Changing a hearth insert could be a daunting activity, however it’s a mission that may be accomplished in a day with the proper instruments and a bit of know-how. Whether or not you are seeking to replace the look of your fire or substitute an outdated, inefficient insert with a brand new, high-efficiency mannequin, this information will stroll you thru the steps concerned in changing a hearth insert.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 essential to collect the entire needed 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Step one is to take away the outdated fire insert. To do that, you may must disconnect the fuel line and electrical wiring. As soon as the insert is disconnected, you may take away it from the fireside. Watch out to not injury the fireside encompass when eradicating the insert.
Eradicating the Previous Hearth Insert
Earlier than you may set up a brand new fire insert, you may must take away the outdated one. This can be a comparatively simple course of, however it’s essential 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 threat {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 a number of 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 injury the fuel line or electrical wires.
- Take away the bolts which might be holding the fireside insert in place. These bolts are often positioned on the perimeters or again of the fireside insert.
- Fastidiously carry 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 wash the fireside. This contains 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 injury. For those who discover any injury, you may must have it repaired prior to installing the brand new fire insert.
Getting ready the Hearth for the New Insert
Earlier than you may set up the brand new insert, it’s essential to put together the fireside. It will contain eradicating the outdated insert, cleansing the fireside, and ensuring that the fireside is correctly ventilated.
Eradicating the Previous Insert
To take away the outdated insert, you’ll need 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 might be holding the insert in place.
- Fastidiously carry the insert out of the fireside.
Cleansing the Hearth
As soon as the outdated insert is eliminated, it’s essential to clear the fireside. It will assist to make sure that the brand new insert will match correctly and that it’ll function safely.
To wash the fireside, you need to use a vacuum cleaner to take away any mud or particles. You too can use a brush to clean the fireside partitions and ground.
Making certain Correct Air flow
Fireplaces must be correctly ventilated so as to function safely. It’s because fireplaces produce carbon monoxide, which is a toxic fuel. To make sure that your fire is correctly ventilated, it’s essential to be sure that there’s an sufficient provide of contemporary 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 Sort | 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 must take away the outdated one. If the outdated fireside pad is fabricated from tile, you need to use a hammer and chisel to interrupt it up. If it is fabricated from stone or concrete, you may want to make use of an influence instrument, similar to a jackhammer or a concrete noticed.
As soon as the outdated fireside pad is eliminated, you may 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 may safe it in place utilizing thin-set mortar or building adhesive.
As soon as the fireplace 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 utterly earlier than utilizing the fireside.
Extra 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 certain the fireplace 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 needs to be fabricated from a non-combustible materials, similar to tile, stone, or concrete.
- The fireplace pad needs to be no less than 1/2 inch thick.
- The fireplace pad needs to be stage and securely hooked up to the ground.
| Sort 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: 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 fuel line or electrical wires to the suitable shops on the insert in accordance with the producer’s directions. Make sure that all connections are safe and gastight.
4. Degree and Safe the Insert:
- Use a Degree: Place a stage on prime of the insert to examine for levelness. Modify 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 injury to the fireside encompass.
- Create a Backstop: Construct a backstop behind the insert utilizing fire-resistant supplies, similar 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 needs to be carried out rigorously and in accordance with the producer’s directions. Listed below are some detailed tips to make sure a secure and purposeful connection:
1. Shut Off the Fuel Provide
Earlier than you start any work, make certain to show off the fuel provide on the important valve positioned exterior your private home or on the meter. It will stop any fuel from flowing into the fireside throughout the set up course of.
2. Find the Fuel Line Connection
Establish the fuel line connection in your fire insert. It’s sometimes a pipe or becoming positioned on the rear or backside of the unit. Be certain 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. Make sure that the connector is the proper dimension and kind to your fire insert and fuel line. Tighten the connections securely utilizing a wrench.
4. Apply Pipe Dope
To stop 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 stress take a look at to make sure there are not 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 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 situation. For those who’re not comfy 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 situation 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 accordance with the producer’s directions.
- Activate the facility to the fireside insert and take a look at it to verify 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’ll need 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 have to be correctly sized and put in to make sure that the insert operates safely and effectively.
To attach the vent pipe, you’ll need 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 skin of the home.
- Minimize 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 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 fuel line. As soon as the insert is in place, you may want to attach the fuel line. This needs to be accomplished by a professional fuel fitter.
- Join {the electrical} wiring. The insert will even must be linked to {an electrical} outlet. This needs to be accomplished 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 all the things is linked, 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 take pleasure in.
Checking for Fuel Leaks
It is essential to examine for fuel leaks after putting in a hearth insert. This may be accomplished utilizing a fuel leak detector. Comply with the producer’s directions for utilizing the detector.
| Indicators of a Fuel Leak | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Scent of fuel | Evacuate the realm and name the fuel firm |
| Effervescent in water close to the fuel line | Evacuate the realm and name the fuel firm |
| Lifeless or dying vegetation close to the fuel line | Evacuate the realm and name the fuel firm |
Security Concerns
Changing a hearth insert requires cautious consideration to security precautions to attenuate the chance of accidents or injury.
Listed below are some key security concerns:
1. Make sure 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 traces to stop leaks.
4. Put on acceptable protecting gear, similar to gloves and security glasses.
5. Have a hearth extinguisher available in case of emergencies.
6. Test the producer’s directions rigorously earlier than continuing.
7. Maintain the work space away from flammable supplies.
8. Permit ample time for the outdated insert to chill down earlier than eradicating it.
9. Eliminate the outdated insert correctly. Most municipalities have laws relating to the disposal of hazardous supplies, so it is essential to examine 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 scale back the chance of accidents and guarantee a profitable fire insert substitute.
Troubleshooting Widespread Points
1. The brand new insert would not match into the prevailing fire.
Test the scale of the brand new insert to verify it’s the appropriate dimension to your fire. Whether it is too massive or too small, it’s possible you’ll want to change the fireside opening or buy a distinct insert.
2. The insert will not activate.
Test the facility provide to verify the insert is getting electrical energy. If the facility is on, examine the circuit breaker or fuse field to verify the circuit just isn’t tripped or blown. You may additionally must examine the distant management or thermostat to verify they’re working correctly.
3. The insert just isn’t heating correctly.
Test the gasoline provide to verify the insert is getting sufficient gasoline to burn. If the gasoline provide is sufficient, examine the air provide to verify the insert is getting sufficient air to burn the gasoline effectively. You may additionally must examine the flue to verify it’s away from any obstructions.
4. The insert is making unusual noises.
Test the insert for any unfastened components or particles that could be inflicting the noise. For those who can not discover the supply of the noise, it’s possible you’ll must contact a professional technician for help.
5. The insert is leaking smoke or fuel.
Test the seals across the insert to verify they’re intact and never permitting smoke or fuel to flee. If the seals are broken, it’s possible you’ll want to interchange them. You must also examine the flue to verify 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 verify the insert is getting sufficient air to chill down. You may additionally must examine the flue to verify 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 verify the insert is getting electrical energy. If the facility is on, examine the circuit breaker or fuse field to verify the circuit just isn’t tripped or blown. You may additionally must examine the distant management or thermostat to verify they’re working correctly.
8. The insert is smoking up the room.
Test the flue to verify it’s away from any obstructions and that it’s correctly sealed to the insert. You may additionally must examine the air provide to verify the insert is getting sufficient air to burn the gasoline effectively.
9. The insert just isn’t producing sufficient warmth.
Test the gasoline provide to verify the insert is getting sufficient gasoline to burn. If the gasoline provide is sufficient, examine the air provide to verify the insert is getting sufficient air to burn the gasoline effectively. You may additionally must examine 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. Test 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’ll need to put in a brand new circuit with a better amperage score. You may additionally must examine the wiring of the insert to be sure that it’s not unfastened or broken.
How To Exchange A Hearth Insert
Changing a hearth insert could be a difficult activity, however it’s doable to do it your self with the proper instruments and supplies. Listed below are the steps on the way to substitute a hearth insert:
- Take away the outdated insert. To do that, you’ll need to disconnect the fuel or electrical line, after which take away the screws or bolts which might be holding the insert in place. As soon as the insert is unfastened, you may rigorously carry it out of the fireside.
- Clear the fireside. As soon as the outdated insert is eliminated, you’ll need to wash the fireside. This contains eradicating any ashes or particles, after which vacuuming or sweeping the realm. You may additionally need to clear the chimney flue presently.
- Set up the brand new insert. To do that, you’ll need to first place the insert within the fire. As soon as the insert is in place, you’ll need to attach the fuel or electrical line, after which safe the insert with screws or bolts. Remember to observe the producer’s directions for set up.
- Take a look at the insert. As soon as the insert is put in, you’ll need 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 note a flame. If you don’t see a flame, it’s possible you’ll must troubleshoot the issue.
Individuals Additionally Ask About How To Exchange A Hearth Insert
What’s the price to interchange a hearth insert?
The price to interchange a hearth insert can differ relying on the kind of insert you select, the dimensions of your fire, and the complexity of the set up. Nevertheless, you may anticipate 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 differ relying on the expertise of the particular person doing the set up. Nevertheless, you may anticipate the set up to take anyplace from a number of hours to a full day.
Is it troublesome to interchange a hearth insert?
Changing a hearth insert just isn’t a troublesome activity, however it does require some fundamental abilities and instruments. If you’re not comfy working with fuel or electrical traces, it’s possible you’ll need to rent an expert to do the set up.
