Ashbusters Nashville Has Wonderful Wood Inserts for Your Home Fireplace

What Is a Wood Fireplace Insert?

A wood fireplace insert is a self-contained, closed combustion unit that fits into the firebox of an existing masonry fireplace. It is typically made of steel or cast iron with a glass front, allowing users to view the flames. Installing a wood fireplace insert involves fitting it into the existing fireplace and connecting it to a chimney liner, which is why a professional installation is always the recommended approach.

Operating a wood fireplace insert involves loading wood logs into the firebox and controlling the combustion process. Some models may have adjustable airflow controls for better temperature regulation.

All in all, a wood insert transforms an inefficient – and often drafty – wood-burning fireplace into a more efficient heat-producing unit.

Why do people opt for these appliances?

Like we’ve said, the primary goal of a wood fireplace insert is to enhance the efficiency of a traditional fireplace. Open-hearth fireplaces often allow a significant amount of heat to escape through the chimney, while inserts are designed to capture and radiate more heat into the room.

In addition, wood fireplace inserts often come equipped with blowers or fans to distribute heat more effectively throughout the living space. This helps in maximizing the heating potential and warming larger areas, ensuring you get the heat you deserve, without having to replace your fireplace completely or switch fuel types.

It’s important to note that a wood fireplace insert is specifically designed for use with wood burning and should not be used with other fuel types. Before purchasing and installing a wood fireplace insert, it’s advisable to consult with professionals and ensure compliance with local building codes and regulations. Regular maintenance, including cleaning the chimney and inspecting the insert, is essential for safe and efficient operation.

Are Wood Fireplace Inserts Worth It? What are the Benefits of Wood Fireplace Inserts?

Wood-burning fireplaces have long been a popular choice for adding warmth and ambiance to homes. However, they can be inefficient and pose a risk for fires. That’s where wood fireplace inserts come in, allowing folks to continue reaping the benefits of a wood-burning fireplace, while gaining a safer and more efficient heat source in the process.

That said, adding any new system to your home takes up time and expense. So, are wood fireplace inserts worth the investment? Let’s explore the pros – and cons – of wood-fueled inserts, along with any other important considerations before taking the plunge.

Starting with the advantages…

• Many modern wood fireplace inserts are certified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for meeting strict emissions and efficiency standards. EPA-certified inserts are more environmentally friendly and produce fewer pollutants compared to older, less efficient models.
• Wood fireplace inserts typically include safety features, such as doors with heat-resistant glass, and some models may have a screen to prevent sparks from escaping.
• Wood inserts are designed to burn wood more efficiently, extracting more heat from each log.
• Wood fireplace inserts are available in various styles and finishes, allowing homeowners to choose an option that complements their home’s decor. Some models even mimic the appearance of traditional masonry fireplaces.
• Wood fireplace inserts have a special ambiance only matched by a true wood-burning fireplace. If you love the authentic sounds and smells of burning wood, this is the way to go.
• Wood fireplace inserts can increase the efficiency of your fireplace by up to 85%, reducing your energy bills and environmental impact.
• Some inserts are equipped with fans and blowers that can circulate warm air throughout your home, providing more heat than a traditional fireplace.
• Wood fireplace inserts are designed to fit into an existing fireplace, making installation easy and hassle-free.

Are there drawbacks of wood fireplace inserts?

We always want the customers we serve to have all the facts before making a major home investment. So, while there are many benefits to wood fireplac e inserts, there are also some drawbacks to consider as well before making your purchase.

• Upfront cost. Wood fireplace inserts can be a bigger investment, with prices varying depending on the model and its features.
• Installation cost. Installation costs can add an additional expense to the overall cost, depending on the complexity of the installation.
• Regular maintenance. Wood fireplace inserts require regular maintenance, including cleaning the chimney, ash pan, and air intakes. They also require storing wood and building fires.
• Limited design options. Inserts are designed to fit into an existing fireplace, sometimes limiting design options and customization.

If you have questions, reach out to the techs here at Ashbusters Chimney. We’re here to help Nashville homeowners with all of their fireplace repairs, maintenance, and more. Call or fill out our online scheduling form now.

Sizing Considerations When Choosing a Wood Fireplace Insert

Fireplace inserts are not one size fits all. Therefore, it is crucial to take accurate measurements of your existing fireplace. If you’re uncertain, call us out to take a look for the most accurate analysis possible.

You’ll also want to take the size of your space into consideration. Wood fireplace inserts are designed to heat rooms based on their size, which is measured in thermal output – or BTU’s. The higher the BTU rating, the more heat is delivered. If you have a large room or space, you will want to ensure you choose a unit with a high enough rating to effectively heat the size of your space.

The shape of your space also impacts how to measure the room size. When measuring you want to be able to get an accurate idea of the square footage of the room. Once you have the square footage, multiply that number by 20 to get the minimum BTU number needed to effectively heat your room.

What Wood Should I Burn in My Fireplace?

When it comes to choosing wood for your fireplace, you have many options to choose from. It is important to remember that the best types of wood to burn in a fireplace are hardwoods, like oak, hickory, and maple, as well as fruitwoods, like apple and cherry. 

Softwoods like pine and spruce should be avoided if possible… And no matter what type of wood you choose, make sure it’s properly seasoned before you burn it. By choosing the right type of firewood and taking proper care of your fireplace and chimney, you can enjoy a warm and cozy fire all winter long.

Can Wood Fireplace Inserts Be Installed in Any Type of Fireplace?

Wood fireplace inserts are designed to be installed into existing fireplaces, but there are some considerations to keep in mind before picking one for your specific space. Not all fireplaces are suitable for wood fireplace inserts, and installation requirements may vary based on the type of fireplace and local building codes.

For instance, wood fireplace inserts are generally designed to fit into masonry fireplaces, which are constructed with brick, stone, or other masonry materials. They may not be suitable for use in prefabricated fireplaces made of metal or other non-masonry materials.

In addition, the dimensions of the wood fireplace insert need to match the dimensions of the existing fireplace opening. It’s crucial to measure the fireplace opening accurately to ensure a proper fit. There are also specific clearance requirements that must be followed to ensure safety. The insert should have proper clearances from combustible materials, and the fireplace itself should meet safety standards.

It’s advisable to have a professional installer – like one of Ashbusters’ team members – assess the fireplace and handle the installation. They can ensure that the insert is installed correctly, meeting all safety requirements and local codes.

Consult With Us Today

Is a wood fireplace insert right for your living space? The answer depends on your needs and budget. If you’re looking for a way to improve the efficiency and safety of your fireplace, reduce your energy bills, and add more heat to your home, a wood fireplace insert is a solid investment – and one we can help you with.

Consult with one of our professionals to make the most informed decision possible. Call 615-459-2546 or reach out online today.

 

Are you thinking about a new stove for your next heating appliance? Be sure to look into the benefits of a wood stove before you make a decision.