Wood Burning Fireplace Inserts

So you already have fabulous fireplace made of rock that you are not planning to redesign ever? You think that they are already so romantic. However, it is quite old and is certainly not efficient in terms of using and saving energy. You may need to get yourself a wood burning fireplace insert to have the benefits of both worlds.

But what exactly is it? It could be best compared to a wood stove but this type of insert is specifically structured to be able to fit in an existing fireplace. Similar to a wood stove, the insert must also be EPA-certified so that you would be sure that your insert will function efficiently and will burn clean.

These inserts are usually fashioned using plate steel or cast iron and have glass doors so that the flames would be visible. The insert may be protruding from the hearth or can be directly in the opening of the fireplace.

In the hearth is the more efficient way because you will be getting additional heat from all sides. Usually, the wood burning fireplace insert would be equipped with a blower that can increase its effectiveness. This blower may be mounted on the front or side of the fireplace insert and could be regulated using a thermostat or configured manually.

In the past, inserts were just placed in the fireplace without any chimney connection. The problem with that was it sometimes permitted creosote to accumulate which poses a fire hazard. To reduce this risk, the National Fire Protection Association required fireplace inserts to be directly hooked into the chimney.

The new installs must be connected to the flue liner so that the gases and smoke are sent up the chimney to reduce the accumulation of creosote in the fireplace.
These must also have the ability to directly shift the combustion air from the house’s exterior into the firebox to eliminate possible health issues.

Wood burning fireplace inserts are generally heavy with a weight of not less than 400 pounds and usually much more. Today, inserts need to be removed first before cleaning the chimney, which could be a bit of a challenge because of its bulkiness. It would be advisable to install the fireplace insert using a full relining collar. If will not be able to do this, you need to make sure that the insert will be removed by your hired chimney sweep.

An insert of good quality will cost around $1500 to $2000. If you would be adding on some blowers, glass doors or catalytic combustors, then the price may be a bit higher.

You would be able to browse and purchase wood burning fireplace inserts using the great selections available online. Make sure that you shop around first so that you will be getting your money’s worth.