Fireplace Inserts Wood Burning With Blower Reviews

Fireplace Inserts: Wood Burning with Blower Reviews

Fireplace inserts represent a significant upgrade for homeowners seeking to improve the efficiency and aesthetics of their existing fireplaces. Specifically, wood-burning fireplace inserts equipped with blowers offer a powerful combination of radiant and convective heat, maximizing the warmth distributed throughout a living space. This article provides an in-depth exploration of wood-burning fireplace inserts with blowers, examining their benefits, key features to consider, and reviews of popular models available on the market.

A traditional open-hearth fireplace, while aesthetically pleasing, suffers from poor energy efficiency. A large portion of the heat generated escapes up the chimney, often drawing warm air from the house to fuel the draft. Wood-burning fireplace inserts address this issue by creating a closed combustion system. This significantly reduces heat loss and allows for more complete combustion of the wood, leading to greater heat output and lower emissions. The addition of a blower further enhances the efficiency by circulating the heated air into the room, rather than relying solely on radiant heat. This even distribution of warmth creates a more comfortable and consistent temperature throughout the space.

Understanding the Benefits of Wood Burning Inserts with Blowers

The advantages of installing a wood-burning fireplace insert with a blower are numerous, impacting both comfort and cost savings. Firstly, the increased heating efficiency translates to lower heating bills. By supplementing or even replacing a central heating system, especially in well-insulated homes, these inserts can significantly reduce reliance on expensive fossil fuels. Secondly, the improved combustion process reduces creosote buildup in the chimney, minimizing the risk of chimney fires and extending the time between professional cleanings. Thirdly, the controlled burn environment allows for more precise temperature regulation, making it easier to maintain a comfortable and consistent room temperature. Finally, modern wood-burning inserts often feature advanced air filtration systems that reduce particulate emissions, contributing to cleaner air quality both inside and outside the home.

Beyond the practical benefits, a wood-burning fireplace insert can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of a living space. Available in a wide range of styles, from traditional to contemporary, these inserts can transform an outdated or inefficient fireplace into a beautiful and functional focal point. Many models feature large viewing windows that provide a clear view of the flames, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The visual appeal of a roaring fire, combined with the added warmth, significantly improves the overall ambiance of a home.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing an Insert

Selecting the right wood-burning fireplace insert with a blower requires careful consideration of several key features. The first and perhaps most important factor is the heating capacity, measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). This rating indicates the amount of heat the insert can generate per hour. To determine the appropriate BTU rating, homeowners should consider the size and insulation of the room they intend to heat. A larger or poorly insulated room will require a higher BTU rating than a smaller or well-insulated space. Consulting with a qualified hearth professional is recommended to accurately assess heating needs.

The firebox size is another crucial factor, as it determines the length of the logs that can be burned. A larger firebox allows for longer burn times and reduces the frequency of reloading the insert. However, a larger firebox may also require more wood to achieve optimal performance. The type of blower is also important. Variable-speed blowers offer greater control over airflow and noise levels, allowing homeowners to adjust the fan speed to suit their needs. Some models also feature automatic blowers that turn on and off based on the firebox temperature, ensuring efficient and consistent heat distribution.

Furthermore, the efficiency rating of the insert should be considered. Higher efficiency ratings indicate that a greater percentage of the wood's energy is converted into usable heat. This translates to lower wood consumption and reduced emissions. Look for models that are EPA-certified, as they meet strict emission standards and demonstrate high efficiency. Finally, consider the material and construction of the insert. Heavy-gauge steel or cast iron inserts are generally more durable and offer better heat retention than lighter-weight models. The door seal is also important, as it prevents smoke and gases from escaping into the room.

Reviews of Popular Wood Burning Fireplace Inserts with Blowers

The Drolet Escape 1800 is a popular choice for homeowners seeking a powerful and efficient wood-burning insert. This EPA-certified model features a large firebox that can accommodate logs up to 20 inches in length, and it boasts a maximum heat output of 75,000 BTUs. The integrated blower effectively circulates heat throughout the room, and the air wash system helps keep the glass door clean. The Drolet Escape 1800 is known for its durability and ease of use.

The Regency CI2700 is another highly regarded wood-burning insert, renowned for its elegant design and exceptional performance. This model features a cast iron construction that provides excellent heat retention, and it offers a maximum heat output of 65,000 BTUs. The Regency CI2700 is equipped with a high-efficiency blower that can be adjusted to suit individual preferences, and it features a large viewing window that provides a clear view of the flames. This insert is also EPA-certified and meets stringent emission standards.

The HearthStone Green Mountain 80 is a soapstone wood-burning insert that offers a unique combination of radiant and convective heat. Soapstone is a natural material that retains heat exceptionally well, providing long-lasting warmth even after the fire has died down. The Green Mountain 80 features a maximum heat output of 60,000 BTUs and is equipped with a variable-speed blower. This insert is EPA-certified and is known for its clean-burning performance and low emissions. The soapstone construction also gives it a distinctive and elegant appearance.

The Osburn 2000 is a versatile wood-burning insert that offers a balance of performance, affordability, and style. This EPA-certified model features a medium-sized firebox that can accommodate logs up to 18 inches in length, and it boasts a maximum heat output of 65,000 BTUs. The Osburn 2000 is equipped with a standard blower that effectively circulates heat, and it features a large viewing window that provides a clear view of the flames. This insert is a popular choice for homeowners seeking a reliable and efficient heating solution at a reasonable price point.

The Lopi Evergreen is a premium wood-burning insert known for its advanced features and exceptional performance. This EPA-certified model features a large firebox that can accommodate logs up to 24 inches in length, and it boasts a maximum heat output of 74,900 BTUs. The Lopi Evergreen is equipped with a high-performance blower that provides excellent heat distribution, and it features a bypass damper that allows for easy startup and reloading. This insert is also known for its clean-burning performance and low emissions, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

Installation of a wood-burning fireplace insert with a blower typically requires professional assistance. A qualified installer will ensure that the insert is properly sized and fitted to the existing fireplace, and that all necessary safety precautions are taken. This includes inspecting the chimney for any damage or obstructions, and ensuring that the insert is properly vented. Proper installation is crucial for safe and efficient operation of the insert. Furthermore, regular maintenance is essential for ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of the insert. This includes cleaning the chimney regularly to remove creosote buildup, and inspecting the door seal and other components for any signs of wear or damage. Following the manufacturer's recommendations for maintenance will help to prolong the life of the insert and prevent costly repairs.

In conclusion, wood-burning fireplace inserts with blowers offer a compelling solution for homeowners seeking to improve the efficiency and aesthetics of their existing fireplaces. By providing a sealed combustion system and forced-air circulation, these inserts deliver significant improvements in heating efficiency, reduced emissions, and enhanced comfort. Careful consideration of key features such as BTU rating, firebox size, blower type, and efficiency rating is essential for selecting the right insert for individual needs. Considering reviewed models like Drolet Escape 1800, Regency CI2700, HearthStone Green Mountain 80, Osburn 2000 and Lopi Evergreen gives a good point to start selecting one.