[Greenbuilding] Fireplace questions

[Ian Remmler]

On Mon, Nov 06, 2006 at 10:52:27AM -0600, Ian Remmler wrote:
> I have had a hard time finding information about fireplaces in
> green building.  I know most fireplaces just suck out warmth,
...

Wow, I didn't know this was such a hotly (pun intended)
contested subject.  It seems like putting a fireplace in a tight
house is pretty hard to not screw up, and even if you do it
right, it's suboptimal at best.

I'm liking the idea of a wood stove more and more!  As someone
with an engineering background, I appreciate the efficient
design (and the efficient cost compared to a masonry fireplace).
Now I just have to convince my wife that it doesn't look too
"Little House on the Prairie".

We have a ton of cedar (ashe juniper) on the lot.  I know it
burns hot and sparks and crackles, but would it be OK to burn it
in a sealed stove?  We'll be clearing some of it anyway, so it
would be free fuel.

    - Ian.