When you’re shopping for a new fireplace, it’s easy to see why buying online or from a big-box store feels appealing. A few clicks promise fast delivery and a lower upfront price. But from our experience at Fireplace Professionals, that initial savings often disappears—and can actually cost Sioux Falls homeowners far more in the long run.
A fireplace isn’t a plug-and-play appliance. It’s a permanent home system that affects comfort, safety, efficiency, and even resale value. In our Upper Midwest climate, where winters are long and cold, those details matter even more.
Fireplaces Must Be Designed for Your Home—not a Warehouse Shelf
Every home is different. Ceiling height, insulation quality, room size, existing venting, and airflow all play a major role in how a fireplace performs. Online retailers can’t see your home. They can’t evaluate whether your space needs supplemental heat or just ambiance, or whether your venting system can safely support a specific model.
We regularly meet homeowners who purchased fireplaces online that were improperly sized or poorly matched to their home’s layout. The result? Weak heat output, draft problems, overheating issues, or smoke and odor concerns. Fixing these mistakes often requires costly modifications—new venting, reframing, or even replacing the unit entirely.
Starting with professional guidance almost always costs less than correcting problems later.
Installation Errors Are Expensive—and Sometimes Dangerous
Another major risk of buying online is installation. Many homeowners assume they can “find someone” after the fireplace arrives. In reality, many certified installers won’t work on third-party units due to liability concerns or unknown installation histories.
Improper installation can lead to poor efficiency, premature wear, carbon monoxide risks, or fire hazards. A fireplace must meet strict manufacturer specifications and local codes to operate safely. Professional installation ensures everything—from clearances and venting to fuel connections—is done correctly the first time.
Warranty Coverage Is Often at Risk
One of the most costly surprises we see involves warranties. Many fireplace manufacturers require certified installation to keep warranties valid. If a unit is installed incorrectly—or modified to “make it work”—warranty coverage may be voided entirely.
That means when repairs are needed, homeowners are often stuck paying out of pocket. Replacement parts, labor, and diagnostics can quickly exceed any initial online savings.
Service and Support Matter Long After Purchase
Fireplaces need ongoing maintenance, occasional repairs, and access to replacement parts. Homeowners who buy online frequently struggle to find local service providers willing—or able—to work on unfamiliar models. Delays, higher service costs, and limited part availability are common.
When you purchase locally from Fireplace Professionals, you gain long-term support from a team that knows your system, carries trusted brands, and stands behind the products we sell.
The Smarter First Step
If you’re considering a fireplace for your Sioux Falls home, the smartest investment is starting with expert advice. Visiting our showroom or calling to schedule a consultation allows us to help you choose the right fireplace for your space, climate, and lifestyle—before costly mistakes are made.
Buying online may look cheaper at first glance, but professional guidance, proper installation, and long-term support are what truly protect your investment and your home.
