
Factory built fireplaces come in a variety of types and models to suit different tastes and needs.
There are several types of factory built fireplaces, including direct vent, vent free, and B vent models. These types are often determined by the type of venting system used.
Some factory built fireplaces are designed to be more efficient and environmentally friendly, such as those with a higher efficiency rating or those that use a gas log set.
Direct vent fireplaces are a popular choice for many homeowners, as they provide a more efficient and safer alternative to traditional fireplaces.
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Factory Built Fireplaces
Factory built fireplaces are a great option for those looking to upgrade their home's heating and ambiance. They are designed to meet the latest safety standards, including those set by Underwriters Laboratories and the American Gas Association.
Modern factory built fireplaces are much easier to install than their older counterparts, and can even be installed in areas where combustible materials are present. This makes them a great option for homeowners who want to add a fireplace to their home without the hassle of traditional masonry installation.
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If you're considering a factory built fireplace, you can expect it to be a lot nicer than anything built 20 or 30 years ago. It will not only look nicer and burn fuel more efficiently, but it will also come with warranties that your outdated fireplace would not have.
Here are some key benefits of factory built fireplaces:
- Meet the latest safety standards
- Easier to install than traditional masonry fireplaces
- Can be installed in areas with combustible materials
- Comes with warranties for up to a year
Care for Your Fireplace
Factory built fireplaces are designed to be low maintenance, but they still require regular care to ensure they continue to perform well and look their best.
Clean your fireplace regularly to prevent creosote buildup.
Creosote is a flammable substance that can cause chimney fires if left unchecked.
To clean your fireplace, simply sweep or vacuum the interior and exterior surfaces with a brush or vacuum cleaner.
It's also a good idea to inspect your chimney annually to ensure it's clear of debris and damage.
A dirty or damaged chimney can be a fire hazard and reduce the efficiency of your fireplace.
In addition to cleaning and inspecting your chimney, it's also important to store combustible materials safely.
Keep any flammable materials at least 3 feet away from your fireplace to prevent fires.
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When to Replace Your Fireplace
A factory-built fireplace can last anywhere from 20 to 30 years if properly maintained.
You can expect to replace some parts over the years, but if your model is outdated, its parts may be obsolete and difficult to replace.
If one of those parts breaks, it can be expensive and time-consuming to repair, often costing more than a complete replacement.
You might need to replace your factory-built fireplace if it's damaged beyond repair, especially if the damage involves water, which can cause significant harm.
A damaged chimney line or refractory panel can also indicate a need for replacement, as can rusted chimney covers.
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Types of Fireplaces
Factory built fireplaces come in a variety of styles to suit different tastes and needs.
There are three main types of fireplaces: wood-burning, gas, and electric.
Wood-burning fireplaces are the most traditional type, using wood as fuel to produce a cozy flame.
They can be fueled by either wood logs or pellets, and are often preferred for their authentic, crackling sound and warm ambiance.
Gas fireplaces, on the other hand, use natural gas or propane to produce a flame, and are often more convenient and low-maintenance than wood-burning fireplaces.
They can be vented or vent-free, and some models even come with a remote control for easy operation.
Electric fireplaces use electricity to produce a flame, and are often the most energy-efficient option.
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Masonry Fireplaces Versus
Masonry fireplaces are built on site, becoming a permanent fixture in the home, unless it's torn down or heavily renovated. This is in contrast to factory-built fireplaces, which are prefabricated and installed.
A masonry fireplace is built to radiate a large amount of heat, making it suitable as a primary heat source in older homes. This is because they were designed to disperse heat throughout a wide area.
Factory-built fireplaces, on the other hand, are not built for this purpose and are not a sufficient primary heat source for an entire house or even the room where they are installed. They provide ambiance and some heat, but that's about it.
Masonry fireplaces can leave large amounts of buildup inside a chimney, making them less environmentally friendly compared to modern factory-built fireplaces.
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Fireplace Stoves and Room Heaters
Factory-built fireplaces, fireplace stoves, and room heaters are popular choices for home heating. They're high quality, energy-efficient, and can increase the value of your home.
These appliances are designed to provide long burn times and radiant heat reflection. Some models, like the Sovereign 36″ and 42″ Wood-Burning Fireplaces, feature authentic masonry design and traditional brick interior panels.
The stovepipe connecting a factory-built fireplace, fireplace stove, or room heater to a chimney should contain no more than two elbows. The total length of the connecting pipe should be kept as short as possible.
The connector pipe must be as large as the flue collars and fabricated from steel coated with a high-temperature rust inhibitor. It's also essential to keep the pipe's horizontal section rising one-quarter inch for each foot of pipe.
To ensure safe installation, the pipe should not project into the flue itself. A noncombustible seal below the entry point of the connector is required if the appliance vents directly through the chimney wall above the smoke chamber.
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Here are some key installation requirements for factory-built fireplaces, fireplace stoves, and room heaters:
- The connector pipe must be at least three times the pipe diameter away from combustible materials.
- The pipe should not pass through floors, ceilings, or closets.
- A listed and accepted noncombustible thimble or a burned fireclay or metal thimble surrounded by at least 12 inches of brickwork may be used for protection.
- The chimney system must be designed, located, and installed to permit ready access for internal inspection and cleaning.
Ventis Zero-Clearance
Ventis Zero-Clearance fireplaces are a type of high-efficiency fireplace that can be installed in a zero-clearance situation, meaning there is no space between the fireplace and combustible materials.
They use a combination of air flow and heat exchange to operate efficiently and safely. Ventis Zero-Clearance fireplaces have a 99.9% efficiency rating, making them a popular choice for homeowners looking to reduce heat loss and improve overall efficiency.
These fireplaces are designed to be installed in tight spaces, such as between walls or in small rooms, and can be used with a variety of fuels, including wood and gas.
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New Fireplace Options
A new factory-built fireplace is a lot nicer than anything built 20 or 30 years ago, with a modern design and more efficient fuel burning.
They meet the latest safety standards set by Underwriters Laboratories and the American Gas Association, giving you peace of mind about the security of your home.
Factory-built fireplaces are much easier to install than older models, and can even be installed in areas with combustible materials like wood paneling.
A new factory-built fireplace comes with a limited warranty, which means if you find any damaged parts, you can have them replaced for a specified period of time.
Upgrading to a qualified wood-burning fireplace can also get you a biomass tax credit of up to $2,000 from the federal government.
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Specific Fireplace Models
The factory built fireplace is a great option for homeowners, and one of the best things about them is their variety. There are many different models to choose from, each with its own unique features and benefits.
Some popular models include the Ventless Fireplace, which is a great option for small spaces or homes with limited ventilation. It's also a good choice for those who want a more realistic flame experience without the need for a chimney.
The Direct Vent Fireplace is another popular model, known for its efficiency and ability to heat large spaces quickly. It's also a good option for homes with existing chimneys, as it can be installed as a direct replacement.
The B Vent Fireplace is a great choice for those who want a more traditional fireplace experience, complete with a chimney and a real flame. It's also a good option for homes with a more rustic or country-style decor.
The Linear Fireplace is a sleek and modern option, perfect for those who want a more contemporary look in their home. It's also a good choice for small spaces, as it can be installed in a linear configuration to fit into tight areas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why aren't houses built with fireplaces anymore?
Houses are no longer built with traditional fireplaces due to energy codes and tighter construction, which limits airflow and makes them impractical. Modern homes often require alternative, more efficient heating solutions.
What is the life expectancy of a prefab fireplace?
The life expectancy of a prefab fireplace is typically 10-15 years, but proper maintenance and inspections can extend its lifespan to 20-30 years. Regular upkeep is key to maximizing the life of your prefab fireplace.
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