While the atmosphere and aroma are second to none, a traditional wood burning fireplace can be much more energy efficient once a fireplace insert is installed.

Fireplace inserts fit into your existing fireplace, either mounted flush with the hearth or at times extending out slightly. Inserts often include upgraded stone or tile finishes, cast iron features and glass doors. They are extremely attractive and complete the look of even the more barren of fireplaces.

Besides the aesthetics, fireplace inserts add energy efficiency to your heating system, whether it’s wood, pellet burning or utilizes natural gas. Inserts have tight fitting doors and feature air circulation systems built right in. They ensure that the majority of heat generated from the flames is not lost up into the chimney and produce the most efficient burn using controlled damper systems. Fireplace inserts also gather combustion air from outside of your home. The combustion efficiency of an insert depends on whether wood, pellets or natural gas are burned. Regardless, the construction of an insert improves the efficiency significantly when compared to a traditional fireplace.

Another benefit of fireplace inserts is the inclusion of a built in fan. Fans don’t affect the combustion efficiency, but they do distribute the heat into your home well, sometimes from 50 to 75% better than without an insert. If your fireplace is in a small room a fan may not be necessary, but a fireplace insert and fan can heat a large area very comfortably.

Fireplace inserts come in either single or double-walled construction. Double-walled is more efficient because of the way that heated air is distributed through and around the insert. This type is more common and safer than single-walled, which pulls air from the room into the fireplace, up along the back and then back out the top.

Be sure that your fireplace insert is connected to the existing chimney system. The NFPA (National Fire Prevention Association) and many building codes require a direct connection between the fireplace insert and the flue liner to prevent creosote build up.

Always have your existing fireplace inspected by a licensed professional who will determine whether an insert is suitable and which type would be best. Professionals can make sure that all of the elements work together to produce maximum efficiency. A certified chimney sweep should also clean the existing chimney in preparation for an insert.

Continue to enjoy the look and feel of your existing fireplace with an energy efficient and convenient fireplace insert installed right in. Your home will be warmer and produce fewer emissions – making your family feel better all around.