Fireplace vs. Insert: What’s the Difference?
It’s good to know the difference between a fireplace and an insert because it will help you make the right choice for your home. You may already have a basic fireplace, which is a masonry structure built when the house or building was constructed. These open fireplaces have such low efficiency ratings that, in some cases, efficiency would almost rate a negative score. On average, the efficiency of a fireplace is 10% at most! On the other hand, if you have a fireplace insert, the efficiency rating can be as much as 85%!
The experts at Chimney Saver Solutions can help when you are ready to switch to a true alternative heat source that can offset high utility costs in winter. More details about a fireplace vs an insert follow.
When a Fireplace Doesn’t Provide Much Heat
Fireplaces have rave reviews as far as ambiance. You get to enjoy crackling fires, the woodsy scent, and the glow of dancing flames. The downside is that up to 90% or more of the heat from fires goes up the chimney instead of into the room. There are sometimes issues that cause your heated air to escape through the chimney 24/7, such as a faulty damper or a damaged chimney flue. A fix may be needed, and qualified chimney sweeps like the friendly technicians at Chimney Saver Solutions are the ones to call.
The good news is that, through the centuries, inventors have found ways to improve heat production from fireplaces (and heating stoves). Having a fireplace insert installed is one of the best solutions we know.
What is a Fireplace Insert?
In essence, a fireplace insert is a gas or wood stove especially designed to be installed inside a particular fireplace. Yet, there is more to them than that. A fireplace insert operates with a closed combustion system that traps heat and contains the flame. A ventilation system is included, which circulates warm air into the room. Many fireplace inserts have an option for a blower that pushes warmed air into the room.
What Kind of Heat Does a Fireplace Insert Produce?
A fireplace insert produces radiant heat, which is comparable to how we can feel heat coming from the sun. It also produces convective heat, which is the warmth felt when a fan is running and pushing air out of the top of a grill or a louver. A louver has adjustable slats that allow control of ventilation.
More Benefits of a Fireplace Insert
With a fireplace insert, the fire, smoke, and fine particles are contained within the appliance. You should never have to deal with a smoky fireplace. Of course, the fuel you use will produce far more heat for your home. So, you may be able to cut heating costs when it’s cold outside. Although the fires will be enclosed behind glass, nothing needs to be lost as far as aesthetics. There are numerous styles of fireplace inserts that perfectly complement any type of home décor.
Contact the Pros for Installation of a Fireplace Insert
Our professional chimney sweeps at Chimney Saver Solutions are CSIA-certified. When it comes to an appliance that exposes your home to potential dangers, it’s important to call technicians who know what they are doing. We are trusted by homeowners throughout the greater Richmond VA area in this unregulated industry. Knowing all the ins and outs about the differences between a fireplace and an insert, we are happy to answer any further questions you may have.
Besides fireplace insert installation, we offer chimney inspections, chimney cleaning, masonry repair, fixes for leaky chimneys and smoky chimneys, partial or complete chimney rebuilds, and more.
Call us or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment with us today!
