Wood Insert In Pre Fab Fireplace

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It is possible to install a wood insert into an existing factory-built zero-clearance fireplace. However, there currently exists no UL or ULC standard specific to that type of conversion. 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). 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. When in doubt, check with the fireplace manufacturer. 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. 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.

Never remove parts that serve to insulate the zero-clearance fireplace from combustible material. Only readily detachable parts that are easily replaced, such as damper parts, screens, and doors, are to be removed from the fireplace. These parts must be stored nearby and available for retrofit if the insert is ever removed. 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. 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.


This is a generic statement, it is true for all inserts and all prefab fireboxes.

In this specific case, there’s a mention on the label regarding this matter indicating NOT to do it. You can still contact the manufacturer and ask them. It will be great to know their opinion on the subject.
 
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Verbatim it says "Do not use a fireplace insert or other products not specified for use with this product"

Call Heatilator and tell them which model/assembly date you have and exactly which insert you would like to install. They should have the answer to end all the speculation. If it was me I would also contact the insert manufacturer giving them the same information and asking if they consider it a good install. They may have specific requirements for your install.

All they guys here have a lot of experience but I doubt if any of them have your exact configuration. They can give great advice but the final answers come from the local authorities and the manufacturers. Once you have the manufacturers answers you can show it to the local authorities to see if they feel it meets local codes...

KaptJaq
 
Verbatim it says "Do not use a fireplace insert or other products not specified for use with this product"

Thanks Ryan. That makes a significant difference.

It looks like there is some wiggle-room in that statement. Some insert mfgs., like Travis, specifically list Heatilator as an acceptable ZC fireplace for installation. Others just set the standard with a statement something like:

The factory built fireplace must be listed per UL 127 or ULC S610.
 
Per my Country c160 manual

"The C160 insert can only be installed in the following brands of factory built zero clearance fireplaces
Heatilator , Superior, Majestic, Martin, Preway, Marco, Temco, and FML
the fireplace cavity must be at least 36"W x 21"H x 14"D
Installations into other brands of the same size is permissible only with approval from local building officials
All convection vents and louvers must be left unmodified and unobstructed "
 
Since there is no standardized codes or testing parameters that exists for 'inserts inside ZC' it is up to each MFG to dictate what they will accept.

It's a popular misconception that the tests are very expensive and that is why the MFG's are loathe to 'certify' their inserts into ZC, or vice-versa. The truth of the matter is there is no testing protocols from any certifying bodies (ASTM, UL or others) since no such standards exits.

I know it sounds confusing, but the best bet as many posted here is to get in writing from the ZC MFG to state it's ok to install an insert into a ZC. If they say no... your options are as BeGreen said.

All the best and let us know how it goes.
 
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