When it comes to heating your home, it’s crucial to make sure that you’re getting as much value as possible for your money. With the current energy price crisis in the UK, it’s no surprise that the fireplace is coming back around. From wood burning stoves to modern plug-in electric fireplaces, a fireplace is not only a fantastic way to keep a room warm while saving money, but it also adds an air of cosiness and ambience that’s hard to beat.
Cast iron fireplaces are a timeless choice that grew in popularity during the Victorian era. Even today, they’re an amazing option for period homes, or for adding a timeless, traditional aesthetic to a newer property. If you have, or are considering getting a cast iron fireplace, here are some tips for maximising efficiency.
Choose the Right Fire
Vintage fireplaces such as those made from cast iron can be paired with a wide range of fire options. Wood burning stoves can look amazing when paired with a cast iron fire surround. Plus, they don’t connect to the main gas or electricity supply, so if you’re looking for a more rustic way of heating your home that brings your energy bills down, this might be ideal for you. Another great option is a high efficiency gas fire. These fires are often sleek and modern, which can provide a stunning contrast to the traditional cast iron surround. Or you can find a more traditionally designed option to keep with the classic feel.
Draught Proof the Chimney
Depending on the type of fire you are using with your cast iron fireplace, you may want to consider draught-proofing the chimney. This will prevent warm air from escaping up the chimney and keep it inside your house instead, where it can keep you warm and toasty. If you have a wood-burning or multi-fuel stove in your cast iron fireplace, you’ll need to have a functional chimney. On the other hand, if your cast iron fireplace is surrounding an electric inset fire or electric stove, for example, there’s no need for a chimney and you can have it sealed.
Consider a Smart Fire
Fires have become more and more innovative, and when it comes to boosting the efficiency of your fireplace overall, adding a smart fire to your cast iron surround might be worth considering. While many smart fires available today are more of the modern, media wall style rather than something more traditional and suitable for a cast-iron surround, you can find some options. Smart inset fires are a good option for a traditional cast-iron fireplace. They are designed to fit snugly into the fireplace opening and many have a simple yet traditional design that will pair well with your surround. With a smart fire, you can control the heat and light settings from an app on your phone. Some also come with features such as automatic open window detection to save energy.
A cast iron fireplace is a classic, traditional choice for any home. If you have this kind of fireplace, or are considering getting one, keep these tips in mind for more efficiency and money saving while using it.
