Everything You Want to Know About Fireplace Inserts

Your fireplace could use a facelift, not to mention it could be more efficient. So, you have one of two options:

Pay, potentially, a lot of money for a major renovation, or

Get a fireplace insert!

Fireplace inserts are a great option if you lean more towards utilitarian over artistic (don’t worry, they aren’t ugly!) Fireplace inserts are essentially a stove within your firebox. They are an affordable way to update your living space without taking as much out of your wallet as renovations may cost. And, while they update the appearance of your living room, they also can make your fireplace more efficient in how your fireplace puts out heat and safeguards against loss in the summertime. Here are some of our most commonly asked fireplace insert questions.

There are even different types of fireplace inserts ranging from wood-burning to even vent free fireplace inserts! Check them out below!

Coal

Direct Vent Gas

Vent-free Gas

Wood Burning

How do fireplace inserts work?

Fireplace inserts are basically a steel or cast iron box with a combustible system that draws air from the room into it and then blows warm air out back into the room. They are generally considered more efficient than an ordinary fireplace, so you can be sure that you’re getting your money’s worth when you see a reduction in the heating bill.

Do you need a fireplace to have a fireplace insert?

Well, yes. It IS essentially a stove that’s made to go in your fireplace, but you still need the fireplace nonetheless. It’s a matter of structure and safety. If you don’t have a fireplace but would like a stove, you’re in luck! We sell stoves of all types and sizes (call for details), you just have to pick out the one that works best for your home!

When should you replace a fireplace insert?

If a fireplace insert is well maintained and well made, to begin with, it can last decades! There is some typical maintenance that should be performed periodically on a fireplace insert, but as long as that’s done you should be fine. Fireplace inserts aren’t really a fire product that’s made to fail over time. Of course, no product is made to do that, but with some fireplace products, like fireplace gloves, you expect to eventually replace them as normal wear and tear does happen.

Certain maintenance tasks, like the ones below, should be checked annually:

• Checking and replacing gaskets and handles
• Brick replacement
• Re-cement seams

Can you install one yourself?

Yes! Though, it isn’t necessarily a walk in the park. Fireplace inserts are very heavy and when not hooked up correctly, it can be unsafe to operate them. Would you like to see a how-to guide on this? Comment below, let us know on social media, or tell Chris!

Our newest feature, Ask Chris, is perfect for you to ask the fireplace king himself anything you want to know about your fireplaces, fire pits, or even water fountains. When it comes to home décor, we’ve got you covered and the king knows best!

Please give us a call if you're interested in a fireplace insert!