High efficiency fireplaces are these where the firebox is of the closed type, made of cast iron or steel. Through a system of air or water pipes running through the walls and a radiator system, produced energy can be transferred anywhere in the house. High efficiency fireplaces are combined with adjustable combustion and usually surpass a 70% heating efficiency, while ordinary fireplaces may have a much lower efficiency. In general, there are three types: air heater fireplaces, radiator fireplaces and thermodynamic ones.
Air heaters are those whose homes generally have built-in tubes and operate with forced air circulation, with the help of ventilators. These fireplaces are usually made of steel. They can adapt also new diversion channels to other rooms.
Radiator fireplace heating systems contain a built-in closed or open expansion vessel. Water stored in the fireplace radiator heats up to the desired temperature and is then driven with the help of a circulation pump through the pipes of the heating system into radiators throughout the residence.
Thermodynamic fireplace is the one in which the heated air is transferred with natural flow, i.s. without the help of fans. These fireplaces operate with convection pressure generated inside the firebox and can accept optional any fans, whether for a rushed release (heater fan) of for distribution of hot air to remote rooms.
Transmission systems
depends on the type of the fireplace (air channels or radiators)
.
Advantages
- Satisfactory coefficient of performance, in between 0,7 to 0,9 ; namely, multiple times higher than simple fireplaces.
- Low fuel costs
- Long lifetime
- Relatively low procurement costs
Disadvantages
- Annual maintenance and cleaning of chimney
- Needs storage room for fuel
- Storage space required
- Constant feed
- Harmful emissions