TULIKIVI soapstone has very special thermal qualitites. Soapstone stores two and a half times more heat than other more conventional masonry fireplace materials (brick, block, stone). Soapstone absorbs heat quickly and holds heat much longer. The TULIKIVI fireplace is not really a fireplace -- it is a true masonry heater, using the age old principal of thermal mass to provide safe, healthy, efficient heat.

Key Benefits

• TULIKIVI heaters use a unique "contra-flow" to channel the heat and flue gasses from the fire through the maze (and mass) of the stone to store heat. The heat retention properties of the soapstone allow the heat to be released slowly and evenly for 12 to 24 hrs after the initial burn. The contraflow system also promotes more thorough combustion minimizing emissions of smoke, carbon monoxide, and other harmful gases and adding to the heat available to be absorbed by the stone. The radiant heat from the stone keeps your room air pleasant and healthy rather than dry and parched, and is a great option for those suffering from allergies or asthma.
• TULIKIVI soapstone heaters come in many different styles to fit most any taste. There are corner models, cookstoves, bakeovens, and combinations. There are also customizing options with many of the basic models.

This reduces wood consumption as well as emissions.

The Contra-flow System

The contra-flow system is used to collect thermal energy from hot flue gases.

(1) When wood burns in the firebox high temperatures are reached quickly, forcing the burning flue gases into the upper combustion chamber below the top lid. (2) The hot gases are then guided down and out into the side channels, where the heat is released into the exterior stones. At the same time, room air outside the fireplace walls warms and moves up the stone surface in a path opposite to the interior downflow. These two opposing air flows are known as contra-flow. Most of the generated heat is transferred evenly into the room in the form of comfortable radiant heat.