fireplace inserts

Many homeowners already have conventional masonry fireplaces in their home and know that they are inefficient (usually only 10-20 percent).  Rather than replace the entire fireplace which can be both expensive and a major construction project, one option for getting better efficiency is to use a fireplace insert. A fireplace insert is usually a steel box which is designed to fit inside the space of your existing fireplace.  They are built so that the flue of the new firebox fits into your existing chimney. 

Fireplace inserts can sometimes be as expensive as a brand new wood stove.  But the good news is that there are many styles available and in most cases you can find one which completely matches the look and feel of your current fireplace.  They are easy to install and consequently you avoid the cost of having to tear out you existing fireplace in order to gain more efficiency.

Some models extend onto the hearth, while others stay flush with the front of the fireplace. Most fireplace inserts come with a built-in blower fan which pushes out the heated air between the insert box and the masonry of the original fireplace.  This can help to circulate the heat far more effectively. By using a fireplace insert with a fan you can often raise you heating efficiency from 10% to as high as 70%. 

It is important when installing a fireplace insert to ensure that there is a proper connection between the flue of the insert and the original chimney flue. If not properly installed exhaust gases can exit the flue collar and find their way into the room.  The best approach is to use a stainless steel chimney liner which runs from the insert flue collar all the way to the top of the chimney.  While this does make the insert installation a bit more permanent it has the advantage of making the chimney much easier to clean and maintain. Installed correctly, the insert should not need to be removed from the fireplace for many years because the liner and all the hardware supporting it is corrosion-resistant stainless steel.

Most fireplace inserts are designed for wood burning and wood pellets but gas and electric models are available as well.  However, the gas and electric types use conventional fuel sources and have the high cost associated with them as well.