Promoting Freedom for Creative Architecture
If your fireplace insert is old or doesn't fit with your decor, it may be time to remove it. This is a great way to improve the look of your fireplace and make it easier to clean and maintain. Removing a fireplace insert can also help to save you money on your heating bills.
Removing a fireplace insert can be dangerous and requires the proper safety gear, so it's always best to call in a professional. But if you have a lot of experience and want to save some cash, there are a few steps you can take to get the job done yourself.
Step One: Disconnect the natural gas line from the fireplace to avoid sparking a fire when you remove it. You can do this by unscrewing the connector or using a hose to disconnect the line from the fireplace.
Once the gas line is disconnected, you can begin removing the insert from the fireplace. You may need a crowbar or other tool to help you remove it, so be sure to have that available.
Next, check to see if there are any screws that are holding the insert in place, and if so, unscrew these. You may be able to pull the insert out of its location by pulling on it gently, but if it's not easy to remove you might need to contact a professional for assistance.
Then, check to see if any other fixtures are holding the insert in place, such as the surrounding fireplace and the back panel, and remove them. If so, you can then remove the entire insert from your fireplace and set it aside.
If you're looking to replace your insert with a new one, be sure to shop around for the best deal on a replacement insert. Most new inserts are built to last a long time, so it's often worth it to invest in a brand new insert instead of buying an older model that won't hold up to the test of time.
Depending on the type of insert you have, there are different ways to remove it. For instance, electric fireplace inserts typically require a professional to fully remove them.
Many prefab fireplaces have a simple three-wood facing that can easily be removed. However, some fireplaces may have tile installed around the opening, and you might need to remove that as well. In this case, you can use a pry bar to loosen the three-board facing from the wall and work your way around it until you can easily pull it away.
You might also need to pulverize the tile around the opening with a hammer. Once the tile has been broken away, you can then cut the drywall around the perimeter of the fireplace and then apply new joint compound.
If you're looking to remove an electric fireplace insert, you can usually do it yourself, but it may be necessary to have a professional electrician wire the replacement unit for you. Most plug-in inserts are simply plugged into an electrical outlet, but some are hard-wired in, so you'll need to consult the manufacturer's instructions for guidance on how to remove them.
