Fireplace Inserts

Wood burning fireplace inserts function like a wood stove. They use a flexible or rigid vent liner that routes into the existing chimney. Many require a liner for the full length of the chimney. Wood burning fireplace inserts are a good option if you wish to continue using wood for fuel but want a more heat efficient appliance. But, they take more effort to operate and maintain than the other fuel options.

Napoleon EPA Wood Burning Fireplace Insert

Unlike a masonry wood burning fireplace, wood burning stoves and inserts are subject to EPA efficiency standards. The current EPA regulations specify that stoves must produce less than 4.5 grams of smoke per hour. By May 2020, that number will be as low as 2.5 grams per hour.

Pellet Stove Inserts

A pellet fireplace insert functions like its pellet stove counterpart, burning small compressed pellets of wood biomass as fuel. In addition to a chimney for the flexible vent liner, pellet inserts also require an electrical power source. The electricity used to power fans and pellet feed augers within pellet fireplace inserts offers some automation and control over the heat output of the fire. Thermostatic controls can be set to maintain the desired temperature range.

Napoleon 45-Inch Black Pellet Stove Insert

Pellet stove inserts use a flexible vent liner that runs from the vent collar on the unit up through the chimney. We recommend installing a cleanout tee near the flue collar of the insert so that you can clean out the liner without taking apart the entire vent structure.

Pellet inserts are easy to operate, but they require more maintenance than gas or electric models.

Gas Fireplace Inserts

Gas fireplace inserts obviously require a gas line to accept propane or natural gas. If you do not have an existing gas hook up for the fireplace, you will need to hire a professional plumber to run a line for you. Most models also require an electrical power source. Choose from vent-free, direct vent, and natural vent options for venting the appliance.

Real Fyre mSeries Direct Vent Gas Fireplace Insert

We recommend getting a price quote to get an estimate for the costs for running a new gas line or having an existing gas line extended. Some gas line installations can be rather pricey. Gas fireplace inserts are available for either propane or natural gas. Make sure the insert you use is designed for the type of gas you intend to use.

If you need more information to help you understand the differences between natural gas and propane, click here to read this article. It explains the differences between the two gases, tells which gas is best for certain situations, and describes the process for converting from one gas to the other.

Vent-free gas models do not need outside venting. Instead, they rely on room air for oxygen and vent the tiny amount of smoke they produce back into the room. Vent-free inserts are convenient, but check to make sure they are allowed where you live since they are restricted in some areas. They are also not recommended for anyone with air sensitivities.

Direct vent gas inserts are completely sealed to the room and only exchange air through the outdoor venting system. This makes them a good option for anyone especially concerned with air quality since none of the smoke produced ever enters the room. Many direct vent gas fireplace inserts have blowers or electronic ignitions that require electricity. So, be sure to check that you have an outlet nearby if you decide to go with a direct-vent option.

Direct vent gas fireplaces use a rigid coaxial vent pipe that features a small pipe within a larger pipe. The small pipe is responsible for venting the exhaust gases and the larger pipe draws in outside air for combustion.

However, a direct vent gas fireplace insert is designed to vent through the chimney of the existing fireplace. Instead of a rigid coaxial pipe, the inserts use two flexible liners called co-linear vent pipes that run side by side up the chimney. One liner draws in air from outside and the other expels the exhaust gases.

Unlike direct vent gas inserts, natural vent (b-vent) gas fireplace inserts are not sealed to the room. They require a chimney liner for venting much like a traditional wood burning fireplace. Not all models require an electrical outlet, but always check to make sure you have one if it is needed. These units are mostly used for aesthetics since they have tall, beautiful flames but are not very heat efficient.

Electric Fireplace Inserts

Electric fireplace inserts are the most versatile option. They do not require any venting or gas lines and can be installed almost anywhere. The only consideration is the electrical supply. The flame technology of electric models has come a long way in producing a lovely, realistic fire display. The inserts can come with or without a heating component. Click here to learn more detailed information about electric fireplace inserts, including the different types available, the proper ways to install and clean them, and a list of some top manufacturers.

Dimplex electric fireplace insert

Leading Brands

• Kingsman - This manufacturer is notable as a pioneer of gas-fueled fireplaces and inserts in the hearth industry. With modern products featuring exclusively gas-fueled operation, Kingsman fireplace inserts offer considerable customization options at a price that many can afford. In many cases, several decorative overlays, surrounds, and media options are available for a single insert, allowing the consumer to tailor the appliance to their exact needs.
• Napoleon - It's difficult to find a more all-inclusive product line up than Napoleon products. Realizing early on that the best way to build a strong company was to build something for everyone, Napoleon offers inserts in wood burning, gas, electric, and pellet fueled models. All of their models are built to high standards and are constantly evolving and improving based on real-world needs.
• Quadra-Fire - A long-time manufacturer of high-quality hearth products, Quadra-Fire offers consumers a limited, but handsome looking assortment of wood, gas, and pellet fueled inserts. Their products are timeless and built to a level of quality that makes them stand out.
• Dimplex - Unmatched in quality or variety, Dimplex manufactures one of the widest range of electric fireplaces and inserts in the industry. Well-known as an early player in electric fireplace technology, Dimplex continues to lead the industry in electric flame realism. They offer a range of products that can be installed like an insert, giving consumers an alternative to gas and wood-fired options.

Types of fireplace inserts infographic

How to Install Fireplace Inserts

There are four basic phases of any fireplace insert installation. The first is the planning stage, which involves finding the right model and planning out the installation. The next stage is the prep work to prepare the existing fireplace for the insert. The last two stages are installation and inspection, which involve installing the insert and testing it to make sure it works properly.

Phase I: Planning

Two male contractors at an installation site

As mentioned in the section on choosing the right insert, finding an appropriately sized unit is key. Depending on the type of fuel you choose, fireplace inserts are designed to fit a range of openings. Whether you choose to install yours into the opening of existing fireplaces or an opening in a framed wall structure, measure the installation location carefully and double-check that the unit you buy will fit. Once you decide on your fuel preference and size limitations, you can begin planning for the venting components and provisions for a gas line installation.

We recommend hiring a professional to run gas lines or install electrical outlets. Ideally, the electrician will install a recessed outlet behind the fireplace insert. This keeps any cords from trailing out from the unit to nearby power outlets. It's usually best to have a power supply on a dedicated circuit, but this is somewhat dependent on the type of appliance.

Purchase all the appropriate venting components, including chimney liners. If you are converting from one fuel supply to the other, buy the conversion parts you will need.

Phase II: Prep Work

Fireplace prep for insert installation

The prep work involves any fuel conversion and preparation of the existing fireplace. If the fireplace has a damper, you will likely need to remove it to make room for the chimney liner. Masonry fireplace openings often have rough edges that must be smoothed so the surround of the insert can sit flush against the front of the fireplace.

If the fireplace is stone or brick, the edges can be smoothed with a grinder. Don't use a grinder on material that shatters easily (such as slate). Instead, screed a small layer of cement around the opening to create a smooth edge.

Wood to Gas Conversion

Have a plumber install a gas line for the new fireplace insert. The components need for fireplace inserts are slightly different depending on whether they use natural gas or propane. Make sure the model you buy is rated for the type of gas you intend to use. You will likely need a 120-volt power supply as well.

Always read your owner's manual for details on your specific model. The manufacturer will specify what the appliance requires in terms of the power supply, installation restrictions, and maintenance.

Gas to Wood (or Pellet) Conversion

Remove the gas log lighter and seal the gas supply line. This must be done properly to ensure safety. We recommend hiring a professional plumber to remove gas components and seal the gas lines. You will also need to remove the chimney damper and make sure that there is sufficient venting for the wood-burning fire.

A wood stove insert may or may not need a power supply. But, all pellet stove inserts require a power supply to run the fuel auger and blowers.

Wood or Gas to Electric Conversion

Electric fireplace inserts do not need venting, so close off the chimney flue and damper. Remove any gas lighter or log sets and properly seal off the gas lines. Hire an electrician to install a recessed outlet behind the electric insert to keep the cords hidden. If a recessed outlet is not an option, you can use a nearby outlet.

Coverting fuel for fireplace inserts infographic

Phase III: Installation

Two men delivering a shipment

Many fireplace inserts are heavy, so enlist extra help lifting the unit into place. Start by assembling the venting. Hook up any gas lines or power supply to the unit. Fit the insert into place and use the included hardware to mount the surround around the unit. The surround should sit flush to the opening of the fireplace. Don't forget to add new veneer facing around the perimeter of your fireplace opening if the old one no longer works!

Just make sure to read the instructions for your unit before starting the installation. Depending on the type of model, there may be slight variations in the installation.

Phase IV: Inspection

Gas pressure meter

Inspection is a critical part of ensuring the safety of your new fireplace insert. We'll go over inspection tips for each of the main categories of fireplace inserts. If you have any concerns about how your fireplace insert is operating, do not hesitate to call the manufacturer or one of our NFI Certified technicians.

Phases of fireplace insert installation infographic

How to Inspect a Fireplace Insert

• Start the initial kindling fire and watch to see that smoke is drawn to the vent liner and does not spill into the room.
• Once fuel logs are added and burning, close the door. Verify that you can control the rate of the burn by adjusting the air control handle between the high and low burn settings.
• During operation, inspect for smoke leaks around the door gasket. Check that the doors close and latch properly.
• If equipped with an outside air kit, test to see if it operates as it should.
• Complete an external inspection of the chimney to make sure smoke is exiting properly and not pooling at the chimney termination.

How To Inspect Pellet Stove Inserts

• When first starting the unit, test the control board to see if the system responds properly.
• Listen to the pellet feed auger. It should sound relatively quiet and consistent.
• Check that the auger is dropping a metered amount of pellets into the burn pot. It should not be over or under-filling the burn pot.
• Monitor the burn pot to see if the igniter is lighting the pellets and combustion air is helping them burn evenly.
• Watch for any smoke leaks from the glass front or the back of the unit.
• Verify that the convection blower cycles on when it should and that heat is being emitted into the room. If the fan has a manual adjustment, check that all the speed settings work.
• There should not be any smoke smell in the home when the unit is operating.

How To Inspect Vented Gas Fireplace Inserts

• During initial use, check that the pilot light ignites and remains stable prior to igniting the main burner.
• Monitor the main burner ignition. The sequence should be controlled and not sudden or violent.
• Watch the flame pattern. Look for burner ports with no flame or overly sooty or blue flames. If the flame pattern appears incorrect, verify the air shutter is set properly. (The manufacturer will have instructions for these adjustments.)
• If equipped with a fan, test the fan to ensure it cycles as it should.
• Gas appliances release an odor that smells like burning paint when they are first used. Odd smells should not linger after the unit has been used for more than 4 hours.

How To Inspect Vent-Free Gas Fireplace Inserts

• Vent-free gas models follow the same inspection rules as vented gas models.
• However, there is an additional step. You'll need to check that the flame is not being blocked by a log and that there are no acrid odors emitting from the unit.

How To Inspect Electric Fireplace Inserts

• Inspect the unit to see that the backlighting and other lighting features work.
• Verify the heating element operates and the fan-forced heat can be felt in the room (if applicable).
• Listen for odd sounds such as clicking or grinding.
• An odor of hot metal will be present initially but should dissipate within an hour.
• Verify the remote and other controls all function as designed.

Fireplace Insert Maintenance Tips

Vacuuming the firebox with a brush hose

The owner's manual will contain specific instructions for the care and maintenance of your specific model. Wood and pellet fireplace inserts require the most frequent maintenance. Gas and electric models are easier to maintain but should still be cleaned and inspected regularly.

Wood and Pellet

Always use the proper fuel for wood or pellet stoves. Do not burn trash or any unauthorized fuel since this can lead to harmful creosote buildup. Clean out the ash regularly according to the instructions. Schedule a yearly inspection to make sure all of the components are working safely.

If you installed a cleanout tee on your pellet insert, it should be easier to periodically sweep out the vent liner. Simply remove the surround and gently pull the unit forward. Detach the cover of the cleanout tee to sweep the liner.

Vented and Vent-Free Gas Models

Make sure to have the unit inspected each year by a certified professional to make sure everything is in working order. Periodically vacuum the components to prevent dust buildup. Do this gently so you don't damage any parts. The glass can be cleaned with a soft cloth and a water-based cleanser.

Electric Models

Electric models require the least amount of maintenance. Keep an eye on the electrical wires to make sure they are not frayed or chewed. This is especially important if you have rodents near your area. Vacuum the unit to prevent dust from building up on the fan or other components. You can wipe down the glass periodically.

Shipping

Small, lightweight fireplace inserts are capable of being shipped via small parcel post. Larger units will require LTL carrier shipping. Always inspect the unit as soon as it arrives to check for any damage or missing parts. Contact the manufacturer immediately if you notice anything amiss.

Summary

Fireplace inserts breathe new life into old, inefficient fireplaces. Whether you opt for wood-burning, gas, or electric, you can find a model that fits your space and meets your needs. The range of options for fireplace inserts is quite broad. So, focus on your main priorities for your space to help you narrow down what will be the best option.

As always, reach out to us with any questions! Our NFI Certified Technicians are available to help!