Fireplace Insert vs. Traditional Fireplace: What’s the Difference?

Choosing between a fireplace and an insert can significantly impact your home’s warmth and style. As more homeowners look for efficient and visually appealing options, it’s a must to understand how these two choices differ. Whether you prefer an open fireplace’s timeless appeal or an insert’s modern efficiency, each has distinct advantages.

What Is a Fireplace Insert?

A fireplace insert is a modern heating solution that fits snugly into an existing fireplace. Made from durable materials like steel or cast iron, these inserts come with glass doors and a closed combustion system to boost heating efficiency. Unlike traditional open-style fireplaces, inserts deliver more heat while reducing energy waste. This is because they don’t rely upon flow, but upon draft (two vastly different physics principles of air movement) to sustain the inflow of combustion air.

Installing a fireplace insert involves placing it within the existing firebox and fitting a continuous full length stainless steel liner- and I like to use the non-corrugated liners, or smooth wall liners, to keep laminar air flow. This often requires a professional for a secure fit and proper cutting of the original damper and two firebricks out of the top of the smoke shelf. It also requires adding a block off plate, or rock wool insulation at the damper area to enhance heat retention, if the manufacturer permits. Homeowners can choose from wood, gas, or electric inserts, depending on their heating preferences and lifestyle- but in this article we focus on wood burning inserts.

How Is an Insert Different from a Traditional (Open-Style) Fireplace?

Fireplace inserts and traditional open-style fireplaces differ significantly in structure and function. Traditional open-style fireplaces are often part of the home’s original design, featuring large, open hearths made from brick or stone. In the in70s builders started using factory built fireplaces, which are folded sheetmetal cans with fake brick refractory mortar panels lining the firebox to prevent metal deterioration. In contrast, inserts are self-contained units that fit into an existing fireplace cavity, turning it into a more efficient heat source.

NOTE: Midtown Chimney Sweeps and Midtown Chimney Fireplace Stores strictly prohibit the installation of wood burning inserts in factory built fireplaces. They are dangerous, were never tested as a system, and we have seen actual structure fires of the deadly results of this combination. ONLY install a high efficiency wood insert in a correctly constructed masonry fireplace.

The main functional difference is in heat output. Traditional open-style fireplaces can lose a lot of heat through the chimney, sucking in dozens of cubic feet per minute to satisfy an 8in round pipe, or a common 12 x 12 clay flue tile exhaust. This massive volume of room air must flow through an open-style fireplace to keep the fire burning, which reduces efficiency. And it has to come from somewhere- and the more air-tight our homes become, the more problematic these old beauties are. Inserts, however, retain heat, have a sealed glass door, and only sip air in comparison, using a 3in or 4in round air intake for their 6in exhaust throat. Their closed combustion systems and insulated glass doors help keep warm air circulating in the room, making them a more effective heating option.

Design-wise, an open fireplace vs an insert offers the classic charm of an open flame, the snap-crackle-and-pop which many homeowners love for their ambiance. On the other hand, inserts provide a modern aesthetic with sleek designs and customizable features that suit various interior styles. They often include fans and thermostats for added convenience.

Maintenance is the same for either option – the cost to perform annual sweeping is the same.

Which One Is More Efficient?

Fireplace inserts outperform traditional fireplaces in terms of energy efficiency. While offering a cozy ambiance, traditional fireplaces often let much of their heat escape through the chimney, resulting in efficiency ratings as low as 10%. This inefficiency can lead to higher heating costs and less effective warming of your living space.

On the other hand, fireplace inserts retain and distribute heat more effectively. With efficiency ratings of up to 70% or higher, these inserts use a closed combustion system to minimize heat loss. Features like sealed glass doors and built-in fans help circulate warm air, making them a more effective heating option. This enhances comfort and reduces reliance on additional heating sources, potentially lowering energy bills.

Can I Add an Insert to My Existing Fireplace?

Upgrading your traditional open-style fireplace with an insert can boost efficiency while retaining its original charm. This retrofit involves placing the insert into the existing fireplace cavity, which professionals handle to ensure a snug fit and proper ventilation. Installing a flue liner is needed for safely channeling smoke and gases out of your home.

The main advantage of adding an insert is the enhanced heating efficiency. Inserts maximize heat output and minimize energy loss, offering a more sustainable heating solution.

Choosing a Fireplace Insert vs a Fireplace

When building a home, you must install a high efficiency sealed fireplace, as an insert is not an option- there is no masonry fireplace for you to install a wood insert inside of. So you will seek out a high efficiency wood burning fireplace, with sealed doors, like the Ventis HE250R.

Your only other option is a freestanding wood stove.
For professional advice and installation, contact the professionals at Midtown Chimney Sweeps. Our team can help you select the right setup for your home. Visit our website to book a consultation.

Image credit: // Shutterstock // CLP Media