What’s the Difference Between a Fireplace and a Fireplace Insert?
You might hear the terms “fireplace” and “fireplace insert” used interchangeably. They both burn wood or gas, create warmth, look nice and need periodic maintenance.
The main differences between fireplaces and fireplace inserts have to do with where, how and why they’re installed. If you’re thinking of buying either type of appliance, The Chimney Guys of Pataskala, OH, would like to share some helpful information.
The differences
Let’s look at the differences between the two systems and then at some specific benefits of each.
Where they’re installed
Fireplaces
Traditional masonry fireplaces are hand-built on-site in a part of a room the homeowner or builder chooses. Manufactured fireplaces are built in a factory and come ready to install in most walls within a home.
Inserts
Fireplace inserts are also factory-built, but they’re designed to go into an existing firebox, usually that of a masonry fireplace.
How they’re installed
Fireplaces
As noted, masonry fireplaces are built on-site. When installing a manufactured fireplace, the installer needs to place the unit in a wall that allows for a drafting chase to be erected on the exterior side of that wall. Space between the fireplace and home building materials must be maintained according to guidelines outlined by the manufacturer.
A chase isn’t a chimney but rather a housing for a manufactured fireplace’s drafting pipe. Typically built with wood siding and topped with a chase cover, chases can vent both wood and gas fireplaces. Installing a gas fireplace will involve running a gas line to it.
Inserts
When installing a fireplace insert, the main work is the actual placement and making sure it’s properly secured and correctly sized. Wood-burning and gas-burning inserts vent through their own vent pipes that go in the existing chimney.
As with fireplaces, gas inserts need to be connected to a natural gas or propane supply.
Reasons for choosing one over the other
Fireplaces
Manufactured fireplaces are versatile and can be placed in most rooms within a typical home. As long as there’s a way to connect the unit to its drafting chase, you’re in business.
Because of the range of BTU outputs, manufactured fireplaces can heat large rooms and also make excellent zone-heating appliances for bedrooms, kitchens and other smaller rooms.
These appliances are often installed to retire an underperforming masonry fireplace or to replace an older or builder-grade manufactured fireplace.
Inserts
Fireplace inserts are chosen for one reason: to upgrade the performance and efficiency of an active masonry fireplace. If you’ve ever used a masonry fireplace for any length of time, you know how it can be a stingy heat producer and quite drafty.
Inserts run on a closed-combustion system that prevents drafts and generates high levels of heat that can actually be used by the room, rather than being sent up the chimney.
Benefits of fireplaces and fireplace inserts
Manufactured fireplaces and fireplace inserts on the market today are certified by the EPA for clean operation and reduced emissions.
New models of both types of appliances are built with heavy-duty insulation to make them run safely when installed and used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Regardless of which appliance you choose, you’ll enjoy vibrant fires with real flames and firebox visuals that will lend charm and elegance to any room they’re placed in.
Ready to bring home a new fireplace or fireplace insert?
The Chimney Guys sells and installs premier wood and gas manufactured fireplaces and powerful fireplace inserts throughout the greater Columbus, OH, region. We’ll help you decide on the perfect appliance for your home and then install it correctly and in compliance with all local and state codes.
Visit us at 421 W Broad St., Pataskala, OH. You can also call us or get in touch through our handy contact form.
