Fireplace Inserts Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Fireplaces are a long-time feature of homes because they provide warmth and ambiance during the winter. But classic wood-burning fireplaces also have their own problems, from frequent upkeep to increased efficiency. This is where fireplace inserts are useful. They provide an efficient, cost-effective, and convenient option. Whether you’re upgrading an existing fireplace or planning to remodel your home, here’s how to choose the right fireplace insert.

What Are Fireplace Inserts?

A fireplace insert is a specially crafted unit that can be installed inside an existing traditional wood-burning fireplace or a newly constructed enclosure. Unlike traditional fireplaces, which are often inefficient and require frequent maintenance, fireplace inserts are designed to improve heating efficiency, reduce emissions, and offer a cleaner, hassle-free alternative.

Fireplace inserts are available in various fuel types, including gas, electric, and wood. They can drastically reduce the amount of heat lost through the chimney, making them an eco-friendly and cost-effective option.

Why Choose a Fireplace Insert?

If you love the warmth and beauty of a fireplace but hate the mess and inefficiency of a traditional one, fireplace inserts are the answer. 

Here are a few key reasons to consider making the switch:

1. Improved Energy Efficiency: Conventional fireplaces can waste as much as 90% of their heat by allowing it to escape through the chimney. In contrast, fireplace inserts are crafted to retain warmth within your home, significantly improving overall energy efficiency.
2. Easy Maintenance: Whether it's wood, gas, or electric, fireplace inserts require less cleaning and maintenance compared to traditional wood-burning fireplaces.
3. Variety of Fuel Options: Depending on your preferences and home setup, you can choose from gas, electric, or wood fireplace inserts.
4. Safety: Modern fireplace inserts are designed with safety features to reduce fire hazards, making them a safer option for families.
5. Reduced Environmental Impact: Inserts produce fewer emissions, especially when using gas or electric inserts.

Now that we know why fireplace inserts are a fantastic addition to any home, let's explore the different types available.

Types of Fireplace Inserts

Choosing the right fireplace insert depends on several factors, including your home's heating needs, your aesthetic preferences, and your budget. Here's a breakdown of the most common types:

Gas Fireplace Inserts

Gas fireplace inserts are among the most popular choices because of their convenience and efficiency. There are two main types: vented gas fireplace inserts and ventless gas fireplace inserts.

Vented Gas Fireplace Insert

A vented gas fireplace insert draws air from outside and vents the exhaust back through the chimney or a dedicated vent. These inserts provide a realistic flame, mimicking a traditional wood-burning fireplace. However, they do require a functioning chimney or venting system.

Pros of Vented Gas Fireplace Inserts:

• Realistic flame appearance
• Efficient heating
• Low maintenance

Cons of Vented Gas Fireplace Inserts:

• Requires proper venting, which may add to the installation cost
• Not suitable for homes without a vent or chimney

Ventless Gas Fireplace Insert

As the name suggests, a ventless gas fireplace insert doesn't require a chimney or vent. These inserts use the air within the room for combustion and then recirculate the air. Because they don't require venting, they are easier and less expensive to install than their vented counterparts.

Pros of Ventless Gas Fireplace Inserts:

• Easy and less expensive installation
• Highly efficient, as no heat escapes through a chimney
• Doesn't require a chimney or venting system

Cons of Ventless Gas Fireplace Inserts:

• It may produce more moisture in the air
• It is not legal in some areas due to concerns over air quality
• Limited flame appearance

Whether vented or ventless, gas fireplace inserts are ideal for those looking for a convenient and efficient heating solution without the hassle of wood. If convenience and functionality are what you're after, this might be your ideal solution.

Electric Fireplace Inserts

Electric fireplace inserts offer an excellent choice if you're seeking a cost-effective, simple-to-install, and hassle-free option. Unlike gas and wood inserts, electric fireplace inserts don't require any venting or gas lines, making them incredibly simple to install. All you need is an electrical outlet.

These inserts come in various designs with realistic flame effects and heat settings, making them a versatile choice for homeowners who want a modern fireplace experience without the maintenance and installation complexity.

Pros of Electric Fireplace Inserts:

• Easy installation with no need for venting or gas lines
• Low maintenance
• Safe to use, even in homes with children and pets
• Available in various sizes and designs

Cons of Electric Fireplace Inserts:

• Does not provide as much heat as gas or wood inserts
• Realistic flame appearance may not be as convincing as other types

If you value ease of use, safety, and customizable design, an electric fireplace insert could enhance your living space. Whether your goal is to create a cozy atmosphere or to warm up a room, electric inserts offer a convenient and efficient solution that fits seamlessly into your home.

Wood-Burning Fireplace Inserts

For those who enjoy the classic feel of a wood fire but seek greater efficiency, a wood-burning fireplace insert might be the perfect option. These inserts are crafted to burn wood more effectively than a standard open fireplace, delivering more heat while consuming less wood.

They also reduce the smoke and pollutants released into the home, making them a more eco-friendly option for those who love the smell and sound of a real wood fire.

Pros of Wood-Burning Fireplace Inserts:

• Provides a traditional fireplace experience
• More efficient than open wood-burning fireplaces
• Can reduce emissions and pollutants

Cons of Wood-Burning Fireplace Inserts:

• Requires regular maintenance and cleaning
• Need for wood storage
• Installation can be costly

While wood-burning fireplace inserts offer the classic feel of a real fire, they require more upkeep compared to gas and electric models. However, they're perfect for those who love wood's natural warmth and crackling.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Fireplace Insert

Choosing the right fireplace insert involves more than picking the right fuel type. Here are a few key features to keep in mind to help you choose the ideal product for your home:

Heating Efficiency

One of the most important factors is how efficiently the insert will heat your space. Gas and wood inserts typically provide more heat than electric ones, making them better for larger rooms or homes in colder climates. Electric inserts, however, are sufficient for smaller rooms or if you're primarily looking for ambiance rather than heat.

Installation Requirements

Consider the installation process. While electric fireplace inserts are easy to install with minimal modification, vented gas fireplace inserts require venting through an existing chimney or a new vent. Ventless fireplace inserts offer the flexibility to be installed in virtually any room of your home without requiring a venting system.

Aesthetic Appeal

Do you prefer the look of a traditional fire with realistic flames, or are you okay with a more modern design? Gas fireplace inserts provide a more realistic flame, while electric fireplace inserts may have LED flames that are less convincing but offer customization in color and effects.

Safety Features

Check the safety features of each insert, such as automatic shut-off, cool-to-the-touch surfaces, and oxygen depletion sensors for ventless models. These features offer an added sense of security, particularly in households with kids or pets around.

Maintenance

Different types of inserts require varying levels of maintenance. Wood-burning inserts require regular cleaning and ash removal, while gas fireplace inserts may need occasional servicing. Electric fireplace inserts, on the other hand, require virtually no maintenance.

How to Choose the Right Size Fireplace Insert

The size of your fireplace insert plays a significant role in its performance and aesthetic fit within your home. A properly sized insert will ensure optimal heating efficiency and enhance the look of your fireplace.

Steps to Measure for a Fireplace Insert:

1. Measure the Width: Measure the width at both the front and the back of the fireplace opening.
2. Measure the Height: Start by measuring the distance from the floor to the top edge of the fireplace opening.
3. Measure the Depth: Measure from the fireplace's back wall to the front opening to find the depth.

Use these measurements to compare the dimensions of the fireplace insert you're interested in. Most manufacturers provide sizing charts to help you select the right fit.

Installation Process: DIY or Hire a Professional?

While some fireplace inserts (like electric ones) are relatively easy to install on your own, others, like gas fireplace inserts, may require professional installation, especially if you need venting or a gas line. Installing a gas insert incorrectly can lead to safety hazards, so it's often worth hiring a professional to ensure everything is set up properly.

Hiring a Professional:

• Safety: Professionals know how to install gas lines venting and ensure proper combustion, reducing the risk of carbon monoxide leaks.
• Code Compliance: A professional installer will ensure your new insert complies with local building codes.
• Efficiency: A pro will ensure your insert is working at peak efficiency from the moment it's installed.

Conclusion: Which Fireplace Insert is Right for You?

Choosing the perfect fireplace insert is, in the end, all about you, your preferences, and your financial allowance. Gas fireplace inserts (vented or ventless) provide a mix of utility and ease, and electric fireplace inserts make cleaning easy and efficient. A wood-burning insert may be perfect for you if you’re into the old-school elegance and comfort of wood.

When you're ready to make your decision, consult with our professionals or visit Embers Living to explore our wide selection of fireplace inserts. Whether you're upgrading your current fireplace or installing a new one, we have the perfect solution to keep your home warm and cozy all year long.