Q. We are looking at installing a fireplace in our home. Do you have any tips on what to look for in a fireplace? Rita Castles, Helena

A. There is nothing cozier than a fireplace, especially here in our chilly Montana climate. In fact, there is a real trend in new construction to have several fireplaces. When shopping for a fireplace the most important consideration is the health of your family. Any home built after 1980 meets strict construction codes making our homes more energy efficient and air tight. What that means is that we are at a greater risk of getting sick from indoor pollution than outdoor pollution. By selecting the right fireplace you ensure a healthy indoor environment.

Direct-vent Fireplaces

If you are installing a natural gas or liquid propane fireplace, a direct-vent is the healthiest choice. It uses outside air for combustion and expels 100 percent of the exhaust and by-products outside our home. There are now fireplaces on the market with ventilation technology that brings fresh air into your home while exhausting stale air.

Wood burning

Although less convenient, the smell and sound of a real wood fire is still popular. Wood is a renewable resource and can be used for a backup heat source in the event of an emergency. Indoor air pollution in still a concern though. Smoke from burning wood is made up of a mixture of gases and fine particles. If a real wood fire is what you are after choose an EPA-certified wood stove or fireplace.

Electric

If you want an instant fireplace that doesn't require venting, try an electric fireplace. All you do is plug it in. Operated by remote control, some models supply heat, others don't. The flame simulates burning wood and is fairly realistic.

BTUs

To figure out how well your new fireplace will work as a room heater, look at the back of the brochures. There will be a list of the BTU (British thermal unit) units. The maximum and minimum BTU inputs is how much the flame can be adjusted. The other important number is the efficiency rating. If the efficiency rating is 75 percent, for example, it means that 75 percent of the gas is turned into heat. Steady-state means the efficiency when the fireplace is burning at a constant rate.

The new factory built fireplaces with wall venting make it possible to put a fireplace in any room of your home. The latest trend includes the small bed and breakfast fireplaces for the kitchen or bathroom and outdoor fireplaces. Big or small the addition of a fireplace will always receive a warm welcome.

If you have any questions you would like to see answered in this column e-mail Catherine Peressini at thedesigngrp@hotmail.com or call 406-439-2687.