How does a fireplace work?

A fireplace is a safe and contained area for a fire to be ignited, allowing the user to enjoy warmth and light without any danger – if used properly. 

Fireplaces are attached to a chimney and flue system, an integral part of the design, which channels hot gases from the flames and away from the interior rooms. 

Let’s explore how fireplaces work in a little more detail. 

How does a fireplace work?

Here is the journey of how a fireplace works, all the way from the appropriate fuel to the expulsion of the fumes. 

1. The fireplace parts that are close to the open flame are built from non-combustible materials to ensure safety. The fireplace surround, however, may sometimes be made from wood. 
2. Fuel is chosen that is suitable for that particular fireplace. Wood, for example, needs to be dried out for many months until it achieves a low, and safe, moisture content. Always check with your fireplace provider to ensure you’re burning the right fuel for your particular model. 
3. The damper, the metal door at the top of the firebox, must be opened before the fireplace is ignited to allow air to the flames, as a fire cannot burn without an oxygen supply. Opening the damper also allows the smoke and hot gases to safely escape up the chimney. 
4. The fuel is then ignited and airflow can be controlled using your vents. Ask your fireplace supplier for directions on how to use them if you’re unsure. The general rule is that more air will mean a larger fire, and therefore this will burn through your fuel more quickly, so take care to control the size of the flame using the vents. 
5. Air pressure in the firebox where the flames are burning will be different from the air pressure at the top of a chimney. This means that hot air will rise, carrying with it hot gases and smoke. The height of a chimney affects the movement of these gases through the chimney. A chimney that’s too tall may cause excessive air to flow up the chimney, leading to fires that are much too hot or large. You should always check with a specialist fireplace installer to establish a flue system design that works for your property. Modern flues also should be lined to withstand the high temperatures, as this will preserve their longevity and quality. 
6. An open fireplace then allows the heat generated to radiate into the room, warming up the space, while the chimney expulses the emissions. 

If your fireplace is not operating as it should, then it might need a little maintenance or even a CCTV survey to pinpoint the problem. Get in touch with the expert team at Enviro-Flame to keep your fireplace operating smoothly and safely all year round. 

Explore London’s largest selection of fireplaces. Here at Enviro-Flame, we’re a leading supplier and installer of a huge range of electric, gas and bioethanol fireplaces to suit any style, taste or budget. We also provide fireplace repairs and maintenance to keep your fireplace fully operational. Simply contact us to get some fireplace ideas to inspire you.