What is the Difference Between a Fireplace and a Fireplace Insert?

The phrases fireplace and fireplace insert are frequently misunderstood. Homeowners frequently inquire about the distinction between a fireplace and a fireplace insert. The simplest explanation is that a…

What is the Difference Between a Fireplace and a Fireplace Insert?

The phrases fireplace and fireplace insert are frequently misunderstood. Homeowners frequently inquire about the distinction between a fireplace and a fireplace insert. The simplest explanation is that a fireplace insert is a stove that has been built to fit into an existing fireplace. Fireplace inserts may be a worthwhile purchase for many homeowners seeking to increase the efficiency of their fireplaces.

The various types of fireplace inserts currently available on the market include:      

  • Pellet burning
  • Wood burning
  • Propane
  • Natural gas
  • Electric

The following information provides further information on fireplace inserts. This information is valuable for property owners who are contemplating this fireplace option.

What Is the Purpose of a Fireplace Insert?

The distinction between a fireplace and a fireplace insert may be determined by understanding the function of a fireplace insert. To put it simply, the goal of a fireplace insert is to enhance the capabilities of an insufficient fireplace.

Installing a fireplace insert is a cost-effective solution to improve your existing wood or gas fireplace to a highly efficient one. A fireplace insert may be a terrific method to provide additional heat while consuming less fuel than a traditional fireplace.

Some of the key benefits of fireplace inserts include the following:

  • They assist in sealing the existing masonry chimney
  • Fireplace inserts help to eliminate drafts coming down the chimney
  • Fireplace inserts help you to increase your heating efficiency

How Do I Know If I Have a Fireplace Insert?

Part of the answer to the question, “What is the difference between a fireplace and a fireplace insert?” is knowing how to determine if you currently have an insert. If your firebox is composed of metal and is encased by a steel casing, you most likely have a fireplace insert.

Looking for a nameplate is an efficient method for identifying the type of fireplace insert in your home. This identification plate is often located next to the gas valve and pilot light of a fireplace insert. Typically positioned underneath the grill. Nameplates that have been positioned at the top of the valve might be difficult to locate at times.

Can You Use a Fireplace Insert Without a Fireplace?

Many property owners want to know if a fireplace insert may be used without a fireplace. Despite the fact that a fireplace insert offers many of the same advantages as a wood stove, these inserts are designed to fit only into brick fireplaces with chimneys. Thus, a fireplace is required in order to use a fireplace insert.

What Is the Difference Between a Firebox and an Insert?

Also prevalent is confusion between a fireplace insert and a firebox among property owners. Because a fireplace insert might be considered a form of the firebox, it is simple to see why this misconception happens frequently.

In a fireplace, the firebox is where the fire burns. Inside fireplaces composed of masonry materials such as stone or brick, the firebox is often formed of brick. The fireboxes of prefabricated fireplaces are often composed of metal.

Regarding fireplace inserts, you may think of them as closed-combustion fireboxes. In order to increase efficiency and heat, these closed-combustion fireboxes are put in existing fireplaces.

How Long Does a Fireplace Insert Last?

As long as you utilize and maintain it properly, a high-quality fireplace insert may endure for many decades. Basic maintenance involves cleaning the fireplace insert on a regular basis. At least once every year, the fireplace insert should be cleaned. If your fireplace insert is often utilized, it may be required to clean it more frequently. This cleaning should be performed in conjunction with a professional chimney sweep at least once a year. These measures can significantly increase the longevity of your fireplace insert.

When properly maintained, a fireplace insert may typically last between 20 and 30 years. They have even been known to outlive this. The fact that a fireplace insert may last for many years is another reason why they are such a wise investment for your home.

Contact our fireplace specialists at H2oasis Inc. for more information about fireplace inserts. We are proud of our reputation as the go-to crew in the Grand Rapids, Michigan, region for all your fireplace servicing requirements. Call us now for more information on fireplace inserts and our other home and business fireplace services.

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