From what I've read, the free standing stoves are the most efficient, which is what I had almost 30 years ago. We now have an open fireplace that looks awesome, even more so with glowing embers. However, most of the heat is lost through the chimney, so you are relying on direct radiant heat to make up for the loss. I investigated early this winter about fitting a stove insert into the fireplace but have seen comments from users who have said that they're disappointed about the weak heat output. Anyone have a different opinion? Main heating is ducted.
I hate gas fireplaces but I think we'll install one down the track.
