- In a gas or wood insert, the blower is usually installed below the insert
- On a gas fireplace, the blower is generally installed against the rear wall facing upwards
- It’s not unusual to have the blowers installed on either side of the fireplace.
- The way it works, the blower will suck in cold room air and force it up and out the fireplace, ultimately exiting the top of the fireplace as warm air
- One popular universal option is this Airblaze model: it can work with gas or wood fireplaces and has an automatic mode to help regulate temperatures and runs very quiet
Purchasing a fireplace blower kit is a quick and cost-effective way to get your home ready for winter. The fireplace blower kit provides extra heat by sending warm air into the room where the fan has been installed.
It can be used with gas, electric, or wood-burning fireplaces. There are different types of motors depending on how much blowing power you need–ranging from 250 to 1000 cubic feet per minute (cfm).
Some fans also have adjustable thermostats that control the heating range between 60F-80F degrees.
The fireplace blower gives out heat in a vast range and can be used to give your room more heat than you usually get from the fire alone.
The fireplace blower has several designs and functions: some operate with an adjustable thermostat so that they only come on when the temperature drops below 60 degrees Fahrenheit; others use multiple fan speeds, and still, others rely on the natural draft to pull air into the firebox (from either side or bottom).
This post brings you the top 5 best fireplace blower kits available in the market.
We have spent hours researching, reading customer reviews, and comparing prices with various online merchants – all to save you time and ensure that you are making an informed purchase decision.
Contents
- What is a Fireplace Blower Kit?
- The 5 Best Fireplace Blower Kits
- 1. The FireplaceBlowersOnline GFK4 Fireplace Blower Kit
- Pros:
- Cons:
- Video overview
- 2. The FireplaceBlowersOnline FBK-250 Fireplace Blower Kit
- Pros:
- Cons:
- Video overview
- 3. The MyFireplaceBlower GFK-160A – GFK-160 Fireplace Blower Kit
- Pros:
- Cons:
- Video overview
- 4. The Durablow MFB 160B GFK-160 Fireplace Stove Blower Kit
- Pros:
- Cons:
- Video overview
- 5. The Mr. KAN GFK-160 Fireplace Blower Fan Kit
- Pros:
- Cons:
- Video overview
- Buying Guide
- Construction Material
- Installation
- Speed control and thermostat capabilities
- Power Requirement
- Size of the Fan
- What are the Benefits of Using a Fireplace Blower?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there any warranty options for fireplace blower kit products?
- Can I use my fireplace blower kit with an indoor fireplace?
- Are fireplace blower kits safe to use?
- What are the most common reasons for product malfunction?
- How do I maintain my fireplace blower kit?
- Conclusion
What is a Fireplace Blower Kit?
The fireplace blower kit is an accessory that provides extra heat by pushing warmer air into the room. It can be used with gas, electric, or wood-burning fireplaces.
There are different types of motors depending on how much blowing power you need–ranging from 250 to 1000 cubic feet per minute (cfm). Most newer models also come with thermostats that control between 60F-80F degrees.
The 5 Best Fireplace Blower Kits
1. The FireplaceBlowersOnline GFK4 Fireplace Blower Kit
The FireplaceBlowersOnline kit upgrades the previous model with reinforced plastic housing. It comes with adjustable thermostat control with 3-speed settings to regulate airflow and maximize comfort levels.
The triple cast aluminum blades can sustain powerful airflow, particularly useful during colder weather conditions. This fan can move 130 cubic feet per minute (CFM) of air, making it perfect for installation into almost any fireplace.
Because this fireplace blower features two universal mounting brackets, you can easily attach it to either the right or left side of your firebox.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable fireplace blower to maximize the heating potential of your current setup, this model might be worth considering.
Pros:
- Universal design complements any decor
- 130 CFM provides optimal heating
- Durable housing, made from reinforced plastic
Cons:
- Fan blade can be too loud for some users
- Instructions are vague and difficult to follow
Video overview
2. The FireplaceBlowersOnline FBK-250 Fireplace Blower Kit
The FireplaceBlowersOnline FBK-250 fireplace blower kit provides two different speed settings to choose from, allowing you to adapt the airflow depending on the temperature. This way, you can make sure it only comes on when needed.
In addition, it features a robust triple cast aluminum blade design that lets you move as much as 250 cfm of air during colder weather conditions.
Because this fan can also be mounted to either side of your firebox or chimney, installation should be straightforward and hassle-free.
Overall, if you’re looking for a powerful fireplace blower with adjustable speeds, this model might be worth considering. It’s a bit pricier than other options, but you do get what you pay for.
Pros:
- Two-speed settings are perfect for adjusting airflow levels
- Powerful triple cast aluminum blade design
- Mounting brackets allow installation on either side of the fireplace
Cons:
- Some users report that it produces a high-pitched sound when operating at low speeds
- Not compatible with all fireplaces
Video overview
3. The MyFireplaceBlower GFK-160A – GFK-160 Fireplace Blower Kit
The MyFireplaceBlower GFK-160A fireplace blower kit is the perfect way to maximize the healing potential of your home without spending too much money on an expensive insert.
For maximum performance, it features a powerful 3,000 rpm motor that moves 165 cubic feet per minute (CFM) of air. This model features low-profile impellers attached to CSA-approved ABS blades for optimum durability when it comes to design.
The MyFireplaceBlower fireplace blower kit comes with a 3-speed rotary switch that lets you easily adjust the airflow depending on your preferences. What’s more, this model comes with universal brackets that allow it to attach to most fireboxes and chimneys.
Pros:
- Universal design makes installation easy
- Powerful 3,000 rpm motor for optimal heating performance
- Low profile impellers are attached to CSA-approved ABS blades for durability
Cons:
- Instructions are difficult to follow and poorly written
- Some users report receiving a defective product that doesn’t work upon arrival
Video overview
4. The Durablow MFB 160B GFK-160 Fireplace Stove Blower Kit
The Durablow MFB 160B GFK-160 fireplace stove blower kit is a great way to maximize the heating potential of your existing setup. It comes with a powerful 3,000 rpm motor capable of moving 160 cubic feet per minute (CFM) of air for maximum heating efficiency.
The ball-bearing dual blower is highly durable and can be installed on either side of your firebox or chimney. The rheostat variable speed control provides you with 3 different airflow settings, while the magnetic thermostat makes sure that air only comes in when necessary.
This fireplace blower kit includes rubber mounting feet for reduced noise and vibration, a 3-prong power cord, noise reduction padding, and installation instructions.
Pros:
- Powerful 3,000 rpm motor for optimal heating performance
- Comes with rubber padding that prevents noise and vibration while in use
- Magnetic thermostat only allows the blower to turn on when necessary
- Rubber feet reduce noise and vibration while in use
Cons:
- Could use more mounting screws and bolts
- Instructions could be better written
Video overview
5. The Mr. KAN GFK-160 Fireplace Blower Fan Kit
If you are looking for a fireplace blower to improve heat distribution, this is the best choice. It can move heat around the whole room and also provide better ventilation. With its variable speed control, it is energy efficient.
What’s more, this fireplace blower is also quiet, and 100% sealed ball bearing motor 160 CFM airflow capacity with 3000 RPM rotation per minute for unparalleled performance.
What sets this apart from other fans is that it is an easy installation, has a magnetic thermostat, and fits Heat N Glo models and other fireplaces. It can be used for heating up to 1,400 square feet.
This fireplace blower is made of durable materials for unbeatable durability. It fits Heat N Glo, GTI, Quadra-Fire, and Heatilator models.
Pros:
- Variable speed control for energy efficiency
- Quiet 100% sealed ball bearing motor
- Easy installation
- Magnetic thermostat for energy efficiency
- Fits Heat N Glo models as well as other fireplaces for versatile usage
Cons:
- Could use more mounting screws and bolts
- Instructions could be better written
- Some users report receiving a defective product that doesn’t work upon arrival
Video overview
Buying Guide
One of the biggest problems homeowners who have fireplaces face is that they are not as efficient as heaters. If you want to maximize your fireplace for heating your home, installing a fireplace blower kit is one of the best ways to do it.
Fireplace blower kits come at different price points and with varying features. Some products are made with higher quality materials than others, while others allow more installation customization.
So what should you look out for when shopping for a new fireplace blower kit? Let’s take a closer look into some things that may help you decide which product would best suit your needs.
Construction Material
The construction material of each fireplace blower is vital because having sturdier materials and construction offers you a longer-lasting and durable product.
While most fireplace blower kits are made of ABS, PBT, and metal alloy materials, some products also use stainless steel to reduce vibration and noise as much as possible.
Installation
Another thing that you should consider is the ease of installation. Some products only offer the basic mounting hardware, while others offer more customization with their parts.
The best fireplace blower kits come with all the necessary hardware for easy installation, no matter what type of fireplace you have or where it is located in your home.
Speed control and thermostat capabilities
Some fireplace blower kits have fixed speed control, while others have variable speed control. This allows you to maximize your fireplace’s heating performance, and it makes your home feel more comfortable.
Furthermore, some models also come with a built-in thermostat that is attached to the fan so that it can turn on or off based on the exact temperature of your room.
Power Requirement
Another thing to consider is whether your fireplace blower kit has specific power requirements– whether it requires any special wiring or electrical work to get it running. While most models come with an attached power cord, some other products may require you to run wires through your walls and ceiling for installation.
Size of the Fan
The size of the fan is another important consideration. Some blower fans are smaller with a diameter that ranges from 3-4 inches, while others come with larger fans (5-6 inches) for maximum airflow capacity and performance.
If you’re choosing a fireplace blower kit based on size, make sure to consider where your fan will be mounted and how it can fit into your current setup.
What are the Benefits of Using a Fireplace Blower?
Fireplace fans offer several benefits: they reduce your energy costs because when they’re in use, the fire doesn’t have to work as hard; plus, they help distribute heat more evenly around the room.
If you have a bigger fireplace, a blower will also protect your walls or bricks from damage due to high heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any warranty options for fireplace blower kit products?
Some models come with a limited 1-year warranty, while others offer a 2-year or lifetime limited warranty for their customers.
Can I use my fireplace blower kit with an indoor fireplace?
Most fireplace blower kits are designed for indoor fireplaces, although some can also be used in outdoor or freestanding fireplaces.
Are fireplace blower kits safe to use?
All fireplace blower kits are designed with safety in mind, but if you’re concerned about any electrical components, make sure to check the wiring and install it according to your local electrical standards.
What are the most common reasons for product malfunction?
Most products are made of high-quality materials, but some malfunctions can occur if there is excessive wear on the components or if you’re using low-quality fuels in your fireplace.
How do I maintain my fireplace blower kit?
You can maintain most fireplace blower kits by regularly cleaning and lubricating the moving parts with an aerosol like WD-40.
Conclusion
When choosing the best fireplace blower kit, consider your needs and how you’ll be using your new product. Some products are better suited for high-performance with wide fan blades, while others offer quiet operation with low moving parts.
Whatever you choose, make sure that it’s durable enough to last through the cold months ahead and that it will be energy-efficient for your home.
Hi, my name’s Eugene Duke and I love sitting by my fireplace reading a book and sipping on an adult beverage. Do you have a fireplace in your house? I’ll help you figure out the best type and style of fireplace for your home.