Gas fireplace inserts are now a must in modern homes due to their convenience, cleanness and reliability. Fireplace inserts present an excellent solution for homeowners who want to improve the performance and appearance, as well as the efficiency of their old fireplaces.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll answer the most common questions about fireplace inserts for gas fireplaces. Whether you are contemplating a fireplace remodel or want to know what inserts are capable of in your home, all the information you need will be found here.
What is a Fireplace Insert for Gas Fireplace?
A fireplace insert is a firebox that is specially designed to fit in an already existing fireplace cavity. Unlike the traditional open hearths, inserts are closed systems that give maximum heat with safety and style. As far as gas fireplaces go, an insert is an enhanced, self-contained unit that burns gas.
There are two main kinds of gas fireplace inserts:
- Direct vent inserts that use a sealed combustion system drawing air from the outside and venting the exhaust outside.
- Vent-free inserts, which will take air from the room and return the combustion gases back into the room. Such are very efficient, though affected by local code limitations.
Gas inserts can be used not only in new building, but also in retrofitted structures, especially when the wood burning fireplace is converted to gas or the old inefficient gas unit is replaced.
Why Should You Install a Fireplace insert to a Gas Fireplace?
Homeowners will often presume that if they already have a gas fireplace, they don't need to get an insert. But the fact is, older gas fireplaces (especially builder-grade) are inefficient, drafty, and outdated in design.
Installing a fireplace insert for gas fireplaces has the following advantages:
- Improved Energy Efficiency:Inserts are built to retain and circulate more heat in the living space instead of allowing it to get up the chimney.
- Enhanced Appearance:The modern inserts have sleek, stylish designs that change the face of a dated fireplace.
- Greater Control:Some inserts come with remote controls, programmable thermostats, variable flame settings.
- Increased Home Value:A highly efficient and appealing gas insert can increase your home's resale value.
- Lower Heating Bills: Inserts do away with the need to strain your central heating system by offering reliable zone heating.
How Are Fireplace Inserts Installed?
Fireplace inserts for gas fireplaces require professional installation. The process usually includes:
- Initial Inspection: An expert in fireplace will check your existing fireplace cavity, venting and configuration of your gas line.
- Measuring the Firebox: The insert should be snugly fitting in the available opening. Measurements include the cavity's height, width and depth.
- Choosing Venting Options: Direct vent inserts will require vent pipe to be run through the chimney or exterior wall. Vent free models do not require a flue.
- Gas Line Hookup:A licensed technician will provide a safe connection to your home's gas supply.
- Electrical Setup (if needed): Some inserts need an electrical outlet to fuel its properties such as blowers or electronic ignition.
- Final Installation and Testing: After installation, the insert is checked for safety, efficiency as well as functionality.
An average installation by a professional can be completed in one to two days depending on complexity.
Do Fireplace Inserts Save Energy?
Absolutely. One of the most convincing reasons that homeowners opt to install a fireplace insert is in order to save on energy bills.
Old fireplaces – particularly open hearth ones – can be a significant source of heat loss. Warm air from inside is drawn up and out of the chimney and cold air from outside is pushed into the room. Older gas fireplaces are even known to depend on inefficient designs that fail to maximize combustion and heat flow.
A fireplace insert for gas fireplaces is sealing off the fireplace cavity and it uses the advanced combustion systems for the extraction of more usable heat. An insert can be used with blowers, fans to distribute the heat evenly in your living space.
Many modern inserts also have the ability of zone heating. Rather than heating your entire home, you can maintain common areas like the living room warm and cozy – you will no longer depend on your furnace and your energy bills will be reduced.
Can I Convert My Current Wood Fireplace with an Insert?
Indeed, fireplace inserts are a perfect solution to converting a traditional wood burning fireplace to a gas powered heat source. This conversion is especially appealing to the owners who are sick and tired of lugging wood, cleaning ashes, and having to deal with smoke or creosote accumulations.
The process involves:
- Closing the old firebox and flue.
- Installation of gas lines to the insert point.
- Installation of the gas fireplace insert in the old cavity.
Not only does this make maintenance easy but it enhances heat output and convenience significantly.
What Styles and Features Do Fireplace Inserts Have?
Fireplace inserts are available in a number of different styles and finishes depending on the home décor, from rustic and traditional to sleek and modern. Popular features include:
- Adjustable Flame Settings: Let you regulate the ambiance and heat output.
- Realistic Log Sets: Ceramic Fiber or refractory cement logs resemble the real wood in appearance.
- Glowing Ember Beds:Add visual warmth and realism.
- Variable Speed Blowers:Help distribute heat evenly in the room.
- Smart Technology:Some of the models can be operated using smartphone or linked to the smart home system.
- Safety Features: Oxygen depletion sensors, child lock remotes, and cool-touch glass are some common features added.
Are There Maintenance Requirements?
While gas fireplace inserts are low maintenance compared to wood burning models, they need periodic maintenance in order to avoid accidents and maintain their performance.
Typical maintenance includes:
- Annual Professional Inspection: A certified technician will inspect gas connections, venting, and the general condition.
- Glass Cleaning:Use a special fireplace glass cleaner to avoid film build-up.
- Dusting and Vacuuming: Ensure that the logs and the surrounding area do not accumulate dust and debris.
- Pilot Light Checks: Make sure the pilot is working properly, especially when the heating season begins.
Regular maintenance will increase the life span of your insert and make it function properly for many years to come.
Are Fireplace Inserts Safe?
Yes, fireplace inserts for gas fireplaces are designed with safety in mind. Manufacturers adhere to strict industry guidelines to make sure that units function safely as possible.
Common safety features include:
- Sealed Combustion Chambers: Prevent indoor air contamination
- Automatic Shut-Off Valves: Detect irregular gas flow or flame failure.
- Cool-Touch Glass:Reduces the risk of burns
- Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Frequently suggested in rooms having gas appliances.
When installed and maintained appropriately, a gas insert is one of the safest heating alternatives.
A Smart Upgrade in Contemporary Houses
Whether you're looking to increase energy efficiency, update your home's style, or simply enjoy a more comfortable and convenient source of heat, fireplace inserts for gas fireplaces offer a practical and elegant solution. They offer high performance in low maintenance and are a great upgrade for homeowners who desire a combination of form and function.
To receive the necessary advice on choosing and installing a gas fireplace insert, consult Fireside. Fireside, as experts in the process of choosing and installing a fireplace, make certain that you receive the proper product for your space, aesthetic, and budget and that it is all done with professional service every step of the way.