The Hottest Hearth Products for 2010

Wood and Pellet Stoves

“There’s nothing like the radiant heat a wood or pellet stove produces,” says Wayne Dooley, Director of Training at Travis Industries. “People like the scent.”

Wood and pellet stoves are “hot” sellers because of the $1,500 tax credit (which extends through 2010) on energy-efficient stoves, fireplaces, and fireplace inserts. In order to qualify for the tax credit, says Wayne, the *biomass stoves must be over 75% efficient.

More than 38 models Travis Industries manufactures meet the 75% efficiency criteria, says Wayne. And ALL of the brands Rich’s carries qualify for the biomass tax credit.

*Biomass fuels are organic materials (such as wood pellets) that can be used as fuel for heating.

Electric Fireplaces

Electric fireplaces are also extremely popular, particularly among condo owners and renters, who are restricted from installing wood or gas stoves.

“People who live in condos and apartments like the ambiance of a fireplace, and they usually need to heat only about 450 square feet of a family room where they gather,” says Wayne. “With an electric fireplace, all you do is plug it in.”

The great thing about electric fireplaces is that any of the decorative “faces” that come on gas fireplaces can also be used on an electric fireplace. So if you spot a fancy face that you must have, ask your Rich’s sales associate how you can get your electric fireplace faceplate customized.

An electric fireplace with a mantle generally sells for around $1,000. If you substitute a fancy face, you could add as much as $1,000 to your cost, Wayne estimates.

Tempest Torch

The Tempest Torch will draw you in like a moth to flame. This decorative outdoor gas lamp has a mesmerizing flame that spirals and dances within its tempered glass walls. It would be a perfect addition for a poolside area, outdoor room or store front.

It can be mounted on a wall, deck post, in-ground post, or pillar. There’s also a portable patio model.

The Tempest Torch, which is manufactured by Travis Industries and sold at Rich's, won Best Outdoor Room Furnishing and Best of Show for all outdoor products at the Hearth, Patio and BBQ Expo.

Here’s a video of the Tempest Torch in action: