UPFRONT/live
Not Every Flame is the Same
You don’t necessarily need to lug logs into your home for the glow of a fire. Here’s a look at the fireplaces available
WOOD BURNING
What people love The nostalgia factor. “I love the crackle and smell of a wood fire, and the fact that you have to be present when you build and tend to it,” says Nadia Schonfeld, 55, of Mount Kisco, New York.
What to consider These require regular maintenance. And the fine particulate matter they produce may be a concern for those with respiratory issues.
NATURAL GAS
What people love The simplicity of an on-off switch. “Sometimes a client will install a gas unit within an existing fireplace,” notes architectural designer Diana Zaglio of McPhee Associates in Dennis, Massachusetts.
What to consider A gas unit needs proper ventilation. Annual inspection of the gas line and installation of a carbon monoxide detector are recommended.
ELECTRIC
What people love Ease of use. LED or halogen lights create the look of fire, and the units can blow warm air like a space heater. “Electric fireplaces have just enough light and heat to make them fun,” says Domenica Brockman, 55, of Ithaca, New York.
What to consider No ventilation is required, so there are no real downsides, except for the lack of a natural flicker.
VIRTUAL
What people love Just turn on your TV and stream a fireplace video from YouTube or another service. “Some videos add instrumental music or holiday carols over the sound of the fire,” Brockman says.
What to consider Besides no ambient heat, of course, there is also the cheesiness factor. And it can take some effort to find the video you like. —Marie Proeller Hueston