8 Tips to Help Burn Wood Cleanly, Efficiently and Responsibly

Since the beginning of time, a fire on the hearth has been one of the most satisfying and comforting pleasures in life. The lure of the fireplace is timeless, and a hearth product means one of the most desired amenities in a home. Along with the joy and comfort of using a hearth product comes the responsibility of using it properly. Here are 8 tips to help you burn with wood cleanly, efficiently, and responsibly.

1. NEVER "damper down" a stove so that it smolders over night or for extended periods of time.
2. Follow local "burn ban" regulations.
3. Use dry, seasoned and split wood or manufactured fire logs.
4. NEVER burn garbage in a wood stove.
5. Select an EPA-certified wood stove or insert that produces up to 85 percent less emissions than those manufactured before July 1, 1992.
6. If you cannot install a newer stove or insert, enhance the capabilities of your current appliance by following the tips above.
7. Make sure the stove’s installation and flue system are safe and appropriate by having an annual chimney inspection and through periodic maintenance on your stove or insert.
8. Remember that how you burn determines the economy, environmental responsibility, and efficiency of your wood burning stove or insert.

Tabletop Lighting the Practical Alternative to An Outdoor Fireplace

There is something I find quite tranquil about outdoor lighting on a warm summer’s night. As many will agree, there is something remarkable about the ambiance the right outdoor lighting can create as you relax on your patio or deck with friends or family. However, some people may want to enjoy the benefits of outdoor lighting without necessarily having to dedicate all your effort and attention tending to a fire. For those who apply, outdoor tabletop lighting may be a sufficient alternative. Outdoor tabletop lighting is a tremendous way to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space and, due to the variety of available sizes, shapes and material, can be customized to compliment any backyard patio or deck.

When selecting an outdoor tabletop light fixture for your home, you must first question your own motive. These light fixtures can be decorative or utilitarian depending on your preference, so it is important to determine what your requisites are before selecting. For those who aren’t sure what they need exactly, a good idea might be to make a plan that provides for both ambient and task lighting. This means you can have some lights focusing upward and some downward in order to create a special ambiance that is both warm and inviting.

There are various outdoor lighting options, sure to fulfill the needs of any homeowner. Deck owners may enjoy fixtures they can mount on their deck and deck rails to illuminate the area, while others may prefer wall sconces or decorative chandeliers for that warm glow in addition to looking stylish. If you believe something portable would better suit your needs, both floor and tabletop style lamps are available that may be conveniently placed wherever you choose. I own the Kenroy Home Marianas Outdoor Table Lamp, and am very pleased with the way it compliments the rest of my outdoor décor.

Outdoor tabletop lighting is practical and appealing, and can prove to be a great alternative to the outdoor fireplace. These outdoor lighting fixtures can transform any outdoor space into a cozy area to unwind at the end of a long day, or to spend time with your friends and family.

Everything You Need to Know Before Building Your Own Outdoor Fireplace

Anyone who has enjoyed the pleasure of warming themselves in front of a campfire on a cool evening knows why outdoor fireplaces have exploded in popularity. Outdoor fireplaces come in a variety of styles and sizes, and there is an outdoor fireplace for everyone. However, unless you are a serious do-it-yourselfer with great skills, I suggest you find one that is prefabricated. Be aware that the actual design and construction of the firebox, smoke chamber, flue and chimney is a precise science, not speculation. If you do not size all of the components correctly, the fireplace will not burn properly and it may send immense clouds of smoke towards you and your family.

When looking to build an outdoor fireplace, you first need to determine your most important need. If warmth is what you are looking for, I would recommend an outdoor fireplace that resembles a traditional campfire. This style will allow many people to gather around and bask in the radiant heat that is sent out in all directions by the fire. Traditional fireplaces reflect heat in a small cone in front of the firebox, so only a few people can enjoy the warmth as they sit in front of the fire.

If appearance is more important to you than warmth, there are many gorgeous outdoor fireplace styles to choose from. Keep in mind that the design and material should complement your home. Also, don’t forget to use creativity. For example, you could add a mantel and little niches for candles to create a unique ambiance. Remember, it’s going to be the location where you unwind after a long day or spend time with your family and friends, so customize it to your liking. Also, for a nice effect, locate the outdoor fireplace so you can see it from indoors.

There are also some precautions to take when you decide to build the outdoor fireplace. The important thing to do is check your local codes and laws, as some municipalities have real concerns about outdoor air quality. Traditional wood-burning fires can create air pollution problems when certain weather conditions create an inversion which traps smoke particles in the air. If local laws prohibit wood-burning fireplaces, look for approved models that may be fueled with natural gas or propane. A good example of a natural gas fireplace is the Weber 27001 Flame Outdoor Natural Gas Fireplace. It has gotten great reviews, and is sure to create the perfect atmosphere outside any home.