How to improve the fireplace

Excellent!

 

A great Wall of fire, or heatilator rack will help. But the real answer is to get an insert or find a stove that will fit if you want real heat from a fireplace.

My buddy and I installed the cheap used pellet stove he got in his FP. That sure seems to heat pretty well.

 

We got an RF-6 fireback a couple years ago for our fireplace. I think they advertise a 50% increase in felt heat, which is about what we experienced. If you really want to heat a room with a traditional fireplace I think it's a good place to start.

 

A fireplace insert woodstove will be literally 10 times better than the fireplace. Most heat from fireplaces go up the chimney. you will save way more wood too. Even in stall a wood boiler, it will heat 10 times better than the wood stove insert and you can heat the pool with it too!

 

An insert will be a game-changer for you.

 

I just ordered a M-6 vertical rack today. Was talking with customer service at Grate wall of fire and asked about their firebacks as well. After discussing with them I am going to hold off on the fireback for now and see how this new rack works out. Lord of the flies had recommended this company and they seem real solid.
Current pics of my existing rack. It’s in bad shape.