Heating & fireplaces
Stay warm through winter, with or without Eskom.
Gas heaters, fireplaces, closed-combustion stoves and patio heaters: what they cost to run, how to choose one and how to use them safely.
- Gas heaters
- Fireplaces
- Closed combustion
- Patio heaters
- Running costs
Chimney sweep guide: how often and how to clean a fireplace
Why chimneys need sweeping, how often, the warning signs of soot and creosote build-up, DIY fireplace cleaning steps and when to call a chimney sweep.
Closed combustion fireplace guide: wood stoves explained
How closed combustion fireplaces and wood stoves work, why they heat better than open fires, how to size one, flue and installation rules, and local brands.
Fireplace guide: types of fireplaces for SA homes
Open, closed combustion, gas or bioethanol? Compare types of fireplaces, built-in vs freestanding, efficiency, chimney basics and the approvals you may need.
Gas fireplace guide: flued vs vent-free, CoC and costs
Flued or vent-free gas fireplace? How each type works, room-size and ventilation rules, installation and the gas CoC, running-cost maths and what to check.
Gas heater guide: choosing the best gas heater in SA
Radiant, catalytic, blue flame or patio? Compare gas heater types, size one for your room, work out running costs and know the safety features to insist on.
Gas heater safety: carbon monoxide, ventilation and ODS
How to use an indoor gas heater safely: carbon monoxide warning signs, ventilation, ODS sensors, cylinder handling, leak tests and the rules you never break.
Oil heater vs gas heater: which is better for your home?
Oil heater or gas heater? How each works, the kWh formula for running costs, what happens in load shedding, and which suits bedrooms, lounges and open plans.
Patio heater guide: gas and electric outdoor heaters
Mushroom, pyramid or wall-mounted electric? How to choose a patio heater, how far the heat reaches, wind and roof clearances, and the safety rules that matter.