The flame dilemma: A data analytics study of fireplace influence on winter energy consumption at the residential household level

• A big data model is proposed by layering energy and infrastructure information.
• Winter energy use of fireplaces is compared in size, vintage, and fuel type categories.
• Homes with fireplaces consume more winter energy disregarding size and vintage.
• San Antonio homes with fireplaces used 31% more winter energy than homes without.
• Big data analysis provides a “measure to manage” tool for utilities.

This study investigates the effect of the presence of fireplaces at the household level independent of the function of ambiance and indoor air quality. The focus of this study is on the winter heating energy use of homes with and without fireplaces to promote energy conservation. Three years of winter energy usage (2011–2013) of 365,190 single-family homes are analyzed and compared. The data is further segmented by fuel type, all-electric versus dual-fuel homes as well as by size and vintage. On average, homes with fireplaces used 23,650 kBtu, source energy, for heating purposes during the winter months versus 18,055 kBtu (p≤0.0001p≤0.0001) during the same time period, January, February, and December. There is a significant 31% increase in energy use in homes with fireplaces. In conclusion, policy prescriptions and retrofits are recommended during new home construction permits, renovations, and utility rebate outreach programs to encourage more efficient and cleaner fireplace technology applications.