If you’re upgrading your home, you may want to know which remodeling options will give you some return on your investment. Adding in a fireplace insert can be a great option for ROI, especially in the long run as you save on energy.
Fireplace inserts are designed to increase the efficiency and performance of your existing fireplace. However, that’s not their only purpose. In some cases, they can make your fireplace more aesthetically pleasing, too.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the best fireplace inserts on the market. We want you to make an informed decision when you select one for your home.
What is a Fireplace Insert, and Why Should I Use One?
A fireplace insert is a fireproof box you can put into an existing fireplace to make it more heat efficient. It usually has insulated glass in front and cast iron or steel on the other sides.
When you put an insert in a fireplace, you create a closed combustion system. That system traps heat, and then a blower or fan pushes the heat into the room. You lose a lot less heat than you would with a traditional fireplace alone.
You can enjoy a fireplace insert the same way you would enjoy a traditional fireplace without an insert. Since there’s insulated glass in front, you can still see the flames.
What to Think About When Choosing a Fireplace Insert
Your existing fireplace size and type
If you’re planning to buy a fireplace insert, the number one thing to consider is whether it will fit well in your existing fireplace. Not all fireplaces and inserts are the same size. If you buy an insert that is too large for your fireplace, it won’t fit. If you buy one that is too small, the surround might not cover the gap between the insert and the fireplace opening.
Before you buy an insert, we recommend measuring your existing fireplace opening. Sometimes fireplace openings are tapered, so measure the width and height at both the front and back. You should also measure the depth. Once you know your fireplace measurements, you can shop for a well-sized fireplace insert.
You will also need to change how you shop based on the type of fireplace you have. Most inserts are designed for traditional masonry fireplaces, not manufactured ones. Many manufacturers say you should only use certain preapproved insert models with their fireplaces, or outright forbid inserts.
Fuel Sources and Venting
Some fireplace inserts burn wood or pellets, while others are meant to work with a gas line or electricity. If you want a gas fireplace insert, you will need gas lines. If you want an electric insert, you will need power outlets.
If you don’t want to do a major remodel, you will need a fireplace insert that uses the same kind of fuel as your existing fireplace.
The Best Inserts on the Market
At Four Day Fireplace, we’ve seen tons of unique fireplace insert models. We think these gas fireplace inserts are among the best on the market.
The Napoleon Oakville X3
The Napoleon Oakville X3 is a gas fireplace insert with plenty of design accessory options. It features a triple flame pattern, a clean face design, and a wide range of brick or porcelain panel options. It also goes up to 30,000 BTUs of heat, with directional baffles to efficiently drive all that heat throughout your home.
This fireplace insert is 20.94 inches tall, 28.63 inches wide, and 18.31 inches deep. If you’re looking for a gas insert and this one fits in your fireplace, it’s a great choice!
The Enviro EX35
The Enviro EX35 gas fireplace insert has a lot of interesting features. It has adjustable ember bed lighting, glass or ceramic embers, a clean face, and a Run-Quiet fan system. It also has multiple liner options, including black enameled, brick fluted, graphite grey brick, herringbone, and ledgestone. At 35,000 BTUs, this unit produces a lot of heat.
The Enviro EX35 is 32” wide, 20” tall, and 17 1⁄2” deep. If you are looking at another Enviro unit, the E33, you should know that it’s the same size as the EX35. The EX35 just has more features!
The Enviro E30
The Enviro E30 is a simple but elegant gas fireplace insert. It features a clean face look, a high-definition log set, an easy-access burner set, and a valve that lets you turn down the heat by 50%. Like with the Enviro EX35 above, the liner options include black enameled, brick fluted, graphite grey brick, herringbone, and ledgestone.
At 33,000 BTUs, the Enviro E30 will do a good job of heating most rooms up to 1,700 square feet. The unit itself is 28” x 20” x 16”. If you’re looking for a similar fireplace insert with more features, you may want to consider the Enviro EX32.
FAQs About Fireplace Inserts
Can I put a fireplace insert in my existing fireplace?
You can put a fireplace insert in most fireplaces, but not all of them. Some manufactured fireplaces do not accept inserts, and others only accept limited models. Most inserts are designed for masonry fireplaces.
What is the best type of fireplace insert?
Gas and electric fireplace inserts are more efficient than wood-burning units. However, any kind of fireplace insert can help you warm your home more efficiently. The best choice for you may depend on whether you have or are willing to install gas lines or electrical outlets for the insert.
How much does a fireplace insert cost?
Most fireplace inserts cost $3,000-$5,000 before installation. Reach out to Four Day Fireplace for a quote on your gas fireplace insert and installation in Western Washington.
Is a fireplace insert worth it?
A fireplace insert is a great way to make your home more energy efficient and save money on heating in the long run. It can also be a nice interior design addition, especially with the right surround.
Ready to get a fireplace insert? Four Day Fireplace has more fireplace inserts and design options than nearly anyone else in the Pacific Northwest. We can finish your fireplace project from concept to completion in four days or less.
Contact us today for a quote or learn more about your design options!
