The Function of Fireplace fans

The Function of Fireplace fans

Have you ever heard about fireplace fans? A ventilated fireplace helps distribute heat more evenly throughout the rooms. That’s why more and more people are choosing fireplace models with built-in fans. But what exactly are fireplace fans, and what is their function? Below, we explain everything you need to know about them.

What are fireplace fans?

Fireplace fans are installed in the convection area of the fireplace, heating the cold air in the home as it circulates around the combustion chamber. In this way, the air gradually warms up and helps heat the home.

Typically, fans are included in cassette or insert-type fireplaces and can be operated either automatically or manually

What are fireplace fans used for?

The main function of fans in a fireplace is to circulate hot air throughout the room, distributing heat more quickly and efficiently.

Likewise, if ducted, the fans can help warm adjacent rooms.

Discover some types of fireplace fans

Now that you know the importance of fireplace fans and their purpose, it’s important to understand the different types of fans you can choose from depending on your needs. In Carbel models, there are two common types of fans:

  • Axial fans with switch: These fans move an airflow of 360 m³/h or 720 m³/h, depending on whether they include two or four fans. They feature a 3-position switch: low speed, automatic mode, and high speed. The automatic mode is activated when the thermostat detects a temperature equal to or above 45ºC.

  • Centrifugal fan with control unit and remote control: With a control unit installed, you can adjust the turbine speed and easily switch between manual and automatic modes. As with the axial fans, the automatic mode activates when the temperature reaches or exceeds 45ºC. The remote control allows you to manage the different settings remotely.

As you can see, fireplace fans play a key role in ensuring effective heat distribution and proper use of the fireplace.

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How to calculate the chimney power you need

How to calculate the chimney power you need

When choosing a chimney, power output is one of the most commonly considered indicators. Contrary to what many believe, the power rating doesn’t indicate how many square meters a chimney can heat; instead, it tells you how many kilowatts (kW) that fireplace, cassette, or stove generates. To truly understand how a home is heated, you need to factor in other variables such as insulation, local climate conditions, and the total volume (in cubic meters) of the space. With that in mind, let’s explore how you can calculate the heating power your home requires.

If you’re considering a new heating system, this is one of the first questions you should ask. To understand what it means for a chimney to have 12 or 4 kW of power, we need to provide some context. Get informed and choose an efficient heating system.

Imagine you have an open space—a large living room connected to a spacious open kitchen—and you don’t want to give up the comfort of a warm environment in winter, especially in the place where you spend the most time. Another scenario could be a home with a square layout, efficiently using every square meter, where you want the heat from the chimney to reach the entire house.

In these and similar cases, it’s essential to know what heating power you need—specifically, the thermal power—before buying a chimney.

Calculating the chimney power you need for your home

First, to determine the heating power you need for your home or room, you must calculate the volume to be heated in cubic meters.

Next, you should consider other factors such as the home’s insulation level, how the fireplace will be used, the local climate, etc.

Optimal Insulation

Assuming your home has good thermal insulation, a chimney with a power rating of 6–10 kW can heat a 100 m² house. If the square footage is smaller, a lower-powered chimney will be sufficient.

Poor Insulation

If the home lacks thermal insulation, which is quite common, you’ll need at least 0.1 kW per square meter. So, to heat a 100 m² area, you would need a chimney with approximately 10 kW or more.

Efficiency and Power

In addition to power, you must also consider the efficiency of the chimney. Efficiency refers to the ratio between the energy a system produces and the actual heat it delivers. A high-powered chimney would be of little use if its efficiency is low, as it would consume a lot of energy without producing much heat.

All of these figures are guidelines. Ideally, you should consult a specialist who can assess your specific situation and calculate the exact power you need.

 

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Is it possible to install an insert in a fireplace if it is masonry?

Is it possible to install an insert in a fireplace if it is masonry?

Have you ever heard of insertable fireplaces, cassettes, or inserts for fireplaces?

Then you’ve probably thought about the possibility of installing one in your own fireplace to enjoy all their advantages: greater efficiency, fuel savings, a faster feeling of comfort… But you might be wondering: What if my fireplace is masonry? Can I install an insert in a masonry fireplace?

Below, we answer this question—so pay attention!

What is an insert?

An insert, also called an insertable unit, is a combustion chamber equipped with turbines or fans at the bottom. This chamber is installed in fireplaces with the goal of improving efficiency and performance. Combustion will improve significantly, and if you choose a model with turbines, they push the already heated air upward and distribute it throughout the room, creating a warm feeling much more quickly.

It’s worth noting that the fans usually have multiple settings to increase or decrease the airflow speed, allowing you to regulate the air output.

Is it possible to install an insert in a fireplace if it is masonry?

As you can see, installing an insert is a great idea. But if you want to do it in a masonry fireplace, you might not be sure whether it’s possible or not. The answer is yes! It is indeed possible to install an insert in a masonry fireplace—and in fact, they are designed for this purpose. However, don’t try to do it yourself! Make sure to hire professionals who will handle the installation to achieve the best result.

Some points you should keep in mind if you want to install an insert cassette in your masonry fireplace are:

  • Your heating needs, in other words, the power you need to heat the room.
  • The dimensions of the existing fireplace opening.
  • Visit an authorized dealer who will guide you and ensure a proper installation.

So now you know: if you are thinking about adding an insert to your masonry fireplace, go for it! You’ll see how the efficiency of your fireplace multiplies without sacrificing its aesthetics or charm. You won’t want to leave your fireplace all winter long!

Download our stove and fireplace catalog and discover a wide range of possibilities.

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How to keep the fire going in a fireplace

How to keep the fire going in a fireplace

How to Keep the Fire Burning

You’ve probably read or heard a lot about how to start a fire in a fireplace, but have you ever stopped to think about how to keep the perfect fire going?

How to Achieve the Ideal Fire in Your Fireplace with These Tips

Once you know how to successfully light a fire in your fireplace, the next step is learning how to maintain it.

The flame should remain steady—not too low, not too high—to maintain a comfortable temperature that brings warmth and coziness to the room. This may sound simple, but mastering fire control has its nuances. Should you add a lot more wood? How often? What do you do when the fire starts to die down? How do you revive it?

These are some of the most common questions when it comes to fire maintenance. Creating a good fire isn’t just about throwing in some wood and lighting it. To keep a strong, steady fire going, there are three key factors to consider:

1. The Firewood
Let’s start with the basics—the firewood you put in the fireplace. Ideally, use medium-density logs. Hardwoods or slow-growing trees burn more slowly and produce a less lively flame (e.g., olive, beech, holm oak). On the other hand, softwoods or fast-growing trees generate fewer kW and burn very quickly (e.g., ash, poplar, willow). If medium-density wood isn’t available, you can mix hardwoods and softwoods for a more balanced burn. And remember—dry wood is essential! The more moisture in the wood, the less heat it provides, and the more smoke and soot it generates.

2. Airflow Regulation in the Fireplace or Stove
Air intake is another important variable. When starting the fire, the air draft should be fully open to ignite the wood. Once the fire is established and producing heat, gradually reduce the primary air intake.

3. Chimney Flue Cleaning
Keep the chimney and flue clean—not only for safety but also for efficient combustion. Consult qualified professionals for cleaning and chimney sweeping services.

In any case, CARBEL manuals provide detailed instructions on how to use your stove or fireplace correctly.

With these three tips, along with proper fire starting, you’ll be able to keep your fire burning longer.

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How to Properly Store Firewood

How to Properly Store Firewood

When summer arrives, you might find yourself wondering: what should I do with the firewood? Maybe you have some leftover from the previous season, or you’ve started stocking up for when the cold returns. Either way, it’s essential to store the firewood correctly in the meantime. Do you know how to do it properly?
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