BBQ: Delicious or Dangerous?
Are BBQ Ribs Healthy? Ah, BBQ ribs. The quintessential summer food. What's not to love? Tender, juicy meat, slathered in tangy, smoky sauce. But let's be real. BBQ ribs aren't exactly health food. They're high in fat and calories, and loaded with sodium. But don't let that stop you from enjoying them. There are ways to make BBQ ribs a Continue Reading
The History of BBQ
Everyone loves to claim their ancestors invented BBQ. For example, American and BBQ are as “American as apple pie” neither of which was invented in the USA1. South Americans natives on the other hand, proudly proclaim the word Barbecue comes from ‘Barbacoa,’ a lattice used to cook and smoke meat. Polynesians will top it by pointing they have been slow Continue Reading
All About Gas Fireplace Inserts: Buying Advice
ARE GAS FIREPLACE INSERTS WORTH IT? That old fireplace in your living room hasn’t cranked out any heat in years. The firebox is decorated with candles, baskets, mirrors and other creative craft projects. Maybe there’s a couch pushed up against it in an attempt to reduce the cold air spilling into the living room. Does any of this sound familiar? Continue Reading
BBQ: From Newbie to Pitmaster in No Time
So, you recently bought or received a new grill/charcoal BBQ*. You can't wait to slap meat on the grill and invite your friends. Unfortunately, your first attempts are 'Meh.' What went wrong? You followed the recipe, after all. * TERM EXPLANATION: Grilling refers to cooking at high temperatures or searing meat. A Grill is typically an outdoor cooking appliance using Continue Reading
How to Stack Cordwood
If you have recently purchased a wood burning fireplace, stove or insert or if you’re a seasoned old wood tick, this article has important details regarding stacking and drying your fuel supply. It’s critical to burn dry wood, but is there a best way to stack and allow wood to dry? Please keep reading to get some valuable tips for Continue Reading
Electric fireplace: How to?
The appeal of an electric fireplace is no surprise. The vibrant colors and lighting effects are truly astounding! They make a wonderful focal point to any room. And, they’re so easy to operate. There can be many questions that come up when discussing electric fireplaces. This is another article that is intended to answer more of those inquiries. CAN AN Continue Reading
Buying Advice for Gas Fireplaces Part 2
In Part 1 of this series, we discussed the differences between a zero clearance (ZC) gas fireplace, a fireplace insert and a gas log set. In this article, we’ll focus on specific questions regarding ZC gas fireplaces and practical tips along with solid suggestions when shopping for one. ARE GAS FIREPLACES WORTH IT? Both the National Association of Realtors and Continue Reading
How do I get rid of rust on my wood stove?
Whether it’s steel or cast iron, rust on a wood-burning stove can certainly be an eyesore in your home. Rust will detract from the beauty and attractiveness of the appliance. With a little time, a lot of elbow grease and the right products, you can restore that old wood burning stove into one looking like new. START WITH A WIRE Continue Reading
Electric Fireplace : How they Work
Electric fireplaces are more popular than ever. Their beauty, versatility, cleanliness, and performance are truly impressive. In this article, we’ll discuss several frequent questions that often arise when the subject of electric fireplaces comes up. How does an electric fireplace work? Do electric fireplace really heat? How to operate an electric fireplace? How long can you leave any electric fireplace Continue Reading
Buying advice for gas fireplaces, gas inserts & gas logs
This is the first in a series of articles that will provide sound advice if you are planning a building or remodeling project and have plans to include a gas hearth product. To begin with, it’s important to know and understand the differences between a gas fireplace, a gas fireplace insert and a gas log set. These are three distinct Continue Reading
Electric Fireplaces: Accessories
You've purchased an electric fireplace, and you're now wondering about options and accessories to enhance its look. These questions come to mind: What are the manufacturer's offers? Will it improve the appeal and looks of the fireplace? Would any accessories be worth spending a little extra money? This article will give you a perspective on these and other questions. ARE Continue Reading
How to build & install a fireplace mantel
Whether you have an existing fireplace that you’d like to update, or you’re installing a new fireplace as part of a remodeling or building project, a mantel gives that fireplace character and charm. It’s the main stage where precious family photos and mementos are displayed. It’s an extension of you and your lifestyle. Your WE LOVE FIRE® dealer has an Continue Reading
General advice: electric fireplaces
Electric fireplaces are very popular, and for good reasons. The colored lighting effects, several different media options, super convenient and easy to use are just some of the reasons why electric fireplaces are so prevalent in homes today. If you’re thinking of an electric fireplace for your home, there may be some questions you’ve been contemplating. In this article, we’ll Continue Reading
How fireplaces work ?
There are two types of wood burning fireplaces: masonry and zero-clearance (or factory built) models. How they are built and the components used during installation are different, but the principles of how they work is the same. So, let’s discuss the basics of how a wood burning fireplace operates. THE MOST IMPORTANT DETAIL! Combustion air, firebox size, equipment design and Continue Reading
What’s best … a fireplace, stove or insert?
If you are contemplating adding a new hearth appliance to your home, you have lots of options. Should it be a fireplace, stove or insert? You should also decide whether it’s going to be a wood, gas, electric or pellet model. Let’s talk about the applications of these three types of products, some of their differences and some of the Continue Reading
Electric Fireplace: General Installation
Hello again, in this installment we will answer your questions about installing an electric fireplace. Can I install an electric fireplace in a wall? How to install an electric fireplace? How to install an electric insert? Where to install an electric fireplace? Where to plug in an electric fireplace? Who installs electric fireplaces? What about electric fireplaces near a bathtub? Continue Reading
Are electric fireplaces energy efficient?
With energy costs going up, you may be wondering if an electric fireplace is a good fit for your family. If you’re thinking of an electric fireplace for your home, you undoubtedly have some questions you’d like answered before you buy. Questions like: Are electric fireplaces energy efficient? Are electric fireplaces expensive to run? Will using an electric fireplace save Continue Reading
Which hearth product is right for me?
If you’re thinking about adding a hearth product to your home, you have a few options to consider. There are advantages and disadvantages to a fireplace, stove or an insert. Likewise, pros and cons with the fuel you decide to use. Let’s spend a few minutes discussing what hearth product will suit your needs and lifestyle. FIRST, THINK ABOUT THE Continue Reading
Everything you ever wanted to know about charcoal BBQing but were afraid to ask… Part #2
Here is our second installment on your burning questions about BBQ charcoal. What Is The Best Method To Light Charcoal? We assume without chemicals, right? And by "best" it really depends on your definition. Cheapest method, how fast to ignite, the best value, etc. Here are some time-proven ways to light BBQ charcoal. Paper (newspaper, paper towel, etc.) soaked in Continue Reading
8 Signs That a Chimney Repair Is Needed
I’m too old to get on the roof anymore, so how do I know if any chimney repairs are necessary? Do you know if your chimney is in good condition? Whether you have just moved into your house or living there for a while, you should verify the condition of your chimney periodically. A nationally certified chimney sweep is your Continue Reading