Changing a hearth insert is usually a daunting process, nevertheless it’s a challenge that may be accomplished in a day with the correct instruments and somewhat know-how. Whether or not you are trying 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 necessary to assemble all the essential 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 all your instruments and supplies, you may start the substitute course of.
Step one is to take away the previous fire insert. To do that, you may must disconnect the gasoline line and electrical wiring. As soon as the insert is disconnected, you may take away it from the hearth. Watch out to not harm the hearth encompass when eradicating the insert.
Eradicating the Outdated Fire Insert
Earlier than you may set up a brand new fire insert, you may must take away the previous one. This can be a comparatively easy course of, nevertheless it’s necessary to take your time and observe the directions fastidiously 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 gasoline or electrical energy to the hearth insert. This can be a vital security step, as you do not wish to danger {an electrical} shock or gasoline leak whereas engaged on the hearth.
- Take away the faceplate of the hearth insert. That is normally held in place by a couple of screws. As soon as the faceplate is eliminated, you may have entry to the within of the hearth insert.
- Disconnect the gasoline line or electrical wires from the hearth insert. Watch out to not harm the gasoline line or electrical wires.
- Take away the bolts which are holding the hearth insert in place. These bolts are normally positioned on the edges or again of the hearth insert.
- Fastidiously elevate the hearth insert out of the hearth. Watch out to not drop the hearth insert, as it may be heavy.
- Clear the hearth. As soon as the hearth insert is eliminated, you may want to wash the hearth. This consists of eradicating any ashes, soot, or particles.
- Examine the chimney. When you have the hearth open, take a couple of minutes to examine the chimney. Search for any cracks, holes, or different harm. In case you discover any harm, you may must have it repaired prior to installing the brand new fire insert.
Getting ready the Fire for the New Insert
Earlier than you may set up the brand new insert, it’s worthwhile to put together the hearth. It will contain eradicating the previous insert, cleansing the hearth, and ensuring that the hearth is correctly ventilated.
Eradicating the Outdated Insert
To take away the previous insert, you will have to:
- Flip off the gasoline or electrical energy to the hearth.
- Disconnect the gasoline line or electrical wires.
- Take away the screws or bolts which are holding the insert in place.
- Fastidiously elevate the insert out of the hearth.
Cleansing the Fire
As soon as the previous insert is eliminated, it’s worthwhile to clear the hearth. It will assist to make sure that the brand new insert will match correctly and that it’ll function safely.
To scrub the hearth, you should utilize a vacuum cleaner to take away any mud or particles. It’s also possible to use a brush to wash the hearth partitions and flooring.
Making certain Correct Air flow
Fireplaces must be correctly ventilated with a view to function safely. It is because fireplaces produce carbon monoxide, which is a toxic gasoline. To make sure that your fire is correctly ventilated, it’s worthwhile to make it possible for there may be an ample provide of contemporary air to the hearth.
You are able to do this by opening a window or door close to the hearth. It’s also possible to set up a air flow fan within the fire.
| Air flow Necessities for Fireplaces | |
|---|---|
| Fire Kind | Air flow Necessities |
| Fuel Fire | 1 sq. inch of air flow for each 1,000 BTUs of enter |
| Wooden-burning Fire | 1 sq. inch of air flow for each 60 sq. inches of fireside opening |
Putting in the New Fireplace Pad
Earlier than putting in the brand new fireside pad, you may must take away the previous one. If the previous fireside pad is manufactured from tile, you should utilize a hammer and chisel to interrupt it up. If it is manufactured from stone or concrete, you may want to make use of an influence instrument, resembling a jackhammer or a concrete noticed.
As soon as the previous fireside pad is eliminated, you may set up the brand new one. Begin by putting the fireside pad within the desired location. Then, stage the fireside pad utilizing a stage. As soon as the fireside pad is stage, you may safe it in place utilizing thin-set mortar or development adhesive.
As soon as the fireside pad is put in, you may end the set up by making use of grout to the joints between the tiles. Permit the grout to dry fully earlier than utilizing the hearth.
Extra Info About Putting in the Fireplace Pad
Listed below are some further issues to remember when putting in a brand new fireside pad:
- Ensure the fireside pad is massive sufficient to increase a minimum of 16 inches past the entrance of the hearth opening and eight inches past all sides.
- The fireplace pad ought to be manufactured from a non-combustible materials, resembling tile, stone, or concrete.
- The fireplace pad ought to be a minimum of 1/2 inch thick.
- The fireplace pad ought to be stage and securely connected to the ground.
| Kind of Fireplace 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 Fire Insert
1. Safe the Firebox: Elevate the hearth insert into place and align it with the opening. Use shims or spacers to make sure a cosy match and forestall gaps which will enable 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 forestall leaks.
3. Join the Fuel or Electrical Provide: Join the gasoline line or electrical wires to the suitable shops on the insert based on 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 hearth encompass utilizing screws or bolts. Use washers to distribute the load and forestall harm to the hearth encompass.
- Create a Backstop: Construct a backstop behind the insert utilizing fire-resistant supplies, resembling firebricks or insulation, to forestall warmth and flames from escaping into the hearth cavity.
5. Seal the Insert: Seal any gaps between the insert and the hearth encompass utilizing caulk or high-temperature sealant. It will stop drafts and warmth loss.
Connecting the Fuel Line
Connecting the gasoline line to your fire insert is an important step that ought to be carried out fastidiously and based on the producer’s directions. Listed below are some detailed pointers to make sure a secure and practical connection:
1. Shut Off the Fuel Provide
Earlier than you start any work, make certain to show off the gasoline provide on the primary valve positioned outdoors your house or on the meter. It will stop any gasoline from flowing into the hearth in the course of the set up course of.
2. Find the Fuel Line Connection
Establish the gasoline line connection in your fire insert. It’s usually a pipe or becoming positioned on the rear or backside of the unit. Ensure the connection is clear and freed from any particles.
3. Join the Fuel Line
Join the gasoline line to the insert utilizing a versatile gasoline connector. Be certain that the connector is the proper dimension and kind in your fire insert and gasoline line. Tighten the connections securely utilizing a wrench.
4. Apply Pipe Dope
To stop gasoline leaks, apply pipe dope to the male threads of the gasoline line connection earlier than tightening. Pipe dope is a sealant that helps create a good and gas-proof connection.
5. Strain Check the Fuel Line
As soon as the gasoline line is related, carry out a stress check to make sure there are not any leaks. To do that, observe these steps:
- Flip the gasoline provide again on.
- Apply a cleaning soap answer to all of the gasoline connections.
- Observe the connections for any cleaning soap bubbles, which point out a leak.
- In case you detect any leaks, tighten the connections additional or use further pipe dope.
- As soon as you’re sure there are not any leaks, proceed with the remaining set up steps.
Working the Electrical Line
To put in an electrical fire insert, you may must run {an electrical} line to the placement. In case you’re not snug doing this your self, it is best to rent an electrician. This is a step-by-step information to operating the electrical line:
- Decide the placement of {the electrical} panel and the hearth insert.
- Measure the gap between the 2 factors and buy the suitable size {of electrical} wire.
- Run the wire from {the electrical} panel to the hearth insert, ensuring to safe it each few ft with wire staples or different fasteners.
- Join the wire to {the electrical} panel and the hearth insert based on the producer’s directions.
- Activate the facility to the hearth insert and check it to ensure it is working correctly.
-
Extra Info
Amperage
Wire Gauge
15 amps
14 AWG
20 amps
12 AWG
30 amps
10 AWG
Connecting the Vent Pipe
Extra 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 gap from the insert to the surface of the home.
- Reduce the vent pipe to the proper 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 Dimension | Insert Dimension |
|---|---|
| 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 gasoline line. As soon as the insert is in place, you may want to attach the gasoline line. This ought to be finished by a professional gasoline fitter.
- Join {the electrical} wiring. The insert may also must be related to {an electrical} outlet. This ought to be finished by a professional electrician.
- Set up the trim. The trim will assist to complete the look of the insert and conceal the perimeters of the opening.
- Caulk across the insert. Caulking across the insert will assist to forestall drafts and maintain the warmth in.
- Activate the insert. As soon as all the things is related, you may activate the insert. Comply with 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 get pleasure from.
Checking for Fuel Leaks
It is necessary to verify for gasoline leaks after putting in a hearth insert. This may be finished utilizing a gasoline leak detector. Comply with the producer’s directions for utilizing the detector.
| Indicators of a Fuel Leak | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Scent of gasoline | Evacuate the realm and name the gasoline firm |
| Effervescent in water close to the gasoline line | Evacuate the realm and name the gasoline firm |
| Lifeless or dying vegetation close to the gasoline line | Evacuate the realm and name the gasoline 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 hearth is totally cool earlier than beginning work.
2. Flip off all gasoline or electrical provide to the hearth.
3. Cap off any gasoline traces to forestall leaks.
4. Put on acceptable protecting gear, resembling gloves and security glasses.
5. Have a hearth extinguisher available in case of emergencies.
6. Test the producer’s directions fastidiously earlier than continuing.
7. Maintain the work space away from flammable supplies.
8. Permit 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 necessary to verify along with your native authorities.
| Hazardous Supplies | Disposal Technique |
|---|---|
| Asbestos | Contact a licensed asbestos elimination specialist. |
| Lead | Wrap in plastic and eliminate at a hazardous waste disposal website. |
| Creosote | Burn in a correctly rated wooden range or fire. |
By following these security precautions, you may cut back the chance of accidents and guarantee a profitable fire insert substitute.
Troubleshooting Frequent Points
1. The brand new insert does not match into the prevailing fire.
Test the size of the brand new insert to ensure it’s the appropriate dimension in your fire. Whether it is too massive or too small, chances are you’ll want to change the hearth opening or buy a distinct insert.
2. The insert will not activate.
Test the facility provide to ensure the insert is getting electrical energy. If the facility is on, verify the circuit breaker or fuse field to ensure the circuit just isn’t tripped or blown. You might also must verify the distant management or thermostat to ensure they’re working correctly.
3. The insert just isn’t heating correctly.
Test the gas provide to ensure the insert is getting sufficient gas to burn. If the gas provide is ample, verify the air provide to ensure the insert is getting sufficient air to burn the gas effectively. You might also must verify the flue to ensure it’s away from any obstructions.
4. The insert is making unusual noises.
Test the insert for any unfastened components or particles which may be inflicting the noise. In case you can not discover the supply of the noise, chances are you’ll must contact a professional technician for help.
5. The insert is leaking smoke or gasoline.
Test the seals across the insert to ensure they’re intact and never permitting smoke or gasoline to flee. If the seals are broken, chances are you’ll want to interchange them. You must also verify the flue to ensure it’s away from any obstructions and that it’s correctly sealed to the insert.
6. The insert is overheating.
Test the air provide to ensure the insert is getting sufficient air to chill down. You might also must verify the flue to ensure it’s away from any obstructions and that it’s correctly sealed to the insert.
7. The insert just isn’t working in any respect.
Test the facility provide to ensure the insert is getting electrical energy. If the facility is on, verify the circuit breaker or fuse field to ensure the circuit just isn’t tripped or blown. You might also must verify the distant management or thermostat to ensure they’re working correctly.
8. The insert is smoking up the room.
Test the flue to ensure it’s away from any obstructions and that it’s correctly sealed to the insert. You might also must verify the air provide to ensure the insert is getting sufficient air to burn the gas effectively.
9. The insert just isn’t producing sufficient warmth.
Test the gas provide to ensure the insert is getting sufficient gas to burn. If the gas provide is ample, verify the air provide to ensure the insert is getting sufficient air to burn the gas effectively. You might also must verify the flue to ensure 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 related to. Test the amperage ranking of the circuit and the amperage draw of the insert. If the amperage draw of the insert is larger than the amperage ranking of the circuit, you will have to put in a brand new circuit with the next amperage ranking. You might also must verify the wiring of the insert to make it possible for it isn’t unfastened or broken.
How To Change A Fire Insert
Changing a hearth insert is usually a difficult process, however it’s attainable to do it your self with the correct instruments and supplies. Listed below are the steps on how you can substitute a hearth insert:
- Take away the previous insert. To do that, you will have to disconnect the gasoline or electrical line, after which take away the screws or bolts which are holding the insert in place. As soon as the insert is unfastened, you may fastidiously elevate it out of the hearth.
- Clear the hearth. As soon as the previous insert is eliminated, you will have to wash the hearth. This consists of eradicating any ashes or particles, after which vacuuming or sweeping the realm. You might also wish to clear the chimney flue presently.
- 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 gasoline or electrical line, after which safe the insert with screws or bolts. Make sure you observe the producer’s directions for set up.
- Check the insert. As soon as the insert is put in, you will have to check it to make it possible for it’s working correctly. To do that, activate the gasoline 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 must troubleshoot the issue.
Individuals Additionally Ask About How To Change A Fire Insert
What’s the value to interchange a hearth insert?
The associated fee to interchange a hearth insert can fluctuate relying on the kind of insert you select, the scale of your fire, and the complexity of the set up. Nonetheless, you may count on to pay anyplace from $500 to $2,000 for a brand new insert.
How lengthy does it take to interchange a hearth insert?
The time it takes to interchange a hearth insert can fluctuate relying on the expertise of the particular person doing the set up. Nonetheless, you may count on the set up to take anyplace from a couple of hours to a full day.
Is it tough to interchange a hearth insert?
Changing a hearth insert just isn’t a tough process, nevertheless it does require some primary abilities and instruments. If you’re not snug working with gasoline or electrical traces, chances are you’ll wish to rent an expert to do the set up.
