Gas fireplace or wood insert cost

1/26/2012 at 1:30:06 PM

Hi Mark,

Tough questions to answer. As of 2009 (the most recent pricing I could find) a gas insert could run anywhere up to $2500.00. A wood burning insert would be in the $1200.00 range but may require additional ventilation for your whole house to provide the proper combustion air. This is determined by local building codes and how air tight your house currently is - an energy audit could answer that question for you. These are supply and install costs - I couldn't find specific labour charges.

A gas insert is usually a sealed unit that draws the combustion air from outside and does not burn your already heated interior air. A wood burning fireplace usually burns your conditioned air and requires that make up air be brought in somehow. One method is just to crack a window (defeats the purpose of the fireplace!) but ERV's (energy recovery ventilators) can condition the incoming air and save a few bucks.

I have heard that wood burning fireplaces are actually a net loss as far as heating is concerned - they are burning your already heated interior air and sucking it out the chimney. Great for atmosphere while watching a movie!

Good Luck with it!

Jim Kuzma

Kettleby Handyman Services