If you’re looking for a fireplace that contains both the fire and heat, consider a fireplace insert.Â
What Is a Fireplace Insert?Â
Fireplace inserts are self-contained units that burn gas, wood or pellets. They’re typically metal boxes with glass fronts that can be placed inside existing fireboxes or as a freestanding vent-free unit. They burn efficiently and trap the heat. Some have blowers that force heated air into the room instead of up the chimney.Â
Fireplace inserts can also be electric-check out
this video on the benefits of these models. A ventless insert doesn’t even need a chimney to operate, while wood-burning models always require a flue to exhaust outside.Â
Choose the Right Insert for You You’ll want to consider several factors when shopping for an insert. Both electric and gas fireplace inserts offer the ease of push-button lighting. Remote control operation is another available feature. Pellet, coal and wood burning inserts are also popular and tend to look and function more like traditional fireplaces. If you want the convenience of propane with the look of a wood-burning fire, consider a gas log insert.