Families love to gather around the fireplace for warmth during the winter because of the cozy aesthetic they provide. Fireplace inserts offer efficient airflow while allowing you to enjoy the look and feel of a fireplace, providing you with a comfortable level of heat.
What are Fireplace Inserts?
A fireplace insert is a fireproof box that is more effective for heating a room than traditional fireplaces. You can install an insert into your existing fireplace’s open area and choose what fuel source you’d like to use when using it. It’s important to note that inserts may not fit all manufactured fireplaces, but you can install one in any masonry fireplace.
The Most Common Types of Fireplace Inserts
When choosing a fireplace insert, you should consider what type of fuel you’d like to burn and how you’d like the fireplace to vent. There are vent-free, direct vent and natural vent models. In addition to choosing how you want to vent your fireplace, you need to select a fuel type. Here are some popular types of fireplace inserts:
Electric
Electric fireplace inserts produce the visual effect of a fire and can be equipped with a heating element if you want it to heat your space. Electric models don’t burn gas or wood and don’t need a venting system, making them versatile for any home.
Gas
Gas fireplace inserts need to be connected to a propane or natural gas line, so keep in mind that you may need to pay extra for installation if you don’t have a gas line running to your fireplace already. You can choose from a vent-free gas insert or a direct venting insert that eliminates all smoke from your room.
Pellet Inserts
If you enjoy the aesthetic of a pellet-burning stove, a pellet insert is right for you. Instead of burning wood logs, it burns smaller wood pellets to produce heat. If you decide to install a pellet insert, you also need to install a unique venting system and an electrical component to keep the temperature where you’d like it.
Wood-Burning Inserts
Wood fireplace inserts have a venting system that sends smoke through your existing chimney. They’re the most natural burning inserts because you use real wood like a traditional fireplace or stove. The key difference when using a wood-burning insert is that it’s much more efficient. You won’t need to burn as much wood to heat your room, saving you a bit of money.
How to Choose the Right Fireplace Insert
When choosing your fireplace insert, you should consider the following:
- Regulations or permit requirements — you need a permit to install fireplace inserts in Ottawa, so make sure you only work with contractors who know how to obtain the correct documentation for the insert you want to install.
- You should choose an insert that has similar dimensions to your existing fireplace.
- The type of fuel you choose to burn will impact how you vent smoke, and you could pay more if you’re switching fuel sources.
- Each type of insert has different maintenance requirements, so make sure to ask how often your insert needs to be cleaned or inspected.
- Consider the state of your existing fireplace and how much work is required to convert it to your desired parameters.
Ready to Upgrade Your Fireplace?
If you want a more efficient way to enjoy the coziness of your home, a fireplace insert may be just what you need. If you need help deciding on the right product, contact us today at Top Hat Home and Comfort Services. Our experienced professionals have the expertise to answer your questions and install your insert to industry standards.
