Yes, masonry fireplaces are often rated at around 20% efficiency or less. This means only about one-fifth of the heat they produce actually becomes heat inside your home – the rest goes right up the chimney.
Fireplace inserts are factory-built appliances that are ultra-insulated for safety and high performance. Where masonry fireplaces may work at 20% efficiency, a new gas, electric, or wood insert will bring your efficiency ratings up to 80%, 90%, or more.
As for looks, don’t stress that your insert will turn your classic fireplace into an eyesore. They come in various sizes and styles, fitting right into the opening of an existing masonry fireplace – without significantly disrupting its overall look in the process. Best of all, there’s no need to undertake any kind of construction or structural remodeling to install them. Have questions?
Gas fireplace inserts are a popular option – and for good reason. They burn cleanly, cause no mess, and ignite quickly with a switch, button, or remote. Able to run on natural gas or propane, gas-burning fireplace inserts create high levels of heat with flames that closely resemble that of a real wood fire.
For some people, nothing beats the crackle, pop, and aroma of a natural wood fire in the fireplace. If this sounds idyllic to you, consider a new wood-burning fireplace insert. These are installed right into your existing firebox, and you won’t believe the difference in how much heat they provide compared with your old open masonry fireplace. We also sell wood stoves and cookstoves.
Electric fireplace inserts don’t require a chimney or venting system, so there’s no worry about smoke buildup or fumes entering your home. Simply plug them in and enjoy instant warmth. In addition, many models come with customizable flame effects and heat settings, making up for the loss of ambiance many might miss from a real fire. They’re a highly energy-efficient option, offering supplemental heat with minimal electricity use.
The best fireplace insert for you will be the one that has the power necessary to heat the area you and your family are in the most – while giving you the look, convenience, and ambiance you desire. We’ll help you choose the model with the right efficiency rating, heat performance, and aesthetic qualities to match your personal style and needs.
When it’s time to have your insert installed, all work will be performed by SureGlow experts who hold professional certifications with the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). You never want to trust the installation of any home-heating appliance to a novice – or attempt a DIY approach.
Here’s what you can expect:
With SureGlow’s certified professionals, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your fireplace insert is installed safely and to the highest standards.
Yes, after your fireplace is up and running, you should maintain its safety and efficiency levels with annual chimney and fireplace inspections. We’ll visit your home, check out every piece of the system, and if repairs are ever needed, our team will get them done quickly.
If you operate a wood-burning insert or gas-burning insert, we recommend booking a thorough chimney cleaning once a year, as well. Our chimney sweeps will remove flammable creosote and any other obstructions to keep everything operating safer and cleaner.
Can’t decide between wood, gas, and electric? Here are some things to reflect on…
Gas fireplace inserts commonly have efficiency ratings of 80% and higher, meaning most of the heat created by the appliance is heat that can be used to warm your home – and the people in it. In addition, gas inserts are ultra-convenient and very easy to maintain. A switch on the unit or a remote device gets the fire started, and because no wood is involved, you won’t be having to clean up bark strips, ash, and wood chips around the hearth area
When properly installed by a CSIA-certified technician, gas fireplace inserts are not only safe and powerful, but elegant and attractive. With all the styles, finishes, and colors available from leading manufacturers, you’ll find a perfect fit for your space, no problem
Wood fireplace inserts, when installed properly, operate the same way as traditional wood-burning fireplaces – just with more efficiency. Essentially, you’ll get the same aesthetics you know and love, just with a lot more heat. Wood-burning fireplace inserts commonly receive heat efficiency ratings of around 70% and higher, which, compared with the 20% efficiency levels of most open fireplaces, is a significant jump.
As with any wood-burning appliance, annual cleaning is recommended to remove flammable creosote from inside the flue and ensure safe and efficient operation.
Electric fireplace inserts are highly energy-efficient since all the energy they use is converted into heat. Unlike wood or gas units, electric fireplaces require no venting system or chimney – which means blockages, buildup, and clogging will never be an issue. This also means maintenance is minimal, usually limited to occasional cleaning of the exterior and regularly checking that the unit is functioning properly.
Then there’s the safety perks. Electric fireplaces remain cool to the touch, making them a safer option for households with children or pets. They also eliminate the risk of gas leaks or chimney fires.