It’s true the traditional idea of a fireplace is a grand structure with a hearth and surround made of stones or bricks, jutting out from the wall with a prominent chimney on top. For a long time that’s what a fireplace looked like. However, fireplace technology has advanced to allow for more sleek and efficient designs with the invention of fireplace inserts. If you’ve browsed our website, locations, or online shop, you’ve probably seen more than a few of these, but maybe you weren’t sure what defines an insert. We’ll explain what fireplace inserts are, the kinds, and why you need one.
What are Fireplace Inserts?
Fireplace inserts are exactly what the name suggests, they are fireplaces that are inserted into an existing masonry opening. Unlike other fireplaces, these fireplaces are made in a self-contained, metal firebox, that is easily fitted into a former fireplace or masonry opening. Rather than relying on a large open area and big chimney made of stone, they use discreet vents for inflow and exhaust into smaller metal pipes. The result is an extremely efficient fireplace in both heating and spatial design.
The Types of Fireplace Inserts
While fireplace inserts may have started as a new design for wood burning fireplaces, fireplace inserts today exist in all kinds. There are still wood-burning fireplace inserts such as the Stuv-16 and Stuv-21, as well as, the Napoleon S series. Gas and electric fireplace inserts are also extremely popular. Major brands like Napoleon, Valor, Jotul, and Ortal all offer exceptional gas fireplace inserts. Dimplex, Modern Flames, and British Fires create luxurious electric inserts. All of these inserts come in various sizes, price points, and styles along with a wide suite of the latest technical features, making them perfect for a variety of homes.
The Benefits of Fireplace Inserts
Easier Installation
Fireplace inserts have numerous benefits for any homeowner looking for a new fireplace. One is that they are simpler to install than a more traditional fireplace. They do not require restoring or replacing the old masonry. This is an immediate benefit of fireplace inserts because they require much less intensive design. Paired with efficient exhausts and a variety of styles, this makes fireplace inserts an easier installation for most homes!
Bring a Fireplace Back to Life
Older homes often have a disused or dysfunctional fireplace. Their owners often want to reignite the fireplace’s life, whether it’s for their own use or to increase the home’s value. However, the restoration to its original form is costly. It might also not exactly fit the aesthetic of the modernized home. Instead, replacing the older fireplace with an insert is a great alternative to a full restoration. In fact, inserts are designed precisely for such a fireplace conversion. Depending on the kind of insert installed, a new exhaust vent or gas line may also need to be installed. However, this makes fireplace inserts overall a more cost-effective option than restoring the original fireplace.
Fireplace Insert Efficiency
While it’s hard to beat the classic tradition of the masoned fireplace, the contained system of modern fireplaces and inserts are overall more efficient at heating an area. The closed system prevents heat from escaping and ensures it is vented directly into the room. The closed system also allows accurate temperature control, even for wood fires, ensuring the fire burns at the ideal temperature without wasting fuel.
Our Favourite Fireplace Inserts
With our deep love for all fireplaces, it’s hard to pick favourites. However, we do have a few we’d like to recommend.
- Valor G3 – This gas fireplace insert is our most popular, and for good reason. It’s efficient, easy to control, and looks good. There’s also an electric version, the Valor GE3.
- Marquis Capri – This gas insert is a recent addition to our showrooms, but it’s becoming a fast classic.
- Ortal Wilderness 29 Insert – A truly luxurious model that shows fireplace inserts can be no less grand.
- Amantii TRD Bespoke – An electric insert that recreates a traditional fire with the latest technical features.
- Stuv 16-in – We already mentioned this elegant and sleek wood fireplace insert, that’s perfect for reviving an old fireplace to new glory.
Some Fun History about the Fireplace Insert
Perhaps a more surprising fact about the fireplace insert was that it was the brainchild of some important historical figures. The first kind of fireplace insert was invented in 1742 by the American founding father, Benjamin Franklin. Franklin called it “The Pennsylvania Fireplace”, but it received the more common name of the “Franklin Stove”. However, Franklin’s exhaust design wasn’t efficient because he had intentionally chosen to use coke for fuel, which produces much less smoke. Another intellectual of American history, David Rittenhouse, improved on the design for a more discreet exhaust, which was further improved by Benjamin Thompson in 1796. Of course, since then, fireplace inserts have seen many more technological advancements, including the development of natural gas and electric versions.
You Need a Fireplace Insert
Along with the warmth, beauty, and a slew of other benefits, you now have a sense of what fireplace inserts are and why you need one. They’re an excellent option for any home because they are cost-effective and provide easier installation options. Plus, they come in a variety of styles and fuel types, so it’s easy to tailor them to your tastes and preferences. Not to mention that conversion to a fireplace insert is a perfect option for reigniting that tragically unused fireplace. If you’re ready to find your new fireplace insert be sure to stop by one of Classic Fireplace’s locations in Ajax, Scarborough, Toronto, and Whitby. You can also directly browse our collection of electric inserts in our online shop. Of course, if you have any more questions, be sure to ask!
