How efficient is a fireback?
Radiator effect: how efficient is a fireback? The efficiency of a wood-burning fireplace to heat air is typically 10%, but with a fireback this may increase to 15%. This is less efficient than a stove or fireplace insert in heating air, but efficiency is a complicated concept with open hearth fireplaces.
Do firebacks increase heat?
Another relatively simple way to increase the efficiency of a fireplace is to install what is known as a fireback. ”They are decorative cast-iron plates that you install in the back of the firebox to increase radiant heat transfer,” Mr. ”Firebacks look nice and they produce a moderate increase in efficiency.
How do I choose a fireback?
You can select a fireback up to the width of your fireplace’s back wall. (Sometimes that is the same width as your fireplace opening and other times the firebox tapers, so the back wall is narrower.) If for example, the back wall of your fireplace is 22 inches wide, you can safely use a fireback up to 22 inches wide.
How big should a fireback be?
Choosing the Right Fireback The fireback should be wide enough to cover the hearth wall but leave just enough space, about 3 to 10 inches of rear wall visible. It should also not be high enough to reach the flue of the opening as it would hinder the drawing of the furnace.
Do I need feet for my fireback?
If you intend to sit it flat against the back wall and have a heavy grate to hold it vertical, no you do not need the feet. They are designed to either lean the fireback back against the back wall to hold it in place or lean it forward to direct more heat into the room.
Is steel or cast iron better for fireback?
Cast iron firebacks hold the heat longer than stainless steel firebacks. They are also much heavier than stainless steel, however, which makes them difficult to move. Plus, it may also cost much more than stainless steel to ship to your home.
Do you need feet for a fireback?
How does a fire back work in a fireplace?
Fireback efficiency. A cast iron fireback takes heat otherwise lost and radiates this heat into the room. A fireback thus works like a radiator and may increase the efficiency of the fire by as much as 50%. The thicker/heavier the fireplace back, the longer and softer this radiative effect will be.
Why do you need a back wall fireback?
You need a fireback that protects your back hearth wall, maximizes on efficiency and aesthetically complements your fireplace. At Owens Chimney Systems, we have just that.
Which is better stainless steel or cast iron firebacks?
Generally speaking, cast iron firebacks will absorb and radiate heat more efficiently when compared to stainless firebacks, but stainless firebacks push more heat into the room. There are other factors to consider with regards to the thickness of the fireback itself.
How big of a fire back do I Need?
Style revolves around aesthetic appeal, space considerations and design preferences. The fireback should be wide enough to cover the hearth wall but leave just enough space, about 3 to 10 inches of rear wall visible. It should also not be high enough to reach the flue of the opening as it would hinder the drawing of the furnace.