The fireplace insert I have now is about 20 years old. Originally it was set up for gas. The chimney is not brick. About 10 years ago I began burning wood. I didn’t have any problems and the smoke vented up the stainless steel vertical pipe okay. A few weeks ago I noticed that the mortar boards at the back of the insert were cracked. I tried to fill in the cracks with mortar cement but the cracks reappeared. I would like to replace the fireplace insert. I was looking at Heatilator wood burning fireplaces. If I have my local fireplace expert install one do I have to completely remove the old insert? Do the installers need to replace the vertical vent pipe from floor to roof? Can I burn wood in a vent-free fireplace insert? What is the advantage in installing a blower? Any local codes I should be aware of? I live in Georgia. Please help. Thank you.