Propane Fireplace Inserts: What They Are and Why Homeowners Love Them

The joy of sitting indoors by the fireplace in a cold atmosphere entices homeowners to think of many ways of heating that are appealing and energy saving at the same time. A wood fire in the fireplace gives a nostalgic feeling, however, there are a few disadvantages such as smoke, soot, and hauling of wood, and uneven distributions of heat. Now homeowners are rapidly adopting propane fireplace inserts as a modern choice instead of dealing with all these problems.    

This article will explain in detail the idea of propane fireplace inserts, their functionality, and their surprising popularity. Their benefits like energy efficiency, clean burning emissions through modern designs make people love them.   

What Are Propane Fireplace Inserts?   

A propane fireplace insert is a standalone unit, that can be installed within an existing masonry or prefab wood fireplace. Rather than burning wood, it makes use of propane gas, in a tank located outside the firebox provides a steady, controllable flame within a sealed firebox.   

In contrast to the conventional fireplaces that produce a considerable percentage of heat through the chimneys, the propane inserts are made for maximum heat output and reduced loss. They’re usually packed with such features as:   

• Clean indoor ventilation  
• Remote control of remote or thermostat for convenience   
• Blowers and fans in order to spread the heat more evenly   
• Decorative log sets that mimic real wood fires  

Because they utilize a sealed combustion system, propane fireplace inserts are safer and more efficient than open hearth fireplaces. They also provide a predictable and variable source of heat – without constructing and minding a fire.   

Why Homeowners Are Choosing Propane Fireplace Inserts   

As more people look for reliable and energy-efficient ways to heat their homes, propane fireplace inserts are quickly gaining popularity. Here’s why homeowners all over the country are making the switch.   

1. Convenience and Ease of Use   

One of the biggest reasons people love propane fireplace inserts is how easy they are to use. There’s no need to cut and pile wood, empty ash, or wait until a fire starts popping. By pressing a button or a turn of the thermostat, you can have a warm, constant flame in a few seconds.   

And many of them, moreover, have programmable thermostats and remote controls so as to control your home’s temperature is even easier.   

2. Energy Efficiency   

Unlike wood burning fireplaces that can release up to 85% through the chimney, propane inserts are designed to perform. Most high-efficiency propane fireplace inserts boast ratings of 70% to 90%, meaning more of the fuel you pay for actually heats your home.   

Direct vent systems also assist in maintaining quality of air indoors because the combustion is taken from outside and the exhaust is exhausted out instead of using the existing indoor air.   

3. Reliable Heat Even When There is No Power   

One of the often-overlooked benefits of propane fireplace inserts is their reliability during power outages. You’ll still have a heat source even if your furnace or electric heaters are offline because many models can do it without electricity.   

That makes propane inserts a smart decision for homes in regions vulnerable to winter storms or rolling blackouts.   

4. Clean Burning and Eco-Friendly   

When compared to wood, propane is much a cleaner burning fuel. It emits far less particulates and greenhouse gases, and is therefore a more environmentally friendly choice, as is your own indoor air quality.   

For homeowners who are looking to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing comfort, propane fireplace inserts offer a meaningful improvement.   

5. Minimal Maintenance   

Propane inserts take much less maintenance than wood burning systems do. There’s no build-up of creosote, no needing to sweep the chimney, and there are no piles of ash to shovel out. A once-a-year inspection and an occasional glass cleaning is usually all you need to keep your insert running smoothly.   

That low maintenance appeal is particularly appealing to busy homes and households who prefer no trouble in having a fireplace.   

6. Versatile Styles and Customization Options   

Propane inserts today are as fancy as they are useful. If you have a traditional-looking home or one which tends to have more contemporary design, there’s a design for your interior design scheme. Log sets, fire glass, and brick or stone panels help you to achieve the look you desire – from rustic to modern.   

Some models, in fact, have adjustable flame heights and accent lighting to add more to the look and feel of your space.   

Things to Think About Before a Propane Fireplace Insert is Installed   

Although there are many benefits of making a choice, a decision of what propane fireplace insert to use is not all about picking a style. Below are a few considerations before the installation:   

Fireplace Opening Size   

When converting your fireplace to a fire pit, you need to take measurements of your existing fireplace carefully to ensure a nice fit. Propane inserts are available in different widths, heights, and depths while correct sizing is important regarding performance and esthetics.   

Venting Options   

Most propane fireplace inserts use a direct vent system, but the exact venting setup will depend on your home’s layout. Sometimes, only a few chimney alterations will suffice.   

Propane Tank Placement   

Because propane inserts pull fuel from an external source, you’ll need to think about where to put that source, and how to safely provide fuel to your fireplace.   

Professional Installation  

For safety and performance, it’s always better to have your gas insert professionally installed by a certified technician who will take care of gas connections, venting and local building code adherence.   

Are Propane Fireplace Inserts Worth It?   

If you’re looking to upgrade from a wood-burning fireplace, or add a reliable secondary heat source, propane fireplace inserts are absolutely worth considering. They pack convenience, efficiency and beauty in one pouch while cutting down on mess and maintenance related to traditional fires.   

As the upfront cost of installing a propane insert and installation can be more than some other options, many homeowners find that the savings on heating bills over the long term and the lack of need for upkeep makes this an investment worth making.   

Propane fireplace inserts have changed the way homeowners experience warmth and ambiance at home. Thanks to its advanced safety features, ease of operation and energy saving performance, they present a very smart and stylish upgrade to any room in your home.   

If you’re looking to update an old masonry fireplace on the cheap, or if you just want to add a cozy point of interest in your room, a propane insert can provide the charms of a real fire, minus the down sides of wood burning.   

Fireside helps you with choosing and installing the most ideal propane fireplace insert for your home. Having provided our services for decades and being deeply in love with the quality of our craftsmanship, our team will guide you at every step – from design and selection to professional installation and long-term support.   

Ready to explore propane fireplace inserts for your home? Call us now at Fireside and we will help you bring warmth and efficiency to your space – beautifully and safely.