Table of Contents
What is the difference between a fireplace and a fireplace insert?
Fireplaces will have large viewing areas and box dimensions because they are designed to be built into new construction and not limited by the existing fireplace opening size. A fireplace insert is basically a stove, wood or gas, that is designed to be inserted into a fireplace that is already there.
What is the purpose of the fireplace inserts?
Most fireplace inserts are designed to increase a fireplace’s efficiency. An insert is basically a fireproof box that’s surrounded by steel or cast iron and fronted by insulated glass, creating a closed combustion system. The steel or cast iron helps to trap the heat.
Are fireplace inserts worth it?
Are Fireplace Inserts Worth the Money? Savings: Fireplace inserts can help you to cut down on your heating bill. A fireplace insert is not recommended as a sole use of heating but when used in conjunction with turning down your thermostat, can save you money on your heating bill.
How do I know if I have a fireplace insert?
You can generally tell you have a fireplace insert if the firebox is metal and surrounded by a steel shell. To know for sure what type of insert you have, look for the nameplate under the grill by the pilot light and gas valve.
Does a fireplace insert need a chimney?
Do Electric Inserts Need a Chimney? Unlike wood-burning and direct vent systems, electric fireplaces do not need a chimney to vent combustible byproducts. However, they do have other unique needs that wood and gas burning inserts may not require.
Do fireplace inserts increase home value?
Return on Investment A homeowner can often recover over 100 percent of the expenses associated with adding a fireplace upon selling their home. According to the National Association of Real Estate Appraisers, adding a fireplace to home can increase the resale value of the home by as much as 6-12 percent.
Can a fireplace insert heat a house?
Fireplace inserts are like heating stoves and fit directly inside an existing masonry fireplace. And EPA-certified units provide up to 70% to 80% heating efficiency. Make sure to add the blower motor option to your insert if you want to spread the heat around your house.
Do fireplace inserts give off heat?
Fireplace inserts have a sealed, air tight door system which generates more heat because the fire burns much slower and the heat isn’t wasted. The efficiency of fireplace inserts can be as much as 80%. A more efficient wood-burning heating system means less gas, oil, or electricity is required to heat your home.
Can I put an insert in my fireplace?
Professionals can install a fireplace insert into your existing fireplace with a masonry chimney. Upgrading to a fireplace insert can help you take advantage of a greater heating efficiency compared to an older wood-burning fireplace.
How much does it cost to put in a fireplace insert?
How much does a fireplace insert cost? Most fireplace inserts and a professional installation cost about $2,000 to $4,000, depending on the state of your existing chimney and the model you select. Some electric models cost significantly less, but they offer less heat output than wood and gas fireplace inserts.
How long do fireplace inserts last?
However, when properly maintained, a fireplace insert can last 20-30 years or more, making them a great investment in the future of your home.
Are wood fireplace inserts safe?
When properly installed, wood-burning inserts are very safe and are much safer than an open fire.
Can you have a wood burning fireplace without a chimney?
Yes, it is possible to add a wood burning stove or a fireplace without an existing chimney, but you do need to install a chimney in the process. All wood burning fireplaces have to have a way to allow smoke and dangerous gases to exit your home. But you also don’t have to build a large brick or rock fireplace.
Can I burn real wood in a gas fireplace?
The answer to “Can you burn wood in a gas fireplace?” is a resounding NO! That is, if your setup is a true gas-only fireplace. In this type of installation, burning wood is extremely hazardous. With other kinds of gas fireplaces, you might be able to burn wood, but only under the right conditions.
What is a zero clearance fireplace insert?
Zero-clearance fireplaces are pre-manufactured fireplaces that can be installed almost directly against combustible materials like wood, walls, or panelling. The construction and materials of the firebox do not allow the outside temperatures of the firebox to affect those materials and do not require a hearth.
Do fireplace inserts need a chimney liner?
When installing a fireplace insert in your existing fireplace it is now required that you install a chimney liner system to vent the appliance. In addition to your installation being compliant with local code, there are many other benefits to installing a stainless steel chimney liner.
Can I install a fireplace insert without a liner?
When an insert has no liner, or a partial liner, it cannot be cleaned in the normal way (by putting a brush into the chimney through the insert). Doing so would cause ash and creosote to fall behind the insert, where it would build up and potentially ignite.
Do fireplace inserts need electricity?
As with freestanding wood stoves, wood fireplace inserts won’t typically require a source of electricity. If a wood insert has a blower then it will typically require an electrical supply in order to operate.
