Now that we have discussed fireplace styles and their venting systems, we can move onto the sometimes decorative but often necessary pieces that create the outside "face" of the fireplace.
Blowers can sit on top of your fireplace or stove or they can be attached to the inner portion of the appliance. Blowers have circulating fans that move hot air away from the heater so it redistributes further into the room. Blowers are a cost-effective way to achieve even temperatures throughout your space & get the most out of your fireplace or stove.
Louvers are a totally different category of accessories for your fireplace. They make up a portion of a fireplace faceplate that sits on the outside of the firebox and is used for decorative purposes. Louvers can be removable and typically sit along the top and bottom of the firebox.
Surrounds can be confused with louvers because they are found in the same area and are both made from metal. Though a surround is a metal frame that covers the opening around the fireplace between an insert and the original walls. Surrounds are often an extra safety barrier and can help with drafting issues. They create a tighter area for combustion and limit the heat that escapes up the flue.
Lastly, there is the mantel. Mantels sit above the fireplace on the outside and can be made from wood or stone. Mantels are used for decoration, storage or a shield from intense temperatures for delicate hanging objects, like TV's. Though we do not recommend hanging a TV above a fireplace.
