The allure of a dancing flame is something that most can not argue against. This is why fireplaces have long been a popular method of providing heat and ambiance, and with newer methods of construction, it has become even easier to enjoy these things. Here at www.woodstoves-fireplaces.com , we believe firmly in providing your home or office with the beauty and convenience we feel you deserve. With a gas fireplace from us, we know this can be achieved.

BRATTLEBORO -- Local landlord Jason Cooper wanted to cut down on the amount of fossil fuel he was using to heat his Brattleboro apartments and came up with a creative, money-saving solution.

With the cooperation of the town, he ran underground hot water pipes to five residential buildings he owns on Elliot Street and connected them to a wood pellet boiler.

He said the process went fairly smoothly, and he expects to earn back the cost of his $50,000 investment within five years.

Those interested in learning about how they can heat with biomass will have an opportunity to meet Cooper, ask him questions about his experience using wood pellets and tour his "mini-biomass district energy system" at the upcoming wood heat workshop and vendor fair May 14, hosted by Brattleboro Climate Protection, Brattleboro Thermal Utility, the Biomass Energy Resource Center and Brattleboro Savings & Loan.

Workshop attendees will learn the advantages of installing a wood-burning furnace, boiler or pellet stove in their home, business or rental property. Speakers will explain the different types of systems that are available and address the issues of fuel supply and financial incentives.

"I always like the questions, and I like to share what I've learned because this is all trial and error -- I made it up as I went along," said Cooper. "At this point it works well, so I like sharing the experience."

Local vendors of wood-heating products and services will also be on hand to answer questions about heating with wood.

Cooper went through a gradual process of switching his apartments from oil to wood pellet boilers about five years ago.

"I started with a smaller boiler that I put in my house; I wanted to be right there (to oversee it) before I committed anyone else to putting up with it," he said. "I was very impressed and very quickly put one in my office building for a year, then the next year I tied in the building next to it, then the next year tied in the one next to that one."

He said he was surprised at how willing Brattleboro Public Works was to work with him on the project.

"I asked to put hot water lines under the street, and they said no problem as long as I submit a plan ... once I got the lines under the street I tied in 11 units," he said.

Cooper's pellet boiler now provides heat for 20 units in five buildings.

"I believe anything we can do to cut down energy costs, especially fossil fuel use, is a good thing," Cooper said. "The increase in (fossil fuel) prices is very destabilizing not only to our economy but to our country, and we need to do everything we can."

The workshop will take place May 14 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Marlboro College Graduate Center at 28 Vernon St. Lunch will be served.

With the lowering of the outside temperatures, a fireplace quickly becomes the center for a warm and cozy ambience.

Once upon a time, before electricity was commonly available, the fireplace was the center point of the home, providing warmth and light to the home.

In todays world, there are fireplace designs for everyone. Traditional stone or brick, modern metal and glass, there is something for everyone. There are even outdoor units for those that have a patio sitting area.

When you decide the add a fireplace, either in you new home or a remodeling project, you must first decide if you want wood, gas, or electric. The answer to that question will be somewhat based on whether your fireplace will be used for heat or strictly ambience.

If you already have a fireplace and are considering switching it out for a new model, there are many choices.

Once you have selected a type and model of fireplace, you can select from a multitude of facings, whether it be a mantel, or some unique collectible. Accessories such as pokers, shovels, and brooms have also become very popular for decorating purposes.

No matter what type of fuel or design you choose, safety has to be the most important consideration for your new or replacement fireplace. Existing fireplace chimneys should always be checked prior to use for the season.

Some additional points to consider:

• Always use a fire screen to contain sparks.
• Never burn rubbish.
• Make certain anything flammable is kept a safe distance away from the fireplace.
• Never leave fire unattended, especially in areas used by children or pets.
• Clean out ashes when cool and place in a metal container.

These sophisticated stainless steel Anywhere Garden Torches™ are a stylish way to light your garden, a patio or a walkway - If used with citronella oil, they will keep the bugs away for your outdoor enjoyment - Just stick it into the grass, safely light it and enjoy the glow of this stylish garden torch - Measurements: 65"H x 3.5"W.

It comes as no surprise that 9 out of 10 American homes burned wood for heat a little more than a century ago. Likewise, it's also probably not news that the number dwindled to less than 1 percent by the 1970s. After all, who wants to chop and stack cordwood when you can set the thermostat to be comfortable? Still, there is something irresistible about the warmth of a crackling fire. That appeal probably explains why fireplaces and wood-burning heating stoves haven't disappeared in many communities, and that upgrades such as energy efficient inserts and stoves are common. More

Shop Wood Stoves and Fireplaces Here

You may need to purchase a stainless steel chimney liner if the clay liner in your existing chimney has been damaged. A stainless steel chimney liner can also be installed simply to improve your existing chimney's draft. Some may favor a stainless steel chimney liner over a clay liner for the construction of a new chimney. The reason a stainless steel liner is preferred in most cases over a clay liner is that stainless steel is known for its ability to resist corrosion. Some stainless steel liners are sold with a limited lifetime guarantee as well.

Where Can I Purchase a Stainless Steel Chimney Liner for My Home?

At Copperfield Chimney Supply you can find stainless steel liners, as well as fireplaces, inserts, and wood burning stoves. The liners available from Copperfield Chimney Supply are made for fast and easy installation that doesn't require screws of other attachments.