How to modernise your fireplace with an insert?

Old fireplaces have undeniable charm, but their open hearths can be unsuitable for modern requirements and regulations. Installing an insert means giving your fireplace a second life while improving its energy efficiency and reducing its environmental impact.

Are you lucky enough to have a fireplace at home, but can no longer use it due to local regulations? Do you find it inefficient or not safe enough? Installing an insert could be the ideal solution. Discover our expert advice on how to transform your traditional fireplace into an efficient, safe, and stylish heating system.

Why install an insert in an old fireplace?

The crackling of wood and the cosy atmosphere of a traditional open-hearth fireplace are always appealing. However, these fireplaces offer low energy efficiency, high wood consumption, and a significant ecological footprint. In some cities like Lyon, or certain municipalities such as those in the Île-de-France region, their use has even been banned since October 2024 to preserve air quality, “because wood combustion is a source of pollution,” according to the French Public Service website. Other regions are enforcing or will soon enforce similar regulations. And for good reason: an open hearth or a unit installed before 2007 emits up to eight times more particles than one installed after 2007. To find out if your municipality is affected, contact your local town hall.

Having a professional install an insert helps overcome these issues while maintaining the look and charm of your fireplace. This equipment greatly improves heating power: efficiency is multiplied by five compared to an open fireplace. Why? Because the heat, instead of escaping through the flue, is captured and efficiently distributed into the room.

An insert also allows you to better control combustion and adjust heat output according to your needs. By optimising wood use, the insert reduces your consumption and, consequently, your energy bill. This investment also helps preserve natural resources.

Lastly, the insert enhances the safety of your fireplace. With its closed glass front, it limits the projection of embers and dust. A major advantage for households with young children or pets.

What are the different steps to transform your fireplace with an insert?

Combining the charm of the old with modern thermal performance is entirely possible thanks to an insert provided the installation is properly prepared. For optimal and safe results, it is essential to hire a qualified professional, such as an expert from the Seguin network, who will guide you through each stage of the transformation.

The first step is to conduct a full assessment of your fireplace to ensure it complies with current standards. If necessary, technical adjustments may be recommended to improve efficiency and safety. Several key points must be checked before installation:

• The hearth: it must be the right size to accommodate an insert without compromising aesthetics or performance.
• The chimney flue: its condition, airtightness, and dimensions must be verified. A preliminary sweeping may be necessary to ensure optimal smoke evacuation.
• Insulation: the firebox and flue must be properly insulated to reduce fire risks and guarantee maximum efficiency.
• Ventilation and smoke evacuation: a sufficient supply of fresh air and compliant smoke evacuation are essential for safe and efficient operation.

Once these checks are completed, the insert can be installed under the best conditions, providing you with efficient, economical, and eco-friendly heating.

How to choose the right insert to modernise your fireplace

To select an insert that perfectly meets your needs and the configuration of your fireplace, professional expertise is essential. A professional will guide you to the most suitable model based on your expectations and your installation’s specific features.

Here are the main criteria to consider:

• Dimensions: the insert should be slightly smaller than the existing hearth to ensure optimal installation and seamless integration.
• Power output: it should be matched to the volume to be heated for optimal thermal comfort. An under- or oversized insert won’t provide satisfactory performance.
• Fuel type: you can choose between log-burning, pellet-burning, or multi-fuel inserts. Each option offers advantages in terms of autonomy, aesthetics, and convenience. The choice is yours!
• Energy efficiency: for maximum performance, choose a model with an efficiency rating above 75%.
• Aesthetics: whether chic and discreet, modern and high-end, cast iron or panoramic opening, there are models for all tastes and desires. The hardest part will be choosing!

Keep this in mind! You can also consider installing small stoves suitable for traditional fireplaces, such as the Maxi 2 or Mini 4 models, or even steel fireboxes like those in the I range, which are designed to perfectly integrate with this type of project.

Lastly, whatever appliance you choose, opt for a Flamme Verte certified model to ensure high efficiency and reduced pollutant emissions.

What are the day-to-day benefits after installing an insert in your fireplace?

Once your insert is installed, you will immediately enjoy many benefits:

• Better efficiency: the heat produced is better used and distributed, offering enhanced thermal comfort.
• Energy savings: reduced wood consumption and lower energy bills.
• Enhanced safety: the insert prevents sparks and provides optimal security.
• Reduced environmental impact: fewer polluting emissions thanks to optimised combustion.
• Improved comfort: consistent and lasting heat for a pleasant daily experience.

Installing an insert is therefore an ideal solution to transform an old fireplace into an efficient, economical, and environmentally friendly heating system.