Changing a hearth insert generally is a daunting process, but it surely’s a venture that may be accomplished in a day with the proper instruments and a little bit 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 vital to collect the entire essential instruments and supplies. You will want a screwdriver, a wrench, a hammer, a chisel, and a degree. You will additionally want a brand new fire insert, fireproof caulk, and insulation. After you have your whole 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 gasoline line and electrical wiring. As soon as the insert is disconnected, you possibly can take away it from the fireside. Watch out to not injury the fireside encompass when eradicating the insert.
Eradicating the Outdated Fire Insert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 comply with 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 gasoline or electrical energy to the fireside insert. This can be a important security step, as you do not wish to threat {an electrical} shock or gasoline leak whereas engaged on the fireside.
- Take away the faceplate of the fireside insert. That is normally held in place by a number of screws. As soon as the faceplate is eliminated, you may have entry to the within of the fireside insert.
- Disconnect the gasoline line or electrical wires from the fireside insert. Watch out to not injury the gasoline line or electrical wires.
- Take away the bolts which can be holding the fireside insert in place. These bolts are normally situated on the edges 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. Whilst you have the fireside open, take a couple of minutes to examine the chimney. Search for any cracks, holes, or different injury. When you discover any injury, you may have to have it repaired prior to installing the brand new fire insert.
Getting ready the Fire for the New Insert
Earlier than you possibly can set up the brand new insert, you should put together the fireside. This can contain eradicating the previous insert, cleansing the fireside, and ensuring that the fireside is correctly ventilated.
Eradicating the Outdated Insert
To take away the previous insert, you have to to:
- Flip off the gasoline or electrical energy to the fireside.
- Disconnect the gasoline 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 Fire
As soon as the previous insert is eliminated, you should clear the fireside. This can assist to make sure that the brand new insert will match correctly and that it’s going to function safely.
To scrub the fireside, you should use a vacuum cleaner to take away any mud or particles. You may also use a brush to wash the fireside partitions and flooring.
Making certain Correct Air flow
Fireplaces have to be correctly ventilated as a way to function safely. It’s because fireplaces produce carbon monoxide, which is a toxic gasoline. To make sure that your fire is correctly ventilated, you should ensure that there may be an enough provide of contemporary air to the fireside.
You are able to do this by opening a window or door close to the fireside. You may also 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 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 made from tile, you should use a hammer and chisel to interrupt it up. If it is made from stone or concrete, you may want to make use of an influence software, reminiscent of 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 fireside pad within the desired location. Then, degree the fireside pad utilizing a degree. As soon as the fireside pad is degree, you possibly can safe it in place utilizing thin-set mortar or development adhesive.
As soon as the fireside 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 here are some further issues to bear in mind when putting in a brand new fireside pad:
- Ensure that the fireside pad is massive sufficient to increase no less than 16 inches past the entrance of the fireside opening and eight inches past either side.
- The fireplace pad must be made from a non-combustible materials, reminiscent of tile, stone, or concrete.
- The fireplace pad must be no less than 1/2 inch thick.
- The fireplace pad must be degree and securely hooked up 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 Fire Insert
1. Safe the Firebox: Raise 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 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 stop leaks.
3. Join the Fuel or Electrical Provide: Join the gasoline line or electrical wires to the suitable retailers on the insert in line 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 degree on high of the insert to examine for levelness. Modify the shims or spacers as wanted till the insert is degree each entrance to again and aspect to aspect.
- Safe the Insert: As soon as the insert is degree, safe it to the fireside encompass utilizing screws or bolts. Use washers to distribute the load and forestall injury to the fireside encompass.
- Create a Backstop: Construct a backstop behind the insert utilizing fire-resistant supplies, reminiscent of 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. This can stop drafts and warmth loss.
Connecting the Fuel Line
Connecting the gasoline line to your fire insert is a vital step that must be carried out rigorously and in line with the producer’s directions. Listed here are some detailed tips to make sure a protected and purposeful connection:
1. Shut Off the Fuel Provide
Earlier than you start any work, ensure that to show off the gasoline provide on the fundamental valve situated outdoors your house or on the meter. This can stop any gasoline from flowing into the fireside through 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 situated on the rear or backside of the unit. Ensure that 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 right measurement 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 decent and gas-proof connection.
5. Stress Check the Fuel Line
As soon as the gasoline line is related, carry out a stress check to make sure there aren’t any leaks. To do that, comply with 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.
- When you 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.
Operating the Electrical Line
To put in an electrical fire insert, you may have to run {an electrical} line to the placement. When you’re not snug doing this your self, it is best to rent an electrician. Here is a step-by-step information to working the electrical line:
- Decide the placement of {the electrical} panel and the fireside 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 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 line with the producer’s directions.
- Activate the facility to the fireside insert and check it to ensure 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 have to to attach the vent pipe. The vent pipe is a steel pipe that carries the exhaust gases from the insert to the skin of the home. The vent pipe should be correctly sized and put in to make sure that the insert operates safely and effectively.
To attach the vent pipe, you have to the next supplies:
- Vent pipe
- Vent pipe adapter
- Vent pipe sealant
- Screws
- Drill
To attach the vent pipe, comply with these steps:
- Measure the gap from the insert to the skin of the home.
- Reduce 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 opening 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 gasoline line. As soon as the insert is in place, you may want to attach the gasoline line. This must be finished by a professional gasoline fitter.
- Join {the electrical} wiring. The insert may also have to be related to {an electrical} outlet. This must 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 stop drafts and preserve the warmth in.
- Activate the insert. As soon as every part is related, 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 examine for gasoline leaks after putting in a hearth insert. This may be finished utilizing a gasoline leak detector. Observe 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 crops 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 reduce the danger of accidents or injury.
Listed here are some key security issues:
1. Be certain that the fireside is totally cool earlier than beginning work.
2. Flip off all gasoline or electrical provide to the fireside.
3. Cap off any gasoline traces to stop leaks.
4. Put on acceptable protecting gear, reminiscent of gloves and security glasses.
5. Have a fireplace extinguisher available in case of emergencies.
6. Verify the producer’s directions rigorously earlier than continuing.
7. Hold the work space away from flammable supplies.
8. Enable ample time for the previous insert to chill down earlier than eradicating it.
9. Get rid of the previous insert correctly. Most municipalities have laws relating to the disposal of hazardous supplies, so it is vital to examine along with your native authorities.
| Hazardous Supplies | Disposal Methodology |
|---|---|
| Asbestos | Contact a licensed asbestos removing 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 possibly can cut back the danger of accidents and guarantee a profitable fire insert alternative.
Troubleshooting Frequent Points
1. The brand new insert does not match into the prevailing fire.
Verify the scale of the brand new insert to ensure it’s the right measurement in your fire. Whether it is too massive or too small, you might want to switch the fireside opening or buy a unique insert.
2. The insert will not activate.
Verify the facility provide to ensure the insert is getting electrical energy. If the facility is on, examine the circuit breaker or fuse field to ensure the circuit just isn’t tripped or blown. You may additionally have to examine the distant management or thermostat to ensure they’re working correctly.
3. The insert just isn’t heating correctly.
Verify the gas provide to ensure the insert is getting sufficient gas to burn. If the gas provide is enough, examine the air provide to ensure the insert is getting sufficient air to burn the gas effectively. You may additionally have to examine the flue to ensure it’s away from any obstructions.
4. The insert is making unusual noises.
Verify the insert for any unfastened components or particles which may be inflicting the noise. When you can’t discover the supply of the noise, you might have to contact a professional technician for help.
5. The insert is leaking smoke or gasoline.
Verify the seals across the insert to ensure they’re intact and never permitting smoke or gasoline to flee. If the seals are broken, you might want to switch them. You also needs to examine the flue to ensure it’s away from any obstructions and that it’s correctly sealed to the insert.
6. The insert is overheating.
Verify the air provide to ensure the insert is getting sufficient air to chill down. You may additionally have to examine 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.
Verify the facility provide to ensure the insert is getting electrical energy. If the facility is on, examine the circuit breaker or fuse field to ensure the circuit just isn’t tripped or blown. You may additionally have to examine the distant management or thermostat to ensure they’re working correctly.
8. The insert is smoking up the room.
Verify the flue to ensure it’s away from any obstructions and that it’s correctly sealed to the insert. You may additionally have to examine 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.
Verify the gas provide to ensure the insert is getting sufficient gas to burn. If the gas provide is enough, examine the air provide to ensure the insert is getting sufficient air to burn the gas effectively. You may additionally have to examine 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. Verify the amperage score of the circuit and the amperage draw of the insert. If the amperage draw of the insert is bigger than the amperage score of the circuit, you have to to put in a brand new circuit with a better amperage score. You may additionally have to examine the wiring of the insert to ensure that it’s not unfastened or broken.
How To Exchange A Fire Insert
Changing a hearth insert generally is a difficult process, however it’s potential to do it your self with the proper instruments and supplies. Listed here are the steps on tips on how to substitute a hearth insert:
- Take away the previous insert. To do that, you have to to disconnect the gasoline 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 unfastened, you possibly can rigorously raise it out of the fireside.
- Clear the fireside. As soon as the previous insert is eliminated, you have to to scrub the fireside. This consists of eradicating any ashes or particles, after which vacuuming or sweeping the realm. You may additionally wish to clear the chimney flue right now.
- Set up the brand new insert. To do that, you have to to first place the insert within the fire. As soon as the insert is in place, you have to to attach the gasoline or electrical line, after which safe the insert with screws or bolts. Make sure you comply with the producer’s directions for set up.
- Check the insert. As soon as the insert is put in, you have to to check it to ensure that it’s working correctly. To do that, activate the gasoline or electrical provide after which gentle the insert. If the insert is working correctly, you will note a flame. If you don’t see a flame, you might have to troubleshoot the issue.
Folks Additionally Ask About How To Exchange A Fire Insert
What’s the value to switch a hearth insert?
The associated fee to switch 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 possibly can anticipate to pay wherever 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 fluctuate relying on the expertise of the individual doing the set up. Nonetheless, you possibly can anticipate the set up to take wherever from a number of hours to a full day.
Is it troublesome to switch a hearth insert?
Changing a hearth insert just isn’t a troublesome process, but it surely does require some fundamental expertise and instruments. If you’re not snug working with gasoline or electrical traces, you might wish to rent knowledgeable to do the set up.
