A traditional wood-burning fireplace converts only 15% of wood’s energy into usable heat. Most also have open or unsealed dampers which increase the overall energy consumption by around 30%.Older gas heaters spend about $400 per year on gas, although this has improved to around $120 for the more energy efficient models. Whether it’s a gas or electric fireplace, all newer systems are achieving around 75% efficiency rating. If you are in the market for a new or upgraded fireplace, there are plenty of stylish high efficiency fireplaces on the market now - gas or electric with an electronic ignition, fireplaces with a ceramic-molded refractory or liner to help radiate more heat etc.For the lovers of traditional fireplaces, the sad truth is that the newer electric and gas fireplaces trump them on every level except the real wood burn. Apart from cost, environmentally, they do release some carbon dioxide but it is nothing compared to the carbon footprint left by a traditional wood-burning and gas fireplaces. They use 90% less energy and they convert 100% of their electrical energy into heat. If you have an old fireplace, it is easy to change to a more energy-efficient one. Opt for a direct-vent gas fireplace with two-way vents that supply external air for combustion or the vent-free gas fireplace both of which have almost 77% energy-efficiency ratings.And when the heat is on - close your room doors and focus the heat on keep the living areas of the home warmer than others. The room your fireplace is in will typically be the room you are in. If you aren't in a room or are unlikely to go into a room, don't heat it.Image: Anna Hoychuk/Shutterstock