Upgrade Your Open Fireplace with an Insert
Do you have an open fireplace that no longer works or doesn't provide enough heat? Today, we'll show you how to use the space of your old open hearth to install a fireplace insert and heat multiple rooms with a single, cost-effective, and eco-friendly heating unit.
A fireplace at home is much more than just a heating system. The sight of visible flames creates a pleasant visual experience and a warm, cozy atmosphere. However, open fireplaces have several disadvantages: they need constant supervision and frequent refueling (wood). Not to mention the risk of pollutants and carbon monoxide leakage if the chimney isn't properly cleaned – a reason why some regions in Italy have banned open fireplace use.
If you already have a fireplace or are designing a new home and want to enhance the living room, lounge, or bedroom with a hearth, fireplace inserts are a great option.
These are monoblock fireboxes which, unlike traditional fireplaces, have no hood, taking up very little space. They’re very easy to install into an existing niche without significant masonry work. For their quick installation, they’re ideal even for brand-new setups.
Other key features of inserts include:
- Fireplace inserts are closed-chamber units, making them much safer. Unlike open fireplaces, there's no risk of sparks reaching furniture or carpets.
- When installed in an existing fireplace, they can reuse the current chimney, safely channeling combustion gases to the flue with no dangerous emissions.
- Inserts are much more efficient and high-performing than open fireplaces, resulting in considerable fuel savings.
- Besides heating the room where they are installed, some fireplace insert models can be ducted to send warm air to other areas, allowing you to heat multiple spaces with one appliance.
Pellet stoves can also be ducted. Read our article to discover the work required to heat multiple areas with a single stove.
PELLET VS. WOOD INSERTS: WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES?
Fireplace inserts can be powered by wood—for a traditional style—or by pellets—for easier management.
The pellet fireplace insert is very easy to use: just press a button to activate the ignition rod that starts the combustion process.
Key features of pellet fireplace inserts:
- Pellet tank: To maintain compact dimensions, the pellet tank is small and is refilled through a drawer above the firebox.
- Remote control: One major advantage of pellet heating systems is the ease of ignition, which can be done via remote or even a smartphone app. The new QBox fireplace inserts by MCZ can be controlled via an app both at home and remotely.
- Efficiency and eco-compatibility: The most advanced pellet inserts have A-class or higher energy certifications and 4-star Clean Air environmental performance ratings.
- Compliance & certifications: Make sure your insert is certified to avoid becoming non-compliant with EU energy and emissions standards.
- Tax incentives: The best pellet inserts are eligible for tax deductions and incentives like the "Conto Termico" in Italy, when replacing an old heating system—great for savings!
Now for wood-burning fireplace inserts:
- Wood-burning firebox: These inserts are designed to optimize wood combustion, with a spacious fire chamber for easy log loading. Forced ventilation systems distribute heat evenly, improving efficiency.
- Size versatility: QBox Wood inserts come in a wide range of sizes, suitable for many different spaces.
- Energy efficiency: New-generation wood inserts ensure high-efficiency combustion, offering great heat output with minimal wood use. QBox Wood inserts have low emissions and 5-star environmental ratings.
- Tax benefits: Like pellet inserts, wood-burning models can qualify for tax benefits, such as deductions for energy requalification projects (Ecobonus) or the Conto Termico.
WHAT WILL FIREPLACE INSERTS LOOK LIKE IN YOUR HOME?
Fireplace inserts are available in various sizes to fit your space. Some models are only 50 cm tall—perfect for small niches.
In terms of aesthetics?
Since inserts are closed-chamber units, the entire space will be filled by the structure. Most fireplace inserts have a minimalist design that blends seamlessly with both classic and modern décor.
Ready to transform your old fireplace with an insert?
Contact a consultant now for an inspection.
