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The interesting thing about glass fireplace doors is that they do something most people do not understand. In other words, glass doors are actually counter productive when it comes to fireplace heat. Let us explain - glass fireplace doors actually block up to 90% of radiant heat. However, they also do not stop warm air from the room from blowing right up the chimney. Therefore, instead of being of benefit, glass doors are actually not helping you when it comes to heating a room. However, if you want the elegance of glass fireplace doors, not to worry, a blower will solve this potential problem that the doors present.
The reason is that glass fireplace doors are incapable of transmitting thermal infrared wavelengths between 8 and 12 microns. While glass doors can transmit short wavelengths, usually around 1 micron that is simply not enough to bring warmth to a room. Keep in mind that the glass in the door will get hot, absorbing the heat, which means the heat needed in the room is not radiated because the glass is not designed to be transparent to infrared. If you have ever sat close to your fireplace and you feel some heat through the glass fireplace doors, it is only because the glass gets hot and then it radiates some heat through the glass but not much. In fact, if you had a roaring fire, one with glass fireplace doors, and one with solid metal doors, you would get far more heat in the room with the metal than you ever would with the glass. Now, in addition to glass fireplace doors blocking the majority of the heat from your fireplace, they also serve as a sieve but for a reason. The reason is that most manufacturers usually provide glass fireplace doors with tempered glass instead of using temperature neo-ceram glass. This means the room is bathed on the inside of the glass, keeping it cool so the glass does not actually shatter. Glass fireplace doors with all vents closed tend to leak almost as much as what you would see with an open damper. Then, they block out the majority of the radiant heat but no air. However, if you purchase the right type of glass fireplace doors, you can enjoy a warm, toasty room and a beautiful look. Today, glass doors are designed to become a part of the room’s décor. That means you get beauty, warmth, and efficiency all rolled into one. If you are shopping around, looking at new glass fireplace doors, then you want to consider a few things. First, make sure the door is the correct size, fitting perfectly in the firebox opening. Additionally, if your fireplace opening is of standard size, rectangular, or arched, you should have no problem using glass doors. Regardless, one of the keys to good glass fireplace doors is the material of the doorframe, which should be brass or steel.
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