There are many myths and half-truths surrounding fireplaces: from the question of whether a ban on fireplaces is coming from 2025 to the claim that damp wood burns better in a fireplace. These uncertainties can not only lead to confusion, but also to you not making the best use of your fireplace. In this article, we dispel the 10 most common fireplace myths.
- Myth: A fireplace is bad for the environment
- Myth: Damp wood burns better
- Myth: Fireplaces are dangerous
- Myth: A fireplace does not work in a modern, well-insulated house
- Myth: Fireplaces may no longer be used from 2025
- Myth: The more wood, the better the fireplace burns
- Myth: A fireplace only makes sense in winter
- Myth: Fireplaces cost a lot
- Myth: The ash from the fireplace is suitable for cleaning
- Myth: You can't have a fireplace in a rented apartment
Myth 1: A fireplace is bad for the environment
Background: Many people believe that fireplaces are generally bad for the environment because they cause particulate matter and emissions.
Solution: Modern fireplaces are designed in such a way that, with the right technology and optimum combustion, they meet strict environmental standards. With a fireplace, you are also using wood as a renewable energy source. In addition, you can minimize the fine dust emissions of your fireplace through clean combustion and an optimized air supply.
Tip: We have prepared a detailed blog post for you on what you need to look out for in your fireplace to ensure that it does not pollute the environment.
Myth 2: Damp wood burns better
Background: Perhaps you've heard it before? It is often claimed that damp wood burns longer and therefore better.
Solution: This is false. Damp wood in the fireplace not only causes soot and smoke, but also reduces the efficiency of combustion. Instead of providing heat, the water in the wood evaporates and produces unnecessary emissions. In the long term, this is not only bad for your wallet, but also for the environment.
Tip: Use wood with a residual moisture content of less than 20 %. A wood moisture meter helps you to check the quality. This way, you always know exactly which wood is ideal for your fireplace.
We have summarized what you need to consider when storing wood in another article.
Myth 3: Fireplaces are dangerous
Background: Some people fear that fireplaces can easily cause fires or flue gas poisoning.
Solution: A safely operated, closed fireplace is by no means dangerous. Modern assistance functions such as negative pressure monitors and combustion control systems provide additional safety. However, it is important that the fireplace is planned and installed by a specialist to ensure that all safety standards are met.
Nevertheless, caution is of course advised: A wood-burning stove can be dangerous if it leaks, as flue gases can enter your living space. Regular maintenance minimizes this risk. You should also always operate your stove in accordance with the operating instructions to ensure safe use.
Tip: Have your fireplace and the seals checked regularly by a professional to avoid dangers.
4th myth: A fireplace does not work in a modern, well-insulated house
Background: It is often claimed that fireplaces do not develop sufficient draught in well-insulated buildings.
Solution: With an external combustion air supply, a fireplace can be operated without any problems even in a very tight, low-energy house.
Tip: Plan your fireplace early on in the house construction process so that it can be perfectly adapted to the conditions.
Myth 5: Fireplaces may no longer be used from 2025
Background: Many fireplace owners are afraid of a general ban on fireplaces from 2025.
Solution: This concern is unjustified. Single-room fireplaces such as fireplaces and stoves may continue to be used as long as they comply with the limits of the BImSchV (2nd stage). Only older models that were put into operation before 2010 could be affected by retrofitting or replacement obligations.
Tip: Have your stove checked by a chimney sweep to ensure that it meets all legal requirements.
Myth 6: The more wood, the better the fireplace burns
Background: True to the motto "more is more", some people believe that large loads of wood ensure a more intense fire.
Solution: However, this is not true. Too much wood in the fireplace can impede air circulation. This in turn leads to incomplete combustion and increased soot formation. A smaller amount of wood with a good ember base is much more efficient.
Tip: Add wood as soon as the embers are stable. Also note how much wood is optimal for your fireplace according to the manufacturer's instructions. You can find the exact specification for your model in the operating instructions.
Myth 7: A fireplace is only useful in winter
Background: It is often said that a fireplace is useless for half the year.
Explanation: A fireplace is ideal during the transitional period or on cool summer evenings. It can generate heat quickly and efficiently - without having to switch on the heating.
Tip: Use your fireplace in summer to make cool evenings cozy. A small pilot light helps if the draught is weaker at higher temperatures.
Find out in this blog post how to make your fireplace fit for summer and how it can also be an asset in the warmer months.
Myth 8: Fireplaces cost a lot
Background: Installing a fireplace: What costs can you expect? Many people assume that installing and operating a fireplace is far too expensive.
Solution: The costs depend on many factors, such as the model or the desired features. A fireplace is always a long-term investment. However, modern fireplaces save heating costs thanks to their efficiency and increase the value of your home in the long term.
And if you ask us: the good feeling and the view of a beautiful open fire are priceless anyway.
Tip: Find out the exact costs from an experienced specialist dealer in your area. Our experts will be happy to help and advise you.
9th myth: The ash from the fireplace is suitable for cleaning
Background: Some fireplace owners use the ash from their fireplace to clean the viewing window, for example.
Solution: This approach is not uncommon and can certainly work. However, it should also be used with caution. For example, if the ash is not as fine as expected, scratches can occur.
Tip: To be on the safe side, it is better to use a cleaner for the viewing window. You can buy this in specialist shops or online. Find out what else you should look out for when cleaning here!
Myth 10: You can't have a fireplace in a rented apartment
Background: Many people believe that fireplaces are reserved exclusively for homeowners and are not possible in rented apartments.
Solution: In fact, there are ways to enjoy the comfort of a fireplace in a rented apartment. Admittedly: A permanently installed wood-burning stove is usually not permitted in rented apartments or requires the landlord's consent. However, modern alternatives such as electric fireplaces offer you a similarly cozy atmosphere - without a chimney or complex installation. They only require a power socket and are also maintenance-free and safe.
Tip: Would you like to find out more about the options for fireplaces in rented apartments? In our blog post, we take a detailed look at the topic and give you some helpful tips.
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