Purchasing a Wood Burning Fireplace Insert
There is something about a crackling fire in a fireplace that is so inviting, but that fire isn’t necessarily the most efficient way to warm your home, or even the room. A wood burning fireplace insert can be used to increase the efficiency and look of your existing fireplace. There are inserts that use other fuel for the fire as well, but none achieve the authentic look of a fire like the real thing. Fireplaces only operate at about fifteen percent efficiency. Not only that, but when not in use, you may be losing heat through the chimney. A fireplace insert for wood burning can end your heat problems.
A wood burning fireplace insert is a firebox that is enclosed in a metal (usually steel) shell. The unit removes air from the room, circulates it through the space between the firebox and shell and then sends the heated air back into the room. Many units have a fan that assists in this function. The insert is installed in an existing masonry fireplace.
There are several sizes of inserts available to ensure not only you have enough heat for the room you will install the unit, but to properly fit your existing fireplace. Be sure to check how many square feet the insert is meant to heat before purchasing it.
One of the benefits of a wood burning fireplace insert is the increased heat efficiency. Another is the reduction in pollutant output. A wood burning insert is required to meet certain criteria to ensure its pollutant output is below a specified amount. This is the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) certification. You can make sure the unit you purchase is EPA certified by looking for a metal stamp or label on the back or side of the insert, in addition to a temporary label on the front. One of the great things about an EPA certified insert is that you can use your unit even if authorities in your area have placed a “burn ban.”
One of the best places to start in your shopping is the Internet. It is a great tool to use to find a cheap wood burning fireplace insert. You may even be able to find a used wood burning fireplace insert and save yourself some money.
Another benefit of purchasing a wood burning fireplace insert is that they are available in many different styles. This allows you to meet your design needs for you home. If you prefer a more rustic look you may want to look into a wood burning stove fireplace insert. It is constructed almost the exact same as the standard insert, but it has piping that will run up your existing chimney, and it will not slide all the way into your fireplace.