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If you are thinking of renovating that old fireplace, take the time to consider using a fireplace insert to achieve the look you want. Most people are not familiar with all the options this gives them. You can achieve just about any look you want or match any d'cor you have with today's fireplace inserts. The new styles and models are designed to both enhance the d'cor and improve the overall operating efficiency of the fireplace. They are available in a variety of sizes or can be custom built to fit your particular needs. In addition to style, you will want to select the type of fuel to burn. This might be the perfect time to convert from that wood burning fireplace to gas or propane depending on what fuel is available in your area of the country.

Today state-of-the-art technology is used in their manufacture and many have additional features including blowers, fans and thermostats. They provide a good way to help lower utility bills as well as adding charm and ambiance to any room.

Most older homes with wood burning fireplaces can benefit from the installation of a new fireplace insert. These older fireplaces have very low heating efficiency primarily because of the open combustion design. These open fireplaces draw to much air in and burn to quickly wasting energy. The fireplace insert with its closed insulated doors slows the fire down, increases the temperature of the fire resulting in a better more complete combustion. This higher efficiency will have a noticeable impact in reducing higher home heating bills. If you choose an EPA-certified wood burning fireplace insert, it can reduce wood burning emissions almost to zero.

There are several important considerations when you are selecting a fireplace insert. While there are a variety of fuel types available - wood, gas, propane, pellet and coal - the availability and cost of the fuel source is of prime concern. Availability and cost of fuel types can vary widely across the country.

Size is extremely important when purchasing a fireplace insert. Get this wrong and it will cost you time, money and certainly frustration. There are four key measurements you will want to make. Measure the front opening height and width. Measure the depth of the fireplace. Because most fireplaces are not as wide in the back measure the width at the back of the fireplace. Also have the depth of the hearth available. Some inserts require a certain hearth depth to fit correctly.

Consider the location. A fireplace insert needs to be used in an existing masonry or factory built fireplace. They are either vented naturally through a working chimney, direct vented or vent free depending on the fuel used. In most cases, a chimney liner is required for naturally vented fireplaces. Make sure to check on all building codes before installing.

Now you can have the fireplace of your dreams. Pick the style, color and finish of that perfect fireplace insert. It will dramatically transform that old drab fireplace you have been living with. It will add value to your home for years to come.