Would like to supplement my heat pump .. thoughts?

[tk421]

Hey guys, I hope this is ok to ask here since its more house related that garage related, but i need a few opinions.

Ive been looking at some options to help supplement my heat pump (with electric backup) here in Ohio. Im not a big fan of the heat pump as it cost big $$ last winter but never really felt comfortable in the house. In retrospect I should have gotten a propane backup instead of electric but hindsight is 20/20. Ive considered getting a propane fireplace to help heat the house (less than 1000 sq ft).

Does anyone have one that could share their experiences? Vented/vent free, brands, etc?

Id like a small corner unit, preferably vent free if possible. Any thoughts?

Thanks!

 

[tcianci]

Supplement? How about 2000 I.U. of vitamin C twice a day.

 

[brewchief]

I would never install a vent-free fireplace in an application where it will be run with any regularity, a direct vented unit is a much better choice.

 

[ForceFed70]

You're going to want a vented unit.

Fireplaces are really designed as much for looks as they are for heating. If you do go with a fireplace and you want to heat with it, at least make sure you buy a unit with an internal fan.

 

[toppytop]

I've used a vent free LP fireplace in a 450 sq ft room for the last 10 years with no problems. This room is an addition on a slab with lack of duct work from the heat pump system for the rest of the house. Fireplace is controlled by a remote themostat. I'm wondering why your heat pump isn't doing it for your house. Mine works great for the rest of the house, even doing ok for the addition until it gets down to about 25 out. Something tells me you should get the heat pump system checked for proper setup and operation.

 

[theoldwizard1]

If you plan on using it a lot, the price of propane will kill you.

Look into a pellet stove. Most big box stores sell pellets and I even saw them at Walmart last year.