fireplace insert buying and installing

A fireplace insert is like a stove specially designed to be installed within the firebox of a traditional fireplace (usually masonry or meal fireplaces).

New technologies

New technologies have turned the certified fireplace inserts into highly efficient devices, cloning the free-standing wood, gas and pellet stoves efficiency.

Fuels

Inserts can burn wood, pellets, or gas… In other words: there are pellet fireplace inserts, gas fireplace inserts and obviously wood fireplace inserts.

Fireplace gas insert Each type of insert fireplace provides the same efficiency as their stove counterparts. See on this issue: Fireplace Insert Fuels

Chimney

Fireplace inserts may be vented or unvented (in the case of gas inserts). Unvented fireplace inserts do not have a chimney or flue, and are becoming increasingly popular: they are efficient, and simultaneously cheaper and easy to install. However, vent-less inserts (as other vent-less heaters) deplete the oxygen level and can be unhealthy - which makes a chimney highly desirable.

Chimney liner

In the past, fireplace inserts were often installed without a direct connection to the chimney, which was a source of problems and inefficiency. Today’s codes require that connection.

A well installed flue liner is an important element in inserts involving masonry chimneys. Lining the chimney is crucial to get a proper draft and to avoid blockings in the air flow.

Fireplace Insert Installation

A proper installation of your fireplace insert is crucial. Without it you will not get safety and efficiency. Details like the size and mounting of the stainless-steel chimney liner (linking the top of the chimney to the insert flue collar) are crucial in terms of energy-efficiency.

Installation should provide an airtight system. Fireplace inserts should be as airtight as possible, and filling any gap with proper and approved insulating materials is a crucial issue. The more airtight the insert is, the easier it is to control the heat output (and the fire).

Buying a certified fireplace insert

Experienced retailers can help you to choose and buy an insert, which should correspond to the space you want to heat and to the characteristics of your existing fireplace.

And do not forget: choose a certified insert. Only a certified fireplace insert allows low emissions and full benefits from the new technologies.

See: Modern Fireplaces & Traditional Fireplaces Upgrade