A fireplace insert is a sealed heating unit that slides into your existing firebox to improve heat, efficiency and appearance. Gas fireplace inserts give real flames at the push of a button and run on natural gas or propane. Electric fireplace inserts are the easiest to install and need no venting. Wood burning fireplace inserts keep the feel of a real fire but need a chimney liner and regular upkeep. Before you buy, measure your firebox height, width and depth, confirm your fuel supply, and check local codes if you are considering a vent-free gas insert. When you're ready, our guide on how to install a fireplace insert covers the next steps.

Fireplace Insert Buying Guide: Which Fireplace Insert Is Right for You?

If you're taking on a home renovation project and looking for an insert for your already existing firebox, take a look at our premium selection of fireplace inserts in gas fireplace inserts, electric fireplace inserts and wood fireplace inserts. With an existing masonry firebox, simply upgrading it with a fireplace insert is an excellent way to refresh your space and get the most out of your home. Here at Fireplaces Direct we have a large selection of gas, electric and wood inserts to choose from, and this buying guide was created to help you decide which fireplace insert is right for you and your home.

What Is a Fireplace Insert?

A fireplace insert is a self-contained firebox with a sealed glass front that fits inside an existing fireplace. Gas and wood inserts vent through a liner run up the chimney, while electric inserts simply plug in. Because the unit is sealed, it sends much more heat into the room than an open fireplace. Learn more about the difference between a built-in fireplace and a fireplace insert.

Why Buy a Fireplace Insert?

Upgrade Your Space

Fireplace inserts can drastically improve the look of an old hearth, particularly when you buy one from a reputable manufacturer like those we carry here at Fireplace Direct. Once installed, they offer a clean face and attractive presentation that's sure to impress. Many of our offerings can be customized with various decorative surrounds to suit different tastes as well. Choosing a custom fireplace insert is sure to make your space one of a kind.

What to Consider When Buying a Firpelace Insert

Fuel Type of Insert

When it comes to fuel type, there are also ways to make your insert suitable for you. Our selection of gas inserts are generally available for both propane and natural gas, or check out our selection of electric fireplace inserts. We also carry traditional wood fireplace inserts if you're looking to keep the look and feel of a real wood fire.

Natural gas fireplace inserts are designed to connect to a home supply line from an energy company, while propane inserts for fireplaces are intended to connect to a private supply from an on-premises tank, generally speaking. Electric inserts on the other hand are the easiest insert to install and maintain, as these fireplaces replicate the look and warmth of a fireplace without the maintenance it requires for a real flame.

 

How Much Does a Fireplace Insert Cost?

The total cost of a fireplace insert depends on the fuel type, the size and features of the unit, and what your installation requires. Electric fireplace inserts usually cost the least overall because they plug into a standard outlet and need no venting or gas line. Gas fireplace inserts typically add the cost of a venting liner kit, a gas line or flex connector, and professional installation. Wood burning fireplace inserts add the cost of a chimney liner, installation and a chimney inspection. To get a true project cost, add up the insert, the surround or front, venting parts and labor. For a closer look at gas appliance pricing, read how much does a gas fireplace cost.

What Is the Difference Between a Fireplace Insert and a Wood Stove?

A fireplace insert is built to sit inside an existing fireplace and uses the chimney you already have. A wood stove or gas stove is a freestanding appliance that sits on a hearth pad in the room and vents through its own pipe. An insert is the better choice when you already have a working fireplace and want to keep the hearth look. A freestanding stove is the better choice when there is no fireplace, or when you want the heat source in a different spot. Stoves also radiate heat from all sides, while an insert heats mainly from the front and relies on a blower to move air. Compare options in our wood stoves and gas stoves collections, or read the wood stove buying guide.

Are Fireplace Inserts Worth It?

For most homes with an open wood fireplace, yes. An open fireplace sends much of its heat up the chimney and can pull warm air out of the room. A sealed insert turns that same fireplace into an efficient heat source, adds convenience with gas or electric controls, and updates the look of the hearth. An insert may be less worthwhile if you rarely use the fireplace or if the chimney needs major repairs. In that case, a new direct vent gas fireplace or an electric insert may make more sense. If you're leaning electric, read are electric fireplaces energy efficient to compare.

How Long Do Fireplace Inserts Last?

How long a fireplace insert lasts depends on the fuel type, build quality, how often it's used and how well it's maintained. Gas inserts benefit from an annual inspection and cleaning by a qualified technician, and parts such as blowers and remote controls can be replaced as they wear. Wood inserts need regular ash removal, chimney sweeping and periodic replacement of door gaskets and firebrick. Electric inserts have the fewest wearing parts, so upkeep is mostly keeping the unit clean. Following the manufacturer's maintenance schedule is the best way to extend the life of any insert. For vent-free units, see our ventless gas fireplace maintenance guide.

Can You Put a Fireplace Insert in Any Fireplace?

Most masonry fireplaces can accept an insert as long as the firebox is large enough and the chimney is in good condition. Factory-built (prefabricated) fireplaces are different. An insert can only go into a factory-built fireplace if both the fireplace and insert manufacturers allow it, so check the listings for both before you buy. Electric inserts are the most flexible because they need no venting. If your fireplace can't take an insert, a new direct vent gas fireplace or ventless gas fireplace may be the better route. Read the difference between a built-in fireplace and a fireplace insert for more.

How Do You Find the Right Fireplace Insert for Your Home?

A fireplace insert is one of the simplest ways to get more heat and a better look from the fireplace you already have. Start with accurate firebox measurements, choose the fuel type that fits your home, and confirm your venting options and local codes. With those three things settled, narrowing down the right gas, electric or wood insert becomes much easier. If you're planning the installation, our fireplace insert installation guide and chimney and venting pipe buying guide will help you plan the venting.

Need More Information?

With the various customizable insert options we offer at Fireplaces Direct, it can be challenging deciding which option is best for you. Whether you need help choosing a surround for your unit or simply need assistance with sizing, our team is happy to help. Give us a call at 877-374-2070 or contact us via chat or email.

Shop Fireplace Inserts at Fireplaces Direct

Ready to upgrade your hearth? Shop gas fireplace inserts, electric fireplace inserts and wood fireplace inserts from trusted brands, then finish the look with fireplace screens and fronts. Not sure which model fits your firebox? Call our team at 877-374-2070 and we'll help you match the right insert to your measurements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I measure for a fireplace insert?

Measure the front width, rear width, height and depth of your firebox at the narrowest points, then compare each number to the manufacturer's minimum firebox dimensions. Also measure the full face around the opening so the surround will cover it.

What size fireplace insert do I need?

The insert must fit your firebox measurements first. After that, pick a heat output that matches the room. Larger rooms, open layouts and colder climates need more output, while small rooms need less.

Which is better, a gas, electric or wood fireplace insert?

A gas insert is best for real flames with push-button convenience. An electric insert is best for easy installation and low maintenance. A wood insert is best if you want a traditional fire and don't mind regular cleaning.

Can a fireplace insert run on propane?

Yes. Many gas fireplace inserts are available in both natural gas and propane versions. Propane inserts connect to an on-site tank, which works well for homes without a natural gas line.

Do fireplace inserts need a chimney liner?

Gas and wood inserts typically need a liner run through the chimney. Electric and vent-free gas inserts do not. Shop liners and parts in our gas fireplace venting and chimneys and venting collections.

Are vent-free gas fireplace inserts allowed everywhere?

No. Vent-free gas appliances are not permitted in some states and localities, so check your local codes first. If they are allowed in your area, browse our ventless gas fireplace inserts.

Can I install a fireplace insert myself?

Most electric inserts can be installed by a homeowner. Gas and wood inserts should be installed by a qualified professional. Our guide on how to install a fireplace insert explains the process.

Key Takeaways

• Measure your firebox height, width and depth before shopping, and match them to the manufacturer's minimum dimensions.

• Gas fireplace inserts give real flames with push-button control and run on natural gas or propane.

• Electric fireplace inserts are the easiest to install and need no venting.

• Wood fireplace inserts need a chimney liner and regular cleaning.

• Direct vent gas inserts work in most areas, while vent-free inserts are restricted in some localities.

• Complete your setup with gas fireplace venting, a blower kit or a fireplace remote.