Consider a Fireplace Insert

If you’ve been wondering what the difference is between a fireplace and a fireplace insert, you’re probably not alone. Fireplace inserts are typically used to ‘update’ an old, existing wood fireplace. A lot of people argue that those fireplaces are energy inefficient and dirty, and old fireplaces certainly can be both. Thus, the fireplace insert, essentially a gas or electrical fireplace that can be installed in the location of your existing fireplace, becomes an attractive alternative.

The Environmental Protection Agency requires all fireplace inserts to pass a certification test, which means that they have to be efficient and clean. Another aspect of the fireplace insert that makes them attractive to homeowners is that most modern inserts now have a fan that blows the warm air from the fireplace into the room.

Gas fireplace inserts require ventilation, so you’ll probably want to retrofit your chimney with a new liner. This will not only make it more energy efficient, as you won’t get as much of a draft, but it will also make the fireplace safer. An electric fireplace insert doesn’t require any ventilation, thus they can be placed anywhere within the home. The one drawback of the electric fireplace insert as opposed to a gas insert is that in the event of a power outage, you can’t use your electric fireplace – but a gas fireplace insert will still function perfectly.

At iBuyWoodStoves we carry a variety of fireplace inserts – gas, electric, wood, and even pellet inserts. If you ever have any questions about which type of insert best suits your home and your budget, please call one of our customer service representatives and they’ll be more than happy to assist you.