Is a fireplace insert safer than a fireplace?

• <div><p>Although no heating appliance can be entirely risk-free, a fireplace insert is considered a safer alternative to a traditional open fireplace, thanks to their enclosed design. With a sealed combustion chamber, a fireplace insert effectively reduces the risk of sparks and embers escaping into the room, minimizing the chance of an accidental fire.</p><p>Additionally, an insert comes equipped with various safety features, such as tempered glass doors that create a barrier between the flames and the surrounding space. This enhances both safety and energy efficiency by preventing heat loss. As an added bonus, many inserts are designed to meet strict safety standards that ensure proper ventilation and combustion.</p></div>

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Q: Should a chimney flue be open or closed?

• <div><p>The damper, located just above the firebox, can open or <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-close-chimney-flue.htm">close the chimney flue</a>. The damper should remain closed unless there&rsquo;s a fire burning in the fireplace. Closing the damper prevents energy loss through the chimney and cold air from seeping into the home during the winter. Opening the damper helps maintain airflow when there is a fire and prevents smoke and gases from venting into the house.</p></div>

Q: Can you use a fireplace with a broken damper?

• <div><p>You can use a fireplace with a broken damper, but only if the damper is in the open position. If not, your fireplace will not properly vent smoke outdoors. Never operate your fireplace if the damper is sealed shut and you cannot open it, as deadly smoke will quickly fill your home. If your fireplace damper is broken, have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible.</p></div>

Q: How much more is house insurance with a wood stove?

• <div><p>Home insurance prices depend on where you live and the individual insurance company's policies. Some insurers charge a flat fee for fireplaces or wood-burning stoves, which is often a few hundred dollars per year. Other insurers base this fee on a percentage of your annual premium. You may want to check your current or prospective policy before beginning this project.</p></div>

Q: How do I maintain my oil-fired chimney?

• <div><p>Annual inspections, soot removal, and clean-burning fuel help maintain a safe and efficient chimney.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Fireplace Service pros in Spalding, MI

*The Angi rating for Fireplace Service companies in Spalding, MI is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Fireplace Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Fireplace Service companies in Spalding, MI is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Fireplace Service needs.

Last update on June 20, 2025

Reviewed in June 2025
Rich came through. My wife is in hospice care, and she needs air conditioning in this heat wave! Thats great customer service! I highly recommend them!
Bugay Heating & Cooling
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Reviewed in May 2024
Very professional, great communication and outstanding work. Would not hesitate to use this crew in the future.
L.I.C General Roofing Solutions LLC
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Reviewed in April 2024
AT Masonry did excellent craftsmanship on our stone fireplace and stone steps. They were super customer responsive. They have very high skill levels and can provide artistic talent to a stonework project. I highly recommend them to anyone.
AT Masonry
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Reviewed in March 2024
We had a solid flue liner put in our chimney after a chimney fire. ? U.P. Chimney was very quick to respond, helped us to understand why good maintenance is important and they had the job done quickly. They have also cleaned out our dryer vents and discussed the importance of keeping them clean....
U.P. Chimney Inc.
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Reviewed in December 2022
They were very hard workers, and communication was very quick. They did a very good job. They cleaned up when they were finished.
Enviro-FOAM
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Reviewed in June 2022
Great experience top to bottom.
Hoyt's Outdoor Services
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Reviewed in May 2022
Been trying to get someone to do home remodeling for months. Never found anyone who could pass background checks, nor wanted to work!
Michigan Inspection & Construction of Homes, Inc.
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Reviewed in March 2022
I was aware of billâ s reputation about being an honest man who will totally explain all the steps involved. Bill and Louis came out on Tuesday and immediately located the blockage and then confirmed the break with the camera. I agreed to the job and it was completed on Thursday in...
All Drains, LLC
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Reviewed in March 2021
They did a great Job & Work with in My time Line
Utah Flooring & Design
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Reviewed in October 2020
mike was very informative. he took time to review correct and educate. we would definitely use him again if needed
906Heating.com
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Find Fireplace pros in Spalding

Shamrock Maintenance Corp.

4.4(

)

Serving Spalding, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 1985

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Chuck arrived with a helper and explained everything to us. He cleaned the chimney and left us with some estimates for potential work. He was knowledgeable and pleasant. I would use him again."

+31

Response time1 day

Response rate95%

336 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Get It Done Handyman Service

5.0(

)

Serving Spalding, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Free estimates

"He was very punctual, efficient, and professional! He also was very reasonably priced!"

Response time4 days

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Atlas Masonry And Construction

New to Angi

Serving Spalding, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Atlas Masonry And Construction is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

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Fireplaces questions, answered by experts

Although no heating appliance can be entirely risk-free, a fireplace insert is considered a safer alternative to a traditional open fireplace, thanks to their enclosed design. With a sealed combustion chamber, a fireplace insert effectively reduces the risk of sparks and embers escaping into the room, minimizing the chance of an accidental fire.

Additionally, an insert comes equipped with various safety features, such as tempered glass doors that create a barrier between the flames and the surrounding space. This enhances both safety and energy efficiency by preventing heat loss. As an added bonus, many inserts are designed to meet strict safety standards that ensure proper ventilation and combustion.

The damper, located just above the firebox, can open or close the chimney flue. The damper should remain closed unless there’s a fire burning in the fireplace. Closing the damper prevents energy loss through the chimney and cold air from seeping into the home during the winter. Opening the damper helps maintain airflow when there is a fire and prevents smoke and gases from venting into the house.

You can use a fireplace with a broken damper, but only if the damper is in the open position. If not, your fireplace will not properly vent smoke outdoors. Never operate your fireplace if the damper is sealed shut and you cannot open it, as deadly smoke will quickly fill your home. If your fireplace damper is broken, have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

Home insurance prices depend on where you live and the individual insurance company's policies. Some insurers charge a flat fee for fireplaces or wood-burning stoves, which is often a few hundred dollars per year. Other insurers base this fee on a percentage of your annual premium. You may want to check your current or prospective policy before beginning this project.

Annual inspections, soot removal, and clean-burning fuel help maintain a safe and efficient chimney.

The Spalding, MI homeowners’ guide to fireplace services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

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How to Choose Between 4 Popular Types of Fireplace Inserts
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3 Ways to Mount Your Fireplace and How to Choose the Right One For Your Home
Find out about the different ways to mount a fireplace and determine which type is right for your space. Because everyone needs warm, cozy vibes in their home.