Wood and Pellet Fireplace Inserts in Denver

An open fireplace looks good and heats poorly, since most of the warm air goes up the flue. In the Denver metro it has a second problem: on winter Action Days, a conventional open fireplace may not be used at all. An insert is a closed firebox with a glass door that slides into the existing fireplace and vents through a new stainless liner to the top of the chimney.

The CDPHE's own FAQ says an open masonry fireplace may be used on an Action Day only if it is fitted with gas logs, an EPA Phase III insert, an approved pellet insert or an electric device. That makes a certified insert one of the most direct ways to keep wood heat in a Denver home. Wood inserts with liner typically run $3,000 to $7,000 installed.

Signs you need this

• You like burning wood but lose heat up the chimney
• You want a fire you can use on Action Days
• A cold room around the fireplace in winter
• Smoke or draft problems with the open fireplace
• An old uncertified insert you want to replace

How we do it

1. Measure the fireplaceAt the free visit we measure the firebox opening and depth and check the chimney, so we only suggest inserts that fit.
2. Choose a certified unitWe only install wood inserts that meet current EPA standards and pellet inserts on the Colorado-approved list, and we confirm the model before ordering.
3. Reline the chimneyA stainless liner sized to the insert runs from the insert collar to the top of the chimney, with a cap. Most metro cities require a permit and we pull it.
4. Set, seal and testThe insert goes in, a surround panel closes the gap to the masonry, and we check draft and show you how to run it.

Wood insert or pellet insert?

A wood insert burns split logs, needs no power and gives the classic fire. A pellet insert feeds itself from a hopper, holds a steady temperature and needs electricity. Both qualify for Action Day use when certified or approved. We price both at the visit so you can compare.

Why does an insert need a new liner?

Old fireplace flues are much bigger than an insert's outlet. Venting an insert into that large space leads to weak draft, creosote and condensation. A stainless liner matched to the insert keeps the gases moving and makes sweeping simple. The liner is included in the $3,000 to $7,000 range.

Is Denver banning wood fireplaces?

No. Existing fireplaces can still be used on days that are not Action Days. What changed is what can be newly installed: under Denver code, any solid-fuel device sold or installed in the city must be certified or approved. A certified insert fits that rule and adds Action Day use on top.