Changing a hearth insert could be a daunting job, nevertheless it’s a undertaking that may be accomplished in a day with the fitting instruments and slightly know-how. Whether or not you are seeking to replace the look of your hearth 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 essential to collect all the obligatory instruments and supplies. You will want a screwdriver, a wrench, a hammer, a chisel, and a degree. You will additionally want a brand new hearth insert, fireproof caulk, and insulation. Upon getting all your instruments and supplies, you’ll be able to start the alternative course of.
Step one is to take away the previous hearth insert. To do that, you will have to disconnect the fuel line and electrical wiring. As soon as the insert is disconnected, you’ll be able to take away it from the fireside. Watch out to not harm the fireside encompass when eradicating the insert.
Eradicating the Outdated Fire Insert
Earlier than you’ll be able to set up a brand new hearth insert, you will have to take away the previous one. It is a comparatively simple course of, nevertheless it’s essential to take your time and observe the directions rigorously to keep away from damaging your hearth 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. It is a important security step, as you do not wish to threat {an electrical} shock or fuel 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 will 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 are holding the fireside insert in place. These bolts are normally situated on the edges or again of the fireside insert.
- Rigorously elevate 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 will 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 harm. When you discover any harm, you will have to have it repaired prior to installing the brand new hearth insert.
Getting ready the Fire for the New Insert
Earlier than you’ll be able to set up the brand new insert, you must put together the fireside. This may 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 will want 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 are holding the insert in place.
- Rigorously elevate the insert out of the fireside.
Cleansing the Fire
As soon as the previous insert is eliminated, you must clear the fireside. This may 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 utilize 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 should be correctly ventilated with the intention to function safely. It’s because fireplaces produce carbon monoxide, which is a toxic fuel. To make sure that your hearth is correctly ventilated, you must make it possible for there’s an enough provide of recent 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 hearth.
| Air flow Necessities for Fireplaces | |
|---|---|
| Fire Sort | Air flow Necessities |
| Gasoline 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 hearth opening |
Putting in the New Fireside Pad
Earlier than putting in the brand new fireside pad, you will have to take away the previous one. If the previous fireside pad is product of tile, you should utilize a hammer and chisel to interrupt it up. If it is product of stone or concrete, you will want to make use of an influence instrument, reminiscent of a jackhammer or a concrete noticed.
As soon as the previous fireside pad is eliminated, you’ll be able to set up the brand new one. Begin by inserting the fireplace pad within the desired location. Then, degree the fireplace pad utilizing a degree. As soon as the fireplace pad is degree, you’ll be able to safe it in place utilizing thin-set mortar or building adhesive.
As soon as the fireplace pad is put in, you’ll be able to end the set up by making use of grout to the joints between the tiles. Enable the grout to dry fully earlier than utilizing the fireside.
Further Data About Putting in the Fireside Pad
Listed here are some extra issues to remember when putting in a brand new fireside pad:
- Ensure that the fireplace pad is giant sufficient to increase at the very least 16 inches past the entrance of the fireside opening and eight inches past all sides.
- The fireplace pad needs to be product of a non-combustible materials, reminiscent of tile, stone, or concrete.
- The fireplace pad needs to be at the very least 1/2 inch thick.
- The fireplace pad needs to be degree 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 Fire 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 cosy match and stop gaps which 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 forestall leaks.
3. Join the Gasoline or Electrical Provide: Join the fuel line or electrical wires to the suitable shops on the insert in keeping 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 degree on prime of the insert to verify for levelness. Regulate 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 stop harm to the fireside encompass.
- Create a Backstop: Construct a backstop behind the insert utilizing fire-resistant supplies, reminiscent of firebricks or insulation, to forestall 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 may forestall drafts and warmth loss.
Connecting the Gasoline Line
Connecting the fuel line to your hearth insert is an important step that needs to be carried out rigorously and in keeping with the producer’s directions. Listed here are some detailed tips to make sure a secure and purposeful connection:
1. Shut Off the Gasoline Provide
Earlier than you start any work, be certain to show off the fuel provide on the foremost valve situated exterior your own home or on the meter. This may forestall any fuel from flowing into the fireside in the course of the set up course of.
2. Find the Gasoline Line Connection
Determine the fuel line connection in your hearth insert. It’s sometimes 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 Gasoline Line
Join the fuel line to the insert utilizing a versatile fuel connector. Make sure that the connector is the proper measurement and sort to your hearth 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 good and gas-proof connection.
5. Stress Take a look at the Gasoline 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 resolution to all of the fuel 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 extra 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 hearth insert, you will have to run {an electrical} line to the situation. When you’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 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 keeping 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 Data
Amperage
Wire Gauge
15 amps
14 AWG
20 amps
12 AWG
30 amps
10 AWG
Connecting the Vent Pipe
Further Data
| 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 want to attach the vent pipe. The vent pipe is a steel pipe that carries the exhaust gases from the insert to the surface 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 will want 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.
- Lower 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 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 will want to attach the fuel line. This needs to be achieved by a certified fuel fitter.
- Join {the electrical} wiring. The insert may even should be linked to {an electrical} outlet. This needs to be achieved by a certified 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 hold the warmth in.
- Activate the insert. As soon as all the things is linked, you’ll be able to activate the insert. Comply with the producer’s directions for turning on the insert and setting the specified temperature.
- Benefit from the heat. Your hearth insert is now put in and able to take pleasure in.
Checking for Gasoline Leaks
It is essential to verify for fuel leaks after putting in a hearth insert. This may be achieved utilizing a fuel leak detector. Comply with the producer’s directions for utilizing the detector.
| Indicators of a Gasoline Leak | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Scent 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 |
| Useless or dying vegetation close to the fuel line | Evacuate the world and name the fuel firm |
Security Issues
Changing a hearth insert requires cautious consideration to security precautions to reduce the chance of accidents or harm.
Listed here 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 strains to forestall leaks.
4. Put on applicable protecting gear, reminiscent of gloves and security glasses.
5. Have a hearth 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 rules relating to the disposal of hazardous supplies, so it is essential to verify along with your native authorities.
| Hazardous Supplies | Disposal Technique |
|---|---|
| Asbestos | Contact a licensed asbestos removing specialist. |
| Lead | Wrap in plastic and get rid of at a hazardous waste disposal website. |
| Creosote | Burn in a correctly rated wooden range or hearth. |
By following these security precautions, you’ll be able to scale back the chance of accidents and guarantee a profitable hearth insert alternative.
Troubleshooting Widespread Points
1. The brand new insert would not match into the present hearth.
Verify the scale of the brand new insert to verify it’s the right measurement to your hearth. Whether it is too giant 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.
Verify 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 shouldn’t be tripped or blown. You might also have to verify the distant management or thermostat to verify they’re working correctly.
3. The insert shouldn’t be heating correctly.
Verify the gas provide to verify the insert is getting sufficient gas to burn. If the gas provide is enough, verify the air provide to verify the insert is getting sufficient air to burn the gas effectively. You might also have to verify the flue to verify it’s away from any obstructions.
4. The insert is making unusual noises.
Verify the insert for any unfastened elements or particles which may be inflicting the noise. When you can’t discover the supply of the noise, it’s possible you’ll have to contact a certified technician for help.
5. The insert is leaking smoke or fuel.
Verify 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 exchange 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.
Verify the air provide to verify the insert is getting sufficient air to chill down. You might also 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 shouldn’t be working in any respect.
Verify 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 shouldn’t be tripped or blown. You might also have to verify the distant management or thermostat to verify they’re working correctly.
8. The insert is smoking up the room.
Verify the flue to verify it’s away from any obstructions and that it’s correctly sealed to the insert. You might also have to verify the air provide to verify the insert is getting sufficient air to burn the gas effectively.
9. The insert shouldn’t be producing sufficient warmth.
Verify the gas provide to verify the insert is getting sufficient gas to burn. If the gas provide is enough, verify the air provide to verify the insert is getting sufficient air to burn the gas effectively. You might also 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. Verify 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 want to put in a brand new circuit with a better amperage ranking. You might also have to verify the wiring of the insert to make it possible for it’s not unfastened or broken.
How To Substitute A Fire Insert
Changing a hearth insert could be a difficult job, however it’s doable to do it your self with the fitting instruments and supplies. Listed here are the steps on methods to substitute a hearth insert:
- Take away the previous insert. To do that, you will want to disconnect the fuel 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’ll be able to rigorously elevate it out of the fireside.
- Clear the fireside. As soon as the previous insert is eliminated, you will want to scrub the fireside. This consists of eradicating any ashes or particles, after which vacuuming or sweeping the world. You might also wish to clear the chimney flue right now.
- Set up the brand new insert. To do that, you will want to first place the insert within the hearth. As soon as the insert is in place, you will want 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 want to check it to make it possible for 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 have to troubleshoot the issue.
Folks Additionally Ask About How To Substitute A Fire Insert
What’s the price to exchange a hearth insert?
The price to exchange a hearth insert can differ relying on the kind of insert you select, the scale of your hearth, and the complexity of the set up. Nevertheless, you’ll be able to count on to pay anyplace from $500 to $2,000 for a brand new insert.
How lengthy does it take to exchange a hearth insert?
The time it takes to exchange a hearth insert can differ relying on the expertise of the particular person doing the set up. Nevertheless, you’ll be able to count on the set up to take anyplace from a number of hours to a full day.
Is it tough to exchange a hearth insert?
Changing a hearth insert shouldn’t be a tough job, nevertheless it does require some fundamental expertise and instruments. If you’re not comfy working with fuel or electrical strains, it’s possible you’ll wish to rent knowledgeable to do the set up.
