Inbuilt Wood Fireplaces are becoming increasingly popular with homeowners who prefer the charm of wood burning to gas or electric. These inserts have a number of advantages over open fireplaces, wood heaters and many of them are EPA certified to reduce emissions.

They’re also easier to maintain than open fireplaces and do not require a lot of electricity to operate. In addition, they have a natural appeal that can help to increase the value of your home.

The most important thing to consider when selecting an inbuilt wood fireplace is its design, construction, and manufacturer reputation. A well-made unit will last a long time and offer excellent heating prowess.

Look for a brand that has a wide range of styles to suit different tastes and decors. Often, brands will have a number of options for both recessed and freestanding models, allowing you to choose the right insert for your needs.

You may be able to find rebates to help you pay for the installation. It is worth checking with your local building authorities to see if they have such programs in place.

There are a few main types of wood burning fireplaces on the market, including catalytic and non-catalytic units. The latter are more common and typically feature ceramic baffles, firebricks, or vermiculite board to seal off most of the top of the burn chamber.

The baffles are designed to prevent smoke particles from escaping the vent system and entering your living space. Some catalytic fireplaces include small air injection tubes that push smoke particles back into the fire to be burned again, reducing the amount of pollution caused by the fireplace.

These units can be more expensive than their non-catalytic counterparts, but they can be significantly more efficient and cost effective in the long run. The catalysts used in these wood units are shaped like honeycombs and are coated with metal that reacts with smoke particles, reigniting them to produce water vapor and heat.

Some catalytic wood fireplaces also use a special combustor that allows for more consistent flames and fewer emissions. These combutors work by forming an even ring of metal that surrounds the flame, reinitiating the fire and creating a steady temperature that can be held for hours.

If you live in a climate with extreme cold, a wood stove or a fireplace insert can be an important way to heat your living spaces. They can be particularly useful for warming a large room without needing to use expensive electricity.

There are a few important things to consider when installing a new wood burning fireplace, including whether the chimney will be able to support the weight of the insert and the installation of a proper liner in the chimney. You should also consider the thickness of the masonry wall and the area of the flue collar for the insert.

You should always consult an NFI certified technician for assistance in making these selections, as their expertise is invaluable. Once you have chosen the best model for your needs, you’ll need to make sure that your masonry chimney has sufficient space for the liner and is strong enough to handle the insert.