Warm Up Your Winter: Michael and Mandy’s Friendly, Expert Guide to Choosing the Perfect Fireplace for Year-Round Warmth

Winter's almost upon us, and with temperatures about to dip dramatically, choosing the right fireplace isn’t just about ambiance; it’s about creating a sanctuary that stands up to our unique climate. 

There's nothing like a cosy fire to make things feel just right, but with so many choices, picking the perfect fireplace can be tricky. Let's break it down in a simple, friendly way because

The right fireplace doesn’t fight your home – it becomes part of its story," says Michael and Mandy Hartnig. 

Book your “free in-home video consult with Michael today” 

What Makes Winter Heating Unique?

• Every Home is Different: Just like no two snowflakes are alike, every home has its own heating needs. Sunny spots get warmer, and older homes might have drafts. It's all about finding what fits your space.

• Heritage Meets Modern: Many of us live in homes with history, like charming cottages with brick fireplaces. These places can be a little drafty! With little or no insulation and particularly around old windowsills. Newer homes might have open layouts that need a different kind of warmth.

• Thinking Green and sustainable solutions:  We're all trying to be kinder to the planet. New emission standards are regulated more than ever, meaning we need to choose fireplaces that are compliant with Clean Air regulations, prohibiting non-compliant wood heaters in post-2019 builds.

Fireplace Types: Let's Find Your Match and your soulful choice.

• Wood Heaters: Cosy and Classic: If you love the smell of wood and a real crackling fire, a wood heater is for you. Look for ones that burn cleanly and are efficient. They're great for off-grid living or if you have easy access to firewood. Do not burn wet wood, and a moisture meter is handy to have to probe the moisture content within the wood itself.

  • Tip: Store your wood somewhere dry, and you'll get the best burn.

• One of our favourites for either free-standing or inbuilt fires, and most popular for smaller homes, is the Charnwood Island II

One of our favourites: Charnwood Island II

• Gas Fireplaces: Easy, quick, and an option for modern convenience. For busy people or those who don't want to deal with wood, gas fireplaces are a dream. They turn on with a flick of a switch and heat up fast. Plus, they're super-efficient! Our special pick is the Ortal Contempo, and with a 92% efficiency, it slashes those annoying energy bills. It’s ventless design means no unsightly flue pipes.

  • Good to Know: You can get gas delivered if you live a bit out of town.

• Electric Fireplaces: Super Flexible: For any type of home or 2kW room heating, also suits Apartments, bedrooms or homes with solar power. Electric fireplaces are your friend. They're easy to install and can even be controlled with an app. Perfect for a quick burst of heat or for preheating a room

Before You Choose, Think About:

The M&M Mountain-Proofing Checklist , consider:

1. Council Compliance

• Heritage or type of fireplace and overlay restrictions in the area, if any

• Bushfire BAL ratings 

2. Heat Retention Strategies

• Thermal curtains for original windows

• Stone feature walls as heat banks

2. Fuel Logistics

• Wood storage solutions for small yards

• Gas line availability in the area

2. Lifestyle Alignment

• Do you want cooking capability? (See our ESSE range)

• Prefer low-maintenance or traditional rituals and what fits best with how you want to live