Whether you are looking for an alternative to propane, wood heaters pellets or coal, or simply want the warmth of a traditional wood-burning fireplace, there is an inbuilt option that will suit your needs. Inbuilt wood fireplaces are designed to be installed in your existing masonry or prefabricated fireplace, so they look as if they have always been there, but actually do all the work of heating your home from the inside out.
Inbuilt wood-burning fireplace inserts provide a much more efficient way to heat your house, allowing you to enjoy the flames without burning down your masonry or prefabricated fireplace. They also reduce your carbon footprint, since they use less wood and produce more heat than a traditional stove or fireplace.
Some inbuilt wood-burning fireplaces offer a variety of features, including a blower and fan for circulation of the fire’s heat, and a window that allows you to see what is going on in your firebox. This helps you keep your masonry fireplace clean, which can save you money on maintenance and cleaning costs in the long run.
There are two main types of inbuilt wood-burning fireplaces: catalytic and non-catalytic. The former uses a catalyst to break down the tar and soot produced by the wood, while the latter does not have a catalyst.
The most efficient inbuilt wood-burning fireplaces are those that have a ceramic baffle, firebrick or vermiculite board. These components seal off most of the top of the burn chamber, leaving only a small space for smoke particles to escape through the vent system, which minimizes air pollution and improves the quality of your indoor air.
Most new inbuilt wood-burning fireplace inserts are EPA-certified, meaning they have been tested to meet the most stringent emissions standards. These certifications mean that the unit’s particulate emissions will not exceed 2 grams per hour, a level that can cause respiratory problems and other health complications.
These certified models are a better choice for your family’s comfort and safety than non-EPA-certified units. They may even have lower carbon emissions than traditional wood-burning fireplaces, making them a great option for anyone concerned about their environmental impact.
To ensure the proper installation of your inbuilt wood-burning fireplace insert, make sure that you have a reputable professional handle it for you. This will help you meet local code regulations and ensure that your chimney is properly lined and connected to the insert’s flue liner.
Depending on the size and shape of your masonry or prefabricated fireplace, you may need to have an NFI certified technician modify it to accommodate the insert’s insertion into the fireplace. This can include modifying the lintel area of the fireplace or removing parts of the fireplace that are not used for the insert.
Once your masonry or prefabricated fireplace is prepared for the insert, you are ready to install it in your home. It is important to have a certified installer do the work, as they know exactly what to do and will make sure the chimney liner is installed correctly.