Fireplace Inserts 101

Fireplace inserts are on a lot of people's minds. Not sure if they're right for you? Read on.

In theory, fireplaces seem like something out of a movie. Where better to spend a cold winter's night than in front of a toasty fire? But the truth is, masonry fireplaces (what we typically think of when a crackling fire comes to mind) are completely inefficient: they allow most of the heat--and other harmful pollutants--generated by the fire to escape through the chimney. That's where a fireplace insert comes in. If you love the look of a fireplace, but want to keep energy costs at bay, a fireplace insert may be for you.

Fireplace inserts, which fit right inside the fireplace's opening, are made from either plate steel or cast iron and most have glass doors that allow the flames to remain visible. (Thus preserving that "sitting by the fire" feel.) Look for a model that comes with a blower, which can improve efficiency and heat circulation. But before buying a fireplace insert, you'll need to figure out whether your fireplace can accommodate one. Generally, it's a no if you have a metal factory-built model. You can determine this by taking a good look at your fireplace. If it's masonry, which accommodate inserts nicely, it'll have an orange clay liner, which you can often see peeking out of the top of your chimney.

Once you've determined whether you can use an insert, you'll need to decide what type of fuel you'll be using: propane gas, wood or pellet. (Sometimes this choice is made for you, depending on what fueling options are available in your home.) While gas and pellet stoves are easier to maintain than wood, if you want crackling flames, wood is the way to go. As for the cost, you can expect to pay about $1,200 to $2,500 for an insert.