A fireplace can be a big investment for your home, but there are many benefits to installing one. One of the most popular is that it provides warmth and comfort during cold days. But what if you live in an apartment? Or you don’t have enough space for a traditional fireplace? You might want to consider installing a fireplace insert instead! In this article, we will explain how they work and why they are worth considering as an alternative option.
Many people who live in cold climates love the idea of a fireplace, but don’t want to deal with all the dust that comes along with it. This is where an insert can come into play! These are fireplaces that are inserted inside your existing fireplace and provide many benefits. Here is what you need to know about inserts before making your purchase decision!
What are Fireplace Inserts and what do they do?
A fireplace insert is a device that is installed into an existing masonry or prefabricated fireplace. It has a blower and heat exchanger to increase the efficiency of the fireplace and can provide supplemental heat for your home.
- Some people wonder if a fireplace insert is worth it. The answer depends on how you will use the fireplace insert and your existing fireplace.
- If you are looking to improve the efficiency of your current fireplace, a fireplace insert is a good option. A well-installed insert can increase the efficiency of a traditional masonry or prefabricated fireplace by up to 75%.
- If you are looking for supplemental heat for your home, a fireplace insert is also a good option. It can provide supplemental heat in the room where it’s located, and will decrease your home heating expenses by up to 40%.
How much do Fireplace Inserts cost and how long do they last?
The cost of a Fireplace Insert can vary depending on the size and type you choose. They typically last around 15-20 years, but proper maintenance can help them last even longer.
How efficient are Fireplace Inserts?
Fireplace Inserts are much more efficient than an open fireplace. They can heat a room up to 15 degrees warmer, depending on the type you choose.
They also come with a blower that circulates the heat evenly throughout the room. This is much better than an open fireplace, which only warms up the area directly in front of it.
If you are looking for a way to heat your home more efficiently, Fireplace Inserts are definitely worth considering.
How do I know if a Fireplace Insert is right for me?
There are a few things to consider before purchasing a Fireplace Insert. First, you need to make sure that your fireplace is big enough to accommodate the insert.
The other thing to consider is how much heat you want your fireplace to generate. Some inserts can produce up to 23,000 BTU per hour. While this sounds like a lot of heat, it may be too hot for your tastes.
The more important number is how much space the firebox has to disperse that warmth throughout the room. You want enough surface area in order to get even heating from one side of the room to another.
If you are considering purchasing a Fireplace Insert, it is important to find out all of the specs on your fireplace first.
List:
- They can heat a room up to 15 degrees warmer, depending on the type you choose.
- This is much better than an open fireplace which only warms up the area directly in front of it.
- You want enough surface area in order to get even heating from one side of the room to another.
- If you are considering purchasing a Fireplace Insert, it is important to find out all of the specs on your fireplace first.
Do I need a professional to install a Fireplace Insert?
No, most Fireplace Inserts are easy to install and do not require a professional. However, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure safe and proper installation.
Can I install a Fireplace Insert myself?
Yes, most Fireplace Inserts are easy to install and do not require a professional. However, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure safe and proper installation.
What are the benefits of having a Fireplace insert in your home?
There are many benefits to having a Fireplace insert in your home. Some of the most notable benefits include: increased heat output, increased efficiency, and an improved appearance. Let’s take a closer look at each of these benefits.
First, fireplace inserts can provide up to 50% more heat than traditional fireplaces. This can be beneficial because it will allow you to lower your home’s heating bills. It can also be helpful if you are worried about being able to heat a certain area of the house properly.
Second, Fireplace inserts are much more efficient than traditional fireplaces. This is due to several reasons including that they require less wood and produce less smoke. As a result, you will be able to save money on your heating bills while also reducing the amount of pollution in your home.
Finally, Fireplace inserts can improve the appearance of your home. They are available in a wide range of styles and finishes, so you should be able to find one that matches the look of your home. If you are looking to sell your home, it is also important to note that Fireplace inserts can increase the value of your house by up to 90%.
Are Fireplace Inserts worth it?
When you are looking to get a replacement for your old or broken fireplace, one of the things that come along with it is purchasing inserts. There are several different types of inserts available in the market today and all have their own set of pros and cons. Let’s take a look at some common ones used by homeowners:
- Electric fireplace inserts: One of the most popular options, they are easy to install and provide a realistic flame effect. The downside is that they can be quite expensive to operate, especially if you have a large unit.
- Gas fireplace inserts: Gas inserts are more efficient than electric ones as they use less fuel. However, they are more expensive to purchase.
- Wood burning fireplace inserts: These are the most popular choices as they provide a real wood fire feel and actual flames. They also have no emissions, so you don’t need to worry about air pollution or bad smells in your home. The downside is that these units require constant stoking to keep them going and can be a fire hazard if not properly installed or used.
It really depends on your needs and what type of insert you choose. Do your research to find the best option for you and your home!
How to install a Fireplace insert in your home?
Inserting a fireplace insert is no different than installing any other type of wood burning stove. Each manufacturer has its own specific instructions, but the basic installation procedure for most models are similar to this one, that we will try to briefly describe below:
- Before starting anything else, make sure you have all the tools and materials needed at hand.
- Plan where you want to place the insert and make sure the chimney is in good condition, with no cracks or other problems that could cause an obstruction of airflow. Also be aware of combustible materials above it (check your insurance policy). If possible, move all furniture away from the fireplace opening for faster access when installing new parts and for better safety.
- Unpack the insert, taking care not to damage it in any way. It is a good idea if you unbox everything before starting anything else so that no parts are lost or damaged by surprise while working on them later.
- Disconnect any other appliances from power supply (e.g., TV, stereo, etc.)
- If your insert comes with a flue liner, have it installed by a professional. It is very important that the liner extends all the way up to the top of the chimney and does not leak.
- Place the insert in the opening and secure it temporarily in place with some metal braces or screws.
- Remove the braces and slide in a flue liner (if you have one). Now, attach it to the insert with some screws or metal brackets. If there is no flue liner included with your purchase, simply break apart any fireplace brickwork that might be blocking airflow from outside into the chimney. Use a chisel and a hammer to do this.
- Reattach the braces and tighten them securely. Make sure the insert is sitting level, using a spirit level for guidance. If it is not, you might have to adjust the position of the metal brackets that hold it in place.
- Connect the flue pipe to the insert and secure it to the wall with a bracket.
- Connect an electrical line to your insert, making sure it is properly grounded and safe for use before you turn the power on. Follow all manufacturer’s instructions carefully while doing so or consult an electrician if needed. You can now enjoy warmth in your home during winter!
The dos and don’ts of using a Fireplace insert?
- Do make sure the insert is the correct size for your fireplace.
- Don’t forget to measure your fireplace opening before you buy an insert!
- Do be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
- Don’t overload the insert with too much fuel.
- Do use a screen or spark arrestor to prevent sparks from going up the chimney.
- Don’t use a fireplace insert if you have flammable items near it or an open fire nearby that can cause sparks to jump out of your fireplace and start a fire elsewhere in the house.
- Do ask about any other restrictions from local authorities, such as whether certain types of inserts are allowed at all.
- Don’t assume that an insert will heat your entire home, or even the room it is in. It may only provide supplemental heating for a small area around it.
Environmental Protection Agency
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has created a program that rates the efficiency of wood-burning appliances, including fireplace inserts. The ratings are from one to five stars, with five stars being the most efficient.
According to the EPA, all fireplaces and wood stoves should have an EPA rating label affixed to the appliance. The label lists information about what type of fuel is used and how much heat it puts out under optimal conditions. An insert has a rating that refers only to its efficiency, not an EPA certification for burning specific types of wood or other materials.
A fireplace insert must have certain basic features in order for it to be considered efficient. The fireplace must be sealed with glass doors, the combustion air needs to be brought in from outside instead of through a vent inside the house and it has to have an adjustable blower.
Safety Tips For Installation
When installing a fireplace insert, it is important to take into account the safety of your family and home. Here are some tips for a safe installation:
- Always consult with a professional installer.
- Make sure the insert fits properly in the opening of your fireplace.
- Insure that the flue is open and not blocked.
- Never use the fireplace insert without a hearth or fire resistant screen in place.
- Make sure the chimney is clean and in good condition.
- Never overload the fireplace with wood.
- Keep combustible materials away from the fireplace.
- Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
These are just a few of the safety tips to keep in mind when installing a fireplace insert. For more tips and suggestions, please visit our blog for a complete guide.
FAQs
What is the difference between a fireplace insert and traditional wood burning fireplace?
The most obvious distinction is that with an insert, you do not have to deal with cutting down trees, chopping logs, or getting firewood. Instead, the fireplace insert takes advantage of a space that is already available – your existing hearth and flue – to provide you with warmth and ambiance throughout the year via heat rather than flames.
What should I look for when buying an insert?
The first thing we recommend looking at would be the efficiency of your new insert. This is a rating given by manufacturers which specifies how much heat will be produced per unit of wood burned (BTU/hr). The higher this number, the more heat you can expect to get out for each log that goes in!
What are the benefits of a fireplace insert?
There are many reasons why inserts have become so popular in recent years! First and foremost, they are incredibly efficient – meaning you’ll get more heat for your money. Additionally, inserts are incredibly easy to use. Many of our models come with remote control, so you can turn it on from the comfort of your couch!
How much does an insert cost?
This depends largely on what model is being discussed. While many inserts are very expensive, there are also quite a few budget-friendly options available under $1000.
Are inserts safe?
Yes! Inserts are actually much safer than traditional fireplaces. This is because the insert traps all of the heat and combustion gases inside the fireplace, whereas a traditional open fireplace allows these dangerous substances to escape into your home.
What about emissions?
The amount of emissions an insert produces is also something to consider when making your purchase. Emissions are measured in grams per hour (g/h) and the lower the number, the better.
Do inserts require a chimney?
No – an insert does not require a chimney because all of the combustion takes place inside the fireplace itself. However, you will still need to have a flue / damper in place to ensure the gases are able to escape.
What is chimney free technology?
A lot of inserts today (including our models) use chimney free technology which means they don’t require a flue or outside venting. Instead, these units draw air through an underground air tube to provide clean, efficient combustion.
What types of fuel can I burn in my fireplace insert?
There are a variety of materials you can use as your fuel source – including firewood, wood pellets and even corn! However, we recommend sticking with one that is readily available locally given the messiness associated with burning other substances.
What is the heat output of your insert?
This varies depending on which model you choose, but our inserts are capable of producing up to 29k BTU/hr! This means that if you’re looking for a quality heating solution at an affordable price point, we have many models available with great reviews under $1000.
Conclusion
So, are fireplace inserts worth it? In short, the answer is yes. Not only do they provide a more efficient and cleaner burning fire, but they can also increase your home’s value. If you’re considering purchasing an insert for your fireplace, be sure to consult with a professional to find the best option for your home.