Fireplace inserts are a great way to add warmth and ambiance to your home, but they can also be a pain to remove. If you’re planning to replace your fireplace insert, or if you just need to clean it, you’ll need to know how to remove it safely.
The first step is to turn off the gas or electricity to the fireplace insert. Once the power is off, you can start to remove the insert. Most fireplace inserts are held in place by screws or bolts. Once you’ve removed the screws or bolts, you should be able to pull the insert straight out of the fireplace. If the insert is heavy, you may need to get help from a friend or family member.
Once you’ve removed the fireplace insert, you can clean it or replace it. If you’re replacing the insert, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Once the new insert is in place, you can turn the power back on and enjoy your fireplace.
Safety Precautions
Before beginning any work, it is crucial to prioritize safety by taking the following precautions:
1. Turn Off Power and Gas Supply
To mitigate any electrical or gas-related hazards, ensure that
both the electrical power and gas supply to the fireplace insert are completely turned off. To disable the power, locate the circuit breaker or fuse box and turn off the corresponding circuit that feeds the fireplace insert. For gas fireplaces, shut off the gas valve at the gas line connection to the insert.
| Power Source | Gas Source |
|---|---|
| Circuit Breaker or Fuse Box | Gas Valve |
After turning off the power and gas, allow ample time (at least 30 minutes) for the insert to cool down before handling it.
Disconnecting the Insert
Before you can physically remove the fireplace insert, you will need to disconnect it from any electrical, gas, or other utility connections. Here are some specific steps to follow, depending on the type of insert you have:
Electrical Inserts
– Turn off the power to the insert at your home’s electrical panel.
– Unplug the insert from the electrical outlet.
– If the insert is hardwired, you will need to disconnect the wires from the terminal block. Be sure to turn off the power to the circuit before doing this.
Gas Inserts
– Shut off the gas supply to the insert.
– Disconnect the gas line from the insert.
– If the insert is vented, you will need to disconnect the vent pipe from the insert.
Other Inserts
– For inserts that use other fuels, such as wood or pellets, you will need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for disconnecting the insert.
| Fuel Type | Disconnection Procedure |
|---|---|
| Electrical | Turn off power, unplug, or disconnect wires |
| Gas | Shut off gas supply, disconnect gas line, disconnect vent pipe |
| Wood | Follow manufacturer’s instructions |
| Pellets | Follow manufacturer’s instructions |
Removing the Glass Doors
Safety Precautions:
* Wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from broken glass or sharp edges.
1. Locate the Glass Door Catches:
* Inspect the top and bottom of each door for catches or latches that hold them in place.
2. Disengage the Catches:
* Pull or push the catches or latches according to the instructions provided by the fireplace insert manufacturer.
* If you encounter any resistance, do not force it. Gently wiggle or tap the doors to loosen the catches.
3. Removing the Doors:
*
Step 1: Determining the Angle: Hold the door slightly open and observe the angle at which it rests against the fireplace opening.
* Step 2: Pivoting the Door: Lift the bottom hinge side of the door slightly and pivot it inward, towards the center of the fireplace.
* Step 3: Maintaining the Angle: As you lift the door, ensure that it stays parallel to the fireplace opening, maintaining the angle you determined in Step 1.
* Step 4: Continue Pivoting: Rotate the door further inward until it clears the top hinge.
* Step 5: Removing the Door: Carefully lift the door straight up and away from the fireplace opening.
4. Cleaning and Inspection:
* Once the doors are removed, clean them thoroughly with a glass cleaner.
* Inspect the doors for any damage or cracks. If any defects are found, do not reinstall the doors and seek professional assistance.
Detaching the Baffle Plates
Locate and Remove the Retaining Bolts
The baffle plates are typically held in place by retaining bolts located on the sides or rear of the insert. Using a socket wrench or ratchet, locate these bolts and remove them carefully. Note: Some inserts may have multiple sets of bolts, so be sure to remove all of them.
Slide Out the Baffle Plates
Once the bolts are removed, the baffle plates can be slid out horizontally from the insert. Use caution when doing this to avoid damaging the plates or the insert itself.
Inspect and Clean the Baffle Plates
After removing the baffle plates, inspect them for any damage, such as cracks or holes. If there is any damage, the plates may need to be replaced. Additionally, clean the plates thoroughly to remove any soot or debris accumulation.
Reinstall the Baffle Plates
Once the baffle plates have been inspected and cleaned, reinstall them into the insert. Slide the plates back into their original position, making sure they are fully seated. Secure the plates with the retaining bolts that were removed earlier. Tighten the bolts firmly, but avoid overtightening.
Removing the Ash Pan and Grate
The ash pan and grate are usually the easiest parts of the fireplace insert to remove. To do so, simply follow these steps:
- Open the fireplace insert door.
- Locate the ash pan and grate. They will usually be located at the bottom of the insert.
- Grasp the ash pan and grate firmly and lift them out of the insert. They may be heavy, so be careful not to drop them.
- Empty the ash pan into a metal bucket or other fireproof container. Do not empty the ash pan into a plastic bucket or other flammable container.
- Inspect the ash pan and grate for any damage. If there is any damage, replace the damaged parts before using the fireplace insert again.
Important safety tips:
- Never remove the ash pan or grate while the fireplace insert is in use.
- Always wear gloves when handling the ash pan or grate.
- Do not allow children to play near the fireplace insert.
Lifting Out the Insert
7. Using a Ramp
If you’re removing a heavy insert, consider using a ramp to make the process easier. Place the ramp in front of the fireplace and slowly slide the insert onto it. Secure the insert to the ramp for stability and begin lifting it out onto the floor.
| Materials Needed: | Steps: |
|---|---|
| – Ramp | 1. Place the ramp in front of the fireplace. |
| 2. Secure the insert to the ramp. | |
| 3. Slowly lift the insert out onto the floor. |
Additional Tips:
* Wear gloves and eye protection to prevent injuries.
* If the insert is particularly heavy, seek assistance from a friend or family member.
* Ensure that the fireplace is completely cool before attempting to lift out the insert.
* Be careful not to damage the insert or the fireplace when removing it.
Removing the Trim and Surround
1. Remove the Mantel
If your fireplace has a mantel, remove it first. It is usually attached with screws or nails, so use a screwdriver or pry bar to remove them.
2. Remove the Side Surrounds
The side surrounds are typically held in place by screws or nails. Use a screwdriver or pry bar to remove them.
3. Remove the Bottom Surround
The bottom surround is usually attached with screws or nails. Use a screwdriver or pry bar to remove them.
4. Remove the Top Surround
The top surround is usually attached with screws or nails. Use a screwdriver or pry bar to remove them.
5. Remove the Fireplace Insert
Once the trim and surround have been removed, you can now remove the fireplace insert. It is usually attached with bolts or screws. Use a wrench or screwdriver to remove them.
6. Remove the Firebox
The firebox is the metal box that houses the fire. It is usually attached to the fireplace insert with bolts or screws. Use a wrench or screwdriver to remove them.
7. Remove the Ash Pan
The ash pan is the metal tray that collects ashes. It is usually located at the bottom of the fireplace insert. Pull it out to remove it.
8. Clean the Area
Once everything has been removed, use a vacuum cleaner to clean up any dust or debris. You may also want to wipe down the area with a damp cloth.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Remove the mantel |
| 2 | Remove the side surrounds |
| 3 | Remove the bottom surround |
| 4 | Remove the top surround |
| 5 | Remove the fireplace insert |
| 6 | Remove the firebox |
| 7 | Remove the ash pan |
| 8 | Clean the area |
Cleaning the Fireplace Opening
Once the insert is removed, you’ll need to clean the fireplace opening. This is important to remove any soot or debris that may have accumulated. You can use a vacuum cleaner to remove any loose debris. For any soot or stubborn stains, you can use a damp cloth or sponge with a mild detergent. Be sure to rinse the area with clean water and dry it thoroughly.
If your fireplace has a ceramic or glass surround, you can clean it with glass cleaner. Apply the cleaner to a soft cloth and wipe down the surface. For more stubborn stains, you can use a scouring powder or a commercial cleaner specifically designed for glass or ceramic surfaces. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and wear gloves to protect your hands.
Once the fireplace opening is clean, you’re ready to replace the fireplace insert. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
Tips for Cleaning the Fireplace Opening
- Use a vacuum cleaner to remove loose debris.
- Use a damp cloth or sponge with a mild detergent to remove soot or stains.
- Rinse the area with clean water and dry it thoroughly.
- If your fireplace has a ceramic or glass surround, use glass cleaner to clean it.
- For more stubborn stains, use a scouring powder or a commercial cleaner specifically designed for glass or ceramic surfaces.
- Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and wear gloves to protect your hands.
| Cleaning Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Vacuum cleaner | Removes loose debris |
| Damp cloth or sponge | Removes soot or stains |
| Glass cleaner | Cleans ceramic or glass surrounds |
| Scouring powder or commercial cleaner | Removes stubborn stains |
How To Remove A Fireplace Insert
Fireplace inserts are a great way to add warmth and ambiance to your home, but they can also be a pain to remove. If you’re planning to replace your fireplace insert, or if you just need to clean it, here are the steps you’ll need to follow.
1. Gather your tools. You’ll need a screwdriver, a wrench, and a pair of pliers. You may also need a crowbar or a pry bar.
2. Shut off the gas or electricity to the fireplace. If your fireplace insert is gas-powered, you’ll need to shut off the gas supply. If it’s electric, you’ll need to unplug it.
3. Remove the faceplate. The faceplate is the decorative piece that covers the front of the fireplace insert. It’s usually held in place by screws.
4. Disconnect the wires. Once the faceplate is removed, you’ll need to disconnect the wires that are connected to the fireplace insert. Be careful not to damage the wires.
5. Unbolt the fireplace insert. The fireplace insert is usually bolted to the fireplace surround. Use a wrench to remove the bolts.
6. Lift the fireplace insert out of the fireplace. Once the bolts are removed, you can lift the fireplace insert out of the fireplace. Be careful not to drop it.
People Also Ask About How To Remove A Fireplace Insert
How do I know if my fireplace insert is gas or electric?
Gas fireplace inserts have a gas line connected to them, while electric fireplace inserts do not.
Can I remove a fireplace insert myself?
Yes, you can remove a fireplace insert yourself, but it’s important to be careful and to follow the steps outlined above.
How much does it cost to remove a fireplace insert?
The cost to remove a fireplace insert will vary depending on the type of insert and the complexity of the removal. However, you can expect to pay between $100 and $500 for professional removal.
