How to Install a Gas Fireplace Insert | This Old House

Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey upgrades an old wood-burning fireplace. (See below for a shopping list and tools.)

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Want to turn on your fireplace at the push of a button? To make this upgrade to your existing fireplace, you can install a gas fireplace insert.

Since this process requires working with vent pipes, electrical, and the gas supply, we recommend working with a professional instead of doing it yourself. In the video above, and step by step instructions below, we show you how to install a gas fireplace insert step-by-step.

Cost: About $500 and up, depending on the size of gas fireplace.
Time: 6 to 8 hours
Skill level: Hard. Requires running gas and electrical lines, and working on the roof.

Shopping List for How to Install a Gas Fireplace Insert:
Gas fireplace insert
High-temperature silicone sealant, for sealing liner connections
Electrical cable, conduit and receptacle box, for running new electrical line
Black iron gas pipe and assorted fittings, for connecting new gas line

Tools for How to Install a Gas Fireplace Insert:
Assorted pliers and wrenches, for running new gas line
Drill/driver, for driving screws and drilling holes
Assorted electrical tools, for running new electrical line
Caulking gun, used to apply high-temperature silicone sealant

About Ask This Old House TV:
Homeowners have a virtual truckload of questions for us on smaller projects, and we're ready to answer. Ask This Old House solves the steady stream of home improvement problems faced by our viewers—and we make house calls! Ask This Old House features some familiar faces from This Old House, including Kevin O'Connor, general contractor Tom Silva, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and landscape contractor Roger Cook.

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How to Install a Gas Fireplace Insert | This Old House
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