In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked at some primary basics on how fireplace blowers work and what they do. These are important components that usually come included as part of a new fireplace purchase, circulating air around the firebox to minimize heat output and keep the area warm.
At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re happy to detail the components of any of our fireplaces, including our custom fireplace designs that we create for clients. While part one of our series went over the basics on blowers and what they do, today’s part two will go into some common questions we get from clients about blowers, and the simple answers to them.
Can a Fireplace Run Without a Blower?
Absolutely. Blowers are on the exterior of a fireplace, meaning they have no impact on elements like fuel efficiency, drafting or how the fireplace itself actually works. Blowers are simply powered by either batteries or an external power source, and can be turned on or off as needed.
Keep in mind that because blowers move air around the firebox, they will also impact how much heat is outputted from the fireplace. So if you’re looking to maximize heat output, you may want to consider running the fireplace without a blower.
Can a Blower Be Added to a Current Fireplace
What if you already have a fireplace, but it didn’t come with a blower? In nearly all cases it’s possible to have a blower retroactively installed, but this depends on the model of fireplace and other factors. It’s always best to consult with a professional like Comfort Solutions Fireplace to see if a blower can be added before making any decisions, but especially in today’s realm of modern fireplaces, the answer is almost always yes.
We strongly recommend clients sourcing new fireplaces come with blower options — even if you aren’t going to purchase a blower immediately, knowing you have the option to do so in the future is always valuable.
Are Blowers Loud?
Not at all. Most fireplace blowers create about the same amount of noise as a standard home fan, which is to say they’re not noticeable unless you’re standing right next to the fireplace. The sound produced by a blower is a gentle hum, and can actually help muffle any popping or crackling sounds that come from a wood-burning fireplace.
Blowers are available in different speeds, so if noise is a concern you can always opt for a lower-speed blower that produces less sound.
How Much Does a Blower Cost?
Prices on fireplace blowers vary depending on the model of fireplace, but they typically range from $100 to $200. This will also depend on whether you’re looking for a battery-powered blower or one that plugs into an external power source.
Installing a blower is a simple process that can be done by almost anyone, or you can always hire a professional to do it for you.
For more on fireplace blowers and their importance, or to learn about any of our fireplace products or solutions, contact the team at Comfort Solutions Fireplace today.