Fireplace Insert Installation in Wheeling, IL
"Turn your drafty open fireplace into a 70–80% efficient heat source — liner installation included."
GEM Chimney & Duct installs gas, wood-burning, and electric fireplace inserts throughout Wheeling, IL and the northwest Chicago suburbs. Every project includes a full chimney inspection, stainless steel liner installation, and a written upfront estimate.
What Is a Fireplace Insert?
A fireplace insert is a sealed, high-efficiency heating unit installed directly into an existing masonry fireplace opening. Unlike an open wood-burning fireplace — which loses 85–90% of its heat up the chimney — a properly installed insert operates at 70–80% efficiency, turning your fireplace from a heat drain into a real heat source. GEM Chimney & Duct installs gas, wood-burning, and electric fireplace inserts throughout Wheeling, IL and the northwest Chicago suburbs. Every insert installation includes a full chimney inspection, a properly sized stainless steel liner, and a written upfront estimate before any work begins.
Types of Inserts We Install
Gas Fireplace Inserts
- Convenient push-button or remote ignition
- Consistent, controllable heat output
- No wood storage, hauling, or ash cleanup
- Vented (realistic flame) or vent-free options
- Thermostat and remote controls available
- Requires gas line connection to existing supply
Wood-Burning Inserts
- Authentic wood-fire experience with real flames
- High heat output — can heat large spaces
- EPA-certified models for clean, efficient burning
- No gas line required
- Requires properly sized stainless steel liner
- Firewood storage and ash management required
Electric Fireplace Inserts
- No chimney liner required — no venting at all
- Simplest installation — plugs into standard outlet
- Realistic LED flame effects
- Zone heating with thermostat control
- No gas line, no combustion, no ash
- Best for supplemental heat or visual ambiance
Every Insert Requires a Chimney Liner
Every fireplace insert — gas or wood — requires a properly sized stainless steel liner run through the existing flue. The liner connects the insert's exhaust outlet directly to the top of the chimney, ensuring combustion gases vent safely and efficiently. Without a liner, an insert cannot be safely operated. The liner must be sized to match the insert's BTU output and exhaust specifications — an oversized or undersized liner causes draft problems and can allow dangerous gases to enter the home. GEM handles the full liner installation as part of every insert project. We measure the flue, select the correct liner diameter and length, and install it before the insert is set.
Learn about chimney liner installationWhy Homeowners in the Northwest Suburbs Upgrade to Inserts
Dramatic efficiency improvement
From 10–15% efficiency (open fireplace) to 70–80% (insert) — the same fire heats your room instead of your neighborhood.
No more cold-air drafts
An open fireplace draws cold air into the room when not in use. A sealed insert eliminates that draft entirely.
Cleaner burning
Modern EPA-certified wood inserts and gas inserts produce far less particulate and creosote than an open wood fire.
Modern appearance
Inserts transform a dated open fireplace into a clean, contemporary focal point with a finished surround.
Lower heating costs
Using the insert as a zone heater lets you lower the thermostat for the rest of the house while keeping the main living area comfortable.
Our Installation Process
Firebox and Flue Measurement
We measure the firebox opening (width, height, depth) and the flue dimensions to determine which insert models will fit and what liner size is required. This step is critical — inserts must fit the firebox correctly and the liner must match the insert's exhaust specifications.
Insert Selection
We help you choose the right insert for your firebox size, heating needs, and fuel preference. Gas inserts offer convenience and consistent heat; wood inserts provide the authentic wood-fire experience with high heat output; electric inserts require no venting and are the simplest to install.
Liner Installation
Before the insert is set, we install the stainless steel liner through the existing flue. The liner is connected to the insert's exhaust collar and run to the top of the chimney. For gas inserts, we also connect the gas supply line at this stage.
Insert Installation and Surround Finish
The insert is set into the firebox opening and secured. We install the surround panel and trim to cover the gap between the insert face and the existing fireplace opening, giving the installation a finished, built-in appearance.
Safety Inspection and Operation Walkthrough
After installation, we inspect all connections, test the draft, and for gas inserts, perform a full leak test. We walk you through operating the insert — ignition, heat settings, remote or thermostat controls if installed, and what to do if you ever have a concern.
Why Wheeling Homeowners Choose GEM for Insert Installation
Registered in Illinois
We operate as a registered business in Illinois — not a fly-by-night operation.
Fully Insured
General liability insurance protects you and your home on every job.
Written Inspection Reports
Every installation includes a written inspection report documenting the chimney and firebox condition.
Upfront Pricing
We measure and inspect first, then provide a written estimate before any work begins. No surprises.
Same-Day Scheduling
We work around your schedule — same-day appointments available for estimates.
Liner Included
We handle the full stainless steel liner installation as part of every gas and wood insert project — not a separate add-on.
Get a Free Insert Installation Estimate
We measure your firebox and flue and give you written pricing — no obligation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fireplace Insert Installation
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