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Installing a fireplace insert can be complicated and expensive, particularly if modifications are necessary to accommodate it. The cost of purchasing an insert and necessary venting system can also be a significant investment. Fuel type may also be limited with gas or electric inserts, potentially reducing the cozy appeal of a traditional wood-burning fireplace. Maintenance and repair may require specialized services, especially when dealing with gas lines or electrical components. Some argue that fireplace inserts lack the authentic ambiance of an open, crackling fire, with glass doors potentially reducing the visual appeal of the flames.

How you stop your fireplace from smoking depends on the cause. Sometimes it’s as simple as opening the damper. Other times, you need to battle air pressure. The best course of action is to ensure proper ventilation, whether that means opening a door or a window; avoid building a large fire, which produces more smoke; and use seasoned hardwoods, which produce less smoke than other types of wood. If the issue persists, call a pro ASAP.

The effect a gas fireplace has on your gas bill will depend on how often you use it, the size of the rooms you’re heating with it, and the BTUs of the fireplace itself, but generally speaking, it should only cost a few cents an hour to run it when it’s on. It will consume minimal energy when it’s “off” if you have a pilot light running constantly, but some modern gas fireplaces don’t require a constant pilot light.

Yes, you need to leave your chimney damper open when burning a creosote log so that smoke and other debris doesn’t waft into your house as it’s burning. You’ll need to make sure your damper is fully open, even when the log continues to smoke, until it’s completely out and cold.