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Can I use an electric fireplace as an insert for my old wood-burning fireplace?

Can I use an electric fireplace as an insert for my old wood-burning fireplace?

Absolutely!  There are many cases where an electric fireplace makes great sense to use as an insert in a wood burning fireplace.  Because electrics come in many shapes and sizes, there will likely be a model that will suit your needs.  All that’s necessary is to install a 120 volt electric line into the existing wood fireplace.  By doing this, you won’t see a power cord on the hearth.  The other thing to consider is how to finish off around the electric unit.  Many use a surround panel to eliminate the space from the existing wood fireplace, on the top and both sides of the electric model.

Below is a list of fireplace and grill stores that service Virginia (VA)

Manassas, VA

Winston's Chimney Service
11301 Industrial Road
Manassas, VA 20109

Winston's Chimney Service LogoVisit Store Page

Mechanicsville, VA

Hearth & Home Shoppe
8151 Mechanicsville Tpk
Mechanicsville, VA 23111

Hearth & Home Shoppe LogoVisit Store Page

Roanoke, VA

Dixie Building Products Inc.
3342 Melrose Ave NW
Roanoke, VA 24017

For more information, contact your local fireplace and grill store..
Electric, Frequently Asked Questions
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Joseph G. Bodden is a Wisconsin native and is semi-retired after 40+ years in marketing, sales and technical customer service work. Over 23 of those years have been in the fireplace industry, as the Hearth Division Manager in an organization that operates two retail shops. During that time, Bodden was certified by the National Fireplace Institute in wood & gas technologies. He was also selected several times by Hearth & Home magazine as a judge for the annual VESTA awards that recognize manufacturers creativity and innovation in product design and technology. One thing that Joe particularly finds fulfilling is explaining fairly complex subjects to fireplace customers and steering them to specific products that will satisfy their objectives. There’s nothing like unsolicited positive feedback from a happy customer! Bodden continues to live in north central Wisconsin with his bride of 46 years. He enjoys the outdoors, playing guitar and spending time with their grandson and five granddaughters.

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1 Response

  1. Maria
    We just bought a 50 year old home in north central FL. It has a wood buring fireplace. During the home inspection it was noted the chimney was dirty and I should have it inspected and cleaned by a chimney sweep. They came and it was dirty, so they completed a level 2 cleaning (not sure what that means). The are saying my lining needs to be replaced, if I want to continue to burn wood. It has a 40" opening and brick lining. I am thinking of putting in an electric insert and calling it a day. Of course, my husband wants to burn wood. I want to change the mantle and all of the exterior visual components because they are outdated. We really wanted it to be open to the other side also, since it is the dining room and it would be a beautiful focal point. The chimney sweep guy was telling me it could cost $10,000 to $60,000 to make this work, depending on wood, gas or electric. What are your thoughts? I can send you photos, if you like. Thanks for any input. Maria Brandvold 305-699-7451
    Reply
    November 11, 2022

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