You are most likely only receiving 15 percent of the potential heat produced by each burning log, because much of the combustible material in the wood is lost as gas without burning or producing heat. This doesn't mean you should give up your dream of cozy nights by the fire. A few simple modifications can increase the energy efficiency of your fireplace. A heating grate made of hollow tubing that wraps around logs and extends over their tops, can recirculate heat produced by the fireplace into the room. Certain models are equipped with electric blowers that direct hot air into the room instead of up the chimney.
Fireplace covers also increase heating efficiency.
Steel covers with fire-resistant glass enable you to watch the fire while receiving radiant heat through the glass. But be sure to leave your damper open when the fire is burning or the coals are still glowing. A cover should be placed over the opening of the fireplace at the end of the evening when the fire is nearly extinguished, but hot enough to require an open damper to release smoke. Make certain the cover is tight-fitting around the edges so that room heat does not escape. New technology can improve the efficiency of an existing open fireplace.