Gas, electric or wood fireplace?

1. Benefits of wood fires

There's nothing better than the crackling sound of a wood fire to create a cosy winter ambience. Provided you have a cheap source of firewood, 'real' wood fireplaces can create a lot of heat and can reduce your heating bill. They can also be a pleasure to build and light.

2. Problems with wood fires

Wood fires can throw out sparks, so you need to have protection from the flames. They also need constant maintenance - cleaning out the ashes, cutting the wood - and the cost of wood is rising in some areas. Unclean flues can send smoke and ash into the room and the heat fires provide can vary.

3. The benefits of gas and electric 'fires'

Gas and electric fireplaces are cleaner and easier to install than wood fireplaces, and heat is generated with the flick of a switch. With gas fires you can control the strength and height of the flame, and they can be more portable. Gas fires can also reduce your overall heating bill.

4. Problems with gas and electric fireplaces

The fire doesn't look the same - especially electric flames. They also don't produce the same sounds or smells, and the joy of personal contact with the flames is removed, as there is no need for it.

5. The joys of direct-vent fireplaces

These can be installed anywhere in the home and their airtight construction keeps the air clean. Direct-vent fireplaces are extremely energy efficient, with the vents only heating outdoor air to maintain a comfortable temperature. They also create ambience in the room with their wood-fire appeal.

6. Problems with direct-vent fireplaces

The main issue with these fireplaces is that to make them work, the combustion fireplace is sealed, so you can't enjoy stoking it.

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