Thinking about adding a fireplace? This guide covers fuel types, heat and safety considerations, what to look for during a showroom visit, and how to plan for installation and maintenance so you can shop with confidence.

Adding a fireplace can deliver warmth, ambiance, and resale appeal, but the right choice depends on your home, budget, and maintenance preferences. If you type buy fireplace into a search bar, you’ll see countless models and price points, so start by clarifying your goals: primary heat, occasional mood, or a design focal point. Measure the space, note existing gas or electrical lines and venting options, and set a realistic all-in budget that covers the unit, venting, finishing, and labor. Local codes and insurance requirements can also guide what’s feasible in your home.

Compare fuel types first. Wood-burning fireplaces deliver authentic flame and high heat but require a chimney, regular chimney sweeping, and a steady supply of seasoned wood. Gas fireplaces offer push-button convenience, stable heat output, and high efficiency, with direct-vent models that exhaust outdoors and vent-free options where permitted. Electric fireplaces are the simplest to install and operate, provide zone heating, and offer flexible placement, though the flame effect is aesthetic rather than combustion. Evaluate heat output (BTUs or kW), efficiency, clearances to combustibles, smart controls, and safety features such as automatic shutoff.

Before committing, visit a fireplace showroom to see flame quality, finishes, and mantels in person and to hear how quiet the blowers are at different speeds. Bring photos and measurements of your room so sales staff can recommend correctly sized units and compatible surrounds. Ask about venting paths, hearth dimensions, mantel clearances, and how the unit will be finished into your wall or built-in. Request live demonstrations and compare warranties, lead times, and installation schedules.

Plan for installation and ongoing care by budgeting for professional fireplace services, including permitting, delivery, setup, gas or electrical hookup by licensed trades, and the final safety inspection. Clarify what’s included in the quote, what requires additional contractors, and which parts are covered by the manufacturer versus the installer. Schedule annual maintenance—chimney sweeping for wood, inspection and cleaning for gas, and filter/dust removal for electric—to keep performance and safety high. With a clear plan, a realistic budget, and trusted pros, you can choose confidently, shop smart, and enjoy your new centerpiece for years.