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>

Get matched with top fireplace pros in Rhinelander, WI

Q: What is the top cause of house fires?

• <div><p>According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), the leading cause of house fires is cooking accidents, followed by fires started by heating equipment. Electrical issues are the third most common cause of house fires. The best way to keep your home protected is to use caution when cooking and never leave a stove or oven unattended while in use. You can also keep up with chimney cleaning and avoid using space heaters to reduce the risk.</p></div>

Q: Can a stove last 20 years?

• <div><p>While most stoves won&rsquo;t last two decades, some do! Gas stoves and pellet stoves are more likely to go the distance than electric stoves or induction cooktops, and maintenance can go a long way toward increasing longevity.</p></div>

Q: How long does a chimney inspection take?

• <div><p>The time required for a chimney inspection depends on the inspection level. A Level 1 inspection typically takes between 45 minutes and two hours, with an average of about an hour and a half. A Level 2 inspection usually takes less than two hours. A more in-depth Level 3 inspection can take up to five hours, or even multiple days if it requires removing materials. The total duration also depends on the chimney's size, condition, and how long it has been since its last inspection; chimneys with severe damage will require a longer inspection.</p></div>

Q: How difficult is it to remove a chimney?

• <div><p>Yes, removing a chimney is a difficult and major undertaking. Chimneys often provide structural support to a home, so if it's a load-bearing structure, you'll need to take extra precautions to maintain your home's integrity. A project of this complexity typically requires a structural engineer, a masonry contractor, and a demolition crew. The removal process may involve taking the chimney out brick by brick from inside the walls. The cost for chimney removal can range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the job's complexity. Due to the difficulty and cost, some homeowners opt to remove the fireplace and seal the chimney at the top and bottom, sometimes also removing the visible exterior portion at the roofline.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your fireplace service project in Rhinelander, WI?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Fireplace Service pros in Rhinelander, WI

*The Angi rating for Fireplace Service companies in Rhinelander, WI 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 Rhinelander, WI 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 April 03, 2025

Reviewed in April 2025
Mario and Josie did a fantastic job trimming 3 trees in my yard. They worked so well together as a team. It was impressive to see how safe and professional they were together. I originally only hired them for one tree, but they it turned out so good, I hired them for more work. Fast workers and...
LAUCOMPLETE TREE & YARD CARE LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2024
Dem Olsen Boyz did a spectacular job replacing skylights and rubber roof at my house. Mikes leadership lead his crew through this challenging project I the middle of the rainy season not letting a drop of water in through the whole project. Along with completing a flawless installation of custom...
Dem Olsen Boyz
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2023
Came back a second time to handlesome stubborn wasps. Nice job
1st Choice Pest Solutions
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2023
Hired them to remove furniture from an estate. They communicated the expectations and pricing well. They arrived on time and removed the items quickly and professionally.
JC in Motion, Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2023
Best tree service in the Northwoods! Highly recommend!
Schmelling logging llc
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2022
We wanted new better windows. They came and assessed, measured and gave a suggestion for an option to put in a much bigger window. They were very thorough on making sure we were on the same page with the final decision. The before and after pictures explain what we did. They came in Jan and were...
Mad City Windows & Baths
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2021
They. Fell 2 large trees that were growing growing next to 2 cabins and they were very close with a power line and they took were carefull. The big bonus is how they cut and stack the wood close to the fire pit. Then they cleaned up the wood chips and wood scraps and limbs so the yards were...
Smith Services
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2021
He cleaned our sectional couch for us and did a great job in about an hour!
Excel Cleaning & Restoration
Request a quote
Reviewed in February 2021
Last summer, we had Mad City Windows replace windows. They were very efficient. They arrived on time, were quick to replace the windows and cleaned up. I waited until this winter to write this review because I wanted to see how they performed in the winter. Well after getting two weeks of...
Mad City Windows & Baths
Request a quote

Find Fireplace pros in Rhinelander

J.E. Home Care & Repair

4.9(

)

Clean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stoveClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney+6 more

Serving Rhinelander, WI and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Jamie will be my go to guy for any fireplace related issue in the future. Very knowledgeable and professional. Great work ethic and very personable. If you need professional help with chimney or fireplace issues he's your guy."

Response time1 day

Recommended by94%of homeowners

Request Quote

Shamrock Maintenance, Corp.

4.8(

)

Brick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - InstallBrick or Stone Fireplace (Non-Gas) - RepairClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stove+3 more

Serving Rhinelander, WI and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1985

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Shamrock Maintenance Corp is a professional chimney service company dedicated to helping homeowners maintain safe, efficient, and well-functioning chimneys. We specialize in chimney inspections, cleanings, repairs, and preventative maintenance, with a strong focus on fire safety and long-term home protection.\n\nOur team is known for providing honest recommendations, clear documentation, and straightforward communication so homeowners can make informed decisions without pressure. We work with both modern and older homes, including historic properties, using appropriate methods to protect the structure and integrity of each home.\n\nWe proudly serve our local communities by prioritizing safety, quality workmanship, and reliable service. At Shamrock Maintenance Corp, every home is treated with care, professionalism, and respect.

+10

Request Quote

Magnetic Services LLC

1.0(

)

Clean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney

Serving Rhinelander, WI and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

At Magnetic Services, we provide dependable garage door services homeowners can trust, built on honesty, integrity, and quality workmanship. Our skilled team is committed to keeping your garage door operating safely and smoothly, whether you need a repair, replacement, installation, or routine maintenance. From broken springs and damaged panels to opener issues and full garage door upgrades, we handle every job with care and expertise. We combine local, personalized service with reliable support, allowing us to respond quickly and provide solutions that fit your homes needs. At Magnetic Services, our goal is to exceed expectations and be your trusted partner for safe, efficient, and long-lasting garage door service. Call today!

4 neighbors recently requested a quote

Clean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stoveClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney

Serving Rhinelander, WI and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Everything is going great. Also added some other equipment such as app controlled door locks, etc."

Recommended by93%of homeowners

Request Quote

Elite Stucco & EIFS Solutions

4.1(

)

Brick or Stone Fireplace - Repair

Serving Rhinelander, WI and surrounding areas

In business since 2005

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Elite Stucco was great! Their price was very reasonable and they were very professional. They kept the job-site clean and got our repair done quickly. The quality of the work was excellent! Would highly recommend"

+222

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Hip & Ridge Construction

4.5(

)

Brick or Stone Fireplace - Repair

Serving Rhinelander, WI and surrounding areas

In business since 2011

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"The windows our great! Energy saving due to the insulated glass saves money and never fogs or has condensation on the windows. The durability and ease of cleaning and opening these windows are a dream! Along with the aesthetics.
The crew that came to install the windows did awesome work fast cleaned up there work area things were in great shape when leaving. Since then I have had follow up calls and follow visits to make sure everything is working as I believe it should be which it is. Great company!! Would have them do any work for me and my family and would have them do anyone else's work too. Do not let this company slip by without a try!"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Fireplaces questions, answered by experts

According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), the leading cause of house fires is cooking accidents, followed by fires started by heating equipment. Electrical issues are the third most common cause of house fires. The best way to keep your home protected is to use caution when cooking and never leave a stove or oven unattended while in use. You can also keep up with chimney cleaning and avoid using space heaters to reduce the risk.

While most stoves won’t last two decades, some do! Gas stoves and pellet stoves are more likely to go the distance than electric stoves or induction cooktops, and maintenance can go a long way toward increasing longevity.

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 time required for a chimney inspection depends on the inspection level. A Level 1 inspection typically takes between 45 minutes and two hours, with an average of about an hour and a half. A Level 2 inspection usually takes less than two hours. A more in-depth Level 3 inspection can take up to five hours, or even multiple days if it requires removing materials. The total duration also depends on the chimney's size, condition, and how long it has been since its last inspection; chimneys with severe damage will require a longer inspection.

Yes, removing a chimney is a difficult and major undertaking. Chimneys often provide structural support to a home, so if it's a load-bearing structure, you'll need to take extra precautions to maintain your home's integrity. A project of this complexity typically requires a structural engineer, a masonry contractor, and a demolition crew. The removal process may involve taking the chimney out brick by brick from inside the walls. The cost for chimney removal can range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the job's complexity. Due to the difficulty and cost, some homeowners opt to remove the fireplace and seal the chimney at the top and bottom, sometimes also removing the visible exterior portion at the roofline.

The Rhinelander, WI 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

Allie Ogletree
•
Jul 31, 2026Jul 31, 2026
How Much Does a Bioethanol Fireplace Cost? [2026 Data]
Bioethanol fireplaces are a chimney- and vent-free way to enjoy a real-flame fire in your home. Keep reading to find out how much ethanol fireplaces cost.
Tyler Lacoma
•
Aug 3, 2026Aug 3, 2026
How Much Does Fireplace Installation Cost? [2026 Data]
The average fireplace installation cost is $2,438, but prices vary depending on the type and size of the fireplace. Calculate your costs with our guide.
Haley Nothstein
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does Fireplace Repair Cost? [2026 Data]
Use our guide to estimate your fireplace repair costs, based on the type of fireplace you have—and what part is broken.
Barbara Bellesi Zito
•
Jul 8, 2026Jul 8, 2026
11 Parts of a Fireplace You Should Know
There are many working parts of a fireplace, and a basic understanding of their functions can help homeowners properly maintain all of them over time.
Kaitlyn Pacheco
•
Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 2026
50+ Stylish Fireplace Ideas to Boost Your Home’s Value
Did you know fireplaces are a profitable home feature? From cozy indoor retreats to trendy outdoor designs, these fireplace ideas are sure to inspire you.
C.E. Larusso
•
Aug 4, 2026Aug 4, 2026
12 Cozy Bedroom Fireplace Ideas to Consider
With a few easy decorating tips, you can make your bedroom fireplace the stylish focal point of your room. Up the cozy aesthetic of your bedroom with these 12 ideas.