There’s a little less than a month until the folks at Henges Insulation head down to Orlando, FL, for the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Expo.
The HPBExpo recently released a statement about this year’s hottest products. Think eco-friendly, efficient, and easy-to-use products. (We’ll be sure to fill you in with a post-show recap, too!)
HPBA President Jack Goldman says, “Today’s manufacturers are designing fireplaces, stoves and other heating products with efficiency and environmental impact in mind. There are more options than ever to supply homes with warmth and ambiance that not only help cut heating costs, but also provide consumers with renewable fuel options. This year’s HPBExpo features the latest products for the hearth of the home.”
And (drumroll, please!), the latest hearth trends, courtesy of HPBExpo, are:
Cleaner and Greener: From high-grade, cast-iron stoves forged with recycled material to wood burning fireplaces that release fewer emissions, manufacturers are exploring new technologies and fuels to reduce the environmental impact of hearth products while increasing product efficiency. From heating an entire house to only the rooms that are used most, fireplaces, stoves, inserts and outdoor wood hydronic heaters are being designed to meet and exceed strict government emissions standards.
In the Zone: Heating rooms that a family occupies the most, or zone heating, makes today’s stoves and fireplaces allow a home’s central heat to be turned down. Fans, circulators and blowers enhance that efficiency, helping to save even more money.
All-in-One: Home is where the hearth is. As the center of relaxation and entertainment, new fireplaces can include entertainment features like iPod docks, wire management channels and built-in media cabinets to form an instant sanctuary.
Art of Fire: The beauty of a flame is amplified by manufacturers who have designed fireplace masterpieces that can be hung on walls, can feature rich veneers, sculptures and glass, and sometimes even touched off with LED lighting.
Convenience is King: Manufacturers continue to develop the latest in remote controls, timers, and hopper technology. Modern hearth products offer flip-of-the-switch heat and ambiance, self-cleaning capabilities, and can allow for multiple days of operation with little hassle or interaction.
Mainstream Alternatives: Wood, corn and cherry pits are just a few of the biomass fuel options that continue to gain in popularity.
Maximized Living Space: From classic fire pits to portable heaters and stoves, outdoor heating sources extend seasons and increase entertainment square footage. New multipurpose products that can serve as an outdoor fireplace, a wood-fire grill, or even a garden sculpture also bring new utility to outdoor spaces.
