Have you ever had this problem: the fireplace draws heated air out of your house when you don't use it, and doesn't provide any heat when you do use it? There is a simple solution to this problem: a fireplace insert.
A fireplace insert is a self-containing stove that sits partially inside the fireplace, and is equipped with an outer shell to deliver heated air into the room and minimize heat loss to the masonry. Surround panels cover the fireplace opening, and a stainless steel liner extends to the top of the chimney. A fireplace insert uses the flue and chimney you already have in place, so there's no need for any special venting to be installed.
Fireplace inserts vary in style: they can range from flat, sleek models to more traditional versions that stick out and look a bit like stoves.
Fireplace inserts are much, much more efficient than regular fireplaces. Unfortunately, most of the heat goes up the chimney with a traditional hearth, the only reason you'd want a traditional heart is if you just burn a fire now and then for ambience. If you're at all interested in heating your home with wood, an insert is the way to go – it is estimated to be about three times more efficient than fireplaces.
