How to Install a Wood Fireplace Insert

A wood fireplace insert is a good choice for homeowners who want to save on heating costs and update their hearth. They are designed to fit right inside of the existing hearth and often cover all or part of the surrounding brick hearth. Similar to a wood stove insert, these products do not draw in as much air as the typical, open fireplace. They are also an appealing option because they are custom-made and fabricated to your hearth, easing the installation process.

Tape measure
Masonry screws
Power screwdriver

Instructions

- 1
  Measure your existing hearth firebox, using a tape measure. Write each measurement down on a sheet of paper. Measure the length and width of the front and backside of the hearth at the bottom and top of the hearth.
- 2
  Slide the fireplace insert into the hearth firebox. Make sure it fits inside perfectly and does not extend out beyond the hearth walls. Remove the unit from the hearth so you are able to access the hearth.
- 3
  Install the block-off plate, if your unit uses one, to the top of the hearth flue, using masonry screws and a power screwdriver. Slide the fireplace back into the firebox and insert the unit's flue pipe into the opening in the block-off plate. If your unit does not have a block-off plate, skip this step.
- 4
  Connect the exterior panels to the fireplace insert as instructed by the manufacturer. Most will connect via a lock-and-snap mechanism or by small metal screws.

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