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    Gas Fireplace Blowers & Fireplace Fans

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    Fireplace Blower Buyer's Guide

    Adding a fireplace to your home is a great way to generate some extra warmth. Just don't be surprised if you need a fireplace fan or some other type of air distributor to help circulate the heat coming from your unit. Far too often marketers paint romanticized depictions of fireplaces. They want us to imagine being on some fancy spa-like retreat as we envision ourselves drinking coffee next to a soft hue of flickering flames.

    Fireplace Blowers & Fans

    However, this fantasy view of fireplaces fails miserably to demonstrate the practical needs of fireplaces in colder regions. For example, imagine how it feels to live in an area with bitterly cold winters. You probably don't want to depend on a fireplace that produces radiant heat spanning barely two feet in front of it, right? When based in reality, the need for efficient heating is much more apparent.

    Using the real-life example above, it's also logical to assume that fireplaces without adequate support for air circulation are unable to heat larger spaces evenly or sufficiently. The goal of heating or cooling appliances is to provide a uniform temperature for optimal comfort. And while many fireplace models are rated to heat large areas on their own, most models can benefit a great deal with a few accessories for support. If you're wondering how to make your fireplace a more efficient and reliable heat source, you'll want to continue reading to learn more about fireplace blowers.

    Why You Should Consider a Fireplace Blower Fan

    Because fireplaces are enclosed within a dedicated wall cavity, some of the heat they produce is lost to the void space behind the wall. The most effective way to reclaim lost heat is to utilize a fireplace blower fan with your unit.

    Not only can a fireplace fan increase the thermal efficiency of your newly purchased fireplace, but it can also help to more evenly distribute the heat in the room and create a comfortable atmosphere. This article will assist you in determining how to select the correct fireplace blower as well as help you determine the proper procedure for installing it.

    Before You Buy

    Check Blower Compatibility

    Before you begin your search for a fireplace blower kit, it is important to identify the exact brand and model of your fireplace. It is a common misconception that most fireplace blowers are universal when the truth is exactly the opposite. Most fireplace blowers are model specific and cannot interchange. This is due to the many variations in size, placement, blower types, and component compatibility.

    While it may be tempting to try to mix and match, the odds are that one of the above-mentioned aspects will prevent proper installation. Doing so would not only void the warranty but is also likely to cause premature failure of one or more of the blower components.

    Fireplace Blowers & Fans

    Meet Power Requirements

    Almost every fireplace blower that is currently manufactured requires a connection to a 120-volt power source. Most fireplace manufacturers that rate their models for a blower will include special mounting points within the fireplaces, as well as a built-in electrical outlet near the blower mounting point. The electrical outlet is shielded to withstand high temperatures and usually includes a wiring pigtail that allows for a quick electrical connection. If you are purchasing a blower at the same time you are purchasing your fireplaces, keep in mind that a branch electrical circuit should be run to the fireplace housing prior to finishing the project.

    If you are not planning to purchase a blower at the time of the fireplace installation, it is highly recommended to have the electrical run installed so that power is available when the time comes to purchase a blower. The most difficult scenario is when the fireplace is already installed and no electrical circuit has been run for a blower. Access to the back of the fireplace to run the circuit can be somewhat simple if you have access through an attic chase, but very challenging for an installation encased in stone or tile, with no access points.

    We highly recommend consulting with a qualified electrician to determine the cost of running an electrical branch to the fireplace before making the decision to purchase a blower.

    Fireplace Blowers & Fans

    Locate Access Panels

    Modern linear fireplaces often sacrifice accessibility for style. Many models of linear fireplaces will utilize an access panel on the front or rear of the fireplace chassis to allow easy installation of an accessory fan. Once installed, however, these access panels are covered and no longer an option for installing a blower. It then becomes necessary to remove the burner, gas valve, or other components, should a user want to install a blower at a later time. This can make for a far more costly installation than if the blower had been installed when the fireplace was being put into place. It is for this reason we highly recommend installing a blower initially if it is available for your model of linear fireplace.

    Fireplace Blowers & Fans


    Types of Fireplace Blowers (For Wood and Gas Models)

    Rotary Style Blowers

    By far the most common style of blower is the rotary cage style. Many customers will be familiar with this type of fan, as the design is the same as the fans used in most automotive and HVAC applications. The fan itself consists of a barrel-shaped metal cage or basket, with contoured fins that move air effectively and quietly. The cage is usually attached via a small shaft to an electric motor. The entire assembly usually mounts to the fireplace with self-tapping screws or fits into preexisting slots or tabs. In almost all cases, felt or neoprene isolators will be used to help cut down on noise and vibration transmitted to the fireplace while running.

    Impeller Blowers

    While not terribly common, some manufacturers use blowers with one or more impeller style fans, similar to the propeller of a ship. While these types of blowers are quieter than rotary-style fans, they also offer less output. It is this low output that leads to only a very small percentage of blowers being made in this way. These systems are usually only offered in manual on/off configurations, although some do offer an optional rheostat to be added.

    Hot Air Distribution Systems

    While conventional blowers and fans are designed to distribute heat from the fireplace into the immediate area, hot air distribution systems like this work on a larger scale by heating one or more adjacent rooms or even the whole house.

    These systems are only offered on certain high output gas fireplaces and high efficiency wood burning fireplaces, due to their ability to remove large quantities of heat from the fireplace. Lower output models would be overpowered. Most of the time, these hot air distribution systems can be used on fireplaces that also have a conventional blower installed, but manufacturers usually recommend against using both systems at the same time.

    A hot air distribution system usually consists of a purpose-built heat manifold, a high powered fan, an electronic control module, and various brackets. The purpose-built manifold usually mounts to the top of the side of the fireplace and is responsible for collecting waste heat. Some designs forgo a manifold and instead have knockouts that allow a heat distribution pipe to be connected directly to the side or top of the fireplace. The heat distribution pipe that connects to the fireplace or manifold is then routed to the desired area to be heated. This could be an adjacent room or an HVAC plenum on an existing furnace.

    Fireplace Blowers & Fans

    The high powered fan must be installed somewhere inline of the heat distribution pipe leading from the fireplace and must be installed so that it is readily accessible for service. The fan can be located in a purpose-built access cupboard or can be located in the attic. The heat distribution system will function with an electronic control module to monitor the status of the fireplace and control fan speed. The module is usually set up to detect the temperature of the fireplace and will then allow the fan to come on when minimum temperature is achieved. The inline fan can then pull heat from the fireplace and supply it to the adjacent room(s) or to the HVAC furnace.

    When routed to a furnace, it is important to note that the inline fan is not meant to distribute the heated air through the entire HVAC system. The inline fan is only designed to supply heat to the plenum and then utilize the furnace fan to push the heated air to the rooms in the home. A baffle must be installed where the fireplace supply pipe meets the HVAC plenum to prevent air being forced back down the pipe to the fireplace.

    How To Meet Expectations

    Open-Faced Wood Burning and B-vent Gas Fireplaces

    A fireplace blower is a great way to reclaim the lost heat from your fireplace, but it does have limitations as to what it can accomplish. Blowers for open wood-burning and B-vent gas fireplaces are purposely low output and designed so that they will not overpower the weak natural force of chimney draft. If the fan was too strong, the negative pressure caused by the moving air could pull smoke or combustion fumes out of the fireplace along with it. Because of this, these blowers are only designed for heating the immediate area where the fireplace is located.

    Front-Sealed Wood Burning and Gas Fireplaces

    Blower systems for these fireplace types are typically higher output, as they do not risk competing with the air movement in the combustion chamber. They are able to heat not only the room where the appliance is located but adjacent spaces that are open to that room. These types of appliances are typically heater rated and therefore can make a real impact on how hard your other heating systems have to work to keep the home warm. By far the most effective are the previously mentioned fan-powered hot air distribution systems, which feature HVAC grade components. These systems are the only type of fan that will be able to supplement the heating of the entire home.

    Fireplace Blowers & Fans


    Leading Brands

    Valor — Valor is a trusted manufacturer of direct vent and power vent fireplace technology, including blowers for their fireplaces. They blend modern design cues with traditional accents, offering a fireplace for almost every application.

    Heatilator — This manufacturer has been producing heat circulating fireplaces and blowers for them for over 90 years. The first to bring a truly zero clearance fireplace to market, the brand name is so well known that many circulating fireplaces are generically referred to as "Heatilators". Offering a wide range of wood, gas, and electric models, Heatilator continues a proud legacy of manufacturing that started nearly a century ago.

    Napoleon — Starting out in 1976 as a steel fabrication business, the Napoleon name became well known among the industry in 1981 when they created the first single pane ceramic glass stove door. From there, the manufacturer naturally progressed into fabricated fireplaces, introducing innovative log designs and industry-leading manufacturing techniques. Napoleon has now diversified into a broad product line, from a variety of fireplaces to all the accessories you could want, including fireplace blowers.

    Fireplace Xtrordinair — A brand of Travis Industries and one of the most customizable fireplace brands in the industry, Fireplace X is a luxury line of fireplaces that offers an astounding number of models and individual options, all built to a very high standard that is difficult to match, including their blowers.

    Empire Comfort — A family-owned business since the original sheet metal shop opened in 1911, Empire has produced quality gas-fired hearth products and accessories for decades. Offering a broad line of value-based and up-level products, Empire fireplaces have earned a reputation for simplicity, ease of use, and longevity.

    Shipping

    If ordered individually, fireplace blowers will ship by parcel. Once it has been received from the carrier, it should be closely checked for damage.

    Care and Maintenance

    Almost all modern fan systems use sealed bearings that do not require service, however it is a good idea to inspect the fan during your seasonal fireplace inspection. Any built-up dust should be blown away with compressed air.

    Fans that are subjected to constant inbound dust or pet dander will fail more quickly, usually lasting between 5 to 10 years. Fans that are operated in a clean home will usually last upwards of 15 to 20 years. Small parts such as rheostats and thermodiscs can fail earlier, but are relatively simple to replace and can be replaced independently of the fan itself. It is recommended to verify that the fan is properly anchored and not making any unusual noises before starting operation for the season. Additionally, follow any other instructions for care provided in the fireplace manual or the manual for the gas fireplace blower itself.

    Summary

    We hope that this article equipped you with some practical knowledge to maximize the performance of your fireplace. There is no need to leave dead zones of uneven heat in your home. Now you can find the fireplace blower fan you need to increase the heating efficiency of your unit. However, if you still have more questions, our NFI Certified Techs are always happy to help.


    Blowers and Fans Q&A with the NFI Certified Specialists

    * Please Note: All customer questions are answered by our NFI Certified Specialists free of charge!
    38 Questions & 38 Answers
    Joe M.
    from USA asked:
    December 21, 2022
    What blower is compatible with the FMI 36 EC wood burning fireplace?
    1 Answer
    Click here for the fan for your 36EC fireplace.
    Submitted by: Kathy O. on December 21, 2022

    Lizzy
    May 20, 2022
    Are there any blowers compatible with an Ashley woodburning stove model #AW1120E-P?
    1 Answer
    The blower kit option for this stove is part #CB36.
    Submitted by: Cody S. on May 20, 2022

    Gail N.
    from Avon, IN asked:
    April 12, 2022
    We have a Majestic 36LDVRRN fireplace, is there a fan/blower unit for this fireplace that I can just plug into the existing outlet?
    1 Answer

    The only replacements for that model fireplace are part # FK24 and part # FK12. Unfortunately, we do not carry those parts at eFireplaceStore. 

    Submitted by: Cody S. on April 13, 2022

    Jim R.
    from Augusta, GA asked:
    March 13, 2022
    Do you carry Preway blowers?
    1 Answer
    We do not carry any parts for Preway units.
    Submitted by: Kathy O. on March 14, 2022

    Thomas M
    from Buffalo, NY asked:
    September 27, 2021
    Do you have a blower kit for a Majestic Direct Vent Gas Fireplace DVBH Series?
    1 Answer
    We do carry the Majestic BLOT Variable Thermostat Forced Air Fireplace Blower listed for this unit. 
    Submitted by: Kelsey C. on September 27, 2021

    John
    from Montana asked:
    August 20, 2021
    Do you have a replacement blower for a Warnock Hershey Optima 70 gas fireplace?
    1 Answer
    We don't carry the OEM replacement blower, but this blower is a listed replacement for Optima unit from 2001-2007.
    Submitted by: Jason W. on August 20, 2021

    Joe S.
    from Huntsville, AL asked:
    August 7, 2021
    What blower fits DESA Gas Fireplace heater, model V36PS-A?
    1 Answer
    The blower kit BK will work with that model.
    Submitted by: Aaron D. on August 9, 2021

    Roxanne K
    from Myrtle Beach, SC asked:
    April 28, 2021
    Can blowers be installed on the Loft Series or Boulevard Linear fireplaces?
    1 Answer
    Yes, blowers are available for the Loft and Boulevard series. 
    Submitted by: Aaron D. on April 28, 2021

    Leroy
    from Kirkland, WA asked:
    February 12, 2021
    Do any fans come with a remote control for temperature and/or speed control?
    1 Answer
    No, none of our blower kits include a remote control.
    Submitted by: Tyler M. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on February 12, 2021

    Ross
    from Hamilton, ON asked:
    November 5, 2020
    Do you carry a gas fireplace blower fan and kit for a Napoleon model#B30NTR-1/B30NTRE-1?
    1 Answer
    Yes, this model can use the AUB blower kit. 
    Submitted by: Tyler M. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on November 5, 2020

    Dee M
    from Fort Wayne, IN asked:
    August 2, 2020
    Which blower is recommended for Superior WCT3036?
    1 Answer
    We recommend the model BK rotary type fan kit for the WCT30306.
    Submitted by: Tyler M. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on August 3, 2020

    Jean
    from Malta, NY asked:
    March 18, 2020
    Looking for replacement blower for the DESA ‘Colorado’ model gas insert fireplace?
    1 Answer
    DESA has long been out of business and there are no parts still available for that unit.
    Submitted by: Owen O. on March 18, 2020

    Roberta C.
    from Hood River, OR asked:
    January 25, 2020
    Do you have a fan kit to replace a Fasco 107500 A - blower fan on a Heat N Glo Tiara II B Propane Stove?  If not, will a GFK-160 A fan kit be a replacement for it?
    1 Answer
    We are not a Heat N Glo dealer and we cannot provide parts or advise on options for your unit. We recommend contacting the manufacturer, or calling a local dealer for more information. We apologize for the inconvenience.
    Submitted by: Tyler M. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on January 27, 2020

    Bruce C.
    from Stockton, CA asked:
    December 7, 2019
    I have a Montigo C38-BV gas fireplace. Is there a blower kit available?
    1 Answer
    We are not a Montigo dealer and we cannot provide parts or advise on options for your unit. We apologize for the inconvenience. 
    Submitted by: Tyler M. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on December 9, 2019

    Andrea
    from TN asked:
    November 25, 2019
    Can you use or not use blowers as needed? What if the electricity goes out, can you still use the fireplace?


    1 Answer
    In most cases, yes, the blower can be operated as desired. However, some models do require a functional blower for proper operation. 
    Submitted by: Tyler M. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on November 26, 2019

    Irene
    from Chapel Hill, NC asked:
    November 23, 2019

    Is there a way to decrease the noise of the blower, or buy another option to decrease the noise?

    1 Answer
    As all of our blowers are model-specific, we do not have any way to decrease the noise generated by the blowers, as they are sold as kits based on a particular fireplace model.  Most models only offer one blower, and none of the units for which we sell blowers offer a lower-decibel option. We apologize for the inconvenience.
    Submitted by: Tyler M. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on November 26, 2019

    Irene
    from Chapel Hill, NC asked:
    November 23, 2019

    Can the blower speed for a fireplace blower plugged into an outlet connected to a wall switch on an exterior wall, be controlled by a variable speed switch (for blower fans)? 

    1 Answer
    If the fireplace is approved for the blower to have variable speed control, then yes. You would need to contact the manufacturer of your hearth system to confirm.
    Submitted by: Will M. on November 25, 2019

    Irene
    from Chapel Hill, NC asked:
    November 23, 2019

    Why wouldn't any brand of fireplace motor be suitable for a Martin 600 gas fireplace, as long as the dimensions and  size are suitable?

    1 Answer
    Blowers are manufacturer and model specific. Unfortunately, we will not be able to offer any replacement blowers for Martin Industries products. 
    Submitted by: Will M. on November 25, 2019

    Philip T.
    from Houston, TX asked:
    November 20, 2019

    Do you have a blower fan kit for a Marco CCT41-SPNG (794072) natural gas fireplace?

    1 Answer
    No, we do not as Marco has been no longer in business for a while. We are sorry for the inconvenience.
    Submitted by: Owen O. on November 20, 2019

    Steve
    from New Jersey asked:
    November 9, 2019
    I have a Lennox model MPD35RNM.  Is there blower to this model?
    1 Answer
    Yes, the MPD35RNM fireplace uses the FBK-250 blower.
    Submitted by: Cortney O. on November 11, 2019

    Joseph
    November 5, 2019
    Which blowers or fans would be considered the quietest (lowest dB rating)?
    1 Answer
    We apologize, but our blowers are model-specific to the fireplaces and stoves we sell. Therefore, the decibel ratings are not sortable and whatever model you are using, there is typically only one blower option. 
    Submitted by: Tyler M. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on November 5, 2019

    Bob P.
    from Mooresville, NC asked:
    November 3, 2019
    I have a gas Superior fireplace and need the fan blower for it. The model number is xDVR6-CMNS. What fan/blower unit do I need?
    1 Answer
    We apologize, but we do not list any available blowers for your model.
    Submitted by: Tyler M. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on November 5, 2019

    Pat
    from Hibbing, MN asked:
    October 22, 2019

    My Vermont Casting gas fireplace states it needs an FK28 blower, but I’m wondering if an FK26 would work?

    1 Answer
    The FK26 is not a suitable replacement for the FK28.
    Submitted by: Tyler M. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on October 22, 2019

    Dwayne
    from WV asked:
    October 18, 2019

    Do you have a blower kit for Desa model VFB360?

    1 Answer
    Fans for that older Desa unit are no longer available.
    Submitted by: Owen O. on October 18, 2019

    Penny
    from Colorado asked:
    October 12, 2019
    We have a Lennox DT4540-2 louvered face top vent model. What type of blower does it take?
    1 Answer
    Your fireplace used the 96K13 circulating kit.
    Submitted by: Tyler M. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on October 14, 2019

    Steven, Q.
    from Newnan, GA asked:
    October 8, 2019

    I have unvented gas logs in my fireplace and my mantel is about 3 feet above the logs. Is there a blower I can use to distribute heat away from my wood mantel?

    1 Answer
    While there is no blower available for the application you describe, there is a Mantel Heat Shield that would work quite well to protect a combustible mantel from excessive heat. 
    Submitted by: Will M. on October 14, 2019

    Eileen
    from 08505 asked:
    October 7, 2019
    How do I know the make and model of my natural gas fireplace? How can I tell if it has a blower?
    1 Answer
    Please see this guide for locating your fireplace make and model. You will also be able to visually verify whether your fireplace has a blower when checking the recommended locations.
    Submitted by: Cortney O. on October 8, 2019

    Craig B.
    from Cardiff, CA asked:
    June 21, 2019
    I have a Majestic Products Villa Gas 42" outdoor fireplace.  Is there any fan system that would work for this fireplace?
    1 Answer
    No, there is no blower available for the Villa models.
    Submitted by: Tyler M. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on June 21, 2019

    Craig
    from Flint, MI asked:
    March 6, 2019
    I have a Napoleon NZ-26 fireplace. It came with ONE fan. Can I install a 2nd fan in that unit? There appears to be room on both sides of the ash pan.
    1 Answer
    Unfortunately, your unit does not have the option to wire in a second blower.
    Submitted by: Brennan W. on March 6, 2019

    kevin
    from NJ asked:
    March 13, 2018
    I need blower fan for VFP32BP30LN-1
    1 Answer
    Your model can use the Empire FBB4 Variable Speed Blower.
    Submitted by: Tyler M. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on March 14, 2018

    Janice
    from Minneapolis MN asked:
    January 31, 2018
    We are building an open concept rambler with a gas fireplace. The builder asked if we would like a blower added. We live in MN and have a fair amount of cold weather, so we want the fireplace to be functional as well as esthetic. What are the pros and cons to a gas fireplace with and without the blower.
    1 Answer
    Heat distribution is much more efficient with a blower then without. The only draw back would be the additional cost of the blower and the electricity to operate it.
    Submitted by: Owen O. on February 1, 2018

    Bill B
    from High Point, NC asked:
    January 7, 2018
    need blower for gas logs for room heat - SFC Mdl. xGHC-6500MN -- Serial number 001855
    1 Answer
    Unfortunately, we do not carry a suitable blower or log set for your unit. I apologize for any inconvenience.
    Submitted by: Brennan W. on January 8, 2018

    Mack
    from North Carolina asked:
    January 7, 2018
    Is there a blower for a vent free fire place without a firebox
    1 Answer
    There is not. Our blowers are meant specifically for certain models of firebox.
    Submitted by: Brennan W. on January 8, 2018

    Alvin J
    from kentucky asked:
    January 3, 2018
    Can you put a stronger blower on a heatalater gas fireplace?
    1 Answer
    While Heatilator does not offer products to online retailers and we really cannot provide technical guidance, you may only use the blower tested and listed for safe use with the fireplace, generally speaking.
    Submitted by: Will M. on January 3, 2018

    Chuck
    from Florida asked:
    December 9, 2017
    I have a lennox B-vent gas log insert (see through model: EBVSGNM). Can I add a blower motor or will that interfere with the fresh air intake? Thanks
    1 Answer
    Unfortunately, there is no available blower for your unit.
    Submitted by: Brennan W. on December 10, 2017

    Morgan
    from Avon, CO asked:
    September 14, 2017
    Can I put a blower in my double sided gas fireplace? It's a Heat N Glo product.
    1 Answer
    We are not a Heat N Glo dealer. You would need to contact the appropriate dealer for the correct blower for your unit.
    Submitted by: Owen on September 14, 2017

    Bud Manos
    from Warren, Ohio asked:
    November 21, 2016
    I have a Vermont Casting NG insert model DV40; what fan assembly would fit?
    1 Answer
    Unfortunately, a blower for your unit is no longer available.
    Submitted by: Brennan W. on November 22, 2016

    Tom
    from Green Bay asked:
    February 17, 2014
    My fan has started squeaking. How can I fix that problem? Can I use WD40?
    1 Answer
    The bushings have likely gotten a bit dry and need to be lubricated. A longer lasting solution than WD-40 is machine oil, such as the 3-in-1 brand or an aerosol lithium grease.
    Submitted by: Collin C. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on February 18, 2014

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