Changing a hearth insert is usually a daunting job, but it surely’s a undertaking that may be accomplished in a day with the best instruments and a bit know-how. Whether or not you are seeking to replace the look of your fire or substitute an previous, inefficient insert with a brand new, high-efficiency mannequin, this information will stroll you thru the steps concerned in changing a hearth insert.
Earlier than you start, it is vital to collect all the obligatory instruments and supplies. You will want a screwdriver, a wrench, a hammer, a chisel, and a stage. You will additionally want a brand new fire insert, fireproof caulk, and insulation. After getting your entire instruments and supplies, you possibly can start the alternative course of.
Step one is to take away the previous fire insert. To do that, you may have to disconnect the fuel line and electrical wiring. As soon as the insert is disconnected, you possibly can take away it from the fireside. Watch out to not harm the fireside encompass when eradicating the insert.
Eradicating the Previous Hearth Insert
Earlier than you possibly can set up a brand new fire insert, you may have to take away the previous one. This can be a comparatively easy course of, but it surely’s vital to take your time and observe the directions rigorously to keep away from damaging your fire or chimney.
Instruments You will Want
- Screwdriver
- Pry bar
- Flashlight
- Vacuum cleaner
- Security glasses
Directions
- Flip off the fuel or electrical energy to the fireside insert. This can be a important security step, as you do not need to danger {an electrical} shock or fuel leak whereas engaged on the fireside.
- Take away the faceplate of the fireside insert. That is often held in place by just a few screws. As soon as the faceplate is eliminated, you may have entry to the within of the fireside insert.
- Disconnect the fuel line or electrical wires from the fireside insert. Watch out to not harm the fuel line or electrical wires.
- Take away the bolts which can be holding the fireside insert in place. These bolts are often situated on the perimeters or again of the fireside insert.
- Rigorously raise the fireside insert out of the fireside. Watch out to not drop the fireside insert, as it may be heavy.
- Clear the fireside. As soon as the fireside insert is eliminated, you may want to scrub the fireside. This consists of eradicating any ashes, soot, or particles.
- Examine the chimney. When you have the fireside open, take a couple of minutes to examine the chimney. Search for any cracks, holes, or different harm. For those who discover any harm, you may have to have it repaired prior to installing the brand new fire insert.
Getting ready the Hearth for the New Insert
Earlier than you possibly can set up the brand new insert, you’ll want to put together the fireside. It will contain eradicating the previous insert, cleansing the fireside, and ensuring that the fireside is correctly ventilated.
Eradicating the Previous Insert
To take away the previous insert, you will have to:
- Flip off the fuel or electrical energy to the fireside.
- Disconnect the fuel line or electrical wires.
- Take away the screws or bolts which can be holding the insert in place.
- Rigorously raise the insert out of the fireside.
Cleansing the Hearth
As soon as the previous insert is eliminated, you’ll want to clear the fireside. It will assist to make sure that the brand new insert will match correctly and that it’s going to function safely.
To wash the fireside, you should use a vacuum cleaner to take away any mud or particles. You too can use a brush to wash the fireside partitions and ground.
Guaranteeing Correct Air flow
Fireplaces should be correctly ventilated to be able to function safely. It is because fireplaces produce carbon monoxide, which is a toxic fuel. To make sure that your fire is correctly ventilated, you’ll want to be sure that there’s an satisfactory provide of recent air to the fireside.
You are able to do this by opening a window or door close to the fireside. You too can set up a air flow fan within the fire.
| Air flow Necessities for Fireplaces | |
|---|---|
| Hearth Kind | Air flow Necessities |
| Fuel Hearth | 1 sq. inch of air flow for each 1,000 BTUs of enter |
| Wooden-burning Hearth | 1 sq. inch of air flow for each 60 sq. inches of hearth opening |
Putting in the New Fireside Pad
Earlier than putting in the brand new fireside pad, you may have to take away the previous one. If the previous fireside pad is product of tile, you should use a hammer and chisel to interrupt it up. If it is product of stone or concrete, you may want to make use of an influence software, corresponding to a jackhammer or a concrete noticed.
As soon as the previous fireside pad is eliminated, you possibly can set up the brand new one. Begin by inserting the fireplace pad within the desired location. Then, stage the fireplace pad utilizing a stage. As soon as the fireplace pad is stage, you possibly can safe it in place utilizing thin-set mortar or building adhesive.
As soon as the fireplace pad is put in, you possibly can end the set up by making use of grout to the joints between the tiles. Enable the grout to dry utterly earlier than utilizing the fireside.
Further Info About Putting in the Fireside Pad
Listed below are some further issues to bear in mind when putting in a brand new fireside pad:
- Be sure the fireplace pad is massive sufficient to increase a minimum of 16 inches past the entrance of the fireside opening and eight inches past all sides.
- The fireside pad must be product of a non-combustible materials, corresponding to tile, stone, or concrete.
- The fireside pad must be a minimum of 1/2 inch thick.
- The fireside pad must be stage and securely connected to the ground.
| Kind of Fireside Pad | Thickness | Materials |
|---|---|---|
| Tile | 1/2 inch to 1 inch | Ceramic, porcelain, or pure stone |
| Stone | 1 inch to 2 inches | Marble, granite, or slate |
| Concrete | 1 inch to 4 inches | Poured concrete or precast concrete |
Setting the Hearth Insert
1. Safe the Firebox: Carry the fireside insert into place and align it with the opening. Use shims or spacers to make sure a comfortable match and forestall gaps that will permit warmth or smoke to flee.
2. Join the Vent: Connect the vent pipe to the outlet on the again of the insert. Use sealant across the connection to stop leaks.
3. Join the Fuel or Electrical Provide: Join the fuel line or electrical wires to the suitable shops on the insert in accordance with the producer’s directions. Be certain that all connections are safe and gastight.
4. Stage and Safe the Insert:
- Use a Stage: Place a stage on high of the insert to verify for levelness. Regulate the shims or spacers as wanted till the insert is stage each entrance to again and facet to facet.
- Safe the Insert: As soon as the insert is stage, safe it to the fireside encompass utilizing screws or bolts. Use washers to distribute the load and forestall harm to the fireside encompass.
- Create a Backstop: Construct a backstop behind the insert utilizing fire-resistant supplies, corresponding to firebricks or insulation, to stop warmth and flames from escaping into the fireside cavity.
5. Seal the Insert: Seal any gaps between the insert and the fireside encompass utilizing caulk or high-temperature sealant. It will stop drafts and warmth loss.
Connecting the Fuel Line
Connecting the fuel line to your fire insert is an important step that must be carried out rigorously and in accordance with the producer’s directions. Listed below are some detailed tips to make sure a protected and practical connection:
1. Shut Off the Fuel Provide
Earlier than you start any work, be certain that to show off the fuel provide on the predominant valve situated outdoors your house or on the meter. It will stop any fuel from flowing into the fireside through the set up course of.
2. Find the Fuel Line Connection
Determine the fuel line connection in your fire insert. It’s usually a pipe or becoming situated on the rear or backside of the unit. Be sure the connection is clear and freed from any particles.
3. Join the Fuel Line
Join the fuel line to the insert utilizing a versatile fuel connector. Be certain that the connector is the right measurement and sort on your fire insert and fuel line. Tighten the connections securely utilizing a wrench.
4. Apply Pipe Dope
To forestall fuel leaks, apply pipe dope to the male threads of the fuel line connection earlier than tightening. Pipe dope is a sealant that helps create a decent and gas-proof connection.
5. Stress Take a look at the Fuel Line
As soon as the fuel line is linked, carry out a strain take a look at to make sure there aren’t any leaks. To do that, observe these steps:
- Flip the fuel provide again on.
- Apply a cleaning soap answer to all of the fuel connections.
- Observe the connections for any cleaning soap bubbles, which point out a leak.
- For those who detect any leaks, tighten the connections additional or use further pipe dope.
- As soon as you’re sure there aren’t any leaks, proceed with the remaining set up steps.
Working the Electrical Line
To put in an electrical fire insert, you may have to run {an electrical} line to the placement. For those who’re not comfy doing this your self, it is best to rent an electrician. This is a step-by-step information to working the electrical line:
- Decide the placement of {the electrical} panel and the fireside insert.
- Measure the space between the 2 factors and buy the suitable size {of electrical} wire.
- Run the wire from {the electrical} panel to the fireside insert, ensuring to safe it each few ft with wire staples or different fasteners.
- Join the wire to {the electrical} panel and the fireside insert in accordance with the producer’s directions.
- Activate the ability to the fireside insert and take a look at it to verify it is working correctly.
-
Further Info
Amperage
Wire Gauge
15 amps
14 AWG
20 amps
12 AWG
30 amps
10 AWG
Connecting the Vent Pipe
Further Info
| Amperage | Wire Gauge |
|---|---|
| 15 amps | 14 AWG |
| 20 amps | 12 AWG |
| 30 amps | 10 AWG |
As soon as the insert is in place, you will have to attach the vent pipe. The vent pipe is a metallic pipe that carries the exhaust gases from the insert to the surface of the home. The vent pipe have to be correctly sized and put in to make sure that the insert operates safely and effectively.
To attach the vent pipe, you will have the next supplies:
- Vent pipe
- Vent pipe adapter
- Vent pipe sealant
- Screws
- Drill
To attach the vent pipe, observe these steps:
- Measure the space from the insert to the surface of the home.
- Minimize the vent pipe to the right size.
- Connect the vent pipe adapter to the insert.
- Seal the joint between the vent pipe and the adapter with vent pipe sealant.
- Drill a gap within the wall for the vent pipe.
- Insert the vent pipe into the outlet and seal the joint with vent pipe sealant.
- Safe the vent pipe to the wall with screws.
| Vent Pipe Measurement | Insert Measurement |
|---|---|
| 2-inch | As much as 40,000 BTU |
| 3-inch | 40,000 to 60,000 BTU |
| 4-inch | Over 60,000 BTU |
Ending the Set up
Now that the insert has been fitted, it is time to end the set up.
- Join the fuel line. As soon as the insert is in place, you may want to attach the fuel line. This must be carried out by a professional fuel fitter.
- Join {the electrical} wiring. The insert can even should be linked to {an electrical} outlet. This must be carried out by a professional electrician.
- Set up the trim. The trim will assist to complete the look of the insert and conceal the sides of the opening.
- Caulk across the insert. Caulking across the insert will assist to stop drafts and hold the warmth in.
- Activate the insert. As soon as every part is linked, you possibly can activate the insert. Observe the producer’s directions for turning on the insert and setting the specified temperature.
- Benefit from the heat. Your fire insert is now put in and able to take pleasure in.
Checking for Fuel Leaks
It is vital to verify for fuel leaks after putting in a hearth insert. This may be carried out utilizing a fuel leak detector. Observe the producer’s directions for utilizing the detector.
| Indicators of a Fuel Leak | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Odor of fuel | Evacuate the world and name the fuel firm |
| Effervescent in water close to the fuel line | Evacuate the world and name the fuel firm |
| Lifeless or dying vegetation close to the fuel line | Evacuate the world and name the fuel firm |
Security Concerns
Changing a hearth insert requires cautious consideration to security precautions to attenuate the chance of accidents or harm.
Listed below are some key security issues:
1. Be certain that the fireside is totally cool earlier than beginning work.
2. Flip off all fuel or electrical provide to the fireside.
3. Cap off any fuel strains to stop leaks.
4. Put on applicable protecting gear, corresponding to gloves and security glasses.
5. Have a hearth extinguisher available in case of emergencies.
6. Examine the producer’s directions rigorously earlier than continuing.
7. Preserve the work space away from flammable supplies.
8. Enable ample time for the previous insert to chill down earlier than eradicating it.
9. Eliminate the previous insert correctly. Most municipalities have rules relating to the disposal of hazardous supplies, so it is vital to verify along with your native authorities.
| Hazardous Supplies | Disposal Methodology |
|---|---|
| Asbestos | Contact a licensed asbestos elimination specialist. |
| Lead | Wrap in plastic and get rid of at a hazardous waste disposal web site. |
| Creosote | Burn in a correctly rated wooden range or fire. |
By following these security precautions, you possibly can cut back the chance of accidents and guarantee a profitable fire insert alternative.
Troubleshooting Frequent Points
1. The brand new insert does not match into the prevailing fire.
Examine the scale of the brand new insert to verify it’s the appropriate measurement on your fire. Whether it is too massive or too small, chances are you’ll want to change the fireside opening or buy a distinct insert.
2. The insert will not activate.
Examine the ability provide to verify the insert is getting electrical energy. If the ability is on, verify the circuit breaker or fuse field to verify the circuit is just not tripped or blown. You may additionally have to verify the distant management or thermostat to verify they’re working correctly.
3. The insert is just not heating correctly.
Examine the gas provide to verify the insert is getting sufficient gas to burn. If the gas provide is satisfactory, verify the air provide to verify the insert is getting sufficient air to burn the gas effectively. You may additionally have to verify the flue to verify it’s away from any obstructions.
4. The insert is making unusual noises.
Examine the insert for any free elements or particles which may be inflicting the noise. For those who can’t discover the supply of the noise, chances are you’ll have to contact a professional technician for help.
5. The insert is leaking smoke or fuel.
Examine the seals across the insert to verify they’re intact and never permitting smoke or fuel to flee. If the seals are broken, chances are you’ll want to switch them. You must also verify the flue to verify it’s away from any obstructions and that it’s correctly sealed to the insert.
6. The insert is overheating.
Examine the air provide to verify the insert is getting sufficient air to chill down. You may additionally have to verify the flue to verify it’s away from any obstructions and that it’s correctly sealed to the insert.
7. The insert is just not working in any respect.
Examine the ability provide to verify the insert is getting electrical energy. If the ability is on, verify the circuit breaker or fuse field to verify the circuit is just not tripped or blown. You may additionally have to verify the distant management or thermostat to verify they’re working correctly.
8. The insert is smoking up the room.
Examine the flue to verify it’s away from any obstructions and that it’s correctly sealed to the insert. You may additionally have to verify the air provide to verify the insert is getting sufficient air to burn the gas effectively.
9. The insert is just not producing sufficient warmth.
Examine the gas provide to verify the insert is getting sufficient gas to burn. If the gas provide is satisfactory, verify the air provide to verify the insert is getting sufficient air to burn the gas effectively. You may additionally have to verify the flue to verify it’s away from any obstructions.
10. The insert retains tripping {the electrical} circuit.
The insert could also be drawing an excessive amount of energy for the circuit it’s linked to. Examine the amperage score of the circuit and the amperage draw of the insert. If the amperage draw of the insert is larger than the amperage score of the circuit, you will have to put in a brand new circuit with a better amperage score. You may additionally have to verify the wiring of the insert to be sure that it isn’t free or broken.
How To Change A Hearth Insert
Changing a hearth insert is usually a difficult job, however it’s potential to do it your self with the best instruments and supplies. Listed below are the steps on the way to substitute a hearth insert:
- Take away the previous insert. To do that, you will have to disconnect the fuel or electrical line, after which take away the screws or bolts which can be holding the insert in place. As soon as the insert is free, you possibly can rigorously raise it out of the fireside.
- Clear the fireside. As soon as the previous insert is eliminated, you will have to scrub the fireside. This consists of eradicating any ashes or particles, after which vacuuming or sweeping the world. You may additionally need to clear the chimney flue at the moment.
- Set up the brand new insert. To do that, you will have to first place the insert within the fire. As soon as the insert is in place, you will have to attach the fuel or electrical line, after which safe the insert with screws or bolts. Make sure to observe the producer’s directions for set up.
- Take a look at the insert. As soon as the insert is put in, you will have to check it to be sure that it’s working correctly. To do that, activate the fuel or electrical provide after which mild the insert. If the insert is working correctly, you will notice a flame. If you don’t see a flame, chances are you’ll have to troubleshoot the issue.
Individuals Additionally Ask About How To Change A Hearth Insert
What’s the price to switch a hearth insert?
The associated fee to switch a hearth insert can range relying on the kind of insert you select, the scale of your fire, and the complexity of the set up. Nevertheless, you possibly can anticipate to pay anyplace from $500 to $2,000 for a brand new insert.
How lengthy does it take to switch a hearth insert?
The time it takes to switch a hearth insert can range relying on the expertise of the particular person doing the set up. Nevertheless, you possibly can anticipate the set up to take anyplace from just a few hours to a full day.
Is it troublesome to switch a hearth insert?
Changing a hearth insert is just not a troublesome job, but it surely does require some fundamental expertise and instruments. If you’re not comfy working with fuel or electrical strains, chances are you’ll need to rent an expert to do the set up.
