Does a fireplace insert add value?
A homeowner can often recover over 100 percent of the expenses associated with adding a fireplace upon selling their home. According to the National Association of Real Estate Appraisers, adding a fireplace to home can increase the resale value of the home by as much as 6-12 percent.
How do you tell if my fireplace has an insert?
You can generally tell you have a fireplace insert if the firebox is metal and surrounded by a steel shell. To know for sure what type of insert you have, look for the nameplate under the grill by the pilot light and gas valve.
Does a fireplace need an insert?
Usually a wood burning fireplace built with the home will get an “insert” put inside of it. You need an insert not a fireplace when you already have a fireplace in the home, you don’t want to do any construction, when you want the simplest conversion.
What is the difference between a built in fireplace and an insert?
The primary difference is that a fireplace insert is an appliance that can be installed into an existing wood burning fireplace to make it more efficient. A built in fireplace is new installation into a home where you do not already have a fireplace.
How long do gas fireplace inserts last?
As with most things, how long your fireplace insert lasts will depend on how well you take care of it. However, when properly maintained, a fireplace insert can last 20-30 years or more, making them a great investment in the future of your home.
Can a gas fireplace be left on overnight?
No, you should not leave your gas fireplace on overnight as you risk carbon monoxide poisoning. Although it’s never recommended, if your gas fireplace has been properly maintained and designed to run continuously, it may be safe to leave it on.
What is the difference between a zero clearance fireplace and an insert?
A zero clearance fireplace has to be framed specifically into a wall. In comparison, an insert is slid into a pre-existing masonry fireplace. This is an open fireplace made entirely of brick or rock (which are non-combustible materials).
What is the difference between a firebox and an insert?
As the name implies, a fireplace insert is a self-contained unit placed into an existing firebox. The construction of these appliances makes all the difference: a very sturdy box surrounded by heavy steel or cast iron with insulated glass doors on the front. Gas fireplace inserts perform similarly.
Are fireplace inserts necessary?
A fireplace insert is basically a stove, wood or gas, that is designed to be inserted into a fireplace that is already there. You need an insert not a fireplace when you already have a fireplace in the home, you don’t want to do any construction, when you want the simplest conversion.
Are gas fireplace inserts worth the money?
A gas fireplace offers a range of benefits over burning wood in your home, including the ability to instantly turn on, control and turn of the heat from the fire. The advantages of having gas fireplace can outweigh the disadvantages in many scenarios, making a gas fireplace a worthwhile investment for your home.
What is a zero clearance fireplace insert?
Zero clearance fireplaces come in all shapes and sizes. Zero clearance means the fireplace has its own insulation and it needs zero inches of clearance (distance) from combustible materials in the home. Traditional style fireplaces can use wood or gas logs or inserts to heat a room.
Can a fireplace insert heat a house?
Fireplace inserts are like heating stoves and fit directly inside an existing masonry fireplace. And EPA-certified units provide up to 70% to 80% heating efficiency. Make sure to add the blower motor option to your insert if you want to spread the heat around your house.
How do I know if my fireplace is masonry?
A masonry fireplace has a firebox built of individual generally yellowish firebrick, a brick chimney above the roof, and if you look up past the damper you will see a roughly pyramid shaped affair also built of brick.
What kind of insert do I need for my fireplace?
If you’re done with wood burning, and you think you’d enjoy the warmth and convenience of gas logs in your fireplace, then consider a gas fireplace insert. Direct Vent Gas Inserts are a popular choice for fireplaces with a gas supply installed or available.
Which is the best ventless gas fireplace insert?
With a ventless gas fireplace configuration, you’ll get plenty of heat radiating from the unit. If you want to add a traditional fireplace to any room, do so with this versatile gas fireplace insert with mantel. If you are looking for a set of vented gas logs, the Sure Heat Burnt River Oak 24-inch set is a realistic looking option.
What’s the average price of a fireplace insert?
The average price point for a quality fireplace insert is about $1,600. At this price range, you’ll find some variable air flow control, cast iron features, stay-cool handles, and easy connections to your venting system.
What are the advantages of inserting a fireplace into a wall?
Gas fireplace advantages include: Relatively easy to retrofit. Fireplace inserts slip into a preexisting fireplace or properly-framed wall opening. Generally speaking, any insert designed for an in-wall installation can go into an existing fireplace.
What do you need to know about fireplace inserts?
Fireplace inserts are self-contained units that burn gas, wood or pellets. They’re typically metal boxes with glass fronts that can be placed inside existing fireboxes or as a freestanding vent-free unit. They burn efficiently and trap the heat.
With a ventless gas fireplace configuration, you’ll get plenty of heat radiating from the unit. If you want to add a traditional fireplace to any room, do so with this versatile gas fireplace insert with mantel. If you are looking for a set of vented gas logs, the Sure Heat Burnt River Oak 24-inch set is a realistic looking option.
Can a pellet insert be used in a gas fireplace?
Pellet inserts are easy to operate, but they require more maintenance than gas or electric models. Gas fireplace inserts obviously require a gas line to accept propane or natural gas. If you do not have an existing gas hook up for the fireplace, you will need to hire a professional plumber to run a line for you.
Can a wood burning fireplace be converted to a gas fireplace?
To convert from a Wood-burning fireplace to a Gas-burning fireplace, the best way is by installing one of the best Gas Fireplace Inserts. However, you may be surprised to find out how many different types of gas log inserts are available to purchase.