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A wood burning fireplace insert may just be the answer to your family's quest for lower utility bills. Inserts are not cheap, but normally will be less expensive than the cost of regular utilities. Plus there is immediate benefit. Do the research and then you can make an informed decision about whether a fireplace insert is right for you and your family.
During the research phase, consider the following:
1. What is the present condition of your fireplace? Is the ventilation adequate? Can you see any cracks? If the fireplace is not sound structurally, now is the time to get it repaired. While you have a contractor repairing the fireplace, have them check around to see if there are any problems with the foundation in general.
2. Is the insert just for show or is it going to be put to good use? If the area you are trying to heat with the insert is not an area that is used anyway even if it were heated, don't bother with the extra expense. Close the door to that area of the home during the cold months. If an insert really would increase your usable space in your house and that space would actually be used, then it's time to really start to search for the best price on an insert.
3. Get a contractor to do the installation if you are not willing or able to learn how to do it yourself. The clearance area for ventilation is extremely important for proper installation. A correctly vented fireplace will not produce a health hazard. Each fireplace has its own unique characteristics which is why each installation of an insert is just a little bit different.
Sometimes, it is just a whole lot less aggravation to have the installation done by someone who does it for a living. Contractors know the different quirks and nuances because they see them every day. They know how to handle each unique installation. It will be cheaper in most cases to have a professional do it right the first time.
