Hearth Heaters- Do they work?

[scojen]

Anyone know if these things work....I was curious for my upstairs fireplace?

(broken link removed to http://www.northlineexpress.com/category/hearth-heaters.asp)

 

[gpcollen1]

They help get more heat out of the fireplace but DO NOT make it efficient - like a stove.

 

[robertmcw]

Before I got our insert (Avalon 1190 Insert) I used one of these:

(broken link removed to http://www.northlineexpress.com/item/5TH-TR-22/24-Cozy-Grate-Fireplace-Heater-Right-Hand-Motor)

I used some glass doors. The max temps were about a 40 degrees spread (from inside to outside). With a HUGE fire, it would heat the house (1200 sq) up to 35 degrees. It used a LOT of wood. I had would add wood about every half hour. Now I use about 20 % of the wood and it works great for hours with one load and the insert keeps the whole house toasty. If all you want to look at a fire it is fine, but we use it 24/7 now.

I have it for sale and I still have the box for $250.00 but you must pay the shipping.

Robert

 

[Fsappo]

They help. If you want to keep the open fireplace ambiance and want to shoot a little more heat into the room, why not. If you want to take the next step look at a product called a grate heater with a decent set of glass doors. I know it hurts, but you may want to visit a hearth shop to find out more about these.

 

[ecocavalier02]

They help. If you want to keep the open fireplace ambiance and want to shoot a little more heat into the room, why not. If you want to take the next step look at a product called a grate heater with a decent set of glass doors. I know it hurts, but you may want to visit a hearth shop to find out more about these.

we had a grate heater when i was a kid in our finsihed basement. that fan put some heat out for sure. and it allows you to keep the doors closed so you can get a little bit longer burn. but not great. definaly get good heat though. i think with new doors and the blower it was likek 500 or 600 but i was young dont remember.

 

[Shari]

Anyone know if these things work....I was curious for my upstairs fireplace?

(broken link removed to http://www.northlineexpress.com/category/hearth-heaters.asp)

Your question: "Do they work?"

Well........... they do get more heat out of your fireplace if that's what you are looking for. You are still left with a highly inefficient wood burning appliance (the fireplace). I think I read somewhere that a fireplace is 10% effecient. Maybe this item would get you up to 15%.

To be honest, yes, I've used one (it was given to me)- for about 3 months, then I bought my Oslo.

 

[scojen]

Thanks for the replys. I have an FPX in my basement which works great. Upstairs I have a cheapo "Demarco" fireplace that I use to warm the room when I am in there. It puts out decent heat although I know it is very inefficient. I was just wondering if it was worth the $400 or $500 bucks to purchase this add on to try and get some more heat out of it. Replacing it at this point is not an option although some day I will add another stove in it's place.