Wood and Gas Fireplace FAQs

Q:  How many hours of burn time can I expect to get from one burn period?
A:  It is not uncommon to get 10-14 hours of burn time from an Acucraft Fireplace System.  However, this depends on the wood used, and the adjustments you make of the fireplace’s air damper and air intake positioning.
 
Q:  What is the difference between a zero clearance and a full masonry fireplace?
A:  A zero clearance fireplace has an insulated metal jacket around the fireplace that allows it to be placed right up against interior or exterior walls with “0” inches between the fireplace and combustible materials.  Heated air is circulated within the fireplace unit and blown out into your home. A Masonry Fireplace uses masonry block around the unit which creates a heat chamber. The heat chamber then has a vented area which allows the heated air to circulate into the room.

Q:  Why does Acucraft Fireplace System require doors while other fireplaces have screens?
A:  Acucraft Fireplace Systems are designed to be used as a heating system for your home.  The airtight doors are a crucial part of the overall system.  The doors work by sealing the fireplace which eliminates heat loss and allows you to completely control your fire.  Acucraft does design a Fireplace Screen which you can add to any order and can be used when you are looking for that open hearth feel.

Q:  Does Acucraft Fireplace Systems use outside air for combustion?
A:  Yes.  All Acucraft Fireplace Systems can have our patented Acucraft Air Combustible kit added to any order.  The Air Combustible kit uses 100% outside air for combustion. This feature prevents room air from being lost up the chimney.

Q:  Can Acucraft Fireplace Systems be operated with the doors open?
A:  Yes. Acucraft has designed a Fireplace Screen which you can add to any order and can be used when you are looking for that open hearth feel. However, when operating with the fire screen you do lose some of the fireplace’s efficiency.

Q:  What is the best type of flue to use: a metal or a clay flue?
A:  Both are perfectly acceptable in full masonry fireplaces, it just depends on your personal preference.  However, for the zero clearance models, we recommend using a triple wall metal flue system.

Q:  Is it safe to burn my Acucraft Fireplace System during the night when we are not watching it?
A:  Yes. By latching the doors, providing an airtight seal, Acucraft Fireplace Systems will continue to safely burn through out the night.

Q:  What kind of wood will give me the most efficient burn?
A:  Dry, seasoned hardwoods.  Wet wood can contain up to 50% moisture!

Q:  Does Acucraft Fireplace Systems come with a log grate?
A:  No.  Acucraft Fireplace Systems have a firebrick lining that lines the inside of the fire box. We recommend building a fire directly on the firebrick, which will continue to radiate heat after the fire has dwindled.  Also, by burning directly on the firebrick, the fire burns the logs more efficiently by burning the entire log which eliminates unburned log chunks.

Q:  What is the best way to remove the ashes from the firebox?
A:  Acucraft full masonry Fireplace Systems have the options of an ash chute which allows the ashes to be cleaned out by an access door. When disposing of ashes, always place the ashes in an air tight, metal container. The closed container of ashes should be placed on a non-combustible floor or on the ground, well away from combustible materials until their final disposal.
 
Q:  Can I install a wood burning fireplace in a corner?
A:  Yes. Both our full masonry fireplace and our zero clearance fireplaces can be installed in a corner.

Q:  Where are Acucraft Fireplace Systems Manufactured?
A:  Acucraft Fireplace Systems are manufactured in Big Lake, MN.  Acucraft works directly with end-users, builders and contractors and we ship to any job site worldwide.

Q:  What is the cost to ship an Acucraft Fireplace System?
A:  The cost of shipping varies on the fireplace model and where it is being shipped to.  However, when we are shipping out of the state of Minnesota we do not need to charge sales tax so the cost of shipping is generally lower than the cost of sales tax you would pay at your local fireplace dealer.

Q:  How long has Acucraft Fireplace Systems been in business?
A:  Acucraft Fireplace Systems has been in business since 1979. 

Q:  I am looking for a custom gas fireplace but don't know where to start.  Do you have designers?
A:  Yes, we can help you every step of the way - from design to completion.  

Q:  What's a fireplace insert?
A:  A fireplace insert is simply a fireproof box that's surrounded by either steel or cast iron.  It is fronted by insulated glass which creates a closed combustion system. The steel or cast iron helps to trap the heat. Click for more information on fireplace inserts.

Q:  Do you build two story fireplaces?
A:  Yes,  our designs and craftsmen can customize a two story fireplace for you.

Q:  What types of payment do you accept?
A:  Yes, we accept major credit cards.  Our sales representative will walk you through our options. 

Q:  Do you ship outside of the United States?
A:   Yes, Acucraft will ship your fireplace to any job site, worldwide.  
 
Q:  We are building a new house, do you work with builders?
A:  Yes, our Fireplace Technicians will be available to talk with you and your builder to make the choosing, ordering, framing and installation of your fireplace as smooth as possible.