What Is a Prefabricated Fireplace?

Fireplace Box

• Prefabricated fireplaces are available as a self-contained unit designed to set in the opening of a traditional fireplace. A large, drafty flue is no longer necessary, which can help you save on your heating bills. The zero clearance name associated with these fireplaces comes from the fact that you may install them with an inch of wood framing because each fireplace has enough insulation around it to prevent any nearby wood framing from overheating. Ceramic tiles placed inside the firebox help serve as insulating material and help reflect the heat out of the firebox. Because of the extra insulation, the fireplaces burn fuel efficiently as well.

Fuel Types

• The fireplace type you choose depends on the type of fuel you wish to burn in it. Wood burning prefabricated fireplaces are available. They offer the traditional look, warmth and smells of a crackling fire. Other fireplaces operate on natural gas. They provide steady, reliable heat as well as options such as blowers to distribute the heat and thermostats to regulate it. If you live in an area where natural gas is not available, it's possible to purchase zero-clearance gas fireplaces that have a propane, or LP gas, option. Some fireplaces operate solely on electricity. Most gas style fireplaces require electricity to operate any blowers and thermostats. This may be a problem if you are relying on the fireplace as a source of heat when the power is out.

Ventilation

• Unless you install an electric fireplace, it needs to have a ventilation system installed. Wood models must have a vent that takes the smoke up, while gas models may direct their emissions up or through vents directly behind the fireplace. In any case, the required vents are not nearly as large as a traditional chimney flue.

Logs

• Unless the fireplace is a wood burning one, the fireplace comes with its own set of logs. As the fireplace operates, lighting effects give off the appearance of a crackling fire. Some log sets even throw off sparkling embers. When purchasing a prefabricated fireplace, ask to see one in operation so you can see how realistic the logs are.