installing too close to a window. Typically, it&rsquo;s 4 feet from a window or 18 inches if the stove uses an external air source for combustion. Always check the owner&rsquo;s manual for specific instructions.</p></div>

Question 1

How much does a fireplace add to home value?

Accepted Answer

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A fireplace can increase a home's value by as much as 12%, with some reports indicating that homes with fireplaces list for around 13% more than the median sale price. Fireplaces are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, adding a charm that many homebuyers find desirable. The actual return on investment depends on the fireplace's size, type, and material.

However, a fireplace can detract from a property's value if it is unusable, not up to code, or in need of immediate repairs. The type of fireplace also matters; custom electric fireplaces and inserts can add value, while freestanding units that can be removed have less impact.

Question 2

Is a fireplace insert safer than a fireplace?

Accepted Answer

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Although no heating appliance can be entirely risk-free, a fireplace insert is considered a safer alternative to a traditional open fireplace, thanks to their enclosed design. With a sealed combustion chamber, a fireplace insert effectively reduces the risk of sparks and embers escaping into the room, minimizing the chance of an accidental fire.

Additionally, an insert comes equipped with various safety features, such as tempered glass doors that create a barrier between the flames and the surrounding space. This enhances both safety and energy efficiency by preventing heat loss. As an added bonus, many inserts are designed to meet strict safety standards that ensure proper ventilation and combustion.

Question 3

How long does a fireplace last?

Accepted Answer

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A fireplace's lifespan varies significantly depending on its type, the quality of construction, the materials used, and how well it is maintained. On average, you can expect a fireplace to last between 10 and 30 years, with many homeowners experiencing major issues after about 20 years.

Here's a breakdown by type:

Gas Inserts: Typically last 10 to 25 years with proper maintenance.
Electric Fireplaces: Have a lifespan of up to 20 years.
Traditional Brick Fireplaces: Can last for centuries, but require ongoing maintenance and repairs, such as tuckpointing.

Question 4

Who installs fireplaces?

Accepted Answer

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Knowing who to hire to install your fireplace is important when it comes to having a safe place to burn a fire in your home. The best person to contact for installing fireplaces is a mason or general contractor who has a National Fireplace Institute (NFI) specialist certification. If you’re installing wood paneling, then it’s a good idea to also find a pro who is Wood Energy Technology Transfer (WETT)-certified.

Both of these certifications show that your pro is well-equipped to install fireplaces and inspect your home for the utmost safety.

Question 5

Can I put a pellet stove in a corner?

Accepted Answer

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Yes, you can put a freestanding one in a corner if you’re tight on space. Because pellet stoves don’t get as hot as other types of wood stoves, there only needs to be 3 inches of clearance from the wall on each side. Placing it in a corner should not impact the ventilation—you’ll still need to follow safety precautions by not installing too close to a window. Typically, it’s 4 feet from a window or 18 inches if the stove uses an external air source for combustion. Always check the owner’s manual for specific instructions.