Nothing beats the cozy atmosphere of a fire in the fireplace on a rainy winter evening. Let’s dive in to the types of fireplaces, their pros and cons, and how California legislature may affect fireplace options in your next home.
WOOD-BURNING
Pros:
- Wood-burning fireplaces evoke that classic fireplace ambiance with crackling flames and the traditional firewood scent.
Cons:
- High maintenance. Wood-burning fireplaces require regular cleaning (removing ashes & recommended yearly servicing), take time to set up and light, and must be tended to during operation.
- Residential wood smoke contributes to air pollution. Spare-the-Air days in California can severely limit how frequently these can be used.
GAS
Pros:
- Flames come on almost instantly with as little effort as flicking a switch.
- Propane and natural gas both burn fairly cleanly, minimizing air pollution.
Cons:
- The EPA warns of indoor air quality concerns when using non-vented gas fireplaces, so make sure yours is properly vented!
ELECTRIC
Pros:
- Great option for renters or anyone looking for a short-term fix as these only require a nearby outlet to plug into.
- Least environmental impact
Cons:
- While they simulate a fire, they have no true flames.
RESTRICTIONS
California is divided into 35 different air districts which all have their own regulations restricting the use of fireplaces.
Do you love the crackle of a wood burning fireplace? If you do, new construction might not be for you. In the Bay Area, new houses built after November 2016, are not allowed wood-burning fireplaces or wood stoves. This limitation also applies to chimney or fireplace remodeling projects with over a $15,000 project scope.
Have your heart set on a gas fireplace? California has a state-wide all-electric building ordinance for new construction, so you’ll need to find a home built before April 2022.
