How do you unlock and use the hearth for better base heating?

Unlocking and using the hearth in Valheim is a crucial step for improving your base''s heating and overall comfort. The hearth is an advanced version of the campfire, providing better warmth and a larger area of effect. To unlock the hearth, you must first defeat the second boss, The Elder, in the Black Forest biome. This boss drops a Swamp Key, which grants access to the Swamp biome, where you can find Surtling Cores and Iron Scrap, essential for crafting the hearth.\n\nTo craft a hearth, you need to gather specific materials: 15 Stone, 4 Surtling Cores, and 10 Wood. Stone can be collected from the ground or mined from large boulders, while Wood is obtained by chopping trees. Surtling Cores are found in Burial Chambers in the Black Forest or dropped by Surtlings in the Swamp biome. Once you have the materials, you can craft the hearth at a workbench, which requires a roof and walls to function.\n\nPlacement of the hearth is critical for maximizing its effectiveness. Unlike the campfire, the hearth must be placed on a stone floor or a reinforced wooden floor. This requirement ensures stability and prevents accidental fires. To create a stone floor, you need to craft a Stonecutter using 10 Wood and 2 Iron, which allows you to process stone into building materials. Once the hearth is placed, it provides a significant boost to your base''s comfort level, which increases your rested bonus duration.\n\nOne common challenge players face is managing smoke buildup from the hearth. Unlike the campfire, the hearth produces more smoke, which can quickly fill your base if not properly ventilated. To solve this, ensure your base has a chimney or open roof above the hearth to allow smoke to escape. You can also use angled roof pieces to direct smoke outside while keeping your base protected from the elements.\n\nAnother practical tip is to combine the hearth with other comfort-enhancing items, such as rugs, banners, and furniture. These items stack their comfort bonuses, further increasing your rested bonus duration. For example, placing a rug near the hearth and adding a chair and table can significantly improve your base''s overall comfort. This is especially useful during long crafting or building sessions, as the rested bonus boosts your stamina regeneration.\n\nIn summary, unlocking and using the hearth in Valheim requires defeating The Elder, gathering materials like Surtling Cores and Iron, and crafting it at a workbench. Proper placement and ventilation are key to maximizing its benefits, and combining it with other comfort items can greatly enhance your gameplay experience. By following these steps, you can create a warm and cozy base that supports your Viking adventures.