Double Sided Wood Burning Fireplace Insert With Blower

Double Sided Wood Burning Fireplace Insert With Blower: Enhancing Ambiance and Efficiency

A double-sided wood burning fireplace insert with a blower represents a significant upgrade from a traditional open fireplace, offering enhanced aesthetics, improved heating efficiency, and a unique architectural feature for a home. These inserts are designed to fit into existing fireplace openings, transforming them into powerful heating sources while providing a visual focal point that can be enjoyed from two separate rooms. Integrating a blower system further enhances their utility by actively distributing heat throughout the living space.

This article will delve into the key features, benefits, considerations, and operational aspects of double-sided wood burning fireplace inserts with blowers. Understanding these details enables informed decision-making when selecting and installing a unit suited for specific residential needs.

Key Point 1: Understanding the Design and Functionality

The core design of a double-sided wood burning fireplace insert revolves around a firebox that is open on two sides. This allows for viewing the flames from two distinct areas, creating a shared ambiance between rooms. The insert is typically constructed from heavy-duty steel or cast iron, materials chosen for their durability and ability to withstand high temperatures. The exterior of the insert is often finished with a decorative surround, available in various styles to complement the surrounding decor.

The functionality centers around efficient combustion of wood. Modern inserts incorporate advanced combustion technology, such as secondary burn systems. In a secondary burn system, unburned gases produced during the initial combustion phase are re-ignited, resulting in cleaner emissions and more complete fuel usage. This leads to reduced creosote buildup in the chimney and higher overall heating efficiency.

The integrated blower system plays a crucial role in maximizing heat distribution. The blower, typically an electric fan, draws cool air from the room, circulates it around the firebox, and then forces the heated air back into the room. This active heat circulation significantly improves the insert's ability to warm a larger area compared to relying solely on radiant heat. The blower's speed is often adjustable, allowing homeowners to control the amount of heat being circulated.

The operation of a double-sided insert is similar to a standard wood burning stove. Wood is loaded into the firebox, ignited, and air flow is regulated to control the burn rate. Many models feature adjustable air controls that allow for precise management of the fire's intensity and efficiency. Proper operation, including using seasoned wood and maintaining a clean chimney, is essential for safe and effective use.

Key Point 2: Benefits of Double-Sided Inserts with Blowers

The benefits of installing a double-sided wood burning fireplace insert with a blower are multifaceted, encompassing improved heating performance, enhanced aesthetics, and increased property value.

Improved Heating Efficiency: Compared to open fireplaces, inserts offer significantly higher heating efficiency. Open fireplaces typically lose a substantial amount of heat up the chimney, often drawing more heat out of the room than they provide. Inserts, on the other hand, are designed to trap and radiate heat into the room. The blower system further enhances this efficiency by actively circulating the heated air, ensuring a more even distribution of warmth throughout the space. This can translate to lower heating bills and a more comfortable living environment.

Enhanced Aesthetics: The double-sided design provides a unique visual appeal, creating a focal point that can be enjoyed from two rooms. This is particularly advantageous in open-concept floor plans, where the fireplace can serve as a central element connecting different living areas. The availability of various surround styles and finishes allows homeowners to customize the insert to match their existing decor, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the home.

Increased Property Value: Installing a high-quality fireplace insert can increase the value of a home. Buyers often view fireplaces as desirable features, adding to the ambiance and comfort of a living space. A double-sided insert, with its unique design and enhanced heating capabilities, can be a particularly attractive selling point. The investment in a well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing insert can yield a favorable return upon resale.

Environmental Considerations: Modern wood burning inserts are designed with environmental concerns in mind. Advanced combustion technology helps to reduce emissions, making them a more environmentally friendly heating option compared to older, less efficient models. Using sustainably sourced wood further minimizes the environmental impact. Proper maintenance, including regular chimney cleaning, is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and minimizing emissions.

Key Point 3: Considerations for Selection and Installation

Selecting and installing a double-sided wood burning fireplace insert with a blower requires careful consideration of several factors, including size, heating capacity, venting requirements, and professional installation.

Size and Heating Capacity: The size of the insert should be appropriately matched to the size of the fireplace opening and the heating requirements of the space. A larger insert may be necessary for heating a larger area, while a smaller insert may be sufficient for a smaller room. The heating capacity of the insert is typically measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). It is important to choose an insert with a BTU rating that is appropriate for the size of the area to be heated. Consulting with a professional can help determine the optimal size and heating capacity for specific needs.

Venting Requirements: Proper venting is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of a wood burning fireplace insert. The insert must be connected to a properly sized and installed chimney liner. The chimney liner is designed to prevent the corrosive byproducts of combustion from damaging the existing chimney structure. Local building codes often dictate specific venting requirements, which must be adhered to during installation. It is essential to consult with a qualified chimney professional to ensure that the venting system is properly installed and meets all applicable codes.

Professional Installation: While some homeowners may consider attempting a do-it-yourself installation, professional installation is highly recommended. A professional installer has the expertise and experience to ensure that the insert is properly installed, vented, and connected to the existing chimney. Professional installation also helps to ensure compliance with local building codes and safety regulations. Furthermore, professional installers often provide warranties on their work, offering peace of mind and protection against potential problems.

Safety Features: Look for inserts that incorporate safety features such as a door latch to prevent accidental opening and a spark screen to contain embers. A carbon monoxide detector should also be installed in the vicinity of the fireplace as a precautionary measure. Regular maintenance, including cleaning the chimney and inspecting the insert for any signs of damage, is essential for ensuring safe operation.

Operational Considerations: Operating a wood burning fireplace insert safely and efficiently requires adherence to certain guidelines. Always use seasoned wood, which burns cleaner and produces less creosote. Avoid burning treated wood, which can release harmful chemicals into the air. Regularly clean the chimney to prevent creosote buildup, which can pose a fire hazard. Monitor the fire and adjust the air controls as needed to maintain a steady and efficient burn. Never leave a fire unattended, and ensure that the area around the fireplace is clear of flammable materials.

By carefully considering these factors, homeowners can select and install a double-sided wood burning fireplace insert with a blower that provides years of reliable and efficient heating, while enhancing the aesthetics and ambiance of their home.