There's nothing like the cozy glow of a fireplace—but did you know traditional fireplaces are incredibly inefficient? Whether built from masonry or prefabricated materials, they pull warm air from the room and send most of the heat up the chimney. In fact, older fireplaces operate at only 5-10% efficiency! Let Fireplace Distributor walk you through what a fireplace insert is!
Fireplace Inserts Explained
A fireplace insert is the solution. Essentially, it's a fireproof box made of steel or cast iron, enclosed with insulated glass to trap heat and create a closed combustion system. Some models even include blowers that push warm air back into the room, making them ideal for zone heating.
✅ Improves Efficiency: Converts traditional fireplaces into a closed system, reducing heat loss.
✅ Multiple Fuel Options: Available in electric, gas, wood, and pellet varieties.
✅ Lower Heating Costs: More efficient than open fireplaces, helping cut fuel usage and bills.
Fireplace inserts come in several fuel types, including:
🔌 Electric
🔥 Gas & Propane
🌲 Wood
🌾 Pellet & Coal
Each type has unique benefits, which we’ll explore below! 👇
Electric Fireplace Inserts: Easy & Stylish
Why Choose Electric?
✔️ No venting required – just plug it in!
✔️ Perfect for apartments & homes without chimneys
✔️ Can run with or without heat for ambiance
✔️ No permits needed
Electric inserts don’t use combustion, so there’s no need for a chimney or venting. Many models simulate flames with LED lights and put out up to 5,000 BTUs of heat. Installation is as simple as placing the unit into the existing fireplace opening and plugging it in.
Best for: Homeowners who prioritize aesthetics, live in areas without gas access, or need an easy, maintenance-free heating solution.
Gas Fireplace Inserts: Efficient & Powerful
Why Choose Gas?
✔️ Highly efficient – 76-83% heat retention!
✔️ Produces 25,000 - 40,000 BTUs (enough for medium-sized rooms)
✔️ Low maintenance – no logs or ash to clean
✔️ Remote control & thermostat options
If you have access to natural gas or propane, a gas fireplace insert is a powerful heating option. They require professional installation to run a gas line and venting tubes, but once installed, they require minimal upkeep.
💰 Cost: $1,400 - $3,000 (installation extra)
⚠️ Safety Tip: Install a carbon monoxide detector since gas burns cleanly but is odorless.
💡 Best for: Homeowners who want low-maintenance, high-efficiency heating.
Wood Fireplace Inserts: Classic & Cozy
Why Choose Wood?
✔️ Authentic fire experience – real flames & crackling logs
✔️ Cheaper fuel (if you have wood access)
✔️ Better efficiency than open fireplaces (50% vs. 5-10%)
For those who love a traditional fire, a wood-burning insert improves efficiency while keeping the ambiance of a real fireplace. EPA-certified wood inserts reduce smoke emissions and can burn for 6-8 hours per load. 🔥🌳
💰 Cost: Up to $2,000 (installation extra)
⚠️ Maintenance Needed:
🛠️ Chimney cleaning (to remove creosote buildup)
🪵 Use seasoned wood (dried for at least 6 months)
🚨 Install a smoke alarm & carbon monoxide detector
💡 Best for: Homeowners who enjoy traditional wood fires and don’t mind regular maintenance.
Which Fireplace Insert is Right for You?
| Insert Type | Best For | Efficiency | Maintenance | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electric ⚡ | Aesthetic use, apartments, no gas access | 🔹 Moderate (5,000 BTUs) | ✅ Low | 💲 $500 - $2,500 |
| Gas 🔥 | High-efficiency home heating | 🔹 High (25,000 - 40,000 BTUs) | ✅ Low | 💲 $1,400 - $3,000 |
| Wood 🌲 | Traditional fireplace lovers | 🔹 Moderate (50% efficient) | ❌ High | 💲 Up to $2,000 |
Upgrade Your Fireplace Today!
Whether you want a low-maintenance gas insert, a cozy wood-burning unit, or a simple electric upgrade, Fireplace Distributor has the best fireplace inserts to transform your home.
🔥 Browse Our Collection Today! 👉 fireplacedistributor.com
