HearthNet FAQ's
1. What is the "Hearth" Industry ?
Our Industry revolves around Fire and Comfort. Our Retail Members typically
own family-operated small businesses selling and servicing one or more of
the following categories:
In addition, many of our members sell casual furniture, decks, spas and
other leisure products. This Industry consists of Retailers, Distributors,
Manufacturers, Servicemen and Technicians all determined to improve the
state-of-the-art in Home Comfort AND Safety..
2. What is HearthNet ?
HearthNet is a creation of CHI
Associates, a consulting firm with over 25 years
experience in all facets of the stove and fireplace businss. The site is editorially
independent, and supported
by
some
of
the
leading
Retailers
and
Manufacturers in our Industry (join us!) .
Instead
of
having
to
surf
all
over
the
Net
for
resources,
you can just Bookmark this spot--we intend to provide it all !
3. What is the current state-of-the-art in Hearth Products ?
Many folks picture the Old fashioned Fireplace or Pot Belly stove as being
representative of our Industry. Those Folks would be pleasantly surprised
if they set foot in a modern Hearth Shop. Hearth Products Manufacturers,
in concert with designers, technicians and government and building code
agencies, have produced modern and efficient appliances that are a joy to
look at--and a breeze to operate. All current Woodstoves and many built-in
Fireplaces meet or exceed the EPA standards for clean
burning and high efficiency. The Modern Gas appliances (available in Natural
Gas or Propane) are also required to meet strict standards for safety and
efficiency. Bottom line, we'll get you that stove in green ! -- it'll look
good and work well. For more information, see the topic Specific
Information on Hearth Appliances.
4. What is the Environmental Impact of Hearth Products ?
Many Hearth Dealers started their businesses back in the late 70's, after
the Three Mile Island disaster and Oil price and supply shocks. That mentality
has stayed with us throughout the years, and we have pressured our suppliers
to produce cleaner and more efficient stoves and fireplaces. The Hearth
Industry worked closely with the EPA to invoke strict limits on the amount
of pollution that can be emitted from a Wood Burning Appliance. The result--todays
products burn with 1/10 the smoke as did earlier models. But, we're not
stopping there - development is continuing on even cleaner appliances.
5. What are the costs involved in buying and installing Hearth Products
?
As with most products, the costs can vary. A range of popular products and
price ranges are given below:
6. OK, I have the general information, but I need more!
Visit one of our other Informational areas listed below, or browse
the shops to find your local Retailer.