The roar of a wood fire in a fireplace on a cold winter’s night can make any home feel cozy. Unfortunately, as pleasing as they are, wood-burning fireplaces are usually not very efficient. This is because their drafts often pull warm air from the room into the fireplace, rather than dispersing the fire’s heat throughout the room.
If you’re looking to enjoy your fireplace but want it to heat up the house more efficiently, a fireplace insert might be a great choice for you.
So, What is a Fireplace Insert and How Does it Work?
A fireplace insert is essentially a fireproof box that is made of cast iron or steel. The front of a fireplace insert is made with insulated glass, so you can enjoy it the same way you would a traditional wood-burning fireplace.
A fireplace insert creates a closed combustion system, which traps heat. Then, this heat is pushed into the room using a blower or fan. This system is often much more efficient than a traditional fireplace alone, as you don’t lose so much heat during the exchange.
What is the difference between a fireplace and a fireplace insert?
A fireplace is an existing masonry space where wood or gas is burned and the air is vented outside through a chimney or vent. Fireplaces are usually built using bricks or stones and are connected to the chimney and flue.
A fireplace insert is a box that you insert into a fireplace to make it more efficient. Fireplace inserts are much smaller than fireplaces and can use many different fuel options, such as electric or gas, even if the fireplace itself was originally built for wood-burning fires.
How Do I Know if I Have an Insert in My Fireplace?
It is usually easy to tell if you have a fireplace insert by checking to see if the firebox is metal and surrounded by a steel or cast iron shell.
If there are gaps between the masonry and the encasing, then you likely have an insert. If there are no gaps and the fireplace is built directly into the wall, it is likely a fireplace alone.
Are Fireplace Inserts Worth It?
Fireplace inserts can be a great way to save money on heating because they make your fireplace so much more energy efficient, especially when used in conjunction with a thermostat. They can also be very aesthetically pleasing, making them a beautiful addition to any home.
Where Can I Buy a Quality Insert?
If you think you’re ready to purchase a quality fireplace insert, you’ll want to know that you’re working with the best in the industry. Four Day Fireplace has all of the fireplace insert design options you can imagine, and we can finish your fireplace project in four days or less. Our gas, electric, and wood inserts are efficient, reliable, and easy to install.
Four Day Fireplace has been in the fireplace business for over 30 years and has the experience to make your fireplace insert dreams come true. Give us a call today to get a quote or explore our fireplace insert design options!
