Fireplaces and Fireplace Inserts

There are two types of fireplace inserts available. The most common insert is designed for use only in an existing fireplace. There are fireplace inserts for sale that can be used without an existing fireplace, but they require insulated chimneys to be purchased and installed at the same time. Most fireplace inserts can only be used if your home already has a fireplace and chimney built into it.

If you have a fireplace in your home already, chances are it is designed to burn wood or gas logs. Fireplace inserts can be used to convert it to another kind of fireplace. Or, if your existing fireplace is not safe for use because it has the wrong clearances or design, a fireplace insert can be used to make it functional.

Types of Fireplace Inserts
There are fireplace inserts available to burn any type of indoor fuel. You can purchase inserts that will allow you to burn coal, gas, propane, wood and pellets. Some inserts can be hooked up to electrical units for electric fires.

Fireplace inserts usually have glass doors in front that allow you to see the flames inside. They are generally made from steel or cast iron, and slide easily into your fireplace to hold the entire fire.

In the past, fireplace inserts were often slid into fireplaces without any connections being made to the chimney. Because this causes a build-up of creosote inside the fireplace, resulting in a fire hazard, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) now requires that inserts be installed with a positive connection through the chimney that exhausts fully to the outside.

Good quality fireplace inserts can be somewhat expensive, but it's imperative that you purchase one that works with your existing structure and one that meets all safety requirements. The installation of a fireplace insert is a job best left to the professionals, so contact your local experts before beginning any work.