Contra-Flow Principle When wood burns in the firebox high temperatures are reached quickly, forcing the burning gases up through the throat of the fireplace The hot gases are then guided down and out into the side channels, where the heat is released into the exterior stones. As the air is heated by the exterior walls, it creates a convection current so that the heat circulates evenly throughout the room. Traditional Quality The interior stones of the fireplace are cut across the grain, making them able to withstand very high temperatures. The exterior stones are cut along the grain, allowing them to conduct heat evenly into the room. Many models can be top vented if needed to save on space. Although this method is best suited for corner models, straight-backed models can also be adapted for top-venting by adding an additional course of stone. Refer to the dimensional footprints that accompany each model description to see if is easily top-vented.

Once the fireplace has warmed up and the fire has gone out, the damper and ashdoor (see item 8 below) are closed in order to prevent the stored heat from escaping up through the chimney. Special Qualities of the Tulikivi Fireplace Air flow into the fireplace is regulated by a control on the ashdoor. Although ash deposits are minimal, ash build-up can be removed cleanly and easily in the covered removable ashpan. Patented airwash system keeps the glass door clear and free of soot. Electric heating components may be added to side channels to provide automatic back-up heat. Safety The fireplace must be built on fireproof material. The fireplace must have a foundation or an engineered floor system designed to support it's weight and the weight of the chimney.