Main differences between indoor and outdoor fireplaces
Nowadays, there could be hardly anyone who is unaware of fireplaces. Although fireplaces were discovered hundreds of years ago, they continue to prove to be very useful and elegant, even in modern times. One of the main reasons behind this is that fireplaces have molded themselves according to time and have never remained rigid. Various types of modern fireplaces are in use today, including gas, electric, wall hanging, ventless, and portable fireplaces. It does not mean that traditional fireplaces have become extinct, they are also manufactured because they are still in demand by many. In any case, contemporary fireplaces or heating equipment can be divided into two main heads according to their area of action. They are indoor and outdoor fireplaces.
As the name suggests, indoor fireplaces are heating equipment that are usually installed in the living room, dining room, bedroom, or any other enclosed space within a house or building. They are, in fact, one of the most demanded types of fireplaces.
Outdoor fireplaces are those that are installed in open spaces, usually in a garden or near the patio. They are intended for outdoor heating purposes and are usually used at dusk. These heating equipments are also witnessing a good demand.
You must already have an idea about the nature of indoor and outdoor fireplaces. So, let’s discuss some important and interesting differences between the two:
- Outdoor fireplaces are generally less expensive than indoor ones.
- There is no need for a damper in an outdoor fireplace because there is no problem of heat loss whereas an indoor fireplace usually does.
- Outdoor fireplaces are comparatively larger in size and have a bulky firebox compared to their indoor counterparts.
- Outdoor fireplaces are often equipped with chimney caps to prevent the spread of sparks on windy days. This is not necessarily true of indoor heating equipment.
- Design options are much more for indoor fireplaces than for outdoor ones. The reason is that not all materials and designs are suitable for outdoor applications, therefore there is comparatively less variety in outdoor heating equipment.
- Indoor fireplaces include wood-burning, gas, and electric fireplaces, while outdoor fireplaces are mostly wood-burning types. Outdoor gas fireplaces are also available today, but outdoor electric fireplaces are hard to find as they are not considered feasible for outdoor use.
- During the manufacture of outdoor heating equipment, special attention is paid to its durability and robustness. This is because they are meant to work outside, so they need to be durable enough to withstand weather exposure. On the other hand, in the case of indoor fireplaces, more attention is paid to elegance than durability.
- The use of precious metals such as silver, gold, and platinum is also sometimes made in the manufacture of indoor fireplaces due to the expectation that these units will complement interior décor. In contrast, the outdoor units are basically utilitarian and have no such embellishment.