Recent Posts by Joseph Bodden

5 Challenges With Burning Wood And What To Do About It

In this article we’re going to discuss typical questions that come up regarding burning wood. Specifically, let’s talk about the efficiency of wood burning equipment, routine maintenance that’s necessary, safety concerns for you and your loved ones, sustainability and fuel costs. If you’re thinking about adding a wood-burning fireplace, stove or fireplace insert to your…
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Should Natural Gas Be Banned?

The issue of a natural gas ban is certainly a hot topic issue in the USA and Canada that could affect millions of people. The entire premise behind this controversy stems from attempts to reduce carbon emissions into the atmosphere and to improve public health. Some feel very passionate that there are compelling reasons to…
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Preppers Guide

This is not a how-to article on how to survive for weeks after the apocalypse hits. This is intended to be a commonsense approach to keep your family and loved ones safe, warm and well-fed during an emergency. Whether it’s for a day or two or a couple of weeks, if a weather-related event takes…
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Recommendations for Gas Fireplaces

So how do you go about finding the gas fireplace that’s just right for your situation. Your WE LOVE FIRE® expert is the one to speak with, but until then, here are a few pointers to consider for locating a gas fireplace in your home. Decks, patios, outdoor living spaces: Many manufacturers have developed gas fireplaces for outdoor use.…
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Can I Cook on My Gas Fireplace?

A direct vented gas fireplace must be operated with the glass in place. This glass has a gasketed seal that prevents any air from the room from entering the firebox. There are optional “doors” for gas fireplaces but are strictly aesthetics. These doors are mounted on the outside of the glass. When they’re “open” so…
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Where Can I Buy a Gas Fireplace?

The best place to buy a gas fireplace is at your WE LOVE FIRE® dealership! These independently owned hearth specialty shops are part of a group of more than 300 stores. These entrepreneurs work cooperatively with each other to secure the most impressive product lines at great pricing, provide service for everything that’s sold and have a…
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Is There a Difference Between a Gas Fireplace & a Gas Fireplace Insert?

Yes, these are two separate products for two distinct applications. These terms are NOT synonymous! A gas fireplace insert is to be slid into an existing wood burning fireplace. A gas fireplace is designed to be built into a framed wall. This is done during construction or a remodeling project. An insulated shell around the gas firebox…
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Are Gas Fireplaces Worth it?

Most people spend the majority of their time in only two or three rooms in their home. Here’s a question to ponder? Why run your furnace, that uses 80,000 to 100,000 BTUs of gas, when a gas fireplace will comfortably heat the area you’re normally in, using only 1/4 or 1/3 of the amount of…
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How to Stack Cordwood

If you have recently purchased a wood burning fireplace, stove or insert or if you’re a seasoned old wood tick, this article has important details regarding stacking and drying your fuel supply. It’s critical to burn dry wood, but is there a best way to stack and allow wood to dry? Please keep reading to…
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Electric Fireplace Maintenance

Electric fireplace equipment does not need a lot of regular routine maintenance. Keeping the batteries fresh in the remote probably tops the list. Most require AAA’s. Cleaning the kids’ fingerprints from the glass can be done with a common household glass cleaner using a non-abrasive cloth. Let the glass thoroughly cool before cleaning. And, if…
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When to Use an Electric Fireplace?

Anytime and/or all the time is the answer to this question! That’s because leaving the flame and lighting effects on for several hours a day, costs just pennies! Much has been said about the spectacular effects of today’s electric fireplaces, so why not enjoy them every day? The colors, media options and the inexpensive costs…
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Electric fireplace: How to?

The appeal of an electric fireplace is no surprise. The vibrant colors and lighting effects are truly astounding! They make a wonderful focal point to any room. And, they’re so easy to operate. There can be many questions that come up when discussing electric fireplaces. This is another article that is intended to answer more…
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Where to install a gas fireplace?

Gas fireplaces are extremely versatile and can be installed nearly anywhere in the house. Living rooms and family rooms are the most common, but consider a gas fireplace in the dining room, bedroom, office, kitchen or an outdoor model on the deck or patio. The physical sizes and shapes of fireplaces vary tremendously, so use your…
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How much does a gas fireplace cost?

Like most things, there is a wide range of prices for a zero clearance, gas fireplace. Small basic models will start around $3000.00. While larger, fancier models can approach $7000.00. Additionally, the installation and finishing costs will need to be added. You can figure on spending anywhere from a few hundred to several thousands of…
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Where to buy a gas fireplace?

At your WE LOVE FIRE® dealership, of course! And consider these important points regarding why the purchase should be from them: When you buy something, especially bigger ticket items, do you buy only on price? It’s very unlikely that you do. With enough time and if you keep looking long enough, you can always find the same product, less…
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What gas fireplace to buy?

Your WE LOVE FIRE® expert feels very strong about the Ambiance® line of gas fireplaces. Ambiance has committed to considerable research and development into their gas fireplace designs. Before starting a fireplace project, nearly 300 fireplace experts and retailers throughout the USA and Canada are asked to contribute their thoughts and ideas. These fireplace pros enthusiastically contribute their comments…
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What gas fireplace is the best?

The fact of the matter is: there really isn’t a “best”! Yes, there are some significant differences between one manufacturer and another. But there are lots of solid fireplace companies out there that make some very impressive equipment. Many say that they have the best flame pattern or log design or the coolest options. But…
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Are gas fireplaces worth it?

Both the National Association of Realtors and the National Association of Real Estate Appraisers say that the addition of a quality gas fireplace in a home can increase the price of the home by several thousands of dollars. This number will vary regionally of course, but these opinions are really nothing new. Findings indicate that a…
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Do electric fireplace really heat?

Yes, they do! But, if you’re hoping that an electric fireplace will heat the majority of your house, you’ll need to adjust your expectations. Think “supplemental heat”, particularly in the area within 10 – 15 feet of the fireplace. The heating element on many electrics is 1500 watts. This translates to about 5100 BTU’s of heat.…
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Electric Fireplace : How they Work

Electric fireplaces are more popular than ever. Their beauty, versatility, cleanliness, and performance are truly impressive. In this article, we’ll discuss several frequent questions that often arise when the subject of electric fireplaces comes up. How does an electric fireplace work? Do electric fireplace really heat? How to operate an electric fireplace? How long can…
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Electric fireplace surrounds

A surround on a fireplace can mean a couple of different things to people. It might refer to the decorative front around the glass. Or, it may mean the finishing material around both sides and the top of the fireplace. Part of this finishing may or may not include a mantel. There is not a…
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Electric fireplace stands

There are some manufacturers that package a fireplace and small cabinet or stand together and sell them in the big box stores or the local hardware store. This is typically low-end, inexpensive equipment and cabinetry that most people are not happy with after they get it home and assembled. The main advantage with this, of…
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Electric fireplace QVC

Our recommendation is to purchase an electric fireplace at your WE LOVE FIRE® dealer. There is nothing terribly wrong with places like QVC. But they are interested in only three things:  1) sell stuff, 2) sell stuff, and 3) sell more stuff. Developing a rapport with customers and understanding their needs and what their expectation is, product…
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Electric fireplace mantels

Depending on the final, finished look you’re after, a mantel usually adds a touch of class to a fireplace installation. There are no specific mantels for electric fireplaces, or gas models or wood burning equipment. A mantel is a mantel! The difference between the three types of fireplaces are the required clearances for its installation. Wood-burning…
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Electric Fireplaces: Accessories

You've purchased an electric fireplace, and you're now wondering about options and accessories to enhance its look. These questions come to mind: What are the manufacturer's offers? Will it improve the appeal and looks of the fireplace? Would any accessories be worth spending a little extra money? This article will give you a perspective on…
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General advice: electric fireplaces

Electric fireplaces are very popular, and for good reasons. The colored lighting effects, several different media options, super convenient and easy to use are just some of the reasons why electric fireplaces are so prevalent in homes today. If you’re thinking of an electric fireplace for your home, there may be some questions you’ve been…
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How fireplaces work ?

There are two types of wood burning fireplaces: masonry and zero-clearance (or factory built) models. How they are built and the components used during installation are different, but the principles of how they work is the same. So, let’s discuss the basics of how a wood burning fireplace operates. THE MOST IMPORTANT DETAIL! Combustion air,…
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Who installs electric fireplaces?

Anyone can plug an electric fireplace into an existing wall outlet. However, hard-wiring an electric fireplace is a different story. Depending on local codes, hard-wiring an electric fireplace is a project that a competent DIY’er might tackle. If regulations allow it and you have experience and knowledge of electrical practices and basic construction skills, go…
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How to install an electric insert?

An electric fireplace insert is intended to be put inside an existing wood-burning fireplace. You install an electric wire into the hearth by running it up the clean-out chute in a masonry fireplace. If yours is a zero-clearance fireplace, you can install the electrical supply directly through the steel side wall of the existing fireplace.…
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How to install an electric fireplace?

Once you’ve decided on the type of installation, the owner’s manual will have specific details for framing, securing the unit, wiring, and clearances. Most electric fireplaces come with a plug on a six-foot cord. Depending on the installation, many fireplaces are hard-wired. A qualified electrician will remove the corded connection and wire the appliance directly…
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Will my electric fireplace heat an entire room, house, basement, or garage?

An electric fireplace could reasonably be expected to heat an insulated room up to a couple hundred square feet of space. Think of the heat from an electric fireplace as "supplemental" to your primary heat source. Many homes have been designed and built to heat with electricity. However, heating with an electric fireplace should complement…
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How To Prepare My Fireplace For The Off-Season

Whether you use your fireplace, stove, or insert every day or occasionally, end-of-season maintenance items should be done.  Doesn’t matter if it’s wood, gas, or pellets; you’re wise to follow through with these preparations sooner rather than later. Here’s why. INTERESTING STATISTICS According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Federal Emergency Management…
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Our Top 8 Products

The WE LOVE FIRE dealer network has put together this summary of our top eight products picks.  Understand that these are not our top eight most popular items or our best sellers, but eight of the most interesting and innovative products available from your WE LOVE FIRE dealer.  All these products are designed to make your life more pleasant, a bit easier and definitely more enjoyable.

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Who Installs Fireplaces?

You have been thinking of fireplace in your home for a while and now you are ready to buy one. But who should you hire to install your new fireplace? Or maybe you ask yourself "Can I install my fireplace myself?". This article will help you clear things up and guide you to make a wise choice!

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Why Is My Fireplace Beeping?

You really enjoy your gas fireplace and what it adds to your home . . . . the wonderful heat from it, the dancing flames and glowing embers and especially how easy it is to use.  But suddenly, it’s making an odd, beeping noise.

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How Do I Clean My Fireplace Glass?

Once or twice a year, it’s a good idea to clean the glass on your fireplace, stove or insert.  So just spray on a little window cleaner and wipe it off, right?  Cleaning fireplace glass isn’t a big deal.  Wrong!  There are right and wrong ways to clean the glass on your fireplace.  Some “do’s” and some “don’ts”.

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Can a Fireplace Be Removed?

There are a few reasons for considering removing a fireplace.  Can it be done?  How practical would it be to do so?  Is it expensive?  Are there any cost effective alternatives?  Let’s try to help you determine if removing a fireplace is a project you should be contemplating.

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What are by-products of combustion?

Whenever something is burned, there are ‘leftovers” from the process.  It really doesn’t matter what is burned, wood, natural or LP gas, fuel oil, kerosene or coal.  These leftovers, or by-products include:  water vapor, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide and other particulate matter.  Indoor air quality will be affected.  It can be…
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What is a connector pipe?

This is the black pipe that “connects” a wood stove to the chimney system.  It’s often called stove pipe or black pipe.  Connector pipe can be the standard single wall black pipe that many are familiar with.  Or, it can be a double wall, close clearance pipe.  Your stove requires specific clearances to combustibles.  Oftentimes,…
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How is wood-burning equipment sized?

The literature on wood-burning fireplaces, stoves and inserts will provide lots of information.  Included with these details will be the size of the firebox.  The size of the firebox in wood-burning equipment is expressed in “cubic feet”.  The larger the number, the bigger the firebox.  And a larger firebox means longer burn times and more…
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What’s the difference between a wood burning: fireplace, insert, stove, furnace and boiler?

The goal is identical, to keep you and your loved ones comfortable by using wood as the fuel.  However, this type of equipment differs significantly and has different types of applications. A wood burning fireplace can be built using masonry materials or a zero clearance (ZC) unit, designed in a factory and built into a…
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How often should I clean the chimney for my fireplace, stove or insert?

That depends on the quality of the wood you’re burning.  Aiming for a moisture content of <25% will significantly reduce the amount of creosote that builds up in your chimney.  Ensuring that your stove, insert or fireplace is well maintained will help too.  The standard of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) states that all…
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How do I protect the floor around my wood burning stove?

Adequate floor protection, or an approved hearth pad, is critical to a safe wood burning stove installation.  You must protect a combustible floor with a non-combustible material.  This floor protection must extend beyond the front, back, and both sides of the stove.  Hearths pads (floor protection) are designed for ember protection or thermal protection.  Ember…
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Will a wood burning insert use less wood than an older, open burning fireplace?

Most wood burning inserts today operate with efficiencies in the mid 70% range. A properly sized and operated wood burning insert can heat a couple thousand square feet of living space. Older, open burning fireplaces are not rated for any efficiencies, but most dealers would agree that if you’re getting 15 to 20% of the…
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What is a moisture meter?

It’s a small device about twice the size of a deck of playing cards.  There are two probes or pins on one end of the meter that penetrate the wood to check the moisture content.  If you’re a wood burner, you know the importance of burning dry wood.  How dry is dry?  Wood with a…
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Will an electric fireplace heat my room?

Many variables affect how much space an electric fireplace will heat. House age Type of construction Condition and size of windows and doors Sidewall and ceiling insulation levels Southern Orientation Prevailing winter winds Etc. And obviously, a home in Northern Canada will have different heating requirements than a house in the Carolinas. Many people use…
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How do I vent my pellet insert?

Pellet inserts must be vented vertically through the existing fireplace chimney. The existing chimney is used as a conduit for a 4” stainless steel liner.  This liner is connected to the top of the insert, installed up the chimney and terminated with a special adapter and termination cap on top. Note that many pellet inserts…
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How dangerous are pellet stoves?

Common sense goes a long way when it comes to heating devices. It doesn’t matter if it’s a forced air furnace, a wood burning fireplace or stove, a boiler system or for that matter the toaster in your kitchen!  Properly installed, operated and regularly maintained equipment will avoid potentially dangerous scenarios.  Do not install equipment…
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How does my pellet stove light?

Most models have an automatic ignition system designed into a circuit board. Simply turn your control to the “on” or “start” position.  Keep in mind the moisture content in pellets is very low, so pellets are quite easy to ignite.  Depending on your model, an ignitor rod, a hot surface ignitor or glow plug are…
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How reliable are pellet stoves?

Manufacturers of pellet equipment will provide a warranty.  These warranties will vary a bit from each manufacturer, but most covers several years for specific components, or a limited lifetime.  Details will be spelled out in the owner’s manual.  Always ask about the warranty before a purchase is made.  Warranties are precisely why you should buy…
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How do pellet stoves work?

Pellet stoves look like a gas or a wood burning stove. But they operate much differently.  There is a hopper that’s located on the back side of the stove that serves as a storage bin for the pellets.  Lift the lid on this hopper and pour in the pellets.  The size of this hopper will…
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How are pellets made?

Wood pellets are made by recycling wood waste. It’s a fantastic way to keep tons of waste out of landfills and create an efficient fuel!  According to the Pellet Fuel Institute, there are over 1,000,000 homes in the USA and Canada that use pellets to stay comfortable in the winter. Most pellets are made from…
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What is zone heating?

This is a term that’s used when heating only a portion of your home.  When you think about it, most people spend the majority of their time only two or three rooms.  And many people like their bedrooms cooler than the rest of the house.  Zone heating warms those the area of the home that…
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Is there a difference between a gas fireplace and a gas fireplace insert?

Yes, there definitely is a difference!  These are NOT synonymous terms!  A gas fireplace is designed to be built into a framed wall.  This is done during construction or a remodeling project.  There is an insulated shell around the firebox that provides protection against overheating any wooden framing members.  Gas fireplaces can be vented horizontally…
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How much should I pay?

In this ever changing world, it's interesting to note that over the past 125+ years, some things don't change!  Your WE LOVE FIRE expert is absolutely committed to quality:  Quality people, quality products and quality service. The Common Law of Business Balance states: There is scarcely anything in the world that some one cannot make…
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How can I prevent the glass doors on my wood burning stove of fireplace from looking dirty and stained?

By-products from the combustion process can cause the glass doors on your wood burning fireplace or stove to have a build-up of deposits, including creosote. This tends to build up in your chimney’s flue, which is dangerous and highly flammable. However, you can get round the problem by properly maintaining your fire. Always burn dry…
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What regulations must I be aware of when installing my wood burning appliance?

Firstly, refer to your owner’s manual, which every wood burning fireplace, insert, or stove should come with. In the manual, you’ll find detailed instructions and installation regulations as well as diagrams or pictures to show the clearance requirements. When buying an older model, it may not have been tested or listed. Therefore, refer to the…
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When choosing a wood burning stove is a catalytic or non-catalytic stove better?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set clean air standards, which mean that wood burning stoves must now contain a re-burn system. These are special components that reduce particle pollution and they come in two different types - catalytic and non-catalytic. Catalytic wood stoves have a tiny combustor. When you shut off the damper, smoke…
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Why a Fireplace Insert?

Do you have a house with a wood burning fireplace that doesn’t provide any heat to your home? What can be done to provide more heat to your family room? Let’s discuss why a fireplace insert is a terrific way to update that old, inefficient outdated fireplace.

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What is Creosote?

What is Creosote? Where does it come from? How to prevent its buildup in your chimney? This article answers these questions and offers a guide to ensure you keep your family safe while enjoying your fireplace!

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How is a Gas Fireplace Installed?

How are gas fireplaces installed? Some online resources may show a step by step process to help the DIY in you. Gas fireplaces involve fire and gas, inside the home! Understanding the process is important. Having the certified experts to do the work is of the outmost importance. This article highlights what is involved in installing a gas fireplace.

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