What Is a Fireplace Insert?

There is nothing quite like the sound and smell of a crackling fire during those cold winter months. That being said – traditional fireplaces have begun to fall by the wayside, making way for newer and more efficient fireplace inserts. Now you may ask, "what is a fireplace insert?" This guide will give you all the info you need to pick the best type of fireplace insert and help you decide if it is a suitable investment for you.

What Is a Fireplace Insert?

Although they made seem the same, a fireplace insert is different than a built-in masonry fireplace and chimney, which is built directly into your existing home. The insert is a sealed fireproof box with an insulated glass front that creates a closed combustion system, which in turn generates more heat. Fireplace inserts are smaller in size, as they must be installed within your existing fireplace opening. They are ideal if you are looking you upgrade your older wood fireplace with a new and highly efficient gas, electric, or wood burning fireplace insert that produces more heat and uses less fuel. Do be aware that some fireplace inserts require the installation of a manufacturer-specific stainless steel chimney liner for ventilation. A fireplace insert is a cost-effective upgrade that can help to reduce emissions, update your space, and help you save money by keeping you warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

Tip!

If your home doesn't already have a fireplace, you will likely need an actual fireplace and not an insert. Read more about fireplaces read our guide Indoor Fireplace Types & Designs.

Fireplace Insert Fuel Types

Fireplace inserts are fueled in one of three ways – electricity, gas, or wood – each with different installation costs, benefits, and levels of maintenance.

Tip!

To learn more about measuring for a fireplace insert, read our guide How to Measure for a Fireplace Insert.

Electric: The simplest and least complicated fireplace inserts to install are the electric models. They simply require a nearby outlet to plug into and the small heater within will warm up the room. Since they do not use combustion, these high efficiency fireplace inserts require no venting installation. This in turn makes electric fireplace inserts suitable for small apartments, homes that have no access to gas, or that don't have a fireplace – they can even be permanently installed into a wall. Electric fireplace inserts often come with multi-colored LED lighting displays that produce adjustable flames, varying heat outputs, and even authentic looking logs.

Gas: If you already have access to natural gas or propane in your home, a gas-fueled fireplace insert is a great option. Bear in mind, these fireplace inserts require professional installation, as a gas line will need to be run to the existing fireplace. These inserts have two small flexible tubes, one that brings fresh air into the insert for combustion, and one that exhausts out into the exterior. Gas fireplace inserts only require electricity if they come with a blower to distribute the heat. Some gas fireplace inserts come with remotes and can even run on wall thermostats, allowing you to easily adjust the heat settings to enjoy a cozy ambiance.

Tip!

For gas and wood burning fireplace inserts, be sure to follow mantel clearance guidelines for safety.

Wood: If you aren't quite ready to let go of your traditional fireplace, you can instead upgrade to a wood burning fireplace insert. These give the beauty of an open fireplace but the performance of a wood stove. Due to their design, they are able to burn wood at a slower rate, although they do still produce ash and emissions. Note that all wood fireplace inserts must be certified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure the safe and efficient burning of wood.

Fireplace Insert Features

You fireplace insert may come with additional features and accessories to ensure safe and efficient functioning.

Adjustable Flame: Many electric fireplaces come with an adjustable flame that is lit by low-energy LED lights. They often offer varying degrees of brightness and even color settings for you to personalize your fireplace insert. Even if the fire isn't authentic, the soft glow of the realistic flame effects is sure to add an intimate atmosphere to your home.

Remote Control:Most electric fireplace inserts have a variety of functions that you can control with an included remote. For ease of use and depending on the model, you can change settings such as temperature, flame color and brightness, power on or off, and even set a timer from the comfort of your favorite chair.

Safety Shutoff: Both electric and gas fireplace inserts can include a safety shutoff. This feature uses thermal overload protection to automatically shut the unit off to prevent overheating.

Adjustable Thermostat:Gas and electric fireplace inserts with adjustable thermostats have specific temperature ranges, allowing you to select your preferred heat setting. Once that temperature is reached, the insert will maintain it by either lowering or shutting off the heating until the temperature begins to drop again.

Blower Included:Many wood, electric, and even some gas fireplace inserts come with an included blower. This functions to blow hot air back into the room through front vents for even distribution and circulation to maximize your fireplace insert's heating power.

Now you know what is a fireplace insert and how to choose a fireplace insert, you can pick the right one to keep you warm this winter.