We recently installed an insert in our fireplace. The insert is made of corten steel and has two glasses made of robax and 2 fans. I chose this without doing much research (made by Svenskt spisteknik in Emmaboda). They convinced me of good heat effect. I am disappointed because it quickly loses its heating effect as soon as the fire goes out. My question is: Is it any idea to install soapstone inside the insert or should I use vermiculite? Where should I buy these things?
Soapstone in large quantities retains heat well. You shouldn't expect a significant difference if you line a metal insert with soapstone. To achieve a noticeable effect, you need to heat several hundred kg of soapstone. Preferably more than 1000 kg.
An insert in corten steel is excellent for quick heating, but it is not good for retaining heat.
Erik
An insert in corten steel is excellent for quick heating, but it is not good for retaining heat.
Erik
My experience with a fireplace insert is that all the hundred kilos of bricks/mortar around the insert and in the chimney store heat very well, much better than a few small soapstones.
In my previous house, the chimney kept heat for around a day after burning.
In my previous house, the chimney kept heat for around a day after burning.