Its hard to find someone that doesn't enjoy a nice fire from time to time, especially in the winter. Unfortunately, when you burn wood in your fireplace you're emitting CO2 into the atmosphere, which is the root of the global warming problem. They also release a fair amount of soot and other particulates, which also contribute to air pollution. The worst part is, despite the cozy fire that warms you when you sit close to it, a conventional fireplace actually tends to cause your house to LOSE heat, because it sucks in room air and sends it up the chimney -- air that has already been warmed by the house most likely thorough a gas heating system. So in effect the fireplace increases your heating bill and the attendant consumption of fuel by the utility supplying your heat.

GAS FIREPLACES

Natural gas fireplaces aren't great for the environment either because you're burning unnecessary natural gas, but they a better environmental choice than wood burning fireplaces. Natural gas fireplaces are cleaner and easier to use. Most come with an on/off switch similar to a light switch. As easy as a natural gas fireplace is for you, it’s also easier on the environment. With no smoke going up the chimney from burning wood and no ashes, lingering embers or particulates going into the air, natural gas fireplaces are the safer choice for you and the environment.

THE FACTS

When you burn wood in your fireplace, you're emitting CO2 into the atmosphere which is the root of the global warming problem.