What is a zero clearance fire box?
Zero clearance means the fireplace has its own insulation and it needs zero inches of clearance (distance) from combustible materials in the home. Basically a zero clearance fireplace is a self-contained firebox that is designed to be installed almost anywhere in your home.
What can you burn in a zero clearance fireplace?
The fact that a buffer zone is unnecessary means that zero-clearance fireplaces fit and can be safely used in tight spaces. These appliances can be used to burn wood, gas, and pellets; yet they never get so hot on the outside that they burn nearby materials.
What is a zero clearance gas fireplace insert?
Zero-clearance fireplaces are pre-manufactured fireplaces that can be installed almost directly against combustible materials like wood, walls, or panelling. The construction and materials of the firebox do not allow the outside temperatures of the firebox to affect those materials and do not require a hearth.
What is the difference between a zero clearance fireplace and an insert?
Framing. A zero clearance fireplace has to be framed specifically into a wall. In comparison, an insert is slid into a pre-existing masonry fireplace. This is an open fireplace made entirely of brick or rock (which are non-combustible materials).
How do I know if my fireplace is zero clearance?
The most obvious way of identifying a zero clearance fireplace is the existence of black metal, either exposed on the face or inside the firebox (Fig. #6). Some fireplace manufacturers are doing a better job of hiding the metal and making fireplaces that look more like masonry (Fig. #7).
Why do you need a hearth for a zero clearance fireplace?
This is because the construction and materials of the firebox on a Zero-Clearance Fireplace are made of materials that do not allow the outside of the fireplace to get hot enough to burn other materials. Zero-Clearance Fireplaces do not require a hearth in order to function properly.
How big should an opening be for a zero clearance fireplace?
The general rule of thumb is for every foot of room space, approximately an inch should be added to the width of the firebox opening. If you choose a Zero-Clearance Fireplace with an opening that is too big, you will end up spending a lot of extra money on your energy bill.
Which is more efficient a majestic or zero clearance fireplace?
Also, zero-clearance Napoleon fireplaces and Majestic fireplaces tend to be much more efficient than traditional masonry fireplaces; be aware, however, their efficiency varies widely so that choosing a good make and model is essential.
How big should a firebox be in a room?
The size of the firebox should be relative to the size of the room that it will be placed in. The general rule of thumb is for every foot of room space, approximately an inch should be added to the width of the firebox opening.