Wood Burning Fireplace Inserts Boost Heat Output and Energy Efficiency

If you have an older home with a wood burning fireplace, it’s likely that it is outdated and inefficient, and you are probably spending more money on wood than necessary to get the heat output you want. If you are looking to improve the efficiency of your wood burning fireplace, it’s worthwhile to invest in a fireplace insert. Designed to fit into pre-existing fireplaces, fireplace inserts not only increase heat output but also increase energy efficiency and reduce pollutant emissions. They can also add a contemporary touch to your home by changing your fireplace’s appearance.

Fireplace inserts contain a firebox which is surrounded by a shell constructed from steel. The inside air from your home flows into the shell; it is warmed by the radiant heat and then released back into the home. This process prevents most of the heat from escaping your home.

A faceplate covers the area between the insert shell and the fireplace opening. They can be quite decorative and improve the look of your fireplace or add a modern accent to your home. You will usually have a choice of faceplate styles, so you can choose one that will best blend in with your room decor.

There are different styles of fireplace inserts that utilize different types of fuel. If you have a wood burning fireplace, you will need a wood burning fireplace insert. You should expect to spend about $1,000 to $2,500 for a good quality product. The following video provides an overview of one model, the Napoleon 1402 Wood Burning Insert:

Here is a quick overview of some popular models which all qualify for tax credit:

• The Napoleon 30″ EPA Wood Burning Fireplace Insert features a large viewing area through an elegantly arched 24 karat gold plated cast iron door (must be ordered separately), an air wash system for the viewing glass and a green cast iron surround. It has a limited lifetime warranty.
• The Osburn 26″ 1600 High Efficiency Wood Burning Fireplace Insert is EPA certified and is especially suited for installation in an old masonry fireplace. It has a metallic black finish and cast iron door with an adjustable handle. It also has an air-wash systems for cleaner glass. It has a limited lifetime warranty.
• The Appalachian 30″ 52BAY Wood Burning Fireplace Insert is approved for masonry or factory built fireplaces and has an easy access ash pan and air wash glass door. A surround must be purchase separately to complete the unit.