Many individuals with allergies and asthma don’t use the fireplace in their homes out of fear that it will aggravate their symptoms. Luckily, several types of fireplaces work great for people with these conditions. Keep reading to learn why you shouldn’t use a traditional fireplace when you have allergies and asthma and which fireplaces work best as an alternative.
Why Do Traditional Fireplaces Trigger Allergies or Asthma?
Traditional fireplaces produce a lot of smoke. While the chimney and flue should carry most of the smoke up and out of the home, some can linger inside. This smoke has microscopic particles that contain toxins that irritate the nose, eyes, and respiratory system. Constantly breathing in these particles will worsen asthma and allergies, so it’s essential to use an alternative fireplace to avoid these complications if you experience these conditions.
What Are the Best Fireplace Alternatives?
When it comes to alternative fireplaces, your best option is to choose one that doesn’t produce as much smoke, if any at all. By eliminating the smoke particles, you can breathe better yet still enjoy the ambiance and coziness of a fire. Here is our list of the best alternative fireplaces for asthma and allergies.
Pellet Stoves
Pellet stoves use a venting system that eliminates as much air pollution as possible. Connecting a vent to the appliance and directly routing it outdoors can thwart smoke billowing back inside. While there might be some particles after burning the pellets, the amount will be significantly less than burning firewood.
Gas Fireplaces
Another great option is to use a fireplace without byproducts, such as soot and ash. Gas fireplaces use natural gas to start a fire, but you will need to hire fireplace and chimney professionals to install a gas line. This appliance is simple to use, maintain, and clean; it’s ideal for individuals with asthma and allergies.
Electric Fireplaces
You might say that electric fireplaces can’t match their traditional counterparts, but when it comes to your health, they do the job! Using electricity to produce heat eliminates air pollution. Plus, most of these appliances have the same look and feel as their wood-burning counterparts, so you’re not missing out on aesthetics or ambiance.
Don’t worry about missing out on a cozy fire in your home when you have allergies and asthma. It’s entirely possible to enjoy the dancing flames and warmth with fireplace alternatives. Which one will you install—a pellet stove, gas, or electric fireplace?