Nothing beats the warmth and comfort it brings to sit in front of an open wood fire. However, one major drawback to a traditional fireplace is its very low efficiency. When lit up, they pull back the warm air from the room to keep the fire going and more of the heat is lost than distributed across the room. Traditional fireplaces also require a lot of work to chop down the wood, light the fire, and clean up the soot. For these reasons, many homes, old or new, have in-built fireplaces that homeowners rarely use.
Unlike open fireplaces, a fireplace insert offers higher efficiency and less of the mess. Fireplace inserts may generate heat from wood, gas, or electricity. While other types are generally more convenient to use, wood-burning fireplace inserts are the best choice for keeping warm in freezing temperatures. With their high heat output, wood stove inserts are most effective in heating your home during the winter.
If you’re looking for a wood fireplace insert, it can be an overwhelming task to find the best one for your home. To help you with this task, we came up with a list of the best wood-burning fireplace inserts we’ve found. Keep reading to find out how they work and what important factors you must consider before making a purchase.
Top 6 Best Wood-Burning Fireplace Inserts
Best Overall: Regency Alterra Ci1150]
• Maximum Heat Output: 55,000 BTU/hr
• Higher Heating Value Efficiency: 70%
• Firebox Dimensions: 25 x 23 x 15.125 inches
Regency is a trusted name in the fireplace industry. For the simplest, most efficient solution to improve your existing fireplace, we recommend the Regency Alterra Ci1150 insert. This small wood-burning insert provides basic functionality and reliable quality in a sleek, contemporary design that blends well in most rooms of any modern home.
The Regency Alterra Ci1150 can deliver a maximum heat output of 55,000 BTU, with a rated efficiency of 70% under the new rules. It can take logs up to 18 inches long, and its flush mount two-speed blower helps distribute the heat evenly throughout the space. The fire can last the whole night in a small room or up to eight hours in a well-insulated large room. You can adjust the air to control the heat output. The cast iron exterior and ceramic glass window also provide additional radiant heating to keep the room warm long after the fire has burned out.
This high-quality Regency wood insert also features heavy steel gauge log retainers to prevent the logs from rolling. Its brick-lined firebox reflects heat to further maximize efficiency. This EPA-certified insert also features an automatic air wash system to keep the glass clean and allow for a large viewing area. Additionally, It comes with a large ash collection box to remove the need for everyday cleaning even if you use the fireplace all day.
True to Regency quality and reliability, this fireplace insert also has a dual-burn system to ensure longer and more efficient burning while using less wood for fuel. Overall, if your house is well-insulated, you can use this fireplace insert as a primary heat source in any room during the winter. If you are looking for a wood-burning fireplace insert that has the beauty and functionality down to the T, then you can’t go wrong with the Regency Alterra CI1150. What’s more, it’s guaranteed by a lifetime warranty.
Pros
• High performance for a small unit
• 8 hours burn time
• Self-cleaning air wash system for the glass door
• Dual burn system ensures long-lasting fires with less fuel
• Lifetime warranty
Cons
• Only available in metallic black color
• Too expensive
Best Running Time: Napoleon S25i
• Maximum Heat Output: 70,000 BTU/hr
• Higher Heating Value Efficiency: 71.56%
• Firebox Dimensions: 28 x 22 x 26 inches
The Napoleon S-Series S25i wood-burning insert provides a long burning time with a clean, contemporary look fit for any large space in your home. With a maximum 70,000 BTU heating capacity, it can burn for as long as 16 hours in rooms up to 2,000 square feet.
The refractory lined firebox absorbs and reflects the heat back into the room for more efficient heating. It comes with a powerful dual blower system to circulate the air and spread the heat evenly for maximum comfort. The metallic charcoal finish on the cast iron door and backer plate blends well with any decor. It has a large viewing area, hidden hinges, and a full-width ash collection tray all for your convenience and ease of use.
This EPA-certified wood-burning insert boasts a weighted average emissions rate of 1.3 grams per hour, with a rated efficiency of 71.56 percent. With a 2.5 cubic feet firebox, you can use wood logs up to 22 inches long to start your fire. So, if you need a high performance fireplace insert that can provide superior heat output in larger rooms, then the Napoleon S25i is a solid option. It is also ensured with a lifetime manufacturer warranty.
Pros
• Up to 70,000 BTU heat output
• Long 16 hours burn time
• Extra large glass viewing area
• Dual blower system foreven heat distribution
• Lifetime warranty
Cons
• Available in one color only
• Expensive
Best Energy Efficiency: Regency Pro-Series Ci2700
• Maximum Heat Output: 78,000 BTU/hr
• Higher Heating Value Efficiency: 74%
• Firebox Dimensions: 29 x 21.75 x 19 inches
Another pick from Regency is the Pro-Series Ci2700 catalytic fireplace insert. This high-capacity unit can generate up to 78,000 BTU of heat perfect for medium to large living spaces in your homes. A single load of wood can burn for up to 14 hours on low heat, ensuring its efficiency for longer. This EPA-tested and certified fireplace insert is rated with 74 percent efficiency and particulate emissions of 1.3 grams per hour.
This hybrid wood insert features Regency’s Eco-boost triple-burn technology to provide a high heat output using less fuel. It has a digital catalytic temperature monitor to help maximize burn time and efficiency. When the digital thermostat reaches the indicated temperature, use the air adjustment and bypass control to engage the catalyst. The unit has a large fire viewing area with heat radiating ceramic glass as well as a brick-lined firebox that reflects heat, ensuring longer coverage.
The Regency Pro-Series also includes heavy gauge steel log retainers to stop logs from rolling, a 110-degree opening door for easy loading, and heavy-duty cast hinges for extreme durability. You can customize the faceplates and backing plates depending on the size and design of your existing fireplace or masonry. You can use wood logs up to 22 inches long in this large fireplace insert. It also features an automatic air wash system to keep the glass free from soot. The unit comes with a lifetime warranty and 10-year coverage for the catalyst. Operating the unit may come with a steep learning curve but once you get the hang of it, it’s extremely convenient for large living spaces. With a handful of features and solid performance, the Regency Pro-Series Ci2700 is a premium product with premium pricing.
Pros
• Up to 78,000 BTU heat output
• Uses Eco-boost triple burn technology for effective heating
• Features a digital catalytic temperature monitor
• Large fire viewing area with heat radiating glass
• Durable quality with strong cast iron hinges
• Comes with a lifetime warranty
Cons
• May be difficult to use
• Very expensive
Best for Budget: Vogelzang VG1820E
• Maximum Heat Output: 69,000 BTU/hr
• Higher Heating Value Efficiency: 65.5%
• Firebox Dimensions: 20.25 x 10.13 x 9.87 inches
If you’re looking for a simple and affordable way to improve your fireplace with a wood-burning insert, then look no further. While this Vogelzang wood-burning fireplace insert isn’t best on our list by any means, it’s a great choice for those who only need the most basic functions of a fireplace insert and want to save money without sacrificing the energy efficiency of the product.
The Vogelzang insert provides a high heat output of up to 69,000 BTU per hour in large rooms up to 1,800 square feet. Although the rated efficiency of 65.5 percent is on the lower side for a wood-burning insert, it is EPA certified to meet minimum requirements for particulate emissions. Its 1.8 cubic feet firebox takes in 18-inch wood logs and a single load can burn for six hours, which is typical for a mid-range unit.
It features a wide-viewing ceramic glass, cast iron door, and a cool-to-touch wooden handle. This unit also includes a blower fan to help distribute the heat evenly to the room. Its budget price even includes a faceplate. It installs easily in a standard masonry fireplace and two people can complete the task within a few hours even without professional experience. Although plain-looking and not the most efficient, this Vogelzang fireplace insert is still a huge step up from an open fireplace in terms of heat capacity and efficiency.
Pros
• High heat output for large space
• Good efficiency for a budget price
• Faceplate and blower included
Cons
• Low efficiency
• Not a lot of information is available
Best for Small Fireplace: Timberwolf EPI22-1
• Maximum Heat Output: 65,000 BTU/hr
• Higher Heating Value Efficiency: 72%
• Firebox Dimensions: 20 x 14 x 11 inches
For those looking to replace their old fireplace with a more energy efficient wood-burning insert, the Timberwolf EPI22-1 is best for small and compact fireplaces. Despite the size, it’s a powerful heat source for large spaces up to 2,000 square feet, such as living rooms and lounge areas. It is EPA approved with a rated efficiency of 72 percent, generating a maximum heat output of 65,000 BTU per hour.
The Timberwolf EPI22-1 includes a dual blower system that ensures the heat spreads around the room to keep the cold at bay. The run time of eight hours is standard for its size and should be able to keep you warm throughout a full night’s sleep. The unit features a large ceramic glass viewing area to monitor the fire and a cast iron exterior that helps keep the surroundings warm. It’s available in a black finish that blends well with most interiors.
Another great thing about this fireplace insert is the ease of installation. Many users note that they get it done by themselves with minimal help. It is also very easy to use for anyone who needs a high-quality, efficient heating source in place of a traditional fireplace. Although considering its size and performance, it doesn’t offer the best value for your money, but it can vary depending on the store. It is guaranteed with a limited lifetime warranty.
Pros
• EPA-certified with 65,000 BTUs of heat output
• Good run time of 8 hours
• Uses a dual blower system for efficient operation
• Features a large ceramic glass viewing area
• Easy installation and use
Cons
• Not the best price for its size
Best for Large Space: Drolet Escape 1800i
• Maximum Heat Output: 75,000 BTU/hr
• Higher Heating Value Efficiency: 69%
• Dimensions: 21 x 11 x 16 inches
If you need to heat a large space, or perhaps want a single unit to handle multiple rooms, you can look into Drolet, another trusted manufacturer of fireplace inserts stoves, and furnaces for indoor and outdoor purposes. The Drolet Escape 1800i fireplace insert (not to be confused with the Drolet Escape 1800 wood stove) generates a maximum of 75,000 BTU per hour to heat rooms up to 2,100 square feet.
It features a ceramic glass door with a cast iron frame, a firebox lined with refractory bricks to aid in heat distribution, and a stainless steel secondary-air system to improve gas combustion. This EPA-certified insert has a rated efficiency of 69 percent and particulates emission of 1.54 grams per hour. Although they’re not the best, these ratings are pretty decent for the price of the unit. The Drolet Escape 1800i also includes a blower, ash lip, and air damper. The 2.5 cubic feet firebox takes in wood logs as long as 20 inches and a single load can burn for up to eight hours.
Many users note that this insert is easy to install and set up without hiring a professional, although considering its size and weight, you’ll likely need help from other people. However, carefully read the manual first to make sure your limited lifetime warranty will be honored after DIY installation. Overall, this non-catalytic Drolet wood fireplace insert offers impressive heating performance in large spaces for almost half the price of a similar catalytic insert.
Pros
• High heat output up to 75,000 BTU; large coverage area
• Secondary-air system maximizes efficiency
• Good burn time of 8 hours
• Affordable price for a large unit
• Easy installation
Cons
• Not the most efficient
Types of Fireplace Inserts
A fireplace insert looks almost like the real thing except it’s smaller than a fireplace. An insert also costs much less to install and even increases the efficiency of a traditional fireplace. It is a fireproof box designed to fit into an existing masonry or fireplace.
It is typically made of steel or cast iron to trap the fire inside and insulated glass on the front for viewing. Some fireplace inserts may include a blower to push the heated air into the room. Compared to a traditional fireplace, a fireplace insert can be much more efficient as a space heater. It can work using wood, gas, or electricity. Depending on its heat source, installation may require connection to the chimney and flue. The following types of fireplace insert have different requirements and are ideal for various purposes.
Electric Fireplace Insert
An electric fireplace insert works with the least mess and complicated steps. Since it isn’t actually burning anything, it does not produce smoke and therefore doesn’t require venting. It works just like any electrical appliance that you plug in and turn on.
An electric fireplace insert features artificial yet realistic flickering flames and logs. Some models allow you to change the color or adjust the flame brightness, and even use the display without the heat just to complete your home decor. Although, the biggest downside is its low heating capacity. It may have a longer heat retention than other electric space heaters, but a heat output of 5,000 BTU is only a small fraction of the maximum capacity you can find in a gas or wood fireplace insert.
Gas Fireplace Inserts
Compared to electric models, a gas fireplace insert is a much more efficient zone heater. It can put out between 25,000 to 40,000 BTU to heat up larger rooms effectively. As per EPA testing procedures, the energy efficiency ratings range from 76 to 83 percent for gas-powered inserts. Since it can produce carbon monoxide it’s generally used in well-ventilated areas.
While electric inserts only need to be fit into the fireplace with a nearby power outlet, gas inserts need professional installation. If you already have a gas line in your home,you need to connect it to the fireplace and install pipes in the chimney to bring fresh air for combustion, and another for the exhaust. It’s a highly efficient and cost-effective solution for supplemental heating in the winter.
Wood Fireplace Insert
Wood burning fireplace inserts offer the traditional look and feel of burning wood for warmth, with more than 50 percent higher efficiency than an open fireplace. Compared to electric and gas inserts, its natural wood fire has excellent heat output that can go up to 70,000 BTU to cover 2,000 square feet areas. As we’ll talk about in greater detail below, they also need adequate ventilation, seasoned wood for burning, along with proper cleaning and maintenance.
Another type similar to wood burning fireplace inserts is the pellet stove or fireplace insert. For fuel it uses pellets made from compacted organic materials, mainly wood, corn, or wheat. It offers automatic operation similar to electric and gas inserts. Pellet inserts provide greater control and less maintenance than a typical wood fireplace insert; however, the heat output is much lower.
Wood Stove vs Wood Fireplace Insert
In place of a traditional fireplace, some homeowners may opt for a free-standing wood stove as a source of heat. Similar to a fireplace insert, a wood stove can be highly effective in zone heating. It has a high heating capacity ideal for large areas in your home and is just as efficient as a fireplace insert.
These two types work similarly, giving you the ultimate warmth and comfort of wood-burning. The most obvious difference is that a fireplace insert is fit into a fireplace opening while a wood stove can stand on its own. The better choice depends on whether you already have a fireplace and chimney. Furthermore, wood stoves typically have a higher capacity and thus can keep the fire burning longer than fireplace inserts. This is because they can store more fuel with their large storage hoppers, making wood stoves more ideal for large living spaces.
If you have an existing fireplace and you’re satisfied with about six to ten hours of run time, then a wood-burning fireplace insert is a great choice. If you want a slightly longer run time, a high-capacity wood stove may be the better option. Also, with a free-standing wood stove, the heat radiates from all sides, warming up its surroundings more efficiently. Keep in mind that you’ll still need venting for a wood stove, so if you have a fireplace built in your home, it only makes sense to use the space but improve its efficiency with a fireplace insert.
Wood Burning Inserts vs. Gas Inserts
A wood-burning fireplace insert offers a traditional, reliable way to heat up any room during the winter. It provides the highest heat capacity and it’s the only fireplace insert that creates a warm and cozy atmosphere with crackling embers and dancing flames on wood. It also doesn’t require a gas line and can run completely on its own.
However, a wood-burning fireplace does require more time and effort, from installation, wood gathering and storage, and getting the fire started. Professional installation may cost a lot and you’ll need a constant supply of your choice of seasoned wood. You also need to clean up the ash or soot at least every few days.
On the other hand, gas fireplace inserts are easy to light and convenient to operate. Once installed, it requires little to no weekly maintenance aside from cleaning the glass door. To start the fire, you can simply push a button or flip a switch. There’s no need to add fuel to keep the fire going for longer, and the chimney doesn’t need sweeping. While gas fireplace inserts do not give the same homey aesthetic, they can be just as effective as wood inserts with their high heat output.
It offers different options for venting but one sure requirement is a gas line connection, which may not look as good or blend well with your interior. Also, because gas barely leaves any traces, it can be hard to determine if there’s a leak until it’s late. Gas fireplace inserts may produce a toxic gas called carbon monoxide, and you’ll need a detector to ensure your safety when running your fireplace insert.
How Wood Burning Fireplace Inserts Work
To start, we recommend you contact a professional to install a wood-burning fireplace insert in your existing fireplace. It will need its own exhaust connector and flue since an existing chimney liner would be too big for a fireplace insert. You’ll also need the right dried or seasoned wood for fuel to ensure efficiency and minimize air pollution. If the wood has too much moisture content, it will not burn completely and will produce more smoke, soot, and creosote.
A wood fireplace insert works just like any traditional wood-burning fireplace. To start the fire, first put the larger pieces of firewood at the bottom of the pile, going up all the way to your kindling, small twigs, wood shavings, or crumpled paper. When the smaller fuel burns, it falls onto the wood below until the entire stack is lit up.
Unlike gas inserts that have a separate pipe to take in air from the outside, a wood insert will use the room air for combustion. You can adjust the heat output by controlling the volume of air intake. Some wood inserts also feature a fan blower, so that heat transfers to the surrounding through convection. This can be effective in distributing the heat throughout the room evenly.
How to Choose the Best Wood-Burning Fireplace Inserts
Catalytic vs. Non-Catalytic Wood-Burning Inserts
Modern wood-burning inserts can be either of the two: catalytic or non-catalytic. A catalytic wood-burning insert is designed to be more energy efficient, with rated efficiency above 80 percent. It uses a catalytic combustor to burn the gasses that are produced from the fire, resulting in a longer run time, minimal smoke, and an even distribution of heat. However, wood inserts with catalytic combustors tend to be more expensive than the alternative.
On the other hand, a non-catalytic insert is still very efficient, with rated efficiency above 70 percent. If you’re going to use your fireplace insert as supplemental heat less frequently, then a non-catalytic model may be a good choice.
BTU Performance and Size
Wood-burning fireplace inserts are often fit into an existing masonry fireplace. Thus, you need to be sure the insert fits the fireplace opening and can be installed with minimal costs. Aside from the physical dimensions of the insert, size can also refer to its heating capacity or performance. This can be measured in BTU (British Thermal Units) or the amount of heat required to cover a specified area in square feet. Most wood-burning fireplace inserts have a capacity of 50,000 to 70,000 BTU, sufficient to add heat to large spaces between 1,000 to 2,000 square feet
EPA Approval
To maximize the efficiency of your wood-burning fireplace insert, make sure to look for an EPA certification. Older models may not be as efficient but the EPA has new standards for woo fireplace inserts. The new rule states that wood inserts must reduce the number of particulates emitted in the air to under 2 grams per hour. Any higher than this and airborne pollutants from wood smoke can lead to respiratory problems. EPA-approved wood inserts are certified to burn less fuel and produce more heat, compared to other units.
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Features
Wood-burning inserts can be used as you would a traditional fireplace, but new models offer additional features to make your experience even more convenient. For one, a blower or fan assists in circulating warm air to the room and sucking in cool air to aid the fire. A venting system can also help adjust the heat output accordingly. You should also look at the materials used for the door and glass. A self-cleaning system reduces the need for sweeping up soot or ashes every few days.
How to Safely Use a Wood-Burning Fireplace Insert
Like any heating equipment, wood-burning inserts pose some dangers if not used properly. To ensure everyone’s safety, place smoke detectors throughout the house, even in rooms without the fireplace. Always have a fire extinguisher in house and also place carbon monoxide detectors.
Once your fireplace insert is installed and operational, make sure all components are working properly. Make sure there is no debris stuck in the flue or vent dampers and check that the door latches and handles are intact. If you notice something is not working as it should or it needs to be replaced, call a professional to have it checked before you use it.
When building a fire in your fireplace insert, only use properly seasoned firewood to ensure its efficiency. Do not put anything flammable near the fireplace and keep the doors closed when a fire is burning.
Clean the ashes regularly with a vacuum cleaner, but leave a little bit of them to build the fire faster next time. You also need to check and clean your venting system every month. If you have an existing chimney, you need a full chimney sweep at least every year to clean up any buildup of soot, ash, or creosote which can start a fire in the chimney.
These are only some basic guidelines for using and maintaining your wood-burning fireplace inserts properly. Each model may have different requirements indicated by the manufacturer. Always refer to your user manual or contact the manufacturer if you have any specific concerns.
Conclusion
Traditional open fireplaces may look very cozy, but they use up a lot more heat than they create, consume too much time, and produce more waste. To improve an old fireplace’s efficiency, there are fireplace inserts available in gas, wood, pellet, and electric options. While the others can imitate the look of real fire, wood-burning fireplace inserts are the closest to the real thing. You get the experience of storing wood and building a fire but with a contemporary look that blends well into most homes.
While gas and electric fireplaces offer more convenience with fully electronic controls, wood inserts provide the best heat output and efficiency as long as you choose an EPA approved unit. Also take note of the venting requirements as well as the cleanup and maintenance to keep the unit working properly and ensure the safety of everyone in your home.
FAQ
Is it safe to use a wood-burning fireplace insert?
Yes! When properly installed, wood-burning inserts are even safer than an open fire. However, the glass and doors can get hot to touch so avoid going near when not needed and keep children away to prevent any accidents.
Do I need professional help to install a wood-burning fireplace insert?
In most cases, yes. If you want to buy an insert for your existing fireplace, you may need to add a venting system or foundation support to install it properly. Some units are easy enough to install by yourself, but make sure to check your manual and do not hesitate to contact the manufacturer when necessary.
How much does it cost to install a wood-burning fireplace insert?
The cost of installation depends on the size of your hearth and insert. In general, the price of the installation averages $2000, but if you need additional installation for ventilation, the costs can go up to $4000.
Do wood-burning fireplace inserts need electricity?
Unlike electric and gas fireplace inserts, wood inserts do not need electricity for basic functions. However, units with blowers or other temperature controls need a standard power supply.
How long does a wood-burning fireplace last?
It depends on the quality of the unit and how well you maintain it. With proper use and maintenance, your fireplace insert can last more than 10 years.
