What is a factory-built fireplace?
Unlike traditional site-built masonry fireplaces, most factory-built fireplaces are made of metal and may use a combination of insulated walls, glass doors, air-cooled pipe and blowers to circulate the heat produced by the fire. The factory-built fireplace and chimney are a complete system engineered to work safely and efficiently together. Both units (fireplace and chimney) undergo testing together, then are listed specifically for use with each other. In other words, a factory-built fireplace has a specific chimney that is appropriate for use with that specific fireplace. Although models vary, factory-built fireplaces generally heat in one of two ways. With the standard radiant heat method, the heat produced by the fire radiates from the fireplace into the room. With the circulating air method, which uses louvers and at least one blower, heat circulates around the walls of the fireplace and then is forced out into the room. Q. How is a factory-built fireplace different from a traditi
