![]() But zero clearance fireplaces are explicitly framed into a wall and cannot be inserted because of their large firebox size. Inserts are designed small enough to slide into an existing open space. ![]() But the difference between a zero clearance fireplace and an insert is the size and installation. With the design being built in a factory and easy to install, these systems are often incorrectly referred to as zero clearance fireplace inserts. The clearance, however, will be measured to within a few inches, not literally zero. Meaning a large buffer zone or “clearance” between the fireplace and combustibles isn’t necessary. Unlike traditional masonry, these units are designed to lower the exterior temperatures, allowing them to be installed closer to combustibles in the home. That’s the genesis of the term “zero clearance.” ![]() These appliances are highly efficient heat sources, designed for safe installation within inches of paneling, walls, sheetrock, and other combustible materials (Easily flammable materials). We’ll clear up any confusion in the next section. Furthermore, any air vents, grilles, or louvers that serve to create an air circulation pattern around and outside the zero-clearance fireplace shall never be removed.Zero clearance systems are prefabricated yes, you read that correctly. Removal of any parts which render the fireplace unfit for use with solid fuel requires the fireplace to be permanently labelled by the installer as being no longer suitable for solid fuel until the removed parts are replaced and the fireplace is restored to its original certified condition. ![]() These parts must be stored nearby and available for retrofit if the insert is ever removed. Only readily detachable parts that are easily replaced, such as damper parts, screens, and doors, are to be removed from the fireplace. Never remove parts that serve to insulate the zero-clearance fireplace from combustible material. The chimney must be of at least 1" (25 mm) larger in diameter to accommodate a required continuous stainless steel liner running from the flue collar to the top of the chimney termination. The installation of the zero-clearance fireplace MUST be thoroughly inspected by a professional in order to ensure that it still meets the manufacturer’s specs and code conformity. When in doubt, check with the fireplace manufacturer. It must be suitable for use with solid fuel and nothing in the owner’s manual must specifically prohibit the installation of a fireplace insert. The first thing that must be verified is that the factory-built zero clearance fireplace is listed (it must be certified by a competent certification body such as Omni or Warnock Hersey). However, there currently exists no UL or ULC standard specific to that type of conversion. “It is possible to install a wood insert into an existing factory-built zero-clearance fireplace. Some different info than I originally posted. Here’s the best explanation I’ve found on the subject. ![]() Without that, there is no certainty that your ZC is listed or even installed correctly. You are going to need to determine what make and model your fireplace is. I wouldn't do it, going for a new fireplace and chimney system will double the cost but for something that lasts 30 years it's not worth skimping on and even if you aren't planning on staying that long an updated fireplace will add to the selling price of the home, a Frankenstein insert install will lower your homes value and appeal. This makes finishing around the insert very difficult, it's not going to look great, if it's in the basement only for heat then maybe that doesn't matter, but in the living room probably not acceptable. you aren't allow to cover any vents on face of original ZC This makes it very hard to fit an insert in to most ZC, you say yours is large but haven't given any dimensions so it's really hard to say one way or the other, you need to fit insert in completely and be able to work around it to hook up liner, level etc. you aren't allowed to alter original ZC firebox other than removing baffles/damper I checked a few manufacturers and they all permitted their inserts to be installed in ZC fireplaces with some restrictions: The vast majority of current wood inserts use 6" venting, so if your chimney can accommodate 8" then you should be fine there. ![]()
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