Many fireplace inserts come equipped with a blower or have the option to add one. A blower is a fan that helps push heated air from the fireplace insert into the room. Blowers are a popular feature in fireplace inserts as they help circulate warm air more efficiently throughout the home.
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What is a Fireplace Insert?
A fireplace insert is an wood or gas burning stove that is installed into an existing masonry or prefabricated wood-burning fireplace. The insert sits inside the firebox and uses the existing chimney to vent exhaust.
Fireplace inserts are more energy efficient than traditional open fireplaces because they burn fuel at a higher temperature and the firebox is surrounded by walls which radiate heat into the room. Many inserts have glass doors which reduce the amount of warm air escaping up the chimney.
Benefits of a Blower
There are several benefits to having a blower installed in a fireplace insert:
Better heat circulation
The blower fan pushes out heat from the insert through vents along the front or top. This allows the warm air to circulate throughout the room more efficiently than natural convection from an insert alone. With proper placement, the blower can help equalize temperatures in different parts of the room.
Quicker warm up time
A blower will help a fireplace insert warm up a room faster. The fan starts pushing heat into the living space sooner than waiting for natural air currents. This allows you to feel the effects of the fire more quickly.
More even heating
The forced air movement created by the blower provides a more even overall heat distribution. Cool spots or hot spots are minimized for a more uniform cozy temperature.
Fuel efficiency
By more effectively circulating the heated air, less heat is lost up the chimney. This allows your fireplace insert to utilize fuel more efficiently. Adding a blower can help increase the heating power of your insert.
Types of Blowers
There are several types of blowers that may be used with a fireplace insert:
Adjustable Speed
These blowers can be adjusted to different fan speeds, usually with a simple dial control. This allows you to customize the amount of air circulated to match your heating needs and preferences.
Thermodatically Controlled
Some blowers come with a thermostat which will automatically turn the blower on when the insert reaches a certain predetermined temperature. Once the insert starts cooling down, the blower turns off.
Removable Blower
This type of blower can be completely removed when not in use. This allows for optional summer use of the fireplace without the blower running.
Multi-Speed Settings
More advanced blowers will have multiple fan speed options from low to high. Having more settings allows even greater ability to customize the heat output.
Installation of a Blower
If you purchase a fireplace insert without an included blower, one can usually be added separately. Installation is often simple but should be done by a professional installer if you are unfamiliar with fireplace mechanics.
Here are the basic steps:
Mounting the blower
The blower unit itself is secured to the back top or on one side of the fireplace insert. Screws are used to firmly attach the blower housing.
Wiring
The fan and any controls must be wired to a power source. This usually requires running wires from the blower to a nearby electrical outlet. All wiring should follow local building codes.
Ducting
Sheet metal ducting guides the airflow from the blower on the insert to the vent openings along the front. The size and shape of ducting will depend on the insert model.
Testing operation
Once installed, the blower should be tested on various settings to ensure proper operation before finish materials are added around the fireplace.
Considerations When Choosing a Blower
Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting an insert blower:
BTU rating
Make sure the blower CFM (air cubic feet per minute) rating matches the heating BTU output of your fireplace insert size.
Noise level
Some blowers operate more quietly than others so consider noise volume if the insert is near living spaces.
Control style
The amount of blower speed settings and type of controls can affect convenience and ease of use.
Automatic vs. manual
Automatic blowers require no intervention once set but you have less control over fan speed.
Blower placement
Top or rear placement will affect how noticeable the blower housing looks on the insert.
Maintenance Tips
Performing regular maintenance on your fireplace insert blower will help ensure many years of optimal performance:
Clean intake screen
Use a brush or vacuum crevice tool to remove any dust buildup from the blower intake screen(s) periodically.
Inspect wiring
Check any visible wiring for damage to insulation or loose connections. Tighten any loose wire nuts or terminals.
Clear fan blades
Use a small brush to clear any debris that has collected on the blower fan blades which can throw off balance.
Test controls
Run through all controls settings to confirm proper blower operation and speed adjustments at the start of each heating season.
Check ducting
Inspect the ducting that directs heated air from the blower to vents for any detaching or sagging which can reduce performance.
Conclusion
Adding a blower to a fireplace insert can significantly improve heat output and circulation in a room. Blowers integrated by the manufacturer or installed aftermarket help push warm air farther into the living space. Various blower designs allow customized control over fan speed and function. With periodic maintenance, a fireplace insert blower will provide many years of reliable operation. Quality fireplace inserts paired with a well-matched blower will help maximize both comfort and efficiency in your home.