Fireplaces and furnaces are two major components that can help provide heat to your home. There are multiple benefits that homeowners will see when using a fireplace or central heating, but is one option better than the other? Will you save money by operating a fireplace instead of allowing your furnace to kick on multiple times a day? This blog will answer those questions and provide insight into the pros and cons of each system.

Which Option Provides More Heat?

Both fireplaces and furnaces put out a significant amount of heat; a more consistent temperature can be achieved with a central heating system. Furnaces provide a consistent temperature throughout the entire home, instead of heating up one room while the others remain multiple degrees below. A fireplace has a hard time pushing the heat to the far part of your home because it doesn’t move through ductwork to the corners of your home.

Small homes with an open concept plan may be able to remain at a consistent temperature with a fireplace. Fireplaces, whether gas, electrical, or a wood-burning option, will get very hot. A small home may feel comfortable during cold days with only a fireplace.

Central heating systems move air through a duct system to reach every room of your home. You set the preferred temperature, and the furnace will kick on when the interior temperature drops below the set temperature. This keeps the entire home at the same temperature, so everyone is comfortable no matter where they are located.

Is One Cheaper To Operate Than The Other?

The U.S. Department of Energy says that fireplaces are the most inefficient heat sources for a home, but since they only put out heat for one room, they can typically be cheaper than running your furnace all winter long. However, fireplaces typically waste a lot of energy through the damper. Either it is left open or is not properly sealed, letting out heat that could increase your energy bills by 30%.

Benefits Of Using A Fireplace

Fireplaces put off a significant amount of heat and can create a cozy ambiance for your home. While a fireplace can help heat smaller rooms or common areas, it is more of an emergency option or used as more of a decorative item. Fireplaces are often a focal point for your interior design, providing an easy gathering place. 

A well-designed fireplace can increase the value of a home as well. Stone, marble, brick, or wood fireplaces can bring the whole room together, while also putting out heat. Using your fireplace as an interior focal point and as an ambiance creator can be a big benefit for homeowners.

When your power is out or you don’t have access to gas, a wood-burning fireplace can be a lifesaver. They can provide essential heat during a snowstorm or natural disaster, when you may be stuck in a cold house or without modern amenities. Even if you use your furnace for everyday heat, having a fireplace as a backup can give you peace of mind. 

Benefits Of Central Heat

Homes with central heat often experience better energy efficiency and comfortable temperatures compared to those with only a fireplace. Having a furnace with central heating ductwork, that makes it easy to heat the entire home quickly. 

One of the biggest advantages of central air and heating is its convenience and control. This system can be programmed in advance, set to certain temperatures when no one is home, or adjust the temperature if a storm or cold front rolls in. Your thermostat makes it easy to quickly warm up your home or adjust the frequency at which your furnace turns on.

Central heating is also less noticeable because of its quiet operation. While your furnace may cause some slight white noise, it is much quieter than burning wood or running a gas fireplace. These limited sounds make it easier to join virtual work meetings, put children down for a nap, or watch your favorite TV show.

The biggest benefit of using central heating is improved energy efficiency. Energy efficiency from these systems will help to lower your utility bills by optimizing fuel into heated air, ensuring that there is no wasted energy. Modern systems will have air-tight seals and a lower risk of mold compared to other ductwork.

What About Both?

If you have both systems, you can benefit from utilizing them for different purposes or simultaneously. Use your fireplace during emergencies or extreme winter storms, or run your fireplace for ambiance while the central heat keeps the rest of the house at a more consistent temperature. Utilizing both heating options can help make your home more cozy, without constantly worrying about whether your home is energy efficient. 

Heating Help From MTN Valley Heating and Air

MTN Valley Heating and Air wants all homeowners to have the comfort they deserve, especially during Utah winters. We are dedicated to providing premier HVAC services that you can depend on. We value your time, finances, and your home when working on different projects. In addition to heating services, we also focus on cooling services, air quality improvements, and maintenance on your HVAC system. Schedule a service with our Cache Valley team today!