Gas Inserts

• Gas fireplace inserts are designed for propane or natural gas. These are among the most energy efficient and non-polluting fireplace options. Gas inserts are quick and easy to install and like all fireplace inserts, come in a choice of heat output options. Consumers can choose simulated coals or embers and burning logs plus a variety of face plates to fit in with most home designs and decor. Direct vent gas fireplaces are considered the safest, because they vent directly out of the existing chimney. Prices vary, ranging from $500 to more than $4,000.
  
  

Wood Burning Inserts

• Wood burning inserts are an option for a home with an existing fireplace where the consumer prefers to burn wood. Generally priced between $1,000 and $2,500 they are less expensive than their gas counterparts. Like free-standing wood burning stoves, the inserts are manufactured from cast iron. The flue can be installed in the existing chimney, and blowers to push out the heat with fans are an option. No faux logs, embers, propane tank or natural gas is required. A good supply of cut-to-size firewood is all you need and inserts burn wood more efficiently than stand-alone stoves.
  
  

Pellet Burning Inserts

• Pellet-burning inserts, like wood burning inserts, do not require any gas pipe plumbing or propane tanks and have a cast iron finish. They are extremely clean burning and efficient and inserts come with a variety of faceplates. Pellets can be purchased at local hardware stores and are easier to transport and store than firewood. They are designed for optimum heat generation with minimal pollution. Prices of inserts range from around $1,500 to $3,500.
  
  

Other Options

• Vent free fireplace inserts do not require a flue or chimney and are ideal for existing fireplaces with chimneys that no longer work. The heat output is more efficient than vented inserts, which lose heat through the chimney. Vent free fireplaces can be installed wherever gas or propane is available -- not necessarily inside an existing fireplace. Prices range from $1,000 to $1,500. Gas coal inserts do not come with a faceplate and give the appearance of a real coal fire burning in your fireplace without the inconvenience of using real coal. Prices run from $450 to $800.