Fireplace in the bedroom: How to reap the benefits and eliminate the drawbacks

Cosiness factor

Before we get into the design details or even the technical solution, it is important to understand what we really expect from a fireplace in the bedroom: cosiness. Surely most of us would agree that it is made up of a combination of the typical sound of wood cracking, warmth and colour - all factors that are influenced by the choice of fireplace.

When real wood is burning, the fire emits lots of light and heat, the wood crackles nicely and we feel the classic campfire smell. Ethanol fireplaces also provide real flames, but produce less heat without the smell or noise. Electric fireplaces only simulate a flame, but give more heat and a more consistent temperature, which can be more comfortable for sleeping in such a room.

Ideal bedroom temperature

You can roughly calculate what temperature you need in your bedroom by multiplying the volume of the room in cubic metres by either a value of 0.06 for a less insulated room or a value of 0.035 for a well-insulated room. If you decide to buy a burner, check with your supplier about the heat output and its control.

If your bedroom is already at a comfortable temperature, a purely decorative smaller stove may be right for you. Bio-ethanol fireplaces give off almost no heat, a small flame will not heat the room, whereas with many electric fireplaces you can turn the heating function on or off as needed.

Smoke extraction problems

Many modern homes don't have a chimney, while some homes just plug in the fireplace. If you don't have a chimney, don't despair, it doesn't necessarily mean the end of the dream of having a small fireplace in your bedroom. Fortunately, the market offers many models with other options for safe and efficient smoke extraction.

If you like the look of a fireplace with a traditional wood fire, then you can install an enclosed fireplace with direct venting in your bedroom, such as a wood-burning stove that is self-contained and has a specially installed flue. If you prefer a fireplace with a simple installation in the space, then choose an ethanol or electric fireplace option. These can be operated without a chimney or flue, are clean and easily fit into any interior.

The question of safety

Prepare for two potential risks from your new bedroom fireplace - carbon monoxide and escaping pollutants. The solution for the first risk is to install a carbon monoxide detector. Every fire caused by burning wood produces some amount of carbon monoxide. To avoid false alarms, you should place the detector at least 4.5 m away from the fireplace. Installation at knee level will give the most accurate readings.

Also invest in smoke and fire detectors, in case a flying spark causes a fire. Even a small fire extinguisher should be provided. We recommend you buy a powder extinguisher. They are versatile and will extinguish (except for fat burning) all types of fires.

As you can see, the dream of having a small fireplace in your bedroom can come true immediately. Just choose a model that suits your interior design, and always pay attention to safety. The only way to spend cozy winter evenings in front of a warm fireplace is to make sure nothing is in danger.