Like Us, Love the Earth</h1> <article> <h1>Like Us, Love the Earth</h1> <p>Administrator — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:16:00 GMT</p> Harman Stoves and Quadra-Fire proudly manufacture clean, eco-friendly heating alternatives that promote sustainability. Sustainability refers to the earth’s capacity to endure and remain productive over time, continuously providing resources that renew and revitalize. Forests are a key example of sustainable biological systems, which is why we think it is so important to invest in our national forests, right here at home. In partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/harmanstoves" target="_blank">Harman Stoves</a> and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/quadrafire" target="_blank">Quadra-Fire</a> are once again planting one tree in our national forests for every fan that likes us on Facebook. This is a quick and easy way to help our planet, just click "Like" and you have guaranteed a tree will be planted! "This is just one of the many ways we are raising awareness for heating homes with natural, sustainable fuels that are produced right here in our back yard," said Karen Smeltz, brand manager for Harman. "Heating with wood or pellets can lower overall heating costs, contribute to a greener Earth and reduce our country’s dependence on foreign oil." It is our hope that by spreading awareness of using resources for heating that are naturally renewed, such as wood; we are able to help consumers rely less on imported fossil fuels and more on the environment. EPA certified wood-burning stoves and fireplaces are great examples of heating appliances that can help homeowner’s lower dependency on oil. Take for example wood stoves; thanks to recent technological advancements, today’s wood-burning stoves, fireplaces and inserts considerably more efficient than even a few years ago. EPA-certified units are up to 85-percent efficient, producing more heat with less wood. They burn clean with low outside air emissions and minimal ash to clean up. Another great appliance for those looking to rely on green heating alternatives is a pellet-burning stove or fireplace insert. These eco-friendly units deliver powerful, high-efficiency performance using fuel largely made from recycled wood in North America. Pellets offer more cost stability over natural gas, propane and electricity—and are significantly more economical. Based on 2010 data for fuel prices and heating a 1,700 square-foot home in a cold-climate state. In addition to the environmental benefits, homeowners who invest in a pellet or wood-burning hearth product will often recover their costs within three to five years, based on today’s fuel prices. Also, U.S. homeowners who visit the <a href="http://www.harmanstoves.com" target="_blank">Harman</a> or <a href="http://www.quadrafire.com" target="_blank">Quadra-Fire</a> websites can print a coupon for $100 off a stove or insert purchase. We hope you join us on Facebook to learn more about the current state of biomass fuels and alternative heating. When you do, you will also help in our quest to plant 10,000 trees in our national forests. "We will be able to plant much-needed trees in critical areas in state and national forests because of the innovative use of social media at Harman and Quadra-Fire," said Ben Nelson, Director of Corporate Partnerships for the Arbor Day Foundation. "These trees will provide cleaner air and water, habitat for wildlife and beauty for generations to enjoy." Please help us make this world a little greener by donating your tree, and by sharing this with friends and family. Together, we can spread the word about the importance of clean heat. </article> <article> <h1>Pellet Stoves: Heat Your Home Better</h1> <p>Administrator — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 19:16:00 GMT</p> <b>Pellet Stoves: Heat Your Home, Better! </b> With heating oil prices on the rise, many cost-conscious consumers are turning to wood pellet stoves as a new source for heat. These units don’t rely on costly gas or oil to operate, but instead on wood pellets, which are typically comprised of recycled wood and paper. This allows for cost-stability and peace of mind that fossil fuels can’t provide. Pellet stoves are easy to operate and are much more efficient than ordinary wood stoves or fireplaces, resulting in steady heat and very little air pollution. In fact, according to the US Department of Energy, pellet stoves are the cleanest of solid fuel-burning residential heating appliances. Worried about finding a stove that will fit within your homes style or décor? Don’t be! Thanks to leading manufactures, these eco-friendly heating units are available in a wide range of styles and price-points to fit any ones style and budget. Take for example the Quadra-Fire <a href="/Products/MT-Vernon-AE-Pellet-Stove.aspx">Mt. Vernon Advanced Energy Pellet Stove</a>. This beautiful, top of the line stove provides efficient heat and in addition to pellets, can burn shelled corn, sunflower seeds and wheat. The Quadra-Fire Mt. Vernon AE is approximately $4,699, including installation. For smaller spaces, we like the compact <a href="/Products/P38-Plus-Pellet-Stove.aspx">Harman P38</a>. It is powerful and quiet and has an extra large hopper and ash pan for easy maintenance. It also comes in a variety of colors and options to fit many different home décor styles. It retails for about $2,999, including installation. You may also consider the Quadra-Fire <a href="/Products/Santa-Fe-Pellet-Stove.aspx">Santa Fe Pellet Stove</a>. This tough, little stove has a sleek, contemporary design and features a jam-free feed system that makes for easy operation. The Santa Fe is an affordable option, starting at about $2,799 with installation. For elegant design and unbeatable performance, we like the <a href="/Products/XXV-Pellet-Stove.aspx">Harman XXV Pellet Stove</a>. The automatic ignition and room sensor on this stove accurately maintains heat output and eliminates the warm/cold cycle associated with other brands. The Harman XXV is available in a wide variety of colors, so it can match any home décor and style. This model starts at around $4,299, including installation. Choosing a pellet stove as your new heat source will not only save you money now, but will provide your family with long term heating security that heating oil cannot. Browse other pellet stove options and find a dealer in your area! </article> <article> <h1>Outdoor Living with a Flair</h1> <p>Administrator — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 19:12:00 GMT</p> <b>Outdoor Living With A Flair</b> Having an outdoor living space with a fireplace is a great way to add value to your home, while also adding more comfort to your environment. Nothing is better than being able to head outside on a perfect night to enjoy an evening feeling the warmth of the fire and the coolness in the air. It's enough to make your home the ideal gathering place for friends and family. Instead of being cooped up in the house all the time, the back porch might become the new hang out where people can sit around and enjoy each other because they enjoy their relaxing surroundings. If you are looking for an outdoor fireplace that will add a calming atmosphere to your patio, there are some amazing choices that you have to choose from. Asking yourself some questions about what is important to you in an outdoor living area might be the first step in finding the best fireplace for your outdoor space. <b>Are you a multi-tasker?</b> If you are a multi-tasker, you will love the Outdoor Lifestyles <a href="/Products/Twilight-II-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">Twilight II</a> gas fireplace. The Twilight II is a fireplace that is see-through from the outdoors to the indoors! Not only will you create a certain ambiance on your patio, but the atmosphere will continue into your home as well. If you have a get together with your friends or family and some of you want to go outside while others want to stay inside, you can all enjoy the same fireplace! <b>Do you want your entire kitchen outside?</b> Whether you want to make your outdoor kitchen your sole cooking area, or if you want to add an outdoor kitchen for those summer months, a fireplace might be a great addition to your kitchen. The Outdoor Lifestyles <a href="/Products/Villawood-Wood-Fireplace.aspx">Villawood</a> wood fireplace is an attractive fireplace that looks great in many outdoor kitchens. The Villawood has many options for you to choose from so that you end up with the very best looking fireplace to add value to your home. You can choose to have a more modern looking fireplace, with a visible stainless steel surround, or you can choose to go for something even more outdoorsy by finishing the brick to the edge. <b>So many more questions and so many more choices!</b> There are a myriad of other questions that you might be asking yourself when you are choosing an outdoor fireplace. Do you need or want a hearth? Should you have a mantle? Gas or wood burning? Would you rather have a fireplace or a firepit? When you have come up with a list of things that are important to you in an outdoor living area, you can set to work finding that perfect fireplace so that you can enjoy the outdoors in a comfortable space. </article> <article> <h1>A Vented Gas Fireplace Has Many Benefits</h1> <p>Administrator — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 19:06:00 GMT</p> <b>Vented Gas Fireplaces: Why it Matters</b> With all the choices you have, it should be no problem finding a vented gas fireplace for your home. If you have a delightfully modern and contemporary style, you might choose the Heat & Glo <a href="/Products/LUX60-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">LUX60</a> gas fireplace. Rather than gas logs, this fireplace has stainless steel fire tubes that give it quite the modern look. Or, if your home features a classic, traditional style, the Heatilator <a href="/Products/Caliber-nXt-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">Caliber nXt</a> gas fireplace would be a great fit for you. The gas logs in this fireplace are realistic and the interior is brick, giving it a traditional ambiance. Whether you prefer contemporary or traditional fireplaces, the most important part is that you select a vented gas fireplace vs. a non-vented gas fireplace. <b>Safety First</b> A direct vent uses a high temperature glass panel to seal off the burn area of the fireplace from the interior of the home. It pulls 100% combustion air to feed the fire from outside the home. Because of its design, a direct vent gas fireplace will not affect the indoor air quality of your home. Since no air from your home is going up the chimney, a direct vent model is very efficient. Vent free should actually be called room vented since the by-products of gas combustion all spill back into the room. The single largest by-product of the gas combustion process is water vapor. Over sizing or overuse of a vent free hearth product can lead to excess moisture in a well built, tightly constructed home. Excess moisture inside the home can contribute to odors, mold and mildew inside the home. Additionally, vented gas fireplaces have valves that control the gas flow to the fireplace. When the pilot light goes out, the gas turns off. This way, the gas will not build up and create an unsafe environment in your home in case out outage. <b>Better Burn</b> Often, unvented gas fireplace require the burn temperature to be higher to lessen risk of emissions. The result? A higher temperature burn and less realistic, sometimes even blue looking flame. With a vented gas fireplace, the temperature is controlled, resulting in realistic flames that closely resemble a flame produced from a traditional wood burning fire. <b>Efficiency Matters</b> With a controlled pilot light and temperature system, you will use less gas with a vented gas fireplace, resulting in lower bills and more cash in your hand. While specific costs vary based on location, utility and fuel type, national averages to run a natural gas fireplaces that consumes approximately 27,000 BTUs/hr will cost less that 20 cents/hr to enjoy! When you are looking for a new fireplace for your home, look for a <a href="/ProductFinder.aspx?bid={E6462049-3A15-43D3-8BDC-735483B03162}">vented gas fireplace</a>. Available in a wide variety of styles, designs, colors, and sizes, vented gas fireplaces will provide the realistic fire/flame you desire, while also keeping your home and family safe. </article> <article> <h1>A Fireplace Will Increase the Value of Your Home</h1> <p>Administrator — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 16:42:00 GMT</p> <b>Selling Your Home? Add a Fireplace</b> There are many home improvement projects that you might be considering in order to increase the value of your home before selling. While some of those improvements may be valuable, others might not help at all. For example, adding a fresh coat of paint to every room would be a good way to increase the value of your home because cost is fairly easy to make up and it helps clean up the room. Others, like adding a new addition or replacing windows, might not be such a good idea because the time and costs could be difficult to recoup when it comes times to sell. When you are thinking about what home improvements to make before selling, you should be sure that they will, in fact, increase the value of your home. One improvement that will undoubtedly increase the home's value is adding a fireplace or replacing an old one. <b>What do homebuyers really want?</b> In a study conducted by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), it was discovered that 77% of homebuyers are looking for a fireplace in the family room of their new home because they feel that is where the most time will be spent with their family. The living room was the next preferred location among homebuyers, with 50% reporting they would like to have a hearth in this room for visitors and guests to enjoy. A gorgeous option for a living room fireplace that would make potential homebuyers gravitate to your home is the <a href="/Products/Icon-Direct-Vent-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">Heatilator Icon direct vent gas fireplace</a>. This grand fireplace features elegant details that will add beauty and comfort to your home. It will also make your home feel more inviting and luxurious. Just by adding a fireplace like the Heatilator Icon, a home seller could raise the price of their home up to 12% (National Association of Real Estate Appraisers). <b>How do I know which fireplace to install in the home I am selling?</b> Of course, you can't know for sure what the homebuyer will want when it comes to the fireplace in your home. Chances are that they will like the overall appearance of your house and it's the overall picture that will sell the home. The fireplace will add value and perhaps even push the sale so when you are trying to decide what fireplace to install in your house, you can consider a few things: • The overall style of your home. • The colors that you have throughout. • The area in which the house is located. • The function of each particular room. Prospective homebuyers desire fireplaces and they will be looking closely at the fireplace (or lack thereof) in your home. Do you like what you see? If not, contact an authorized <a href="/Landing-Pages/PPC-Landing-Page-Coupon.aspx">hearth expert</a> who can help design a custom fireplace for your home. </article> <article> <h1>Heat & Glo LUX Modern Unveiled at the 2012 NAHB International Builders’ Show</h1> <p>Administrator — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:07:00 GMT</p> This year at the 2012 International Builders Show in Orlando, Florida we unveiled some exciting new products that will hit the market this Spring. One of these products is the Heat & Glo LUX Modern gas fireplace. This stylish, contemporary unit boasts stainless steel fire tubes, mirrored glass interior, multiple custom media options (river rock media shown) and a glare-resistant glass front to allow for precise, easy viewing of the vibrant, glowing flames. Thanks to the standard framing dimensions and venting, this unit also promotes fast, easy installation. Available in two sizes, the Heat & Glo LUX offers a unique, modern-inspired fireplace that will make a bold statement in any home, office or retail setting. Check it out! <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/iLavO0MSEfo" /> <param name="wmode" value="transparent" /> </object> </article> <article> <h1>Harman™ and Quadra-Fire® Introduce the “Pellet Challenge”</h1> <p>Administrator — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 19:04:00 GMT</p> The Pellet Challenge is an educational campaign to inform homeowners of the benefits of heating with wood pellets. A fuel-savings calculator compares energy costs of natural gas, propane or electricity to the lower costs of heating with pellets. Pellets are an eco-friendly way to heat an entire home or supplement existing furnace systems—and save money. Quadra-Fire® and Harman™ both offer many free-standing pellet stoves and fireplace inserts. Consumers who take the Pellet Challenge can enter to win a free pellet appliance. <strong>Take the Pellet Challenge</strong> The Pellet Challenge highlights a worldwide trend towards using renewable and environmentally-friendly energy. According to the Pellet Fuels Institute, approximately 1 million homes in the U.S. currently use wood pellets for heating. Harman and Quadra-Fire both offer a wide variety of pellet stoves and inserts. Homeowners who take the Pellet Challenge can: • Discover cost savings by utilizing pellet heat • Be automatically entered to win a pellet stove or insert • Learn how pellet heating helps the environment and their pocketbook • Select a stove or insert to determine payback times with pellet heat <strong>An Economical Option</strong> Pellets offer more cost stability over natural gas, propane and electricity—and are significantly more economical. Based on 2010 data for fuel prices and heating a 1,700 square-foot home in a cold-climate state, switching to pellets from: • Fuel oil reduces heating costs approximately $800 per heating season. • Propane reduces heating costs approximately $1,000 per heating season. • Electricity reduces heating costs nearly $1,800 per heating season. <strong>Good for Homeowners, Great for Mother Nature</strong> Pellets are generally made from recycled wood and agricultural byproducts. They are mostly produced in North America—and known for extended burn times and impressive efficiency ratings. Burning one ton of pellets instead of oil reduces carbon emissions by nearly 1.5 tons, according to the Pellet Fuels Institute. "Heating with renewable pellet fuel is a practical option for many households," said Quadra-Fire Vice President Dan Henry. "Many stoves can produce steady, regulated heat for up to 24 hours on a single load of pellets, with minimal ash clean up. Due to pellet density and high burn efficiencies, the stoves emit extremely low outside air particulates, helping reduce air pollution and greenhouse gases." <strong>Added Pellet Incentives</strong> Quadra-Fire and Harman are currently offering a coupon for $300 off qualifying pellet-burning appliances through March 31, 2012. Visit Harman or Quadra-Fire to print this web-only coupon. To learn more about the Pellet Challenge or to view a selection of pellet appliances, please visit Fireplaces.com. <strong>About Quadra-Fire® </strong> Quadra-Fire is a leading producer of fireplaces, stoves and inserts burning gas, wood, pellets, corn and other alternative fuels. Quadra-Fire hearth products deliver clean, durable and long-lasting performance. The company is headquartered in Colville, WA and is a member of the Hearth & Home Technologies family of brands. For more information, please visit www.QuadraFire.com. <strong>About Harman™</strong> Dane Harman began making wood stoves in his garage in Halifax, Pennsylvania in 1979. The core of his inspiration was creating stoves "Built to a standard, not a price." More than three decades later, this vision remains a guiding principle of every distinctive, powerful and responsible product bearing the Harman name. Now a part of Hearth & Home Technologies, Inc. (HHT), Harman manufactures stoves, inserts and central heating units burning wood, coal, pellets and other alternative fuels. For more information, please visit www.HarmanStoves.com. </article> <article> <h1>Pellet Stove FAQs</h1> <p>Administrator — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 19:02:00 GMT</p> <b>What is a pellet stove?</b> Similar in appearance to a wood-burning stove, a pellet stove is a heating appliance that burns biomass fuels to create heat. Pellet stoves operate by slowly feeding fuel from a storage container called a hopper into the burn-pot, creating a steady flame. <b>How are pellet stoves fueled?</b> Pellet stoves are fueled by small, tube-shaped pellets that generally measure 1/4” in diameter and 3/4” in length. Pellets are a biomass product made of renewable substances including recycled wood waste and plant derivatives. When burned in a high efficiency pellet stove, a 40-lb bag of pellets can provide about 24 hours of steady heat for 1500 square feet of living space. <b>Where can I buy pellets?</b> Wood pellets are typically sold in 40-pound bags for between $4 and $7 depending on the type of wood used and availability. They can be purchased at hardware stores, farm and fleet stores, and in big box outlet stores. In some areas of the country, bulk delivery is also an option. <b>How many pellets will I need?</b> When burned in a high efficiency pellet stove, a 40-lb bag of pellets can provide about 24 hours of steady heat for 1500 square feet of living space. <b>What are the green benefits of heating with pellets?</b> Pellet stoves burn very clean and are considered carbon-neutral, with low outside air particulate emissions of between just 0.6 and 1.2 grams per hour. And, because pellet stoves produce less greenhouse gases than fossil fuel systems they are good are a good choice for those committed to protecting the environment. They also help homeowners get closer to “living off the grid” and produce less greenhouse gases than fossil fuel systems. <b>Are there any other benefits of heating with a pellet stove?</b> Yes! Pellet stoves can also help your family save on heating bills. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the cost of heating by pellet is well below oil, propane or electric. Interested in how much you could save? Check out the pellet fuel cost calculator here! Heating with pellets also offers the ability for your family to better to control heating costs since prices for pellets are much more predictable than that of propane, oil and natural gas. <b>How do I control the heat, does it take a lot of work?</b> Today’s stove technology is advanced. Many feature programmable thermostats that adjust heat output and control room temperature automatically –a few simple adjustments by the homeowner and the stove does the rest! <b>How do I know which pellet stove is right for my home?</b> When considering a pellet stove for your home, it’s important to remember one size does not fit all. A stove too large for the heat demand of your house may operate with slow, smoldering fires much of the time to avoid overheating the room, and an undersized stove can be damaged by frequent over-firing to keep up with heat demand. To find the stove that best suits your particular home and heating needs, it’s best to consult with a pellet stove dealer. </article> <article> <h1>How Pellets are Made</h1> <p>Administrator — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 19:00:00 GMT</p> Curious how wood pellets are made? Check out this video! <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/YjlQ3g_0Y5Q" /> <param name="wmode" value="transparent" /> </object> </article> <article> <h1>2,100 Donated Trees and Counting…</h1> <p>Administrator — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 17:58:00 GMT</p> Harman Stoves and Quadra-Fire have partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation to plant one tree in our national forests for every person that becomes a fan on Facebook. To-date, more than 2,100 eco-conscious Facebook fans have joined us in our quest to plant 6,000 trees. Haven’t joined us yet? When you like <a href="http://www.harmanstoves.com" target="_blank">Harman Stoves</a> and <a href="http://www.quadrafire.com" target="_blank">Quadra-Fire</a> on Facebook before June 29th, 2011 we’ll plant one tree in your name. By joining us, you will also gain access to firsthand knowledge about the current state of biomass fuels, alternative heating and making the shift to renewable fuel. Harman Stoves and Quadra-Fire proudly manufacture clean, <a href="Pellet-Stoves-101.aspx">eco-friendly heating alternatives</a> that promote sustainability. Sustainability refers to the earth’s capacity to endure and remain productive over time, continuously providing resources that renew and revitalize. Forests are a key example of sustainable biological systems, which is why we think it is so important to invest in our national forests. Living green and making the shift to renewable fuels is a simple transition that is becoming more common in households across the US. There is a heavy focus on utilizing natural, wood-based products to heat our homes and switching to an eco-friendly heating alternative is top of mind. <a href="/Browse/Stoves/Pellet-Stoves.aspx">Wood pellet stoves and inserts</a>, which burn wood by-products called pellets, are a popular, affordable choice for consumers looking to rely less on imported fossil fuels and more on sustainable, biomass fuels. These efficient appliances offer combustion efficiencies of 78-85%, making them the cleanest of all solid fuel-burning heating appliances. <a href="http://www.harmanstoves.com" target="_blank">Harman Stoves</a> and <a href="http://www.quadrafire.com" target="_blank">Quadra-Fire</a> both offer a wide variety of pellet stoves and inserts, with price points that can fit within any budget. And now, making the switch to eco-friendly heating has never been easier with 2011 tax incentives. U.S. homeowners who purchase a 75%-efficient biomass (wood or pellet) burning stove, fireplace or insert during 2011 can receive a U.S. federal tax credit for 10% of their cost, up to $300. And for a limited time, when you visit Quadra-fire or Harman, you can receive a $100 off any biomass heating system, which helps create even more cost-savings. </article> <article> <h1>Like Harman and Quadra-Fire, Love the Earth.</h1> <p>Administrator — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 17:55:00 GMT</p> Harman and Quadra-Fire proudly manufacture clean, eco-friendly heating alternatives that promote sustainability. Sustainability refers to the earth’s capacity to endure and remain productive over time, continuously providing resources that renew and revitalize. Forests are a key example of sustainable biological systems, which is why we think it is so important to invest in our national forests, right here at home. In partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/HarmanStoves" target="_blank">Harman Stoves</a> and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/QuadraFire" target="_blank">Quadra-Fire</a> are planting one tree in our national forests for every fan that likes us on Facebook. It is our hope that by spreading awareness of using resources for heating that are naturally renewed, such as wood; we are able to help consumers rely less on imported fossil fuels and more on the environment. Making the shift to renewable fuels is a simple transition that is becoming more common households across the US, but it hasn’t always been that way. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 90% of Americans burned wood to heat their homes before the 20th century. As the popularity of fossil fuels rose, the percentage of Americans using wood for fuel dropped, falling as low as one percent by 1970. Then during the energy crises of the 1970s, interest in wood heating resurfaced as a renewable energy alternative. Still today, there is a heavy focus on utilizing natural, wood-based products to heat our homes and switching to an eco-friendly heating alternative is top of mind. Wood pellet stoves and inserts, which burn wood by-products called pellets, are a popular, affordable choice for consumers looking to rely less of imported fossil fuels and more on sustainable, biomass fuels. These efficient appliances offer combustion efficiencies of 78-85%, making them the cleanest of all solid fuel-burning heating appliances. Harman Stoves and Quadra-Fire both offer a wide variety of <a href="/Browse/Stoves/Pellet-Stoves.aspx">pellet stoves and inserts</a>, with price points that can fit within any budget. And now, making the switch to eco-friendly heating has never been easier with 2011 tax incentives. U.S. homeowners who purchase a 75%-efficient biomass (wood or pellet) burning stove, fireplace or insert during 2011 can receive a U.S. federal tax credit for 10% of their cost, up to $300. And for a limited time, when you visit Quadra-fire, you can receive a $100 off any biomass heating system, which helps create even more cost-savings. We hope you join us on Facebook to learn more about the current state of biomass fuels and alternative heating. When you do, you will also help in our quest plant to 6,000 trees in our national forests. Together, we can spread the word about the importance of clean heat. </article> <article> <h1>Turn Your Tax Refund into Long-Term Savings with a new, Efficient Fireplace, Stove or Insert!</h1> <p>Administrator — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 17:52:00 GMT</p> The April tax deadline is almost here and Uncle Sam has already begun handing out tax refund checks to many Americans. Last year, the IRS reported 109.4 million U.S. taxpayers received a total tax refund payout of $328.4 billion, for an average tax refund of $3003. This year refunds are expected to be similar, leaving many cash-conscious consumers with tax refund checks to spend. Given our economic conditions, many Americans will likely invest their tax refunds on things that provide sustainable, long-term value, such as home improvements. In fact, a recent study conducted by Angie’s List showed 90 percent of respondents said they plan to invest in home improvements in 2011. But not all home improvements are created equal and many smart consumers will spend on things that provide increased efficiency, such as adding a new fireplace, insert or eco-friendly stove. New hearth products provide beauty, value and increased efficiency in many ways. Updating your current open masonry fireplace with an <a href="The-Evolution-of-Gas-Fireplaces.aspx">efficient gas insert </a>will enhance the ambiance of the room and increase your fireplace’s efficiency by up to 85 percent. Still heating your home with costly fuel oil? By making the change to <a href="Pellet-Stoves-101.aspx">heating with pellets </a>you can save thousands of dollars a year, while utilizing renewable fuel and living a greener lifestyle. Also, when you make the smart choice to invest your tax refund in an efficient, new hearth product, you can also increase the value of your home. According to the National Center for Real Estate Research, adding a fireplace can increase its value by 6 to 12 percent. And it costs less than you may think. For example, you can add a direct vent gas fireplace to your existing home for as little as $3,500 including installation. For $2,900, you can add a wood or gas free-standing stove, or you can transform your drafty masonry wood-burning fireplace into a heating powerhouse with a gas or wood-burning insert. Free-standing pellet stoves or fireplace inserts are affordable too, starting at about $3,200 complete. To share the good news about fireplaces, stoves and inserts, four major U.S. hearth brands are offering the Save Now–Save Later Contest. Now through April 29, 2011, U.S. residents can enter to win one of four $500 Visa gift cards on each brand’s website – <a href="http://www.tinyurl.com/WinQDF" shape="rect" target="_blank">Quadra-Fire</a>, <a href="http://www.tinyurl.com/WinHNG" shape="rect" target="_blank">Heat & Glo</a>, <a href="http://www.tinyurl.com/Harman1" shape="rect" target="_blank">Harman Stoves</a> and <a href="http://www.tinyurl.com/WinHTL" shape="rect" target="_blank">Heatilator</a>. Winners can combine the $500 prize with a $100 online coupon now being offered and save up to $600 toward the purchase of an efficient hearth product. Absolutely no purchase is necessary and participants can increase their chances of winning by sharing the contest on Facebook and Twitter. Contribute your tax refund money to the investment and you’ll be saving a bundle now, and even more later, with an efficient hearth product. </article> <article> <h1>Harman Pellet Stove Winner Delighted with New Stove!</h1> <p>Administrator — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 18:47:00 GMT</p> Congratulations to Lauren from Edgartown, Mass., who has won a Harman Accentra pellet stove and a year’s worth of pellet fuel! Lauren was one of 7,000 people from across the country that entered the “Win Free Green Heat” contest sponsored by <a href="www.harmanstoves.com" target="_blank">Harman Stoves</a> and <a href="www.woodpellets.com" target="_blank">Woodpellets.com</a>. “Since we already had an older pellet stove, we replaced it with the new Harman. We are surprised at how much more efficient it is. With the old stove, we used to go through a bag and a half of pellets a day, but with the Harman we barely go through one bag and it heats an entire level of our house – about 1200 square feet.” Oil prices are on the rise again and the pain at the pumps is real, and predicted to get worse at $4 and $5 per gallon. Home heating costs are also rising, with the highest reported prices in the fuel oil and propane fuel categories. Lauren is on her way to saving thousands of dollars a year by heating her home with pellets. Today’s <a href="Pellet-Stoves-101.aspx">pellet stoves</a> are attractive, easy to operate and efficient. They burn cleaner than cord wood, gas or oil and have high heating efficiencies and low emissions. Pellet heat is a sensibly priced, viable heating solution. Pellet stoves, like the <a href="/Products/Accentra-Pellet-Stove.aspx">Harman Accentra</a> that Lauren won, help homeowners live greener lifestyles too. They burn renewable pellet fuel, which is generally made from recycled wood byproducts called pellets. Pellets are low-carbon and help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Many homeowners are discovering pellets are an alternative to fossil fuels such as heating oil, propane and natural gas. They are also cost-stable, which is definitely not the case for fossil fuels. Thinking about switching to a pellet stove or appliance? Now is the time! The federal government is rewarding consumers who make the switch to clean, green heat with a tax credit. Consumers who purchase and install a qualifying pellet burning appliance before December 31, 2011 can receive a tax credit of 10 percent of the cost of the product, up to $500. To browse popular pellet stove models, or to find a dealer near check out our <a href="javascript:DealerLocator.launchDefault();">dealer locator</a>. </article> <article> <h1>Fireplace Safety Tips</h1> <p>Administrator — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 18:44:00 GMT</p> When enjoying your fireplace, stove or insert, it’s important to remember these basic safety precautions: • Fireplaces, stoves and inserts become hot during operation. This is a characteristic associated with their function of providing heat in the home. • Parents are advised to keep small children away from fireplaces, stoves and inserts. These appliances should be treated with the same caution as hot range tops, ovens and clothing irons. Physical barriers, such as adjustable safety gates in doorways, can be used to keep children, as well as pets, a safe distance away. • Factory screens that are provided with the product and secondary barriers such as free-standing screens help to reduce the risk of serious burns, as they can prevent skin from coming into direct contact with the glass or fire. However, screens also retain heat so touching them is not advised. • As with all heat generating appliances, fireplaces, stoves and inserts (and their surrounding material) will remain hot for a period of time after being turned off, so caution should be used at all times. <small>Above is a photographs of a fireplace screen. Screens that are provided with your fireplace, stove or insert help to prevent skin from coming into contact with the glass and should never be removed.</small> </article> <article> <h1>The Evolution of Gas Fireplaces</h1> <p>Administrator — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 18:41:00 GMT</p> From traditional to modern inspired styles, there’s no question that gas fireplaces are evolving into multi-dimensional works of art. We’ve taken a look at some growing trends with gas fireplace designs and selected a few of our favorites that have caught our eye. For <a href="/ProductFinder.aspx">traditional-styled fireplaces</a>, realism is the name of the game and leading manufacturers like <a href="http://www.heatnglo.com/" target="_blank">Heat & Glo</a> and <a href="http://heatilator.com/" target="_blank">Heatilator</a> are focusing on adding even more realistic features like enhanced flame appearance, realistic logs, glowing embers, and accent lighting. The <a href="/Products/Novus-nXt-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">Heatilator Novus NXT</a> and the <a href="/Products/6000-Series-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">Heat & Glo 6000 Series</a> gas fireplaces so closely replicate real wood-burning fireplaces, its hard to tell the difference! <table width="100%"><tr><td align="center" width="50%"> <strong>Heatilator Novus NXT</strong></td><td align="center" width="50%"> <strong>Heat & Glo 6000</strong></td></tr></table> From a contemporary and modern-style perspective, homeowners, architects and home builders have warmed up to fireplaces as “fire-art,” complete with lustrous flames and clean designs. The <a href="/Products/Cosmo-SLR-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">Heat & Glo Cosmo</a> and <a href="/Products/RED-Series-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">RED Series</a> are great examples, with their linear flames and multiple choices for fronts. Looking for a statement piece? Then you will love the <a href="/Products/Solaris-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">Heat & Glo Solaris</a>. This circular fireplace features razor burn technology and sleek flames that appear to dance into infinity. This fireplace is a show-stopper! <table width="100%"><tr><td align="center" width="50%"> <strong>Heat & Glo RED Series</strong></td><td align="center" width="50%"> <strong>Heat & Glo Solaris</strong></td></tr></table> For creating a robust, contemporary living space both inside and outside of the home, the <a href="/Products/Twilight-II-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">Heat & Glo Twilight</a> is your fireplace. The Twilight is the world's first indoor and outdoor see-thru fireplace that allows you to add the warmth and beauty of a clean burning fireplace to two living spaces at once. Interested in creating a chic outdoor living room? Then the <a href="/Products/Carolina-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">Carolina fireplace</a> is for you. This beautiful, fully featured gas fireplace will be the focal point of any outdoor living space with its custom finish capabilities and realistic fire. <table width="100%"><tr><td align="center" width="50%"> <strong>Heat & Glo Twilight II</strong></td><td align="center" width="50%"> <strong>Heat & Glo Carolina </strong></td></tr></table> Whatever your style, there is sure to be a gas fireplace that will fit perfectly within your unique home. Be sure to check out our post titled <a href="Lower-Heating-Bills-and-Increase-Efficiency.aspx">Lower Heating Bills and Increase Efficiency</a> to learn more about the financial benefits of adding a gas fireplace to your home. </article> <article> <h1>Designing Spaces: Go Green with a Wood Pellet Stove</h1> <p>Administrator — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 18:39:00 GMT</p> By thinking green and making eco-friendly choices in our daily lives we can all help to protect the environment. But not all green alternatives are created equal, so it is important to consider long-term changes that will benefit the environment AND save you money. Enter the <a href="/Browse/Fireplaces/Pellet-Fireplaces.aspx">wood pellet stove</a>. This eco-friendly heating appliance doesn’t rely on costly gas, oil or electricity to operate, but instead on wood pellets, which are typically comprised of recycled wood and paper. To learn more about this sustainable heating alternative, we invite you to join the Designing Spaces team, along with Jeni Forman from <a href="http://www.quadrafire.com/Productfinder.aspx" target="_blank">Quadra-fire</a> as they explore <a href="/Browse/Stoves/Pellet-Stoves.aspx">pellet stoves</a>, what they look like, how they work and how they can save you money. <param value="http://www.youtube.com/v/bo4PNIlpBlw" name="movie" /> <param value="true" name="allowFullScreen" /> <param value="always" name="allowscriptaccess" /> </object> </article> <article> <h1>IBS Recap: Fireplace Trends for 2011</h1> <p>Administrator — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 18:37:00 GMT</p> The NAHB International Builder Show has closed its doors until 2012, but many exciting products and home innovations are still causing quite the buzz among builders, designers and industry professionals. We’ve asked our IBS correspondent, Julie, to fill us in on what was big with fireplaces this year at IBS. <strong>Julie, what fireplace design trends did you see this year at IBS? </strong> Modern-style gas fireplaces really stole the show. We did see some traditional fireplaces, positioned near the floor with a conventional hearth and mantle, but we definitely saw more modern fireplaces than ever before. In 2011, traditional-style fireplaces will remain the most popular choice for homeowners in the U.S., but we predict that modern-style fireplaces will really take hold this year and become more prevalent. In fact, we heard salespeople say that many times when homeowners enter a showroom and see a modern fireplace for the first time, they change their plans and purchase a modern-style fireplace, vs. a traditional-styled unit. <strong>We’ve heard about the Heat & Glo Solaris making headlines. How was it described by those who saw it in person? </strong> Most people would walk by the <a href="/Products/Solaris-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">Solaris</a>, look at it, and then do a double-take. First, when they noticed it’s a round, two-sided fireplace, and installed on a 2x6 wall, they’d stop and look at it. Then they noticed the multiple flames, which appear to move into infinity. “Wow” and “amazing” were common reactions. Many asked about the technology and how the multiple flame illusion was created (mirrored glass and strategically placed LED lights). We heard comments like “psychedelic,” “whoa!” and “I want one.” Many attendees said that someone else at the show told them about the Solaris, and they had to come see it for themselves. It was a hit! <strong>Can you tell us a little about fireplace trends? Any design tips we should think about for 2011?</strong> Modern-style is the trend. Contemporary designs are pushing boundaries with radical ideas that incorporate both function and beauty. Typically, traditional fireplaces rise from the floor and are surrounded by brick or stone, then are topped with a mantle. Modern-style fireplaces rebel by being installed higher up on the wall, resembling the placement of a piece of art. European inspired modern styles, like the <a href="/Products/Cosmo-SLR-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">Heat & Glo Cosmo SLR</a>, are linear in shape, showcasing panoramic flames with crystal colored stones that replace log arrangements. In many ways, these fireplaces are similar in proportion to flat screen TVs. In fact, they complement flat screens beautifully, giving homes that updated, modern feel that many homeowners are looking for in 2011. </article> <article> <h1>Share your Fireplace Dreams with the “My Account” Feature on Fireplaces.com</h1> <p>Administrator — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 18:35:00 GMT</p> Builders, check out the “My Account” feature, a free, collaborative selling tool that helps your homebuyers find the right fireplace, in the comfort of their own home. Homebuyers, the “My Account” feature can not only be used to collaborate with your builder, but can also be used to share your fireplace dreams with family and friends. <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/SjZdEPKl9yQ" /> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> <param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /> </object> </article> <article> <h1>Pellet Stoves 101</h1> <p>Administrator — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 18:29:00 GMT</p> Similar in appearance to a wood-burning stove, a pellet stove is a heating appliance that burns biomass fuels to create heat. Pellet stoves operate by slowly feeding fuel from a storage container called a hopper into the burn-pot, creating a steady flame. Pellet stoves are fueled by small, tube-shaped pellets that generally measure 1/4” in diameter and 3/4” in length. Pellets are a biomass product made of renewable substances including recycled wood waste and plant derivatives. When burned in a high efficiency pellet stove, a 40-lb bag of pellets can provide about 24 hours of steady heat for 1500 square feet of living space. <strong>Why should I consider a Pellet Stove? </strong> Pellet stoves are considered carbon-neutral and <a href="http://www.quadrafire.com/Ideas-and-Advice/Technology-Info/Quad-Burn.aspx" target="_blank">burn very clean</a>, with low outside air particulate emissions of only between 0.6 and 1.2 grams per hour. And, because pellet stoves produce less greenhouse gases than fossil fuel systems they are good for the environment. Pellet stoves can also help your family save on heating bills. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the cost of heating by pellet is well below oil, propane or electric. Interested in how much you could save? Check out the <a href="http://pelletheat.org/pellets/compare-fuel-costs/" target="_blank">pellet fuel cost calculator</a> provided by the Pellet Fuels Institute and compare your fuel costs. <strong>Which Pellet Stove is Right for Me?</strong> When considering a pellet stove for your home, it’s important to remember one size does not fit all. A stove too large for the heat demand of your house may operate with slow, smoldering fires much of the time to avoid overheating the room, and an undersized stove can be damaged by frequent over-firing to keep up with heat demand, so be sure to <a href="http://www.harmanstoves.com" target="_blank">consult with a professional</a> when selecting a pellet stove. As pellets appliances have become more popular and available, the designs have expanded to include innovative details that fit within modern home décor, like the contemporary <a href="/Products/Santa-Fe-Pellet-Stove.aspx">Quadra-Fire Santa Fe</a> or the popular <a href="/Products/Accentra-Pellet-Stove.aspx">Harman Accentra</a>. To find a stove that fits within your home décor, check out our <a href="/Browse/Stoves/Pellet-Stoves.aspx">pellet stove product finder</a>. <a href="/Products/Accentra-Pellet-Stove.aspx"></a> </article> <article> <h1>Visit us at the International Builders Show!</h1> <p>Administrator — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 18:25:00 GMT</p> Today kicks off the annual <a href="http://www.buildershow.com" target="_blank">International Builders Show (IBS)</a> in Orlando, Florida and Fireplaces.com will be there representing a few of the best brands in the hearth industry! If you are in Orlando at IBS, visit us in the Professional Builder Show Village outdoor show homes at the Sea Breeze house and check out a fireplace unlike anything you’ve ever seen before – the <a href="/Products/Solaris-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">Heat & Glo Solaris</a>.The Solaris is the world’s thinnest see-through fireplace and allows for installation on a 2"X6" wall. It also features Heat & Glo’s exclusive Razor burner technology, producing the world’s only continuous levitating flame. This flame technology is unmatched in the industry and drawing a lot of attention at the show. <strong>Heat & Glo Solaris</strong> In addition to the Solaris, the Sea Breeze home also has the <a href="/Products/Cosmo-SLR-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">Heat & Glo’s elegant Cosmo fireplace</a> on display. And in the Treasure Sands home next door, we have three more fireplaces on display – the <a href="/Products/Novus-Evolution-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">Heatilator Novus Evolution</a> and <a href="/Products/Novus-nXt-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">Novus nXt</a>, and the <a href="/Products/Soho-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">Heat & Glo Soho</a>. These homes not only feature beautiful, unique fireplaces but will also give you new ideas for decorating your home! <strong>Heatilator Novus Direct Vent Gas Fireplace</strong> Not at the show in Orlando? We will be bringing the news to you right here on our blog and at the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/Heatilator" target="_blank">Heatilator</a> & <a href="http://www.facebook.com/HeatandGlo" target="_blank">Heat & Glo</a> Facebook Pages! Stay tuned for updates and videos… </article> <article> <h1>"Deck the Mantel" Photo Contest Winners!</h1> <p>Administrator — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 18:20:00 GMT</p> Starting on December 13, 2010 the Burning Blog held a "Deck the Mantel" photography contest. We were looking for festive stove, mantel and fireplace photographs that displayed uniqueness, creativity and originality. We received several great photographs of "decked out" hearths from across the United States and Canada, making it tough to determine just three lucky winners. After much discussion, we landed on three winners who provided unique photographs that truly highlighted the hearth with festive decor and design. Drum roll..... <strong>Our $500, first place winner is Walt C. from Tuscon, Arizona! </strong> <strong>Our $250 second place winner is Jenny W. from Nisswa, Minnesota!</strong> <strong> Our $50 third place winner is Jean F. from Racine, Wisconsin!</strong> </article> <article> <h1>Lower Heating Bills and Increase Efficiency</h1> <p>Administrator — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 18:17:00 GMT</p> Would you throw money out the door? What about the chimney? The reality when using a wood-burning fireplace is that most of the heat produced goes right out of the chimney. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a wood-burning fireplace is one of the most inefficient ways to heat your home and can exhaust up to 24,000 cubic feet of air per hour outside, drawing in cold air through doors and windows. Instead of watching your money drift away through the chimney, update your fireplace with a modern, easy-to-use, gas insert. Gas fireplace inserts offer increased heating efficiency because they feature a sealed combustion system, unlike a wood-burning fireplace. This means 100 percent of the combustion air necessary to produce a flame comes from outside the home through a direct vent pipe, eliminating the heat loss associated with conventional chimneys. Up to 85 percent of the heat that a direct vent gas insert generates, remains in the house. Additionally, the direct vent pipe expels 100 percent of the fire’s combustion exhaust outside the home, protecting indoor air quality. And, because they are highly efficient, direct vent gas fireplace inserts can pay for themselves in a few years through lower heating bills. Gas fireplace inserts won’t just save you money, they will save you time too. After you install a gas fireplace insert, you will enjoy the greatest level of convenience, with a warm fire just a flip of a switch away. No more hauling wood though the house and cleaning messy ashes. And, with a wide variety of fireplace inserts available, you can find one that suits your home’s unique décor and style. For more information on Heat & Glo Inserts, visit <a href="http://www.heatnglo.com/" target="_blank">www.heatnglo.com</a><br /> For more information on Quadra-Fire Inserts, visit <a href="http://www.quadrafire.com/" target="_blank">www.quadrafire.com</a><br /> For more information from the EPA, visit <a href="http://www.epa.gov/burnwise/" target="_blank">http://www.epa.gov/burnwise/</a> </article> <article> <h1>"Deck the Mantel" - Final Week!</h1> <p>Administrator — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 18:14:00 GMT</p> We have officially closed our "Deck the Mantel" photo contest! Take a look at some of our favorite final entries this past week. Winner will be announced soon - stay tuned! </article> <article> <h1>"Deck the Mantel" - Week Two!</h1> <p>Administrator — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 18:12:00 GMT</p> Take a look at some of our favorite photograph submissions for week two of our "Deck the Mantel" photo contest! It's not too late to enter! Check out the contest details and start decorating - the contest ends January 3, 2011! </article> <article> <h1>"Deck the Mantel" - Week One!</h1> <p>Administrator — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 18:09:00 GMT</p> We have received several great photographs for our "Deck the Mantel" photo contest! Check out our favorite submissions this week. Didn't enter yet? Don't worry - you still have time! Check out the contest details and start decorating - the contest ends January 3, 2011! </article> <article> <h1>Enter our “Deck the Mantel” Photo Contest to win $500, $250 or $50!</h1> <p>Administrator — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 18:03:00 GMT</p> <strong>“Deck the fireplace mantel will boughs of holly... fa-la-la-la-la, la-la-la-la!”</strong> We are kicking off the launch of our new blog with a fireplace, stove or mantel holiday décor photo contest! You can win a $500, $250 or $50 American Express gift card JUST by submitting a digital photograph of your fireplace mantle or stove decked out with holiday décor. Photographs will be judged by the editorial team. Winners will be selected based on creativity, originality and uniqueness – so don’t be afraid to get imaginative! To enter, email your photograph with name and address to <a href="mailto:contest@hearthnhome.com">contest@hearthnhome.com</a>. Make sure you check out the contest rules before submitting your photograph. Good luck! </article> <article> <h1>Connect With Us!</h1> <p>Administrator — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 17:57:00 GMT</p> We are glad you are here! Connecting with all your favorite Hearth brands is as easy as 1-2-3! <a href="http://www.heatnglo.com" target="_blank"></a> 1.) First, click each of the links provided below. <a href="http://www.facebook.com/HeatandGlo" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/Heatandglo" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/HeatandGlo" target="_blank"></a> 2.) You will then be prompted to login to your existing account (If you don’t have an existing account, you can sign-up for one on the home page). 3.) Once logged in, you will automatically be re-directed to the brand page: - On Facebook, hit the “Like” button - On Twitter, select the “Follow” button - On YouTube, select the “Subscribe” button <a href="http://www.harmanstoves.com/" target="_blank"></a> 1.) First, click each of the links provided below. <a href="http://www.facebook.com/HarmanStoves" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/HarmanStoves" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/HarmanStoves" target="_blank"></a> 2.) You will then be prompted to login to your existing account (If you don’t have an existing account, you can sign-up for one on the home page). 3.) Once logged in, you will automatically be re-directed to the brand page: - On Facebook, hit the “Like” button - On Twitter, select the “Follow” button - On YouTube, select the “Subscribe” button <a href="http://www.heatilator.com" target="_blank"></a> 1.) First, click each of the links provided below. <a href="http://www.facebook.com/Heatilator" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/Heatilator" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/HeatilatorFireplaces" target="_blank"></a> 2.) You will then be prompted to login to your existing account (If you don’t have an existing account, you can sign-up for one on the home page). 3.) Once logged in, you will automatically be re-directed to the brand page: - On Facebook, hit the “Like” button - On Twitter, select the “Follow” button - On YouTube, select the “Subscribe” button <a href="http://www.quadrafire.com" target="_blank"></a> 1.) First, click each of the links provided below. <a href="http://www.facebook.com/QuadraFire" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/quadrafire" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/QuadraFirePower" target="_blank"></a> 2.) You will then be prompted to login to your existing account (If you don’t have an existing account, you can sign-up for one on the home page). 3.) Once logged in, you will automatically be re-directed to the brand page: - On Facebook, hit the “Like” button - On Twitter, select the “Follow” button - On YouTube, select the “Subscribe” button </article> <article> <h1>Welcome to Our New Blog!</h1> <p>Administrator — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 17:55:00 GMT</p> A warm welcome to you! We are very excited to launch the HOTTEST blog on the web – the Burning Blog. We’re a group of passionate hearth experts who want to share our knowledge and experiences about all things hearth. We’ll discuss a wide variety of topics from innovative new fireplace designs trends, to eco-friendly fireplaces and stoves, to living a green lifestyle and everything in between. Subscribe to our RSS feed and visit us often to get exclusive hearth news, interviews, videos, photographs and be part of exciting contests where you can win great prizes! Enjoy! </article> <article> <h1>Wall Street Journal Story About Fireplaces</h1> <p>Administrator — Wed, 20 Oct 2010 16:52:00 GMT</p> <a href="http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304410504575560621405867544.html" target="_blank">Several Heat & Glo and Quadra-Fire products were recently featured in the Wall Street Journal.</a> </article> <article> <h1>Pellet Heat Gaining Traction as Viable Renewable Home Energy</h1> <p>Administrator — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 16:46:00 GMT</p> Living greener lifestyles and reducing our impact on the environment is becoming increasingly more important to U.S. consumers and homeowners. Also gaining traction is awareness and usage of a time tested, but recently popularized approach to renewable home energy – heating with pelletized fuel in free-standing pellet stoves and fireplace inserts. Generally made from recycled wood byproducts, pellets are a cost stable, low carbon fuel that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions when used as an alternative to fossil fuels such as heating oil, propane and natural gas. Over the past 10 years, several factors have led to increased interest in pellet heating. Organizations like the <a href="http://pelletheat.org/2/index/index.html" target="_blank">Pellet Fuels Institute</a> have successfully campaigned for green heating with pellets, contributing to nearly a million installations of pellet appliances in homes and businesses. Stove manufacturers like <a href="http://www.harmanstoves.com" target="_blank">Harman</a> and <a href="http://www.quadrafire.com" target="_blank">Quadra-Fire</a> have also improved the technology and aesthetics of the appliances, making them more attractive and easier to operate and maintain. In addition, the U.S. government is promoting pellet heat with a <a href="/Resources/Tax-Credit.aspx">30 percent tax credit</a> of up to $1,500 for homeowners who purchase a pellet stove or fireplace insert by Dec. 31, 2010. “Today’s pellet stove technology is light-years ahead of what it was even 10 years ago, making heating with renewable pellet fuel a practical option for many households,” said Dan Henry, vice president, advanced technologies for Quadra-Fire and Harman. “Many models can produce steady, regulated heat for up to 24 hours on a single load of pellets, with minimal ash clean up. Due to pellet density and high burn efficiencies, the stoves emit extremely low outside air particulates, helping to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gases associated with fossil fuels.” Many homeowners would like to utilize renewable energy, but the cost of solar panels, geothermal heat pumps and wind turbines can be exorbitant, making it virtually impossible to get started. Pellet stoves and fireplace inserts can be purchased for a fraction of the cost, making pellet heat the most affordable and realistic alternative for many homeowners. In fact, with the current tax credit, it is possible to purchase and install a pellet stove or fireplace insert for as little as $2,600. In addition to the low cost of getting started, heating with pellets can save money on heating bills, particularly for those currently using fuel oil, propane and electricity. Based on 2010 heating season fuel prices and heating a 1,700 square foot home in a cold-climate state1, switching from fuel oil to pellets can save you approximately $800 per heating season. If you are currently heating with propane, the savings would be about $1,000, and if currently using electricity, $1,800 per heating season. Pellet heat is a good option for homeowners who want to save money and utilize renewable fuels. In addition to reducing carbon emissions2, they are heating with a fuel that is grown, harvested and produced right here in the U.S., helping to reduce our country’s dependence on foreign oil. Many homeowners install a pellet stove to work in conjunction with their existing central furnace or boiler. Efficiencies are gained by turning the temperature down 10-15 degrees on the central furnace and using the pellet stove to heat the rooms that are used the most, such as the kitchen and adjoining family or living room. Similar to the concept of a hybrid car, the pellet stove does the primary heating with the furnace as a backup – working together to gain efficiencies and a more environmentally responsible outcome. The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy recommends this practice of space heating the areas where you live, as well as closing off unused rooms and leaving bedroom doors open at night. Improving insulation and sealing air leaks in the home will also help to gain maximum heating efficiencies. In the pellet appliance category, homeowners can choose from <a href="/Browse/Stoves/Pellet-Stoves.aspx">free-standing pellet stoves</a>, pellet <a href="/Browse/Inserts/Pellet-Inserts.aspx">fireplace inserts</a> that fit into the firebox of an existing wood fireplace, and whole-home heating pellet <a href="http://www.harmanstoves.com/Browse/Central-Heating.aspx" target="_blank">furnaces and boilers</a>. There is also a pellet fireplace available through <a href="http://www.quadrafire.com" target="_blank">Quadra-Fire</a> which is the industry’s only zero clearance pellet fireplace. The tax credit for pellet/biomass stoves ends Dec. 31, 2010. For a complete listing of pellet appliance products that qualify and to find a dealer, visit <a href="http://www.fireplaces.com">www.fireplaces.com</a>. 1 Upper New England, Midwest and Northwest states. Assumes whole home heating complete replacement of current fuel with pellets. 2 For every ton of pellets used vs. oil, CO2 emissions are reduced by about 1.5 tons. Pellet Fuels Institute, <a href="http://pelletheat.org/pellets/benefits-of-pellets/" target="_blank">http://pelletheat.org/pellets/benefits-of-pellets/</a> Note: High resolution images of a pellet stove, pellet fireplace insert and pellets are available here <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hearthnhome/sets/72157625095741786" target="_blank">http://www.flickr.com/photos/hearthnhome/sets/72157625095741786</a> About Hearth & Home Technologies Inc. Hearth & Home Technologies is the world’s leading provider of whole hearth systems including fireplaces, stoves and inserts, as well as furnaces that utilize biomass fuels. Its family of brands includes Harman™, Heatilator®, Heat & Glo®, Quadra-Fire® and Fireside Hearth & Home® retail stores and builder design centers. The company offers a wide variety of energy efficient and environmentally sustainable hearth products, which are manufactured, packaged and delivered with respect for the environment. Hearth & Home Technologies is a subsidiary of HNI Corporation (NYSE: HNI), the second largest office furniture manufacturer in the United States. More information can be found at <a href="http://www.hearthnhome.com" target="_blank">www.hearthnhome.com</a>. </article> <article> <h1>Heat & Glo RED Series Wins 2010 Most Valuable Product Award from Building Products Magazine</h1> <p>Administrator — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 16:43:00 GMT</p> Heat & Glo’s RED Series direct vent gas fireplaces have received the <a href="http://mydigimag.rrd.com/publication/?i=44225&p=17" target="_blank">Most Valuable Product (MVP) Award</a> for 2010 by <a href="http://mydigimag.rrd.com/publication/?i=44225&p=17" target="_blank">BUILDING PRODUCTS Magazine</a>. Only 31 building products and tools were named MVPs by the magazine, selected for their innovation and value to contractors and consumers. For builders and architects, the <a href="/Products/RED-Series-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">Heat & Glo RED Series</a> are configure-to-order fireplaces that are guaranteed to make clients say “wow.” They offer builders increased profits through a wide variety of up-sell opportunities for both residential and commercial applications. “We are honored to receive the MVP Award for our RED Series fireplaces,” said Peter Dircks, vice president of marketing for Heat & Glo. “The RED Series sets the industry benchmark for modern linear fireplaces combining a beautiful finished look with many innovative features and options. With so many potential configurations, builders and homebuyers can choose the look and style that best meets their design needs. The RED Series is also a great option for commercial properties such as hotel lobbies and restaurants.” The RED Series takes modern design to a new level with recessed glass that creates the illusion of open flames. A variety of stone and glass media options, enhanced LED lighting illumination and stunning optional porcelain and granite liners define this innovative product line. Featuring 40-inch, 40-inch see through and 60 inch models, the RED Series offers 21 unique configurations with more options and styling than any other modern fireplace on the market. “Fireplaces consistently rank as one of the most desired amenities in new homes by homeowners.” said Dircks. “Today’s contemporary style fireplaces, like the RED Series, are steadily gaining popularity with consumers due to changing trends and demographics. These fireplaces are desired for their unique style and artistry, versus traditional looking fireplaces. The rules have changed.” RED Series fireplaces feature direct vent gas technology, preferred in green building programs including the <a href="http://www.nahb.org" target="_blank">National Association of Home Builders</a> (NAHB) Green Home Building Standards, <a href="http://www.usgbc.org" target="_blank">U.S. Green Building Council</a> (USGBC) and LEED® for Homes. “While the residential construction industry sees hundreds of new product introductions each year, the MVP winners stand apart for their thoughtful design, smart technologies, or even pure wow factor,” said Jean Dimeo, editorial director for BUILDING PRODUCTS and ebuild.com. “In a struggling economy, it’s innovations like these that can help contractors woo customers, save time and money, and surpass the competition.” The Most Valuable Product Awards were open to all categories of residential building products, materials, and tools introduced between January 2009 and January 2010. The winners were chosen by a panel of judges made up of residential building pros. Each Most Valuable Product Award winner is featured in the summer 2010 issue of BUILDING PRODUCTS and on the magazine’s website, <a href="http://www.ebuild.com" target="_blank">ebuild.com</a>. Published quarterly, BUILDING PRODUCTS is the premier information source for builders and remodelers searching for what's new in building materials and products. 50,000 high-volume builders and remodelers count on BUILDING PRODUCTS for up-to-date information on the newest and most innovative products in the industry. Heat & Glo® is a brand of Hearth & Home Technologies™. Heat & Glo brings together elegance and innovation to offer hearth products with distinct design, sophistication and style that set apart virtually any room of the home. Visit www.heatnglo.com. NOTE: A high resolution photo of the Heat & Glo RED 40 is available for download <a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4078/4926124153_d3c685e37a_z.jpg" target="_blank">here</a>. <b><u>About Hearth & Home Technologies Inc.</u></b> Hearth & Home Technologies (HHT) is the world’s leading provider of whole hearth systems including fireplaces, stoves and inserts, as well as furnaces that utilize biomass fuels. Its family of brands includes Harman™, Heatilator®, Heat & Glo®, Quadra-Fire® and Fireside Hearth & Home® retail stores and builder design centers – the most professional hearth distribution network in the country. HHT offers a wide variety of energy efficient and environmentally sustainable hearth products, which are manufactured, packaged and delivered with respect for the environment. Hearth & Home Technologies is a subsidiary of HNI Corporation (NYSE: HNI), the second largest office furniture manufacturer in the United States. More information can be found at <a href="http://www.hearthnhome.com" target="_blank">www.hearthnhome.com</a>. </article> <article> <h1>Quadra-Fire’s New 2700i ACC Wood Insert</h1> <p>Administrator — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 16:40:00 GMT</p> Quadra-Fire has launched the 2700i wood insert with Advanced Combustion Control (ACC) technology. ACC delivers precision airflow management for longer, cleaner, and more efficient burns. Designed to nestle easily into smaller fireplace spaces, the 2700i has a contemporary flush design and three door options that fit nicely with a wide range of decorating styles. Extending only two inches onto the hearth, this insert can be installed in most homes without the need for additional hearth protection. The 2700i is engineered with the same proven clean-technology, outstanding efficiency and unmatched dependability that has made Quadra-Fire famous. Quadra-Fire® is a brand of Hearth & Home Technologies. Quadra-Fire hearth products deliver high performance, control and durability, allowing homeowners to capture fire’s full potential as a clean energy source and a visual asset in the home. <a href="/Products/2700i-ACC-Wood-Insert.aspx">More product information ></a> </article> <article> <h1>New! Power Vent Inline from HHT</h1> <p>Administrator — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 16:34:00 GMT</p> Hearth & Home Technologies (HHT) is pleased to introduce the PVI-SLP Power Vent Inline for direct vent gas fireplaces. The PVI-SLP allows gas fireplaces to be installed in applications that were previously impossible, such as high rise multi-family buildings and difficult remodeling projects. With unsurpassed flexibility, the PVI-SLP can be placed anywhere in the vent run. It enables the longest vent runs in the industry (up to 140’), has electrical plug-in connections and wire harnesses for easy installation and service. The PVI-SLP is certified to use with many Heat & Glo and Heatilator direct vent gas fireplaces. For more information call 1-877-228-5012. About Hearth & Home Technologies Inc. Hearth & Home Technologies is the world’s leading provider of whole hearth systems including fireplaces, stoves and inserts, as well as furnaces that utilize biomass fuels. Its family of brands includes Harman™, Heatilator®, Heat & Glo®, Quadra-Fire® and Fireside Hearth & Home® retail stores and builder design centers. The company offers a wide variety of energy efficient and environmentally sustainable hearth products, which are manufactured, packaged and delivered with respect for the environment. Hearth & Home Technologies is a subsidiary of HNI Corporation (NYSE: HNI), the second largest office furniture manufacturer in the United States. More information can be found at <a href="http://www.hearthnhome.com" target="_blank">www.hearthnhome.com</a>. </article> <article> <h1>Heat & Glo’s Metro 32 Now Available as Both a See-Through and a Single-Sided Fireplace</h1> <p>Administrator — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 16:31:00 GMT</p> Heat & Glo’s Metro 32 is now available as both a see-through and a single-sided fireplace. This affordable modern style direct vent gas fireplace has the simple lines and seamless presentation that so many homeowners want. Designed to fit into smaller living spaces, the Metro has a shallow footprint for easy placement. It is equipped with a porcelain interior firebox and there are several choices for rich finish colors for the front. Homeowners can also choose from four cool custom media options. The Metro requires little space, has many options and can fit into almost any living space – all at a price point you will appreciate. <a href="/Products/Metro-32-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">More information ></a> Heat & Glo® is a brand of Hearth & Home Technologies™. Heat & Glo brings together elegance and innovation to offer hearth products with distinct design, sophistication and style that set apart virtually any room of the home. Visit <a href="http://www.heatnglo.com/" target="_blank">www.heatnglo.com</a>. </article> <article> <h1>Five Surprising Facts About Fireplaces</h1> <p>Administrator — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 16:52:00 GMT</p> When it comes to creating ambiance and warmth in a home, nothing can beat a fireplace, especially during this time of year. But are you aware that the right fireplace or stove can also help reduce your heating costs? Or that your existing fireplace’s efficiency can be boosted significantly by installing an insert, and for less money than you might think? Here are five facts about fireplaces and stoves that may surprise you. 1. You can conserve energy, live a greener lifestyle and combat volatile heating costs with a high efficiency fireplace or stove. Do you use every room in your house every day? If not, try zone heating the areas where you spend the most time with an efficient fireplace or stove. It will cut down on the amount of fuel consumed by your furnace and can reduce home heating bills by 20-40 percent, according to the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association. Simply turn down the central thermostat and let the fireplace heat where you live. This works whether your fireplace is fueled by natural gas, liquid propane, wood, pellets or other materials. Renewable fuels like cord wood, pellets and other plant-derived materials are excellent sources of heat. The key is burning them in a high efficiency fireplace or stove, which makes the process much easier than it was for our grandparents. For example, a load of quality wood in a standard <a href="http://www.quadrafire.com" target="_blank">Quadra-Fire</a>. EPA-certified wood stove can produce heat for up to 15 hours, and in pellet stoves a single 40-pound bag of pellets can produce heat for up to 24 hours. In both cases, the amount of emissions and ash generated by these units has been dramatically reduced. There is also a U.S. tax credit in 2010 of up to $1,500 for the purchase of <a href="/Resources/Tax-Credit.aspx">qualifying wood and pellet stoves</a>. 2. A fireplace can be installed in your existing home without the hassles of adding a traditional chimney. Don’t have a fireplace? In most homes, a beautiful and efficient gas fireplace can be added for as little as $3,500, including installation. Made possible by direct vent gas technology, the fireplace is vented to the outdoors via a single pipe that runs through the side of the house to the outdoors, drawing air needed for the fire and expelling its byproducts. Direct vent gas technology has brought warmth and ambience to millions of homes. 3. Your inefficient wood burning fireplace can be transformed into a powerful and beautiful heat producer. If you have a masonry-built wood burning fireplace that is drafty and inefficient, consider updating it with an energy efficient <a href="/Browse/Inserts.aspx">fireplace insert</a>. “It is a fairly simple process to transform these fireplaces into energy efficient powerhouses,” says Jeni Forman of Quadra-Fire. “Professional installation can be completed within four to six hours, and it could make your fireplace up to 85 percent more efficient.” The cost of adding an insert, including installation, can be as low as $2,900 for gas and wood-burning units, and $3,200 for pellet-burning inserts. 4. You can control the heat produced by today’s fireplaces. Many fireplaces and stoves can be thermostatically controlled – you decide how much heat you want and change it as desired. Some models also allow you to control the height of the flames and have LED lighting in the embers, which can be turned on or off. Controls are accessed either via remote control, on the unit, or they are wall-mounted. 5. Modern fireplace design is pushing traditional boundaries. If you prefer a traditional fireplace that burns real wood, or simulates it with gas, manufactured logs and burning embers, there are literally hundreds of models from which to choose. However, if your design style leans toward contemporary and you want some new options, today’s modern style fireplaces offer simplistic beauty and elegance. Inspired by European design, many modern style fireplaces are linear in shape, showcasing a panoramic view of the flames that dance in unison with colored glass, shiny metal or other innovative materials like black onyx. Placement is also being redefined, as modern style fireplaces are often positioned at eye level, evoking a living piece of fine art. It’s winter and there’s nothing better than cozying up to a warm fireplace. Investigate the possibilities at fireplaces.com. The site includes an online program that walks you through the process of designing your fireplace, mixing and matching options with rooms, flooring and wall colors. </article> <article> <h1>Homeowners Warm Up to Tax Credit for Wood and Pellet-Fueled Heat</h1> <p>Administrator — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 16:48:00 GMT</p> For warmth and beauty in the home, it’s hard to beat the ambience of a real wood-burning stove or fireplace. Homeowners now have another reason to warm up to one – they may qualify for a federal tax credit of up to $1,500 if they purchase and install a 75-percent efficient wood- or pellet-burning (biomass) stove in 2009 or 2010. Thirty-percent of the total cost, including the appliance, installation and piping, can be claimed. Wood- and pellet-burning fireplace inserts also qualify for the tax credit, which are installed into existing inefficient fireplaces, quickly transforming them into energy-efficient home heaters. The tax credit is part of the federal government’s efforts to encourage homeowners to choose green, energy-efficient products for their homes. The choice is good for the environment and homeowners’ wallets, says Dan Henry, chief technical officer for <a href="http://www.quadrafire.com" target="_blank">Quadra-Fire</a> and <a href="http://www.harmanstoves.com" target="_blank">Harman Home Heating</a>, which offer more than 30 products that qualify for the tax credit. “Today’s wood- and pellet-burning units are considerably more efficient than dated models, producing more heat with less fuel to provide warmth and comfort for many hours,” says Henry. “They are thermostatically controlled, easy to maintain and feature advanced burn technology that produces less ash and low outside air particulate emissions. It is now more convenient than ever to heat your home with renewable fuels, save money on heating bills and contribute to a greener Earth.” There are several advantages to supplementing your home’s heat with a biomass stove or fireplace insert, including: * Controlled heating costs, since prices for wood and pellets are much more predictable than prices for propane, oil and natural gas, which can fluctuate greatly. * Contribute to less greenhouse gases by burning wood or pellets for heat, which is considered carbon neutral since only the carbon the tree or plant absorbed when growing is released into the air. * Eligibility for the tax credit if you purchase and install a <a href="/Resources/Tax-Credit.aspx">qualifying</a> high-efficiency product. After a purchase is made, the homeowner obtains an Official Manufacturer’s Certificate from the manufacturer’s Web site or the retailer. The certificate validates that the product qualifies for the tax credit and should be retained by the homeowner for tax purposes. It’s now possible to live green and save some money while enjoying the ambiance of a crackling fire in the comfort of your own home. Find <a href="/Resources/Tax-Credit.aspx">qualifying products</a>. </article> <article> <h1>The Heat & Glo Cosmo: Now Available as an Insert</h1> <p>Administrator — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 15:44:00 GMT</p> Heat & Glo® has added the Cosmo Insert to its extensive lineup of direct vent gas modern hearth products. Instead of fiber logs, it features glimmering black glass media. A black glass refractory liner reflects a dancing ribbon of flames that runs across the length of the firebox. Casual, yet sophisticated, this insert features a curved halo front, and homeowners have the choice of three surround sizes. Easily installed in an existing fireplace opening, the Cosmo Insert comes standard with the IntelliFire ignition system with the option of a remote control. <a href="/Products/Cosmo-Gas-Insert-I30-I35.aspx">More information and photo ></a> </article> <article> <h1>Quadra-Fire EDGE 60 is named one of 100 Best New Products of 2009 by Professional Builder</h1> <p>Administrator — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 15:00:00 GMT</p> Quadra-Fire®, a brand of Hearth & Home Technologies Inc., is proud to announce that the EDGE™ 60 was named to Professional Builder magazine’s 100 Best New Products list for 2009. Introduced in March, the EDGE 60 is the first pellet-burning fireplace ever to hit the market. The 100 Best New Products Award recognizes the most significant and innovative products introduced in the past year, as well as the manufacturers who invested in their research and development. According to Professional Builder, “These are the products that will change our view of home building over the next few years.” The editors base their choices on technical advancement, significant product improvement, new product line introduction and the ability to increase competition within a product line. “Free standing pellet stoves and inserts have been available for several years, but until now, consumers could not purchase a pellet fireplace,” said John Shimek, vice president of Marketing for Hearth & Home Technologies. “The EDGE 60 offers the beauty and functionality of a fireplace, while providing homeowners with the piece of mind that they are heating with renewable fuel in a clean-burning, low emissions hearth product.” Delivering a whopping 60,000 Btus of heat, the EDGE 60 can provide warmth to over 2,500 square feet of living space. It features Quadra-Fire’s proven “Advanced Energy” multi-fuel technology, allowing homeowners to choose fuel options ranging from wood and grass pellets, to corn and wheat. The EDGE 60 has a programmable wall control with a thermostat to regulate heat output and achieve optimum fuel efficiency. It also has an automatic self-cleaning feature and is whisper quiet when operating. It is designed for zero clearance installation and does not require a chimney. Additional standard features of the EDGE 60 include an extra large hopper holding 120 pounds of pellets for up to seven days of extended operation and a slide out rail system for easy maintenance. The unit slides completely out of the wall, allowing easy access for maintenance. Homeowners can choose from several attractive front options that will compliment any décor, ranging from traditional to modern. More information about the EDGE 60 is available <a href="/Products/EDGE-60-Pellet-Fireplace.aspx">here</a>. This past March, the EDGE 60 also received the Vesta Hearth Green Award, which is the highest environment award conferred within the industry. Jointly sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Village West Publishing’s Hearth & Home magazine, the Green Award recognizes environmental responsibility in nine areas covering everything from minimization of environmental impact during manufacturing, to energy conservation in the home, to energy return on energy investment. Quadra-Fire® is a brand of Hearth & Home Technologies Inc. Quadra-Fire hearth products deliver high performance, control and durability, helping homeowners capture fire’s full potential as a clean heating source, while enjoying beautiful visual assets in their homes. Durable, high-efficiency Quadra-Fire stoves, inserts and fireplaces meet the guidelines established by the USGBC LEED® for Homes and NAHB Green Building Standard for sustainable building practices. Visit <a href="http://www.quadrafire.com/" target="_blank">www.quadrafire.com</a> or call 800-926-4356. About Hearth & Home Technologies Hearth & Home Technologies is the world’s leading provider of whole hearth systems including fireplaces, stoves and inserts, as well as furnaces that utilize biomass fuels. Its family of brands includes Harman™, Heatilator®, Heat & Glo®, Quadra-Fire® and Fireside Hearth & Home® retail stores and builder design centers. The company offers a wide variety of energy efficient and environmentally sustainable hearth products, which are manufactured, packaged and delivered with respect for the environment. Hearth & Home Technologies is a subsidiary of HNI Corporation (NYSE: HNI), the second largest office furniture manufacturer in the United States. Visit <a href="http://www.hearthnhome.com/" target="_blank">www.hearthnhome.com</a>. About Professional Builder Magazine Professional Builder is published by Reed Business Information (<a href="http://www.reedbusiness.com/us" target="_blank">www.reedbusiness.com/us</a>), which offers business professionals in the media, manufacturing, electronics, construction and retail industries more than 75 Webzines and portals, 80 market-leading business-to-business publications, directories, plus several market research, email direct marketing, and subscription data base businesses. Reed Business Information is part of Reed Elsevier (NYSE: RUK and ENL) – a world-leading publisher and information provider operating in the science and medical, legal and business-to-business industry sectors. To view all of the 100 Best New Products, visit <a href="http://www.probuilder.com/" target="_blank">www.probuilder.com</a>. </article> <article> <h1>Now Available – Heat & Glo 6000 and 8000 C Series</h1> <p>Administrator — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 14:57:00 GMT</p> The best just keeps getting better. With more patents than all competitive models combined, the Heat & Glo® 6000 Series has been the most sought-after fireplace on the market for more than 20 years. New this fall, the 6000 and 8000 C Series has the most advanced fireplace technology the 21st century has to offer. It offers the perfect combination of flames, glow and LED lighting, creating a dramatic display that so closely replicates a wood-burning fire, it’s hard to tell the difference. The C Series also offers homeowners the most choices for fronts and mantels of any competitive product on the market today. The 6000 C, CL and CLX are 36-inch model models, and the 8000 C, CL and CLX are 42-inches. <a href="/Products/6000-Series-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">6000 Series information and photo ></a> <a href="/Products/8000-Series-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">8000 Series information and photo ></a> </article> <article> <h1>Value, Beauty and Warmth – The New Heatilator Novus nXt</h1> <p>Administrator — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 14:54:00 GMT</p> Heatilator® continues to innovate with the Novus™ Series of fireplaces, which earned a Consumer Digest Best Buy in 2008. Now available, the Novus nXt is a value-priced, high efficiency direct vent gas fireplace. Since it can produce 30,000 Btus of heat per hour, it’s an excellent choice for homeowners who want to zone heat their living spaces. The Novus nXt is at the top of the list for value-priced fireplaces with many standard features including intermittent pilot ignition, ceramic glass that radiates more heat, and controls that allow homeowners to adjust the flames and heat to desired levels. <a href="/Products/Novus-nXt-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">More information and photo ></a> </article> <article> <h1>Making the Healthy Hearth Choice</h1> <p>Administrator — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 14:52:00 GMT</p> You make decisions about your family's health every day, from the foods you choose to the vitamins you buy to the health-care provider you see. But there's one big health decision people frequently don't consider: how to make sure your home's indoor air quality is safe. Studies show that we're actually more likely to get sick from poor indoor air quality at home than from outdoor air pollution. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), pollutant levels in the home are often two to 10 times higher than those found outdoors. And with people spending, on average, more than 65 percent of their time indoors, it's important to reduce the risks of indoor air pollution as much as possible. Selecting the right fireplace for your home can be essential to helping ensure a healthy indoor breathing environment. <strong>Indoor Air Pollutants: Invisible Trouble</strong> Any home built after 1980 meets strict construction codes that, in an effort to conserve energy, feature tighter construction. As a result, less fresh air enters the home and harmful fumes, particles and excess moisture are less likely to escape through windows, doors, seams and wall chinks. Eventually, these pollutants can build up and lead to problems like elevated levels of mold, mildew and other allergens. "Houses today are built tighter than ever," says Roger Oxford, Senior Vice President of New Construction at Hearth & Home Technologies, "which is great for boosting energy efficiency. However, it's not so great for the occupants if the home is too tight to permit proper ventilation. That's why it's critical for people to work closely with their builders to keep ventilation in mind during the construction process. In particular, it's important for consumers to demand appliances that vent indoor pollutants outside the home. For example, if you're looking to add a natural gas or liquid propane fireplace, a direct-vent gas fireplace is the best choice for the health of your family." John Bower of the Healthy House Institute adds: "If you have a vent-free appliance, you're living in a chimney. I don't know anyone in the building science community who thinks they're a particularly good idea." <strong>The Healthy Hearth Choice</strong> Direct-vent gas fireplaces use outside air for combustion, and expel 100 percent of the combustion exhaust and by-products (like moisture, carbon monoxide and nitrous oxide) outside the home. As a result, they do not decrease your home's indoor air quality in any way. In fact, one of today's most sophisticated direct-vent fireplaces can actually improve your home's air quality. The FreshAir Fireplace™ by Heatilator® and Heat & Glo™ uses state-of-the-art ventilation technology that brings fresh air into your home while exhausting an equal amount of stale air. The FreshAir Fireplace works in conjunction with a heat recovery ventilator and your furnace to supply a balanced flow of fresh air throughout the house, creating a more comfortable environment for your family. Most important, the FreshAir Fireplace reduces moisture levels in your home, which helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew. <strong>Unvented Fireplaces—Unwanted By-products</strong> In contrast, unvented or vent free gas fireplaces literally turn your entire home into a chimney, and can represent a major source of indoor air pollution in new homes. Unvented gas fireplace flames consume oxygen from inside your home for operation - and they expel exhaust, fumes, soot and strong combustion odors back into your living space. Your family then breathes in these by-products. Unvented gas fireplaces can release up to a quart of excess moisture into the room every hour they are in operation. This moisture can condense on window glass and underneath carpet, which encourages the growth of mold and mildew. Because of problems like these, many builders will not install unvented gas fireplaces in new homes. In fact, the nation's top ten builders have policies against installing unvented products. If you have questions about how you can maximize your home's indoor air quality, talk to your builder or your local fireplace retailer. To read comments from unvented fireplaces owners, check out <a href="http://www.chimneysweeponline.com/hovflett.htm" target="_blank" class="orange_large">http://www.chimneysweeponline.com/hovflett.htm</a> </article> <article> <h1>Heat Up Your Home’s Value with a Fireplace</h1> <p>Administrator — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 14:51:00 GMT</p> Adding a fireplace when you're building or remodeling undoubtedly increases the enjoyment of your home, but did you know that adding a fireplace is also a great investment in a home's resale value? Because of their warmth - both literal and figurative - fireplaces are one of the features that potential homebuyers inevitably gravitate toward. "When I get a new listing of a home that has a fireplace, it's imperative I work that fact into all of my marketing materials about the property," said Brad Palecek, a realtor with Edina Realty in St. Paul, Minn. By bringing the idea of "hearth and home" to life, a fireplace increases a home's livability - an important quality these days, with more people opting to spend quiet time at home with family and friends. In fact, many of today's homebuyers consider a fireplace a "must-have" feature. A National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) survey found that 77% of homebuyers want a fireplace in the family room, where they'll spend most of their time. And fifty percent of homebuyers would like a fireplace in the living room, where they do much of their entertaining. <strong>Return on investment</strong> With the high demand for fireplaces, adding one to your home clearly means a great investment. <em>Remodeling</em> magazine's 2003 "Cost vs. Value Report" points out when selling a home, it's easier to recover the cost of lower-priced projects like fireplace additions than the cost of major renovations like new kitchens. According to MSN's "House & Home Advisor," adding a fireplace is one of the top three remodeling jobs in terms of return on investment (the other two are adding a bathroom and minor kitchen remodeling). Studies show that homeowners can often recoup more than 100% of the cost of adding a fireplace when they sell the home. In fact, according to the National Association of Real Estate Appraisers, homeowners without fireplaces can potentially raise the selling prices of their homes by about 6-12% simply by adding a fireplace. A fireplace also adds less-tangible value by helping buyers see your home in a better light. "If I'm the listing agent on a property that's showing in the fall, winter or early spring, I'll always light a fire in the fireplace for open houses - particularly if the fireplace is a woodburner," said Palecek. "People are drawn to a fire; it makes them feel good about being in a room." <strong>Options Abound </strong>Many homeowners opt for more than one fireplace (Brad Palecek's own house has three), often mixing and matching the types of fireplaces depending on how each room is used. And when you're building a home, the choice is yours. As you work with your contractor on fireplace selection, remember that it's a good strategy to invest in the best. Choosing the most high-end fireplace that your budget will accommodate will give you top-dollar return on investment if you sell your home later. Tom and Cari Reichenbach decided to give themselves the best of two worlds in the home they built earlier this year. Their home features a stunning flagstone woodburning fireplace as the focal point of their great room upstairs and a gas fireplace in the corner of their lower-level family room. "We wanted that organic feel of a wood fire upstairs with a nice big hearth we can sit on," said Cari. "And it's not just a special-occasion fireplace - I'll often light a fire in the middle of a weekday afternoon." Downstairs, a gas fireplace was the right choice for the family. "We wanted the convenience of having a fire at the touch of a button in the TV room," Cari explained. "Turning on the fireplace warms up the room right away, both in terms of temperature and the coziness factor." <strong>Choose the right fireplace for you</strong> When you're thinking about adding a fireplace to your current home or new construction, consider the following options: <strong>Wood</strong>, with its unmistakable look, sound and smell, is the fireplace experience that evokes feelings of nostalgia for many homeowners. Today's woodburning fireplaces are more environmentally responsible than ever. Many models, like those in Heatilator's® Constitution™ line, comply with the strictest government air-quality regulations, and work in communities that have imposed bans on conventional woodburning fireplaces. <strong>Gas</strong> is currently the most popular choice among homeowners, thanks to its convenience, efficiency and safety. A direct-vent gas fireplace can be installed almost anywhere; most gas fireplaces burn natural gas, but many can be installed to burn propane. In addition, unlike unvented or vent free gas fireplaces, direct-vent gas fireplaces use outside air for combustion, and expel 100% of the combustion exhaust and by-products (like moisture, carbon monoxide and nitrous oxide) outside the home. As a result, they do not decrease your home's indoor air quality in any way. <strong>Electric</strong> fireplaces don't require chimneys or venting systems, so they're a good option for apartments, condos and townhomes. These fireplaces can provide a fire-like ambiance either with or without heat. </article> <article> <h1>New! The Carolina Outdoor Gas Fireplace</h1> <p>Administrator — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 14:49:00 GMT</p> Outdoor Lifestyles by Hearth & Home Technologies is pleased to introduce the new Carolina outdoor gas fireplace. Whether you are building a new home or remodeling a deck or patio, this fireplace will transform your outdoor area into a versatile, warm and inviting living space. <a href="/Products/Carolina-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">More information and photo ></a> </article> <article> <h1>Fireside Hearth & Home gives the gift of warmth to Ronald McDonald House Charities, Upper Midwest</h1> <p>Administrator — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 14:47:00 GMT</p> Fireside Hearth & Home, America’s #1 destination for fireplaces, stoves, fireplace inserts and hearth accessories, recently donated and installed three new fireplaces at the Ronald McDonald House in Minneapolis on Fulton Street SE. Resident children and their families participated by painting ceramic fireplace tiles for one of the fireplaces in the theme of the four seasons. ”Fireside Hearth & Home provided the Ronald McDonald House with a wonderful and needed donation. Not only will the fireplaces keep our families nice and cozy, but families were also given the opportunity to personalize the fireplace tiles to make the donation a unique gift that will be enjoyed by all,” said Heather Glasso, director of advancement at Ronald McDonald House Charities, Upper Midwest. A trendy modern-style Heat & Glo Cosmo fireplace was installed in the Media Room, which was often too cold to use during the winter months. The other two fireplaces, also Heat & Glos, replaced old non-functional fireplaces that were in the Play Area and the Dining Room. All three rooms are used by residents to unwind after long days of treatment, or to visit in with friends and family. “The Ronald McDonald House clearly strives to create a home atmosphere,” said Joel Ginsberg, division manager of Fireside Hearth & Home. “Since fireplaces are often the heart of the home, donating our resources and time made perfect sense. Our main goal for the project was to bring warmth back into the house and make the rooms more comfortable for the families.” Fireside Hearth & Home representatives handled of all aspects of the fireplace project for the Ronald McDonald House, including removing and disposing of two old fireplaces, framing and sheet rocking, electrical wiring, stone work, and installation of the new fireplaces and the children’s painted tiles. Fireside Hearth & Home also coordinated and arranged the necessary city inspection and provided a start-up service for the staff at the House. “We approached the project in the same manner that we do for customers who walk into our stores,” said Ginsberg. “We handled all details of the project from concept to completion so that the staff at RMH could focus on their very important role of helping families.” In addition to providing warmth and comfort, the fireplaces are direct vent gas units that utilize outside air and a sealed combustion system to ensure indoor air quality is maintained. The Ronald McDonald House may also reduce its heating bills by using the fireplaces to zone heat the more heavily used areas of the house, while keeping the less-utilized rooms of the house at a lower temperature. Fireside Hearth & Home has metro locations in Eagan, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Maple Grove, and Roseville. About Fireside Hearth & Home Fireside Hearth & Home is the retail and distribution division of Hearth & Home Technologies, the world’s leading provider of whole hearth systems including fireplaces, stoves and inserts. Fireside Hearth & Home has more than 50 years of hearth experience offering the strongest brands in the industry – Harman™, Heat & Glo®, Heatilator® and Quadra-Fire®. It is America’s #1 destination for fireplaces, stoves, fireplace inserts and hearth accessories. For more information on Fireside Hearth & Home, including locations, visit <a href="http://www.fireside.com/" target="_blank">www.fireside.com</a>. About the Ronald McDonald House Ronald McDonald House Charities, Upper Midwest creates, finds and supports programs that provide a caring community for families with seriously ill children while increasing children"s access to health care services. We keep families together and strong during health care crises. We celebrate the diversity of our people and the innovation of our programs. We value partnerships and collaborations that enhance our mission. We value our heritage. We operate with accountability and transparency. </article> <article> <h1>Now Available – The Quadra-Fire 3100i</h1> <p>Administrator — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 14:45:00 GMT</p> Quadra-Fire is pleased to announce the launch the new 3100i wood insert. This highly efficient insert features our exclusive Advanced Combustion Control (ACC) technology, which enables homeowners to control the heat output. Just load it, light it and live! <a href="/Products/3100i-Wood-Insert.aspx">More information and photo ></a> </article> <article> <h1>Get a STIHL® Gift Certificate!</h1> <p>Administrator — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:44:00 GMT</p> Buy a stove – get a STIHL! Starting July 15, 2009, when you purchase of a qualifying Quadra-Fire wood or pellet burning stove, fireplace or insert, you"ll get a $100 or $200 (USD) STIHL® GIFT CERTIFICATE. The gift certificate is good for any STIHL product, such as a chainsaw, trimmer, cultivator at participating STIHL dealerships in the U.S. and Canada. You may also be eligible for a U.S. tax credit of up to $1,500 for qualifying wood- and pellet-burning stoves. Check it out! You can heat your home with renewable fuel and contribute to a greener earth with pellet or wood heat. Hurry – see your Quadra-Fire dealer for details. This offer ends September 27, 2009. </article> <article> <h1>Now Available – The Heat & Glo LUX60</h1> <p>Administrator — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 14:42:00 GMT</p> This summer Heat & Glo unveiled its most daring and aesthetically stimulating member of the Modern Collection yet – the LUX60. This large-scale fireplace has a commending presence over the entire room with a bold, industrial modern design. <a href="/Products/LUX60-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">More information and photo ></a> </article> <article> <h1>Tax Credit of up to $1,500 for Biomass Stove Purchase</h1> <p>Administrator — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 14:39:00 GMT</p> Under the 2009 Economic Stimulus legislation, U.S. homeowners who purchase a 75-percent efficient biomass (wood or pellet) burning stove, fireplace or fireplace insert and place it into service in their home during 2009 or 2010 can receive a 30-percent tax credit for costs incurred, up to $1,500. Today the Federal Government released clarifying guidelines for qualifying biomass products. The guidelines verify that more than 30 Quadra-Fire® and Harman Home Heating™ products, as well as the Heat & Glo® Northstar and Heatilator® Constitution wood burning units, qualify for the tax credit. The products include EPA-certified wood stoves, fireplaces and inserts, as well as pellet stoves, fireplaces, inserts, furnaces and boilers. Quadra-Fire, Harman, Heat & Glo and Heatilator are brands of Hearth & Home Technologies, based in Lakeville, Minnesota. “In addition to enjoying the ambience of a wood or pellet burning appliance, homeowners now have another reason to install wood or pellet burning products in their homes,” said John Shimek, vice president of marketing for Hearth & Home Technologies. “With multiple designs and styles to choose from, qualifying products have the most advanced technologies for fuel and heat efficiency and are backed by a limited lifetime warranty.” For a complete listing of qualifying products and to find a dealer, visit <a href="http://www.quadrafire.com/" target="_blank">www.quadrafire.com</a>, <a href="http://www.harmanstoves.com/" target="_blank">www.harmanstoves.com</a>, <a href="http://www.heatnglo.com/" target="_blank">www.heatnglo.com</a>, or <a href="http://www.heatilator.com/" target="_blank">www.heatilator.com</a>. After the purchase, the homeowner can obtain an Official Manufacturer’s Certificate from the manufacture’s website or their dealer. It certifies that the product qualifies for the tax credit, and the homeowner can rely on the certificate when preparing his or her tax return. Homeowners are not required to submit the certificate or a product sales receipt to the government, but should retain them for their records. The benefits of heating with biomass There are multiple benefits to installing a wood or pellet burning appliance to produce heat in your home. Financial benefits are derived for years to come with reduced heating costs. And prices for wood and pellets are predictable when compared to propane, oil and natural gas, which can fluctuate greatly. “There are significant environmental benefits derived from heating your home with biomass,” said Dan Henry, chief technical officer for Hearth & Home Technologies. “Burning wood and pellets is considered carbon-neutral since only the carbon the tree or plant absorbed when growing is released into the air, contributing to less greenhouse gases.” About EPA-certified wood burning fireplaces, stoves and inserts Technological advancements have made today’s wood stoves, fireplaces and inserts considerably more efficient than dated models. EPA-certified wood burning units are up to 85-percent efficient, producing more heat with less wood to provide warmth and comfort for many hours. They are clean-burning with less ash and minimal outside air emissions. Complete combustion is achieved through high temperatures, ample oxygen and sufficient burning of gases before they are exhausted. It can also eliminate the accumulation of creosote, a flammable chimney residue. They are perfect for homeowners who want to live green and also enjoy the crackling sounds and flickering flames of burning wood. Quadra-Fire, Harman, Heat & Glo and Heatilator EPA-certified wood units: • Burn wood fuel, which is renewable and considered carbon-neutral • Produce low outside air particulate emissions • Are the cleanest burning, most efficient wood appliances available today • Qualify within green construction building programs, such as LEED® for Homes About pellet burning fireplaces, stoves and inserts Pellet appliances have great heating efficiencies and low emissions. They are easy to operate with built-in fuel hoppers and feeding devices that move pellets in small groups to the combustion chamber. The various Quadra-Fire and Harman models have control panels or wall-mounted thermostats to control heat and minimize fuel consumption. Quadra-Fire and Harman pellet burning fireplaces: • Burn cleaner than any other type of biomass hearth system • Have the lowest outside air particulate emissions • Are the most efficient biomass hearth systems • Utilize renewable biomass fuel, which is considered carbon-neutral • Qualify within green construction building programs, such as LEED® for Homes Pellets burn cleaner than virtually any other biomass fuel and produce low particulate matter, helping to reduce air pollution. They are made from compacted sawdust, wood chips, bark, agricultural crop waste, waste paper and other organic materials. Burning pellets is a constructive way to reuse material that may otherwise go to a landfill. Wood pellets are typically purchased in 40-pound bags for between $5 and $7, providing up to 24 hours of steady heat. Controlling energy costs and reducing fossil fuel consumption Increasing concerns about controlling heating costs and living green have many homeowners turning to renewable fuels for supplemental or whole home heating. For the same reasons, the U.S. government is supporting and promoting the use of biomass appliances for heat. Qualifying Quadra-Fire, Harman, Heat & Glo and Heatilator biomass units are clean-burning with low emissions, eliminating approximately 75-percent of carbon emissions associated with fossil fuel heating. For more information about the tax credit, visit <a href="http://www.irs.gov/" target="_blank">http://www.irs.gov/</a>. About Hearth & Home Technologies Inc. Hearth & Home Technologies is the world’s leading provider of whole hearth systems including fireplaces, stoves and inserts, as well as furnaces that utilize biomass fuels. Its family of brands includes Harman™, Heatilator®, Heat & Glo®, Quadra-Fire® and Fireside Hearth & Home® retail stores and builder design centers. The company offers a wide variety of energy efficient and environmentally sustainable hearth products, which are manufactured, packaged and delivered with respect for the environment. Hearth & Home Technologies is a subsidiary of HNI Corporation (NYSE: HNI), the second largest office furniture manufacturer in the United States. More information can be found at <a href="http://www.hearthnhome.com/" target="_blank">www.hearthnhome.com</a>. </article> <article> <h1>New! The Quadra-Fire 5700 Step Top</h1> <p>Administrator — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 14:37:00 GMT</p> This free-standing wood burning stove features Quadra-Fire’s exclusive ACC Technology, designed for ease of lighting, lengthen burn times and reduce the risk of over-firing. Like all Quadra-Fire wood stoves, it uses the four combustion zones for burning wood gasses, putting more heat into the home and less pollution and heat up the chimney. <a href="/Products/5700-Step-Top-Wood-Stove.aspx">More information and photo ></a> </article> <article> <h1>New! The Quadra-Fire QFP38</h1> <p>Administrator — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 14:36:00 GMT</p> The QFP38 direct vent gas fireplace by Quadra-Fire has more standard features than any product in its category. It also has a 78 percent turn-down capability, so you can adjust the heat however you’d like. The large-scale fireplace is big, bold and beautiful! <a href="/Products/QFP38-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">More information and photo ></a> </article> <article> <h1>Heatilator Introduces the Rave</h1> <p>Administrator — Tue, 19 May 2009 14:30:00 GMT</p> Heatilator® is proud to debut the Rave – the industry’s best-valued modern landscape fireplace. This direct vent gas fireplace has the straightforward, contemporary styling that so many homeowners want today. Not only is it attractive, but it has a very competitive price tag. <a href="/Products/Rave-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">More information ></a> </article> <article> <h1>Now Available: The Quadra-Fire EDGE 60</h1> <p>Administrator — Mon, 04 May 2009 14:28:00 GMT</p> Quadra-Fire® has launched the EDGE™ 60, the first-ever pellet fireplace to hit the market. This powerful, high performance fireplace is available in several styles from traditional to modern, and is specifically designed for supplemental home heating. <a href="/Products/EDGE-60-Pellet-Fireplace.aspx">More information ></a> </article> <article> <h1>New! The Heat & Glo Metro 32</h1> <p>Administrator — Fri, 01 May 2009 14:27:00 GMT</p> The Metro 32 is a clean, affordable 32" gas direct vent fireplace. It features modern, stylish design and fits perfectly into smaller living spaces. <a href="/Products/Metro-32-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">More information ></a> </article> <article> <h1>Now Available – The Heat & Glo RED40</h1> <p>Administrator — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:31:00 GMT</p> Heat & Glo® changed the landscape of modern gas fireplaces and now everyone is seeing RED – Rectangular European Design. Longer than tall in shape, these sleek fireplaces have become the most popular style of modern fireplace in the industry. The new Heat & Glo RED40 is available as both a single-side fireplace and as a see through fireplace (RED40-ST). <a href="/Products/RED-Series-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">More information on the RED Series ></a> <a href="/Products/RED-40-See-Through-Gas-Fireplace.aspx">More information on the RED See-Though fireplace ></a> </article> <article> <h1>Quadra-Fire® EDGE 60 Receives Top Hearth Industry Awards</h1> <p>Administrator — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 14:24:00 GMT</p> Quadra-Fire®, a brand of Hearth & Home Technologies, the world’s leading fireplace manufacturer, won top honors for its new EDGE™ 60 pellet fireplace at the industry’s Vesta Awards in Reno, Nevada, late last week. The EDGE 60 was the recipient of the Green Award for hearth products, as well as the award for the best Pellet Fireplace. New this year, the Green Award recognizes the organization and product for environmental responsibility in nine areas, including minimization of environmental impact during manufacturing and in-home use energy and raw material conservation during manufacture renewable energy used in manufacture energy conservation in the home, renewable fuels and energy return on energy investment and practicality. The Vesta Awards, which are conferred at the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Expo each year, are sponsored by Hearth & Home Magazine, a publication of Village West Publishing. The awards honor companies whose hearth, patio and barbecue products demonstrate the best innovative design and technology in the industry. Judging teams are made up of retailers, distributors, product designers, test lab engineers, affiliate leaders and industry experts. For the fifth time in seven years, Hearth & Home Technologies products have taken top honors at the Vesta Awards. The Quadra-Fire EDGE 60 is the industry’s first pellet fireplace. While free standing pellet stoves and inserts have been available for several years, never before have homeowners been able to purchase a zero clearance pellet fireplace. The EDGE 60 is a powerful, high performance fireplace that can deliver 60,000 Btus of heat per hour, providing warmth to 2,500 square feet of living space. Since pellets are a renewable fuel, burn very clean and produce few particulates, homeowners who install and utilize an EDGE 60 are contributing to a greener environment. “This product brings together two of the hearth industry’s big hitters – clean-burning fireplaces and renewable pellet fuel,” said Jeni Forman, Quadra-Fire brand manager. “Heating with pellet fuels is considered carbon neutral, so it does not affect a person’s carbon footprint. In fact, homeowners who supplement their home’s central heat with a pellet fireplace, stove or insert can attain the same CO2 reduction of owning three hybrid cars. We are pleased and honored to receive these awards for the EDGE 60.” The EDGE 60 pellet fireplace will be available at Quadra-Fire dealers starting in the second quarter of 2009. <a href="/Products/EDGE-60-Pellet-Fireplace.aspx">Product images and additional information.</a> The Heat & Glo® Solaris™ 36-ST, also a Hearth & Home Technologies product, received the Best of Show Vesta Award, as well as the top Gas Fireplace Award. The Solaris, which is a circular see through gas fireplace, will be available at Heat & Glo dealers starting the fourth quarter of 2009. Quadra-Fire® is a brand of Hearth & Home Technologies Inc. Quadra-Fire hearth products deliver high performance, precision control and lasting durability, helping homeowners capture fire’s full potential as a clean heating source, while enjoying the beauty of fire in their homes. Durable, high-efficiency Quadra-Fire stoves, inserts and fireplaces meet the guidelines established by the USGBC LEED® for Homes and NAHB Green Building Standard for sustainable building practices. Visit <a href="http://www.quadrafire.com/" target="_blank">www.quadrafire.com</a> or call 800-926-4356. About Hearth & Home Technologies Hearth & Home Technologies is the world’s leading provider of whole hearth systems including fireplaces, stoves and inserts, as well as furnaces that utilize biomass fuels. Its family of brands includes Harman™, Heatilator®, Heat & Glo®, Quadra-Fire® and Fireside Hearth & Home® retail stores and builder design centers. The company offers a wide variety of energy efficient and environmentally sustainable hearth products, which are manufactured, packaged and delivered with respect for the environment. Hearth & Home Technologies is a subsidiary of HNI. </article> <article> <h1>Heat & Glo® Solaris Wins Top Industry Awards</h1> <p>Administrator — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 14:20:00 GMT</p> Heat & Glo®, a brand of Hearth & Home Technologies, the world’s leading fireplace manufacturer, won top honors for its Solaris™ 36-ST direct vent gas fireplace at the industry’s Vesta Awards in Reno, Nevada, late last week. The Solaris was the recipient of the coveted Best of Show award, as well as the Best Gas Fireplace award, in the hearth category. The Vesta Awards are conferred at the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Expo each year and are sponsored by Hearth & Home Magazine, a publication of Village West Publishing. The Vesta Awards honor companies whose products demonstrate the best innovative design and technology in the industry. Judging teams are made up of retailers, distributors, product designers, test lab engineers, affiliate leaders and industry experts. For the fifth time in seven years, Hearth & Home Technologies products have taken top honors at the Vesta Awards. Inspired by the setting sun, the Solaris 36-ST is a circular, see through fireplace that features a newly designed burner (30,000 Btus, patent pending) that is completely transparent and suspended mid-way at the center of the fireplace. This produces a flame that appears to be suspended in mid-air – a dramatic effect never seen before in fireplaces. In a portrait style application, the Solaris 36-ST will be positioned much like an interior transom window on a wall. It has a framing depth of less than six inches, making it the shallowest direct vent, see through fireplace ever developed. For the surround, homeowners can choose from 36 color combinations of powder coat or gloss paint to perfectly complement their home’s interior décor. The first of its kind, the Solaris 36-ST fireplace will be available during the fourth quarter 2009 at Heat & Glo dealers. “The Solaris 36-ST will make walls come alive with its circular profile, rolling fire and levitating flames,” said Dave Miller, Heat & Glo brand manager. “It features artistic performance like never seen before in fireplaces. We are pleased and honored to receive these Vesta Awards.” The Quadra-Fire EDGE™ 60 pellet fireplace, also a Hearth & Home Technologies product, received the Vesta Green Award, as well as the Best Pellet Fireplace Award. The EDGE™ 60 is the first pellet fireplace to be introduced to the market and will be available at Quadra-Fire dealers starting the second quarter of 2009. Heat & Glo® is a brand of Hearth & Home Technologies™. Heat & Glo brings together elegance and innovation to offer hearth products with distinct design, sophistication and style that set apart virtually any room of the home. For more information, please visit us online at <a href="http://www.heatnglo.com/" target="_blank">www.heatnglo.com</a>. About Hearth & Home Technologies Hearth & Home Technologies is the world’s leading provider of whole hearth systems including fireplaces, stoves and inserts, as well as furnaces that utilize biomass fuels. Its family of brands includes Harman™, Heatilator®, Heat & Glo®, Quadra-Fire® and Fireside Hearth & Home® retail stores and builder design centers. The company offers a wide variety of energy efficient and environmentally sustainable hearth products, which are manufactured, packaged and delivered with respect for the environment. Hearth & Home Technologies is a subsidiary of HNI Corporation (NYSE: HNI), the second largest office furniture manufacturer in the United States. Visit <a href="http://www.hearthnhome.com/" target="_blank">www.hearthnhome.com</a>. </article> <article> <h1>Slash Heating Costs this Winter: Tips to Help Reduce Heating Bills and Increase Comfort</h1> <p>Administrator — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 14:18:00 GMT</p> Eighty to 90 percent of heat produced in a wood-burning fireplace can be lost up the chimney. While caulking cracks around windows and using compact fluorescent light bulbs and ENERGY STAR® appliances are smart steps toward conversation, one often-overlooked area that has an immediate impact on home energy use is the fireplace. In fact, fireplace options can either harm or help with energy savings, depending on many factors. For instance, is the fireplace vented or non-vented, what type of fuel is used and how much heat escapes the home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling accounts for 56 percent of the energy use in a typical U.S. home, making it the largest energy expense for most homeowners. With crisper temperatures approaching, fireplaces.com provides a valuable resource for homeowners preparing for a season of high heating bills, resulting from increasing energy prices and demand for oil and natural gas. There are a variety of hearth options available to help homeowners keep their homes warm and comfortable, while simultaneously lowering utility bills. • Consider retrofitting energy draining fireplaces with direct vent gas inserts. With little effort, homeowners can convert dated heat-draining wood-burning fireplaces with modern high-efficiency direct vent inserts, which will produce immediate benefits. Operated by the flip of a switch, direct vent gas inserts offer homeowners the greatest level of convenience and little effort. Certified professionals can install a direct vent gas insert into an existing wood-burning fireplace without the need for major construction, heavy remodeling charges or inconvenience. Direct vent gas inserts achieve greater heating efficiency through the use of a sealed system. With this type of system, 100 percent of the combustion air necessary to produce a flame comes from outside the home, eliminating heat loss associated with conventional chimneys. As with wood-burning fireplaces, which can suck the air out of a home, homeowners can see immediate benefits by using this type of hearth. Direct vent gas inserts also ensure healthy indoor air environments and, through lower heating bills, can pay for themselves in a matter of a few years. • Look into renewable zone heating with gas, pellet or wood-burning appliances. Through zone heating, heat is restricted to the most frequently used parts of the home and helps keep a home's heating costs down. Homeowners can turn down the thermostats on the central furnace and have the option of pellet stoves, wood-burning fireplaces or direct vent gas inserts to zone heat their home. With some hearth products, a 3,500 square-foot home can be heated, but ideally homeowners will be able to heat the rooms used the most. • Look for EPA 40 when purchasing wood-burning fireplaces, inserts and stoves. High-efficiency wood-burning fireplaces, inserts and stoves are an attractive choice. Since 1992, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has required this type of fireplace to pass stringent emission tests – meaning new wood-burning fireplaces burn much cleaner and use less wood to produce greater amounts of heat than dated models. Homeowners should look for the EPA 40 certified high-efficiency models, which give the option to burn the appliance on no-burn or low emission days. In addition, they offer up to 78 percent efficiency, making them a powerful home heating source. • Don't wait until winter strikes. Waiting until winter to address high heating bills can be a costly mistake. Waiting to explore options until the cold weather arrives can result in long deliveries and installation delays. Homeowners can review their options and find a reputable dealer by visiting fireplaces.com. Images, product information and industry comments are available upon request. To speak to an expert, contact Katie Burton at 317-873-8100 or katie@millerbrooks.com. About Hearth & Home Technologies Inc. Hearth & Home Technologies leads the industry with a wide range of environmentally sustainable whole hearth systems. The Hearth & Home Technologies family includes Heatilator®, Heat & Glo™, Quadra-Fire® and Harman brand hearth products and Fireside Hearth & Home™ brand hearth design centers. The company's environmentally sustainable fireplaces provide energy efficiency, warmth/comfort and excellent indoor air quality. Hearth & Home Technologies' environmentally sustainable fireplaces are also manufactured, packaged and delivered with respect for the environment. Hearth & Home Technologies is a subsidiary of HNI Corporation (NYSE: HNI), the second largest office furniture manufacturer in the United States. </article> <article> <h1>Ways to Green Up Your Home</h1> <p>Administrator — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 14:12:00 GMT</p> The end of winter comes as a big relief for most Americans, and not just because of the arrival of more comfortable weather. Finally, there’s an end to those record high home heating bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, Americans spent an average of 9.8 percent more on their home heating bills this winter than during the previous year. Heating oil prices went up the most – 21.8 percent over the previous year. The average cost of heating a home using heating oil was $ 1,785 this winter. With the price of a barrel of oil in record territory, it looks like high home heating prices are here to stay, but there are things you can do now while the weather is mild to make sure the impact won’t sting as much next year. Here are some steps you can take to green up your home today: * Replace your old fireplace with an EPA certified clean-burning wood fireplace. They are a lot more energy efficient than standard wood burning fireplaces because they provide heat by burning both the wood and the resulting smoke. “Half the heat generated in an EPA certified appliance, whether it’s a stove, an insert or fireplace, comes from burning the smoke. Upgrading to one of these means less trips to the wood pile, cleaning the chimney less and cleaner air outside,” says Steve Tate of Quadra-Fire, the leading manufacturer of clean-burning hearth appliances. * If burning firewood isn't for you, another option is to convert your wood burning fireplace into a powerful, high efficiency heat source with a Quadra-Fire pellet-burning insert that fits into your existing wood-burning fireplace. Pellets are made of sawdust and wood waste from lumber yards, furniture factories and other wood industries. “By burning pellets, you can enjoy natural sustainable heat that is not only more green, but more convenient and consistent as well. If you set your unit’s thermostat at 72, it will warm your home to that temperature then shut off and won’t overheat the space,” says Tate. * If you want the convenience of a gas fireplace, look for one with direct-vent technology that meets the criteria for the Energy Star Indoor Air Package. Heat & Glo and Heatilator are good choices. In addition to greening up your home heating, here are some other environmentally friendly upgrades you may want to consider: * When it comes time to upgrade your flooring, consider using reclaimed wood. There are several companies in the marketplace that offer planks made out of boards recovered from old barns and buildings. * Equip your home with a rainwater catchment system that collects, filters, stores and delivers rainwater for non-potable uses in the home, such as for toilets. Rainwater is diverted from the roof, filtered, and then stored in an underground holding tank next to the home. For more information about these and other heating options available, visit <a href="http://www.fireplaces.com/">www.fireplaces.com</a>. </article> <article> <h1>Hearth & Home Technologies™ Offers Industry-Leading Green Portfolio of Whole Hearth Systems</h1> <p>Administrator — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:05:00 GMT</p> Hearth & Home Technologies showcases the industry’s strongest portfolio of environmentally friendly whole hearth systems at the 2008 International Builders’ Show®, Feb. 13 – 16, 2008, in Orlando, Fla., at the Orange County Convention Center. The company offers a full suite of products that promote both energy efficiency and air quality through the use of clean-burning gas, electric and EPA-approved wood-burning fireplaces and stoves under their brands Heat & Glo™, Heatilator®, Quadra-Fire® and Harman brand fireplaces. “We are proud that green is simply just part of the fabric of Hearth & Home Technologies,” says Tim Rethlake, vice president of Hearth & Home Technologies’ New Construction Sales Growth. “Green is undeniably the new frontier in the building industry, and thanks to leaders like the National Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) who are making real and sustainable change with forward-thinking professional programs, the industry will soon catch up to homeowners’ demands to live in environments that support the health of people and our planet.” When installing fireplaces in new homes, Hearth & Home Technologies encourages builders to refer to NAHB Model Green Home Building Guidelines. Most notable among the company’s green pursuits is its invention of the direct-vent gas fireplace in the mid-1980s by Heat & Glo™, which revolutionized the hearth industry by permitting safe gas fireplace installation virtually anywhere in the home. Unlike unvented or vent-free gas fireplaces, direct-vent gas models directly expel 100 percent of the fireplace’s combustion exhaust, moisture and odors. Indoor air quality does not have a chance of being compromised because a sealed glass front keeps by-products such as carbon monoxide, nitrous oxide and excess moisture from entering the home. In addition, most of Hearth & Home Technologies’ direct-vent fireplaces operate at 72 percent thermal efficiency. “It’s gratifying to be an active participant in the sustainable movement by promoting clean technologies like direct-vent and refusing to make or sell hearth systems that continue to cause unhealthy indoor and outdoor air quality or create excess moisture,” adds Rethlake. “The direct-vent technology is now the most popular type of venting among all manufacturers and is acknowledged as the best green innovation for modern fireplaces across the board. Our invention of direct vent fireplaces was recently recognized by the Energy & Environmental Building Association (EEBA) as one of the top 25 technology breakthroughs in residential construction.” Hearth & Home Technologies’ direct-vent technology helps builders achieve the best building practices prescribed in several national green programs including the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED® for Homes Rating System, ENERGY STAR’s Indoor Air Package, the American Lung Association’s® Health House® program, and the NAHB Model Green Home Building Guidelines. Hearth & Home Technologies leads the industry with a wide range of environmentally sustainable whole hearth systems. The Hearth & Home Technologies family includes Heatilator®, Heat & Glo™, Quadra-Fire® and Harman brand hearth products and Fireside Hearth & Home™ brand hearth design centers. The company’s environmentally sustainable fireplaces provide energy-efficiency, warmth/comfort and excellent indoor air quality. Hearth & Home Technologies’ environmentally sustainable fireplaces are also manufactured, packaged and delivered with respect for the environment. Hearth & Home Technologies is a subsidiary of HNI Corporation (NYSE: HNI), the second largest office furniture manufacturer in the United States. </article> <article> <h1>Reduce Home Heating Costs with Wood Pellet Appliances</h1> <p>Administrator — Wed, 19 Jul 2006 14:03:00 GMT</p> Sawdust. Once just a by-product found in lumber mills and woodshop floors, it is now a popular fuel for heating homes. According to the Pellet Fuels Institute, more than 600,000 homes in the United States and Canada use wood pellets as an economical and environmentally-friendly heat source. Made from 100% wood saw dust, wood pellets rose to fame during the 1970's energy crisis. Since then, numerous pellet stove and pellet fireplace insert manufacturers have emerged to meet the growing demand for this clean, cost-effective heat source. Wood pellet fuel provides multiple benefits. Perhaps the most attractive being a highly-economical means to heat a room or home. A 40-lb bag of pellet fuel costs $3-$5.00 each and can provide up to 24 hours of steady heat. On average, a winter's supply of wood pellets is about 100-150 bags - depending on climate and lifestyle variations. And when compared to the price fluctuations of electricity, gas and oil, a price of a 40-lb bag of wood pellets has remained virtually the same over the past decade. By burning cleaner than virtually any other fuel, wood pellets also help reduce air pollution. For example, the particulate emissions from a pellet stove are approximately 1.2 grams per hour compared to 7.5 grams per hour for a typical wood stove. Additionally, after burning wood pellet fuel, little ash is left over, reducing clean up. And wood pellets produce virtually no creosote - a major cause of chimney fires. Wood pellets also reduce the burden on landfills by creating commercial demand for sawdust, which would otherwise be considered waste. Perhaps best of all, wood pellets are a renewable energy source unlike oil and gas. Homeowners interested in burning wood pellet fuel can find quality pellet appliances between $1,800 - $3,400, depending on size, style and options. For those with an existing woodburning fireplace, a pellet fireplace insert can convert it into a highly efficient heating system. And now thanks to Quadra-Fire®, a homeowner has a great new choice in a high efficiency insert. Quadra-Fire's Santa Fe™ pellet fireplace insert combats rising energy costs, while also serving as a visual asset in the home. It features a clean line look that fits nicely with contemporary home décor. Even though its burnished steel design produces a softer looking exterior than traditional cast iron fireplace inserts, the Santa Fe's rugged burner and combustion system generates efficient performance, making it a highly-effective and clean way to heat a 1,200 square foot home or living area. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.quadrafire.com" target="_blank">www.quadrafire.com</a>. </article> <article> <h1>Don’t Let Money Float Up the Flue</h1> <p>Administrator — Thu, 08 Jun 2006 13:59:00 GMT</p> <em>Why a Fireplace Insert Should be Your Top Remodel Project</em> Do you have a standard woodburning fireplace? If so, did you know that it can actually be a source of heat loss for your home? According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), a woodburning fireplace can exhaust as much as 24,000 cubic feet of air per hour to the outside, which in turn draws in cold air from the outside through the home's doors and windows. And since older woodburning fireplaces are only -15 to +15 percent efficient, the DOE considers them one of the most inefficient heat sources a homeowner can use. In this era of rising fuel costs now is the time to convert your old woodburning fireplace into a highly-efficient gas, pellet or woodburning fireplace insert. This remodeling project not only enhances the aesthetics and beauty of your overall living environment, but also provides home energy savings. In fact, converting to a fireplace insert can make the fireplace up to 85 percent efficient. Fireplaces inserts come in variety of shapes and styles to fit the décor of your home. You can select an insert that burns gas, wood or pellet fuel. Determining which fuel type is right for you requires considering fuel cost and availability, the desired efficiency and heat output, level of interaction and maintenance requirements, as well as the desired appearance of the fire. <strong>Gas Fireplace Inserts </strong> Operating at a flip of a switch, gas fireplace inserts offer you the greatest level of convenience. With a gas fireplace insert you'll no longer have to deal with the hassles of cleaning ash or hauling wood into the home. Gas fireplace inserts consist of a gas log set installed in a steel or ceramic molded firebox with two flexible vent pipes that run to the outside through the existing chimney. Many units have fans to assist heat movement into the room and are available with wall-mounted thermostats or remote controls so you can program them for automatic operation like your furnace. When considering a gas fireplace insert, you should look to A.F.U.E. (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rated direct vent gas fireplace inserts as the smartest choice. A.F.U.E. rated fireplace inserts are tested to the same standard as furnaces. Direct vent gas fireplace inserts achieve greater heating efficiency than a woodburning fireplace because they feature a sealed combustion system. This means that 100 percent of the combustion air necessary to produce a flame comes from outside the home through a direct vent pipe, eliminating the heat loss associated with conventional chimneys. Up to 85 percent of the heat direct vent gas fireplace inserts generate remains in the house. In addition, the direct vent pipe expels 100 percent of the fire's combustion exhaust outside the home, protecting indoor air quality. In fact, the American Lung Association states that direct vent appliances are the healthiest hearth choice a consumer can make. Due to their high efficiency, direct vent gas fireplace inserts can pay for themselves in a matter of a few years through lower heating bills. <strong>Pellet-burning Fireplace Inserts </strong> Pellet-burning inserts continue to gain favor with homeowners because it can cost as little as $3.00 to provide 24 hours of steady heat. Thanks to state-of-the-art technology, pellet-burning inserts are convenient, easy-to-use and highly-efficient. They require simply loading pellet fuel such as wood pellets or corn into the hopper and starting the unit. An automatic feed system delivers the pellets into the burn chamber. Quadra-Fire takes the technology even further with its new Mt. Vernon Advanced Energy Insert. Offering up to 75 percent efficiency, the Mt Vernon Advanced Energy Insert automatically tracks and adjusts heat output, and automatically cleans itself without interrupting heat output. In addition, the Mt. Vernon Advanced Energy Insert informs you that the fuel hopper is low, fuel quality is poor or a part needs replacement or maintenance. It also operates on multiple pellet fuels including wood pellets and corn making it one of the most versatile inserts on the market. <strong>Woodburning Fireplace Inserts </strong> For those that can't stand the thought of a fire without the crackle and aroma of burning wood, highly-efficient woodburning inserts are an attractive choice. Regulations enacted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) require wood fireplace inserts manufactured and sold after July 1, 1992 to pass stringent emission tests. This means woodburning inserts burn much cleaner than older models and use less wood to obtain greater amounts of heat. You can install woodburning fireplace inserts flush to the wall for a more traditional appearance or extended onto the hearth for additional radiant heating. In addition, they offer up to 78 percent efficiency making them a powerful home heating source with some units capable of heating 3,500 sq. ft. <strong>Installation Considerations </strong> Gas, pellet-burning and woodburning fireplace inserts range in price from $1,399 to $2,599; For those that do not want a real flame or have venting issues, an electric fireplace insert can be purchased for under $500.00. You can install a fireplace insert on your own, however, it's highly-recommended a factory-trained professional perform the installation to ensure accordance with local and national building codes. Installation costs vary widely depending on each homeowner's circumstances and location; however, $500-$900 is an average range. This includes obtaining a gas permit if necessary and labor. To view a Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association checklist on what to consider when selecting a fireplace insert, click on the following link: <a href="/Resources/Shopping-Tools/Pre-Shopping-Checklist.aspx">HPBA fireplace insert checklist</a>. <table style="BORDER-BOTTOM: #333333 1px solid; BORDER-LEFT: #333333 1px solid; PADDING-BOTTOM: 5px; PADDING-LEFT: 5px; PADDING-RIGHT: 5px; BORDER-TOP: #333333 1px solid; BORDER-RIGHT: #999999 1px solid; PADDING-TOP: 5px" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="10" align="center"> <tbody> <tr> <td width="50%" align="center">Before: </td> <td width="50%" align="center">After: </td></tr></tbody></table> </article> <article> <h1>Fireplace Insert Before & After Images</h1> <p>Administrator — Thu, 08 Jun 2006 13:54:00 GMT</p> The image on the left is a standard masonry woodburning fireplace, which is great for creating ambiance but is one of the most inefficient heat sources a homeowner can use. To achieve greater convenience and boost the fireplace's efficiency by up to 85 percent, this homeowner converted their old masonry fireplace into high-efficiency gas insert as pictured on the right. <table style="BORDER-RIGHT: #999999 1px solid; PADDING-RIGHT: 5px; BORDER-TOP: #333333 1px solid; PADDING-LEFT: 5px; PADDING-BOTTOM: 5px; BORDER-LEFT: #333333 1px solid; PADDING-TOP: 5px; BORDER-BOTTOM: #333333 1px solid" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="10" align="center"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" width="50%">Before:<br /> </td> <td align="center" width="50%">After:<br /> </td> </tr> </tbody></table> Operating at a flip of a switch, gas fireplace inserts offer you the greatest level of convenience. With a gas fireplace insert you'll no longer have to deal with the hassles of cleaning ash or hauling wood into the home. Gas fireplace inserts consist of a gas log set installed in a steel or ceramic molded firebox with two flexible vent pipes that run to the outside through the existing chimney. Many units have fans to assist heat movement into the room and are available with wall-mounted thermostats or remote controls so you can program them for automatic operation like your furnace. Thanks to their high efficiency, direct vent gas fireplace inserts can pay for themselves in a matter of a few years through lower heating bills. </article> <article> <h1>Checklist: How to Select a Fireplace Insert</h1> <p>Administrator — Wed, 07 Jun 2006 13:56:00 GMT</p> The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA) recommends considering the following information when selecting a fireplace insert: <strong>TYPE:</strong> Fireplace inserts are distinguished by fuel. There are six different types: natural gas, propane, electric, EPA-certified wood, pellet and coal. <strong>SIZE:</strong> There are many sizes of fireplace inserts, from small to extremely large. The key factor in selecting the size is based on the opening of the existing fireplace. To determine the right size, measure the following: opening height; opening width; opening depth (top and bottom); rear width and the depth of the hearth (area in front of fireplace). <strong>LOCATION:</strong> A fireplace insert needs to be placed in an existing masonry or factory-built fireplace with a working chimney. <strong>VENTING:</strong> Fireplace inserts are either vented naturally through a working chimney, direct vented or vent-free, depending on fuel choice. In most cases, a chimney liner is required. The type and size of the liner is specific to the fuel. <strong>FEATURES:</strong> Fireplace inserts are made from steel or cast iron and may also have optional fans to better distribute heat into a room, as well as wall thermostatic, or remote controls, to help regulate the fire automatically. <strong>STYLE:</strong> The style of fireplace inserts varies among fuel types. But, no matter what the fuel type, all fireplace inserts come in a variety of colors, finishes and designs, from modern to traditional. <strong>INSTALLATION:</strong> To ensure the safe and reliable installation of a fireplace insert, the HPBA recommends that people use a specialty retailer and a certified professional installer. In addition to assessing the construction of a house, the professional will obtain the necessary building permits and make sure that the installation meets all local and state codes. He or she will also ensure that the insert is as airtight as possible, using approved fireplace insulating materials, to make the fire easier to control and increase the heat output. In the case of gas, the professional installer will carefully adjust the fireplace to ensure the proper appearance of the flame. <strong>MAINTENANCE:</strong> The level of maintenance required for fireplace inserts depends on the chosen fuel type. A fireplace insert generally needs to be removed when the appliance is being maintained. But, no matter what type of fireplace insert is selected, the HPBA suggests that the chimney be inspected on an annual basis by a chimney sweep certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America. <strong>AVERAGE COST:</strong> The price of the unit itself is only part of the total cost of owning a fireplace insert. Other requirements include installation, delivery, annual fuel costs and annual maintenance. </article> <article> <h1>Look to Gas Fireplaces for Home Heating Help</h1> <p>Administrator — Mon, 17 Oct 2005 13:50:00 GMT</p> With homeowners facing the inevitable crunch of rising energy prices this heating season, Hearth & Home Technologies, the world’s largest fireplace manufacturer and leading provider of hearth products, reminds homeowners that wise use of gas fireplaces can significantly reduce their monthly heating bill. While higher natural gas and liquid propane prices may tempt cost-conscious homeowners to limit their gas fireplace use, gas fireplaces can actually reduce dependence on a central furnace—providing immediate cost savings. <strong>Zone Heating with Gas Fireplaces</strong> By practicing zone heating with gas fireplaces, homeowners heat the room or living area where people spend the most time. This allows them to turn down the thermostat on their central furnace and use the gas fireplace as a supplemental heat source. As the central heating supply, furnaces distribute heat across the entire house including rooms that are not in use. Operating a furnace for one hour at 75,000 -100,000 Btu cost a homeowner $1.12 - $1.49 based on last month’s national average natural gas rate. By comparison, a natural gas fireplace running at 30,000 Btu per hour cost only 45 cents. From a financial standpoint, it makes sense to limit the furnace output whenever possible and heat the most frequently used rooms with a gas fireplace. “Homeowners spend the majority of their time usually in the family room and kitchen,” said Trisha Gregory, retail channel marketing manager, Hearth & Home Technologies. “By adding a gas fireplace to the family room, homeowners can the heat the space they spend the most time in. And if the family room is in the lower level of the home, homeowners gain the advantage of the natural heat rising to other levels of the home.” <strong>What to Look For</strong> Homeowners considering buying a gas fireplace should first look for units that are A.F.U.E. (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rated. A.F.U.E. gas fireplaces are tested to the same standard used to rate today’s energy efficient furnaces. The second thing to look for is direct vent gas fireplaces. Direct vent gas fireplaces burn efficiently with up to 70 percent of the heat they generate remaining in the house. Direct vent gas technology allows gas fireplaces to install in virtually any room of the home at a fraction of the cost of a masonry fireplace. This makes them an ideal choice for zone heating. They are particularly effective for zone heating because people absorb the radiant heat from the glass front while the firebox also heats the air in the room. Masonry woodburning fireplaces in comparison can lose up 85 percent of the fire’s heat through the chimney. Direct vent gas fireplaces also conveniently operate at the push of a button via a wall control or remote control. And they do not require any ash clean up after use. Unlike unvented or vent free gas fireplaces, direct vent gas fireplaces also ensure a healthy breathing environment by expelling 100 percent of the unwanted combustion gases and moisture directly outside the home. <strong>Latest Cost-Saving Technology</strong> In addition to zone heating savings, homeowners can save up to $12 each month on their gas bill by selecting a direct vent gas fireplace with an intermittent pilot ignition (IPI) system. For example, Heat & Glo™, Heatilator® and Quadra-Fire® brand direct vent gas fireplaces feature a patented IPI system known as Intellifire®. This electric ignition system eliminates to keep the pilot light always lit to use the fireplace. The IPI system automatically turns on the pilot when the homeowner turns on the fireplace. An IPI system can reduce as much as half the gas used by a fireplace, over nine million Btu per year, by turning on and off the pilot light. Heat & Glo, Heatilator and Quadra-Fire also offer Heat-Zone™ technology to further reduce heating costs. Different from zone heating, Heat-Zone allows homeowners to disperse heat from the fireplace up to two other rooms in their home. With a Heat-Zone option turned on, the fireplace directs heat to another location through flexible ducting that’s finished off with a standard floor grate. A fan system draws the air from around the firebox and pushes it into an area where warmth is more desirable at the time. It’s the perfect answer for those wanting a flexible heat source for more than one room without maintaining a higher setting on their furnace. Another heat enhancing feature available only on Heat & Glo, Heatilator and Quadra-Fire brand gas fireplaces and fireplace inserts is Firebrick™ technology. FireBrick is a patented technology that replaces the fireplace’s metal firebox with a molded ceramic material. This creates a seamless firebox that generates up to 15 percent more radiant heat than its metal counterparts. Instead of losing heat due to convection through the sides and back of a metal firebox, Firebrick technology directs the additional heat into the room. In fact, Firebrick fireboxes generate so much radiant heat they don’t require a fan to disperse heat into the room. Some new direct vent gas fireplaces are even programmable enabling a homeowner to program the unit to light or shut off at anytime. For example, the Heat & Glo Soulstice™ direct vent gas fireplace is a stylish fireplace that’s ideal for intimate spaces such as the master suite. It comes standard with a sleep timer so homeowners can fall to sleep to the warmth and beauty of a fire or wake up to one. As a result, homeowners can limit their furnace use earlier in the evening and delay its use in the morning. Homeowners concerned about reducing their heating bill can look to gas fireplaces as a viable solution. By using the appliances properly and employing the latest technology available, they can obtain a functional supplemental heat source while also reaping the lifestyle benefits that come from spending time in front of the hearth. Hearth & Home Technologies is the world’s largest fireplace manufacturer and a leading provider of hearth products for the home. The Hearth & Home Technologies family includes Heat & Glo™, Heatilator® and Quadra-Fire® brand hearth products and Fireside Hearth & Home™ brand hearth retail stores. More information on Hearth & Home Technologies can be found at <a href="http://www.hearthnhome.com/" target="_blank">www.hearthnhome.com</a>. </article> <article> <h1>Outdoor Rooms: A Space for All Seasons</h1> <p>Administrator — Wed, 24 Aug 2005 13:33:00 GMT</p> We're all spending more time at home these days, it seems. Whether it's greater focus on family time or an emphasis on staying in to entertain friends rather than going out, Americans are all about the comforts of home. And we're not content to stay within four walls anymore. Outdoor living rooms, complete with comfortable furniture, fire pits and outdoor fireplaces, continue to gain popularity with homeowners. There's even a trend toward outdoor kitchens - wonderful gathering spots for spending time with family and entertaining friends. <strong>The Outside is In</strong> Outdoor living is catching on all over the country. According to the National Association of Home Builders, more than half the single-family houses built today have a patio or deck. And the Census Bureau says that more than $50 billion of the $172 billion consumers spent on remodeling last year was spent on the outsides of homes - a great way to add more character and style while also increasing the home's value. Statistics show that adding outdoor amenities is a smart way to spend construction dollars. In some markets, adding a deck or patio gives you a return on investment of more than 200 percent when you sell your home, according to <em>Money</em> magazine. Because appraisers regard decks and patios as permanent structures, they add to your home's appraised value. The best time to add an outdoor living room is when you're building. It costs up to 60 percent less to build such a space during initial construction than it does to add it later. <strong>Bringing the Hearth Outdoors</strong> Warming up an outdoor living room is easy with the wide variety of outdoor fireplace designs available today. These fireplaces bring the traditional hearth outside with weather-resistant construction plus all the features of indoor fireplaces. Traditional masonry is one option, but design innovations in stainless-steel construction let you get the look of masonry at a fraction of the cost. You can choose a wood-burning fireplace, natural gas or propane. No matter what type you pick, the fireplace can integrate into the design of your home to create true outdoor décor. One great option that can become a stunning focal point for both your indoor and outdoor living rooms is an indoor/outdoor see-through gas fireplace like the Twilight II™ by Heat & Glo™. <strong>No smoke. No ashes. No problem</strong> Outdoor fireplaces let you enjoy a traditional campfire in your own backyard without the traditional hassles. "Old-fashioned campfires or fire pits mean that somebody always has smoke in their eyes," said Roger Oxford, Senior Vice President of New Construction at Hearth & Home Technologies. "But today's natural-gas and propane fireplaces and fire pits give you the allure of a campfire with a clean burn." They also eliminate the chores of chopping and hauling firewood, tending a fire and cleaning up ashes afterward: outdoor gas fireplaces operate at the touch of a switch. You can even order an unfinished fireplace and customize it with stucco, tile, brick, or stone that complement the design of your home. <strong>Grilling Goes Upscale</strong> According to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, 60 percent of people who cook outdoors do so all year long, no matter the weather. To satisfy these al fresco gourmets, gas grills now rival the highest-end stoves, with stainless-steel construction, convection cooking systems, movable burners and temperature controls. These grills offer the perfect centerpieces for complete outdoor kitchens with islands that provide plenty of counter space, cupboards, and even refrigerators and plumbed sinks. Outdoor kitchens centered around powerful gas grills offer several advantages. Perhaps the most important is that the cook gets to spend more time with family and friends, since there's no running back and forth between an outdoor gathering and the kitchen. In addition, they provide a great way to spend family time away from the TV and other distractions. It's almost like taking a mini-getaway right in your own backyard. <strong>Outdoor Fire Tips</strong> Keep the following tips in mind when considering or using an outdoor fire: • Before installing an outdoor fireplace or fire pit, make sure to check the needed clearance from other combustibles • Keep a close eye on children and pets around any outdoor heat source • Check with your local fire department to make sure your outdoor fire meets city fire codes For more safety tips, or to see all the available options for maximizing your outdoor living space, consult your builder or your local fireplace retailer. </article> <article> <h1>In the Market for a Fireplace?</h1> <p>Administrator — Wed, 24 Aug 2005 13:32:00 GMT</p> If you're in the market for a fireplace, no doubt you're attracted by the hearth design and the beauty of the flames. But, don't let visions of dancing flames and creamy stone mantels dim your decision-making. Here are a few important elements to consider when shopping for a fireplace. <strong>1) Find a Full Hearth Solution Tested by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) </strong> UL has been testing products for public safety for more than a century. Their standards are essential to ensuring safety, reducing costs and improving quality. Make sure your hearth is tested to UL standards. It's important that mantel clearances are deemed safe. Stains and lacquers should be heat-resistant. This ensures that they will not melt or bubble from the heat. A hearth system with a UL listing means that every component - from the fireplace to venting system to termination cap - is a perfect fit and is 100% compatible. You'll have the security of knowing your hearth system has been approved by the United States' most reputable safety organization. Don't buy a fireplace without the UL listing! <strong>2) Purchase a Brand Name </strong> When buying a fuel-burning appliance, it's smart to go with an established brand. Find a company that has built a reputation for quality products and expert craftsmanship. Look for brands with the following attributes: • Known for excellence, functionality and reliability • Have track records to prove their continued reliability • Have low service call rates • Tested to UL standards for safety assurance and installation confidence Keep in mind that buying a reputable brand will save you time and money down the road. <strong>3) Select a Fireplace that Suits Your Lifestyle </strong> Direct vent gas fireplaces look just like traditional fireplaces; however, they solve some of the problems of their woodburning forerunners. Direct vent fireplaces take advantage of zero-clearance technology, which means they don't need foundations or chimneys. They burn efficiently, extracting most of their heat from the combustion gases. And direct vent gas fireplaces expel 100% of the unwelcome combustion gases and moisture directly outside the home. Venting is usually out through a wall or roof. Direct vent fireplaces are also easier and less expensive to install than masonry units. And you have greater flexibility for the hearth's placement in your home. Unvented gas fireplaces, conversely, bring unwanted by-products into your home. During operation, they consume oxygen from the home and, in return, may create soot and strong combustion odors. There is also a risk of moisture build-up, which causes mold and mildew. Also, because of the burner's design, unvented fireplaces burn less authentic-looking fires. Even though codes in some parts of the country allow unvented fireplaces, the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission recommends choosing vented appliances whenever possible. Woodburning fireplace experiences evoke feelings of nostalgia for many homeowners with their unmistakable look, sound and smell. The design of today's woodburning fireplaces makes them more environmentally responsible than ever. Many models, like those in the Heatilator ® Constitution ™ line, comply with the strictest government air-quality regulations, and can even be used in communities that have imposed bans on conventional woodburning fireplaces. Electric fireplaces offer the ultimate in convenience and flexibility. You can enjoy a fire at the touch of a switch in any room you'd like. There's also no need for a chimney, venting, or gas line – simply plug it in! Minimal installation also means instant gratification. Take it home and enjoy the warming glow of an electric fireplace the same day. <strong>4) Consider an Ongoing Maintenance Plan </strong> Most of us don't realize that gas fireplaces need annual tune-ups, just like other gas appliances. Manufacturers recommend that your fireplace be inspected and maintained annually by a qualified service technician. This ensures your appliance's continued safe and efficient operation. Technicians can perform a comprehensive inspection of your appliance and advise you of any necessary repairs. <br />Fireside Hearth & Home, America's leading hearth retailer, offers an innovative maintenance plan that is ideal for homeowners. The plan involves visiting your home each year to: • Clean the pilot assembly and glass • Check venting and drafting • Vacuum the firebox and burner • Test for any gas leaks and carbon monoxide • Touch up painted surfaces to make your fireplace look fresh Hassle-free is the buzzword for today's fireplace enjoyment. Think about purchasing a service plan from your dealer when you buy your fireplace. Then you can sit back, relax and enjoy the fire. </article> <article> <h1>Tips For Getting Your Fireplace Ready</h1> <p>Administrator — Tue, 23 Aug 2005 13:30:00 GMT</p> With cooler weather upon us, Fireside Hearth & Home, the nation's largest hearth retailer, urges homeowners to get their fireplace ready for the heating season. By having a professional service the fireplace annually and taking a few proactive steps on their own, homeowners can ensure greater heating efficiency and safety, as well as prolong the life of the unit. Many homeowners mistakenly believe their fireplace does not require any maintenance. The fact is all fireplace types from wood to gas to electric should undergo annual maintenance. For example, gas fireplaces need the fan, pilots and burners checked each year. And wood fireplaces require an inspection and chimney cleaning to remove creosote, which can build up and cause chimney fires. Homeowners should also check the chimney or vent before the season's first fire to see if birds or animals have built nests in it, or if leaves or other debris have accumulated. At a minimum, homeowners should also install a carbon-monoxide alarm in the same room as the fireplace and another one near the bedrooms. Homeowners can handle much of the day-to-day maintenance however, most tasks are better left to a professional. Here are some tips for getting the fireplace ready and keeping it in tip top shape this winter: <strong>Woodburning fireplaces </strong> • Clean out the firebox at least every week when using the fireplace regularly, but leave an inch of ash in the bottom to act as insulation. NOTE: Never use a vacuum to clean out the firebox as coals can stay hot for several days after extinguishing a fire. • Before removing ash, open the damper so loose ash is drawn up the chimney rather than out into the room. • Remove all ash during the months the fireplace is not in use. • Burn only seasoned or hard wood in the fireplace. This will help minimize creosote buildup in the chimney. Burning small, controlled, hot fires rather than smoldering fires will also help keep creosote under control. <strong>Gas fireplaces </strong> • Vacuum the firebox and heat exchanger regularly (only when the fireplace is cold, of course) to keep efficiency and air quality high. • Consult a professional to clean the pilot assembly, purge trapped air from the gas supply line, and then test-fire the fireplace. • Use only a soft brush to remove dust or spider webs from gas logs since they can be fragile. Make sure to position logs properly after cleaning to avoid sooting. • Use glass cleaner made especially for gas fireplaces to clean the glass front – never use oven cleaner or abrasives. <strong>Electric fireplaces </strong> • Clean the firebox and control compartment with a brush and vacuum. • Never use glass cleaner to clean the back of the glass, use only mild soap and water. Remove dust particles from glass by simply buffing lightly with a clean, dry cloth. • Replace the light bulbs about every two to three years or when the flame and/or ember bed is dark on one side. • Follow the manufacturer's instructions or consult a professional on cleaning the heater system to extend the fan's life. </article> </main></body></html>