home improvement
4 Benefits of Adding a Fireplace to Your Home
Whether you’re constructing a new home or simply redesigning your current living space, there are many considerations that can truly make a house a home.
Last Updated on November 24, 2024 by Daily News Staff
(Family Features) Whether you’re constructing a new home or simply redesigning your current living space, there are many considerations that can truly make a house a home.
Fireplace Considerations
Amid budget considerations, design vision boards, specs and blueprints, amenities like a new fireplace can allow homeowners to celebrate the warmth, comfort and ambiance a fireplace or other hearth product can provide. In fact, 7 out of 10 of homeowners have a fireplace and usage has increased during all four seasons since 2020, according to research from the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA), showcasing that including a fireplace in your construction or renovation plans is a gift to yourself and your family.
“When we’re designing our ideal homes, too often we may only think about what we want others to see and enjoy when they visit,” said Jack Goldman, president and CEO for HPBA. “The reality is visitors account for less than 1% of your in-home time. A fireplace is for you and your family, a personal addition that serves you and your household in more ways than you may realize.”
Consider these four benefits of including a fireplace as part of your next home update:
- It can be a sanctuary from the ever-changing world outside. As people continue to spend more time at home, a fireplace can serve as a source of calm and relaxation, helping you and your family escape from the challenges daily life may throw your way.
- It’s an artful piece of decor to display year-round. Whether it’s a centerpiece for your living room or family room, or an accent to your bedroom, bathroom or study, a creatively designed fireplace can provide an artful design element for your home, no matter the season.
- It’s a safe, reliable heating source. A fireplace is an extra layer of security when weather wreaks havoc and can provide safe, reliable heat and lighting in the event of a power outage.
- It can be the heartbeat of your home. Between screen time, remote work schedules and commitments to extracurricular activities, many families experience fragmented home lives. A fireplace, though, can serve as a central gathering spot for you and your loved ones when together.
To learn more about the benefits of fireplaces and find a nationwide directory of specialty retailers and certified installers, visit HPBA.org/House-warming.
Fireplace Safety Tips
Whether it’s the warm glow of the fire, the crackle of the wood or the deep penetrating warmth, woodburning fireplaces have a way of making people feel relaxed and at home. However, there are some precautions that should be taken to ensure safe operation:
- Never leave a fire unattended.
- Keep a fire extinguisher on hand.
- Keep small children and pets away from the fireplace.
- Clear an area of at least 3 feet around the fireplace of furniture, books, newspaper and other potentially flammable materials.
- Inspect gaskets, door seals and the chimney annually.
- Have the chimney professionally cleaned as necessary to ensure it’s clear of obstructions and creosote.
- Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Utilize fireplace tools to tend the fire.
- Never burn garbage, rolled newspaper, charcoal, plastic or chemically treated or painted wood.
- Avoid using gasoline or any liquid accelerant to help start a fire.
- Do not overload the fireplace to avoid burning wood or embers tumbling out.
- Never close the damper until embers have completely stopped burning.
Photos courtesy of Getty Images
SOURCE:
Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association
Welcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!
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(Feature Impact) Cold spots are a common challenge for homeowners, especially during the winter months. They not only reduce overall comfort but can also drive up energy costs. These problem areas often appear in rooms over garages, spaces farthest from the HVAC unit, finished basements, and home additions.
Caused by uneven airflow, poor insulation, or systems that struggle to adapt to varying room conditions throughout the day, cold spots can lead to uncomfortable living spaces, extra strain on your HVAC system, and higher heating bills due to overcompensation.
Fixing these problems can involve several approaches. One option is upgrading from a single, whole-home HVAC system controlled by one thermostat to a zoned solution that lets you fine-tune comfort in each room. Another is improving ductwork by replacing long runs, undersized ducts, or leaky connections that restrict airflow. You can also add smart controls that automatically adjust to changing conditions.
Consider these tips recommended by the experts at Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS) to improve your home’s comfort:
- Evaluate Your Current System
Have a qualified technician inspect your HVAC system, checking ductwork for leaks, blockages or damage that could be preventing air from reaching specific rooms. Also confirm filters, coils and existing thermostats are properly located and in good working order to ensure they’re correctly reading temperatures.
- Consider a Zoned HVAC System Upgrade
Zoning divides your home into separate areas, each with its own temperature control. Options like Zoned Comfort Solutions® from Mitsubishi Electric allow you to treat individual rooms or spaces differently, conditioning only the areas you use for consistent comfort and reduced energy waste.
In larger homes with central ducted systems, adding motorized zoning dampers to open and close inside the ductwork and multiple thermostats can help redirect air where it’s needed most. For additions, bonus rooms or spaces with unique needs, ductless mini‑splits provide independent control for precise comfort without requiring an overhaul of the entire existing system.
- Add a Smart Thermostat and Sensors
Pairing zoning with smart sensors and controls allows each zone to fine‑tune comfort automatically for maximum efficiency. These sensors and advanced controls serve as the system’s intelligence, responding in real time to conditions in each room and monitoring both temperature and occupancy to adjust when a room deviates from the desired temperature.
Easy to integrate with many popular smart home platforms, the system learns your household schedule and habits to automatically optimize comfort and efficiency based on when and where people actually spend time. Plus, access through connected apps via your phone allows you to monitor cold‑prone rooms and make adjustments, even when you are away.
- Schedule Seasonal Maintenance
At least semi-annually, if not at the change of each season, have filters, coils and sensors cleaned and calibrated by a professional. Staying up to date on maintenance can help ensure your system is delivering the right amount of air where and when you need it.
Modern, connected energy‑efficient systems are attractive to buyers and can help lower a home’s carbon footprint. Learn more about fixing cold spots with zoned solutions at mitsubishicomfort.com.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
SOURCE:
Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US
Welcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!
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home improvement
Create a Cozy, Inviting Living Room This Winter
Inviting Living Room: Turning your living room ñ the hub of seasonal entertaining ñ into a winter retreat can be simple with a few thoughtful updates. From the color palette and textiles to lighting and subtle seasonal accents, these ideas can help you create a space that feels warm and inviting, even on the chilliest of days.
Last Updated on February 15, 2026 by Daily News Staff
Create a Cozy, Inviting Living Room This Winter
(Family Features) Turning your living room – the hub of seasonal entertaining – into a winter retreat can be simple with a few thoughtful updates. From the color palette and textiles to lighting and subtle seasonal accents, these ideas can help you create a space that feels warm and inviting, even on the chilliest of days. Embrace a Winter Color Scheme Start with a warm, neutral color palette featuring creams, taupe, ivory, beige and soft grays then layer in deeper greens, muted blues or charcoal for contrast. Accent pieces such as pillows, throws and vases in matching rich tones or muted metallics can help the room feel like a cozy retreat from the cold outside without overwhelming your existing decor. Stick to your chosen color palette but vary texture and mix solids with subtle patterns like stripes or checks. Layer Cozy Textiles One of the easiest ways to dial up winter comfort is layering textiles. Drape knit or faux fur throw blankets over sofas and chairs, stack extra blankets in a basket or on a ladder shelf near the seating area and switch out lighter pillow covers for winter-friendly fabrics such as velvet, wool or sweater knit. On the floor, layer a smaller, softer rug over your existing area rug for extra warmth underfoot. Create a Seasonal Focal Point Your coffee table is the perfect focal point for winter decor. Start with a tray or shallow bowl then mix in a candle or two and other decorative elements such as books, wooden beads, pinecones or glass jars filled with fairy lights. Keeping the arrangement simple allows the table to remain functional for everyday use while still feeling seasonally intentional. Set the Mood with Lighting Shorter winter days mean less natural light floods your living space. Soften the glow with warm white bulbs in floor and table lamps then layer candles – real or flameless – on the mantel, coffee table or console for a cozy atmosphere. Add a Touch of Nature Bringing a touch of the outdoors in can give decor a fresh, grounded feel. Consider incorporating evergreen branches, pinecones, bare twigs, eucalyptus and dried stems for an understated nod to the landscape beyond your windows. Pair these natural elements with a grouping of houseplants in woven baskets, wood trays or stone pots to complete the organic, wintery look. Visit eLivingtoday.com for more seasonal decorating inspiration. Photo courtesy of ShutterstockDiscover more from Daily News
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Consumer Corner
Kitchen Lighting Ideas: Transform Your Space with Smart Upgrades and LED Solutions
ransform your kitchen with practical lighting upgrades. Learn how to create layered lighting with ambient, task, and accent lights, choose energy-efficient LED bulbs, select statement fixtures, and add smart controls for a functional, stylish space.
Last Updated on February 14, 2026 by Daily News Staff
Transform Your Kitchen with Lighting Upgrades
(Family Features) As the heart of many homes, the kitchen is often for much more than cooking. From morning coffee and gathering for family meals after long days at school and the office to entertaining loved ones on the weekend, functional, stylish lighting can make your kitchen truly shine – day or night. Whether you’re planning a full-scale remodel or simply looking to refresh one of your most-used spaces, even modest lighting updates can enhance its aesthetic appeal and usability. From swapping out lightbulbs to replacing fixtures, adding smart controls and more, these ideas can help you brighten things up. Add Balance with Layered Lighting The most well-lit kitchens incorporate three layers of lighting: ambient, task and accent. Ambient lighting, typically from recessed ceiling lights or a centralized light fixture, provides general illumination and sets the tone for the space. Task lighting, such as under-cabinet light strips or a hanging fixture above an island, provides focused light over work zones like the sink, stove or countertops. Finally, accent lights in cabinets, baseboards or backsplash can add depth and drama, for a practical and inviting layered look. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Lightbulbs One of the simplest ways to upgrade your kitchen – or any room – is swapping old lightbulbs for energy-efficient LED bulbs. From cozy warm whites to bright white and amber hues, LEDs come in a variety of color temperatures to fit your space. Plus, they typically last longer and use less energy than halogen, incandescent and fluorescent bulbs and they’re often dimmable, giving homeowners complete control over the space’s brightness and mood. Make a Statement with New Fixtures A design feature all their own, lighting fixtures like chandeliers or pendants over the kitchen table or center island can instantly elevate your kitchen’s look and feel. For a sleek, modern aesthetic, consider polished chrome finishes; think brass or brushed nickel for warmth; or opt for matte black for stunning contrast. Remember to look for fixtures in finishes that complement your appliances and cabinet hardware to truly bring the space together. Embrace Smart Technology Even small updates can make a big difference when it comes to bringing your kitchen into the future. Swapping out old switches with smart options that allow you to adjust brightness throughout the day, schedule your lights to turn on or off automatically and change the color temperature from your smartphone or voice assistant can enhance usability and convenience while reducing energy usage. Find more ideas to enhance your living spaces at eLivingtoday.com. Photo courtesy of ShutterstockWelcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!
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