A pellet insert designed to retrofit into an existing masonry fireplace or compatible zero-clearance factory-built fireplace, with a 55 lb wood pellet hopper (adjustable down to fit fireplace openings as shallow as 19½″), a 300-watt Auto Ignitor, concealed touch-pad controls with a tri-mode operating system, a 160 CFM variable-speed convection blower, and a black overlay door with decorative black grilles and 161 sq. in. ceramic glass viewing area. EPA 2020 certified at 1.8 g/hr particulate emissions per the certification label and owner's manual, with a tested output range of 7,751–32,739 BTU/hr under certification conditions and a manufacturer-stated peak of 45,000 BTU/hr. Efficiency is 70% HHV / 74.5% LHV at standard configuration; rises to 75% HHV / 81.9% LHV with the optional top vent adaptor kit and 3″–6″ flue adaptor installed for vertical venting. Up to 36-hour burn time from the 55 lb hopper. Mobile-home approved. 3″ PL vent exhaust; continuous liner required from insert to chimney top. Two required faceplate choices at order: Standard (30″H × 39-15/16″W) or Oversize (33″H × 45-15/16″W).
Who this is for
Right buyer
Owners of existing masonry fireplaces — or compatible zero-clearance factory-built fireplaces where local codes allow — who want to convert a drafty, inefficient open hearth into a controllable, EPA 2020-certified pellet heating appliance without a full fireplace replacement. The GFi55-2 is purpose-built for this retrofit scenario: the insert body slides into the existing firebox opening with an adjustable-height hopper to fit varying fireplace dimensions, a continuous liner runs up the existing chimney, and the included faceplate covers the original fireplace face with a clean, integrated finish.
Buyers who want the operational convenience of pellet heat over cordwood. No splitting, no seasoning wait, standardized fuel density, and a 300-watt Auto Ignitor that eliminates hand-lighting. The tri-mode operating system — Manual, High/Low, and Auto/Off — allows the unit to cycle on and off automatically with a wall thermostat, which is a meaningful quality-of-life upgrade over manually tending a fire. The up-to-36-hour manufacturer-stated burn time from the 55 lb hopper means buyers can load the hopper once and leave it running across more than a full day at lower heat settings.
Buyers who need mobile-home compatibility. The GFi55-2 is explicitly certified for manufactured-home installation per the rating label (Oregon Administrative Rules 814-23-900 through 814-23-909). Mobile-home installations require outside fresh air connection and electrical grounding to the steel chassis — confirm requirements with your installer before purchasing for this application.
Buyers who want maximum efficiency from the insert. The standard configuration delivers 70% HHV / 74.5% LHV. Adding the optional top vent adaptor kit and 3″-to-6″ flue increaser — and venting vertically — raises efficiency to 75% HHV / 81.9% LHV, the highest tested rating for this unit. Buyers in jurisdictions where efficiency percentage matters for rebates or utility programs should factor the adaptor kit into the installation plan and budget from the start.
Buyers converting a fireplace in a medium-sized room. Regency rates the GFi55-2 for a medium room size. The 45,000 BTU/hr manufacturer-stated peak and up-to-36-hour run time make it suitable for primary or supplemental heat in a living room, family room, or similarly sized habitable space connected to an existing masonry or compatible factory-built fireplace.
Buyers who want a clean finished appearance. The concealed touch-pad controls are hidden behind the surround; the installed unit shows only the glass, the decorative black grilles, and the faceplate. The 161 sq. in. large bay ceramic window provides a wide, unobstructed view of the fire.
Wrong buyer
Not for buyers who want to install into a new framed chase. The GFi55-2 is an insert — it requires an existing masonry or compatible zero-clearance factory-built fireplace to retrofit into. For new framed-chase construction, look at Regency's freestanding pellet stove line or a zero-clearance gas or wood fireplace designed for new-construction chase installation.
Not for buyers who want to burn cordwood. The GFi55-2 burns wood pellets only — cordwood is prohibited by federal law in this appliance. Buyers who prefer cordwood should look at Greenfire or Regency wood inserts designed for the same masonry-retrofit scenario.
Not for buyers whose existing fireplace opening is too small. The minimum required opening is 26″ W × 19½″ H × 15″ D (with the hopper at adjusted height). Fireplace openings shallower than 15″ or narrower than 26″ will not accommodate this insert. Measure the firebox interior — with any old unit fully removed — before purchasing, and confirm fit with the installer.
Not for buyers expecting zero maintenance. Pellet inserts require routine cleaning: the burn pot liner must be checked daily during heavy use, the ash pan emptied regularly, and the exhaust vent system inspected and cleaned semi-annually or every two tons of pellets. The frequency increases with higher-ash fuel. The reward for consistent maintenance is reliable, thermostat-controlled heat; the penalty for skipping it is erratic combustion and potential shutdown.
Not for buyers who will not invest in pellet fuel quality. Feed rate consistency, combustion quality, glass clarity, clinker formation, and heat output all vary with pellet quality. Low-density, high-ash, or poorly stored pellets cause real operational problems that can look like mechanical failures. PFI-standard pellets are the baseline expectation for this appliance.
At a glance
Where it can go
The GFi55-2 is certified for installation into a masonry fireplace built to UBC 37 or ULC S628 standards, or into a factory-built zero-clearance fireplace built to UL 127 or ULC S610 standards where local codes allow. It is not a freestanding stove — it must be placed inside an existing firebox opening. If the GFi55-2 insert body does not fit a given zero-clearance fireplace, Regency's recommendation per the spec sheet is to use a Greenfire freestanding pellet model installed as a hearth-mounted unit instead.
The insert is mobile-home approved with proper outside air connection and chassis grounding. Not approved for outdoor or unconditioned-space installation. Do not connect to a chimney flue serving another appliance.
Clearances to combustibles
The certification label on the installed unit is the binding clearance and always overrides figures published in any other media, including this page. Confirm all clearances with the installer before purchase.
Minimum fireplace opening
At adjusted hopper height (42 lb capacity): 26″ W × 19½″ H × 15″ D. At standard hopper height (55 lb capacity, 22¼″): minimum height increases to 22.75″. With the optional top vent adaptor kit installed: 26″ W × 23.25″ H × 18″ D — and the hopper must be set to standard height (55 lb, 22¼″) for this configuration; the adjusted hopper setting is not compatible with the top vent adaptor. Measure the firebox interior with any existing unit fully removed before ordering. Do not remove masonry to enlarge the opening except to accommodate the chimney liner at the smoke shelf and damper frame, and only where removal will not weaken the structure or reduce combustible-material protection below code requirements.
Floor protection / hearth
Combustible floors must be covered by a non-combustible hearth pad extending at least 6″ in front of the heater and 6″ to each side. If the existing masonry hearth already meets these dimensions, a separate pad may not be required — confirm with the AHJ. The hearth pad must be installed before the insert is placed.
Chimney liner and venting
A continuous chimney liner is required for all masonry fireplace installations in Canada, and strongly recommended in the US. The liner must run from the insert to the top of the chimney — 3″ diameter for runs under 25 feet, 4″ for longer runs — conforming to CAN/ULC S635 Type 3 requirements. In the USA only, a positive flue connection without a full reline is technically permitted where the chimney is structurally sound and undamaged; this is not recommended by the manufacturer and may negatively affect performance in a way that is not covered by warranty. Evaluate carefully with a qualified installer.
When the optional top vent adaptor kit is used with the 3″-to-6″ flue increaser, the unit must connect to a 6″ Class A flue (where permitted) and vents vertically. A minimum 3 feet of 3″ vent height is required above the adaptor before the increaser. The top vent adaptor is approved for vertical installations only. This is also the configuration required to achieve the 75% HHV maximum efficiency rating.
Outside fresh air
Outside fresh air connection is mandatory for mobile-home and airtight (R2000) home installations. Strongly recommended for all other installations — failure to provide adequate combustion air in tight homes can cause improper combustion, glass sooting, and smoke spillage during power failures. When connecting outside air, use a minimum 2″ ID (51mm) steel, aluminum, or copper pipe — no plastic or combustible pipe. Keep bends to a minimum.
Electrical
A standard 120V / 60Hz grounded outlet is required within cord reach. Surge-protected power bar recommended. Maximum draw is 520 watts. In mobile-home installations, ground the unit to the steel chassis. Do not route the cord under the appliance or across hot surfaces or sharp edges.
Code compliance and permits
A permit is required for most pellet insert installations. Contact local building and fire officials about restrictions and inspection requirements before purchasing. Installation must be performed by an authorized installer or service agency per the owner's manual — a WETT-certified installer (Canada), NFI or CSIA-certified installer (USA), or equivalent qualified technician is typically required by local code, permit, or homeowner's insurance. The AHJ determines what is permitted at a specific address; the manufacturer listing describes what the unit is certified for — these are not always the same.
California Proposition 65
This product can expose you to chemicals including carbon monoxide, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65warnings.ca.gov.
What's in the box, what you'll add
Ships with the insert
- Greenfire GFi55-2 pellet insert body — adjustable hopper (55 lb standard), heavy-duty heat exchanger, 300-watt Auto Ignitor, concealed touch-pad control board, 160 CFM variable-speed convection blower, combustion blower, black overlay door with decorative black grilles, large bay 161 sq. in. ceramic glass, fluted steel liner panels, ash pan, and pedestal (found inside the hopper from the factory — must be installed on the bottom of the unit before installation)
Sold separately — required for installation
- Continuous chimney liner — 3″ or 4″ diameter, CAN/ULC S635 Type 3, from insert to chimney top; 3″ for runs under 25 ft., 4″ for longer; includes rain cap, clean-out tee, and liner components
- Chimney seal plate — non-combustible steel plate sealing the smoke shelf area around the liner to prevent air bypass and exhaust recirculation
- Non-combustible hearth pad — if the existing masonry hearth does not extend at least 6″ in front of and 6″ to each side of the unit
- Outside fresh air intake pipe — 2″ ID minimum steel, aluminum, or copper; mandatory for mobile-home and airtight-home installations, strongly recommended for all others
- Installation by a qualified technician (WETT / NFI / CSIA certified or equivalent) — required by most local codes, permits, and homeowner's insurance; and required by the owner's manual for the appliance to be operated per manufacturer's instructions
Sold separately — optional
- Top vent adaptor kit (GF55-920) — required to achieve 75% HHV maximum efficiency; approved for vertical installations only
- 3″-to-6″ stainless steel flue increaser (946-792) — used with the top vent adaptor kit for connection to a 6″ Class A flue system
- Wall thermostat — required for High/Low and Auto/Off operating modes; sold separately
- Surge-protected power bar — strongly recommended
- Digital moisture meter — for confirming pellet fuel moisture content; strongly recommended
- Replacement door gaskets, burn pot liner, and routine maintenance consumables — available through Greenfire / FPI dealers
- Glass cleaner (soft cotton cloth with mild window cleaner or damp paper towel dipped in fly ash) — consumable for regular maintenance
How it actually performs
Two BTU numbers appear in Regency's materials for this insert: 45,000 BTU/hr is the manufacturer-stated peak on the product page; 7,751–32,739 BTU/hr is the tested output range under specific EPA certification conditions (ASTM E1509-22). Both are real and neither contradicts the other — the 45,000 figure represents peak thermal output achievable at maximum fuel feed, while the tested band reflects actual steady-state and low-rate output under controlled conditions. Buyers sizing this insert against their heating load should use the tested band as the planning figure, and treat 45,000 BTU/hr as a transient peak that will not be sustained through a full burn cycle.
At standard rear-vent configuration, efficiency is 70% HHV. Adding the optional top vent adaptor kit and venting vertically raises this to 75% HHV — roughly one additional bag of pellets recovered out of every twenty burned, compounding meaningfully across a heating season. For buyers who can install vertically, the adaptor kit pays back its cost in reduced pellet consumption over one to two heating seasons depending on burn intensity.
The up-to-36-hour burn time at the 55 lb hopper is achievable at the lowest heat level setting with premium, high-density pellets. At moderate settings, expect a substantially shorter interval between refills. Buyers who want to minimize daily refill attention should use the full 55 lb hopper (standard height installation) and operate at moderate heat levels rather than maximum. At maximum heat level, a full hopper will be consumed significantly faster than 36 hours — [VERIFY: Regency does not publish per-heat-level burn time figures in the documents reviewed; confirm from Regency's supplemental materials if available].
The tri-mode operating system meaningfully changes the day-to-day experience of using this insert. In Manual mode, the operator sets the heat level and the insert runs continuously until manually shut off. In High/Low mode, a thermostat modulates the output — the unit drops to the low setting when the room reaches temperature and ramps back up when it cools — but stays lit the entire time. In Auto/Off mode, the insert lights and shuts down automatically with the thermostat, cycling the 300-watt ignitor each time it restarts. Auto/Off is the most convenient for primary heating use but cycles the ignitor more frequently; High/Low is preferred for sustained primary heat since the unit stays warm and ready between thermostat calls.
The 160 CFM variable-speed convection blower distributes heat from the heat exchanger into the room at a rate that scales with the heat level setting. At lower settings the blower is quiet; at higher settings airflow is audible. Buyers sensitive to fan noise should factor this into the heat level they operate the unit at during quieter periods. The blower shuts down automatically after the unit cools following a shutdown — do not unplug the unit while the combustion blower is still running, as this can cause smoke to exit through the front of the unit.
Glass clarity depends almost entirely on fuel quality and combustion air setting. The air-wash system keeps the large bay ceramic glass clear during proper hot burns with premium pellets and correct damper adjustment. Glass will soot rapidly with high-ash or high-moisture pellets, or when the combustion air slider is set too lean for the fuel being burned. A daily wipe with a damp cloth or fly-ash paste restores clarity in a few minutes during normal operation.
The GFi55-2 is EPA 2020 certified at 1.8 g/hr particulate emissions per the certification label and owner's manual (ASTM E1509-22 test conditions). This places it well within the EPA 2020 pellet appliance standard. Buyers citing emissions for regulatory, rebate, or burn-day compliance purposes should use the 1.8 g/hr cert label figure.
Trade-offs to know
Maximum efficiency requires an add-on kit and vertical venting. The 75% HHV headline efficiency number requires the separately purchased top vent adaptor kit plus the 3″-to-6″ flue increaser, and the installation must vent vertically. Standard rear-vent masonry liner installations — the most common configuration — deliver 70% HHV. Buyers who assume the maximum efficiency number applies without checking the installation type are setting incorrect expectations. Confirm venting configuration with your installer before purchasing and before comparing efficiency figures with other pellet inserts.
Two BTU numbers — understand what each means. The 45,000 BTU/hr figure on the Regency product page is the manufacturer-stated peak. The 7,751–32,739 BTU/hr figure on the certification label is the tested range under controlled conditions. The gap between them is not a discrepancy — it reflects the difference between a transient peak and a certified steady-state band. Plan heating loads against the certified range, not the peak.
Emissions figure — use the cert label for regulatory purposes. The EPA certification label and owner's manual state 1.8 g/hr under specific test conditions per ASTM E1509-22 — this is the legally binding figure for any regulatory, rebate, or burn-day compliance purpose. The unit is EPA 2020 certified and well within the pellet appliance standard.
Burn time varies dramatically with heat level setting. The 36-hour figure is achievable at the lowest heat level with premium pellets; at higher heat settings, run time per hopper load is substantially shorter. Buyers who want long unattended runs should set the hopper to the maximum height the installation allows (55 lb) and resist dialing up to maximum heat level for extended periods. At low heat settings, verify the damper is still providing sufficient combustion air — running too lean at low heat produces soot and clinkers.
Fireplace opening dimensions must be verified before purchase. The minimum required opening is 26″ W × 19½″ H × 15″ D at adjusted hopper height. Openings narrower than 26″ or shallower than 15″ will not accept the insert body. Replacement installs should be measured with the old unit fully removed — the opening can be smaller than it appears with a prior unit in place. Confirm fit with the installer before ordering.
Routine cleaning is non-negotiable. The burn pot liner holes must be checked daily during heavy use — clinkers (hard ash deposits from silica and mineral impurities in the fuel) block airflow and will cause erratic combustion or safety shutdowns. The ash pan requires regular emptying. The heat exchanger tubes, exhaust passages, and exhaust vent system all require periodic cleaning. The manufacturer recommends inspecting and cleaning the exhaust vent semi-annually or every two tons of pellets — whichever comes first. High-ash fuel increases all cleaning intervals. This cleaning cadence is the primary ongoing operational reality of pellet insert ownership.
Pellet quality is not optional. High-ash, high-moisture, or inconsistently sized pellets cause clinker buildup, soot on the glass, erratic combustion, and shortened cleaning intervals. These issues can look like mechanical failures but trace back to fuel quality. Use PFI-standard pellets (max 8% moisture, max 3% ash for standard grade, max 1% ash for premium grade). Dirty fuel voids the warranty on components it damages.
Outside fresh air is mandatory in some installations. Mobile homes and airtight homes require outside air connection — no exceptions. In conventional homes it is strongly recommended. Skipping the fresh air intake in a tight home produces poor combustion, glass sooting, and smoke spillage during power failures. Budget for the intake pipe at the start of the installation project.
Do not unplug while the combustion blower is running. Disconnecting power while the combustion fan is operating forces smoke out through the front of the unit. Always use the ON/OFF button to initiate shutdown and allow the complete cooldown cycle before disconnecting power for maintenance.
Faceplate size must be confirmed before ordering. Standard (30″H × 39-15/16″W) or Oversize (33″H × 45-15/16″W) is a required choice at purchase and cannot be swapped after the fact without a separate purchase. The installer measures the masonry face to confirm which size covers the opening; ordering the wrong size is a costly error that delays the installation.
228 lb body weight. Multi-person handling is required at delivery and for the curb-to-firebox move. Confirm that the hearth and floor framing can support the combined weight of the insert body, faceplate, and any accumulated ash before installation.
Operating reality
First burns. The first several fires release VOCs as the high-temperature paint cures. The smell is noticeable but temporary — it disappears after the first few hot burns. Ventilate the room well during initial cure-in and avoid prolonged exposure.
Startup. Confirm the burn pot liner holes are clear and properly seated against the ignitor tube before every start. Check the hopper for adequate pellet supply. Press ON/OFF — the control board manages the start sequence. The Auger Light flashes with each auger pulse; the Mode Light flashes during startup and goes solid once combustion is established (approximately 10–15 minutes from cold). If the unit has run out of pellets, press the Manual Auger Feed button until pellets are visible in the burn pot before restarting. Do not operate the unit with the door or ash pan open.
Heat level adjustment. Use the Heat Level up/down buttons to adjust output during operation. The Feed Rate Trim and Combustion Blower Trim buttons allow fine-tuning for different pellet fuel densities — default settings (Feed Rate Trim 4, Combustion Blower Trim 2) work with most PFI-standard pellets. Adjust trims only if combustion quality is clearly affected by switching to a different pellet brand or density. Changes take effect immediately during operation.
Thermostat operation. In High/Low mode: when the thermostat calls for heat, the unit runs at the operator-set level; when satisfied, it drops to the low setting but stays lit. In Auto/Off mode: the unit lights automatically when the thermostat calls for heat and shuts down after 30 minutes at low if the thermostat does not call again. The thermostat mode switch can be changed during normal operation. A wall thermostat is not included and must be purchased separately for either of these modes.
Combustion air (slider/damper). The slider/damper on the left side of the unit controls combustion air. Insufficient combustion air produces soot on the glass, heat exchanger, and exhaust vent — a dangerous condition. Signs of insufficient air: black-tipped, lazy orange flames; glass sooting rapidly. Check and adjust the damper whenever switching pellet fuel brands, and at least periodically during each heating season.
Burn pot and liner — daily check. During heavy use, inspect the burn pot liner holes daily. Clinkers block airflow and cause shutdown. Allow the unit to cool completely before removing the liner to clean or scrape the holes. Do not clean the burn pot while the unit is hot or operating.
Convection blower. The room air fan starts automatically when the unit reaches operating temperature. It can be turned off with the dedicated button, but leaving it on at all times during operation is recommended for best efficiency. After shutdown, the blower continues running through a cooldown cycle — this is normal. Do not unplug the unit until the blower has stopped on its own.
Glass cleaning. Use a soft cotton cloth with mild window cleaner, a dedicated stove glass cleaner, or a damp paper towel dipped in fly ash. Do not clean while the unit is operating or while the glass is hot. Do not strike or slam the door. Replacement glass must be ceramic — only from a Greenfire dealer.
Ash pan. The ash pan must be securely closed during all operation. Empty it regularly. Never put unburned or new pellets in the ash pan — a fire in the ash pan can result. Ash goes into a metal container with a tight-fitting lid and should be retained there until all cinders have thoroughly cooled before final disposal. Store the closed container outside, on a non-combustible surface, well away from any combustible materials.
Heat exchanger tubes. Clean the heat exchanger tubes at the interval specified in the maintenance section of the manual. Buildup on the tubes reduces heat transfer efficiency and is a sign of insufficient combustion air or high-ash fuel.
Exhaust vent cleaning. Inspect and clean the exhaust vent system semi-annually or every two tons of pellets, whichever comes first. The chimney seal plate must be removable for annual cleaning — ash accumulates on top of the plate. Confirm the installer leaves it accessible when the installation is complete.
Post-season. At the end of each heating season, perform a complete cleaning of all components per the post-season section of the manual. Empty the hopper completely before the off-season — stored pellets absorb moisture and can damage the auger system.
What never to burn. Wood pellets only — maximum 3% ash content. Never burn cordwood (prohibited by federal law in this appliance), coal, garbage, gasoline, naptha, engine oil, kerosene, charcoal lighter fluid, or any other fuel type. Store pellets at least 36″ (1 meter) from the insert at all times.
Warranty and service
The Greenfire / FPI Limited Lifetime Warranty applies to the original retail purchaser only and is non-transferable. It applies to normal residential use. Per the manufacturer's warranty terms, the "Limited Lifetime" coverage is defined as a 7-year term, with subsidized labor coverage of 2 years on the components where labor is indicated. Proof of purchase (dated bill of sale), model name, and serial number are required for any warranty claim.
Coverage by component
Per the manufacturer's warranty, the Limited Lifetime designation corresponds to a 7-year parts term, and labor is subsidized for 2 years on the components where labor coverage is indicated. [VERIFY: The full per-component breakdown — which specific components carry labor coverage and any shorter-term consumable or wear-part exceptions — appears in the owner's manual warranty section (manual page 14 / PDF page 13). Confirm the exact component list against the manual before publishing, and expand this table to one .data-row per component group if the per-component terms differ.]
The warranty is void if the unit is operated with any fuel other than approved wood pellets (up to 3% ash content), or installed or operated in a manner inconsistent with the owner's manual. Damage from misuse, improper installation, lack of maintenance, or use of prohibited fuels is not covered. FPI grants no warranty — express or implied — for installation or maintenance and assumes no responsibility for consequential damages from installation. Using dirty, high-ash, or high-moisture pellets that adversely affect performance or damage components is explicitly not a warrantable condition.
Warranty claims and service are handled through the authorized selling dealer or an FPI-preapproved authorized dealer. Kaminos is the retailer for this appliance and supports buyers through the purchase process; final warranty approval rests with FPI as the manufacturer. Replacement parts — burn pot liners, gaskets, ignitor, control board, blower motors, ceramic glass — are available through the Greenfire / FPI dealer and parts network.
FPI may require photos or returned parts to evaluate a warranty claim. Warranty coverage details can change by revision; the current warranty document shipped with the unit controls. Contact Kaminos at (888) 777-9789 or support@kaminos.com for warranty support assistance.
Compare with
[VERIFY: The Operator must confirm the complete Compare-With list — specific model names with price-book verification — before this section can be completed. Per the brief's locked rules, only models confirmed by the Operator from the price book may appear here. No models are included pending that confirmation.]
A masonry-fireplace pellet insert with a 55 lb hopper, 300-watt Auto Ignitor, 160 CFM variable-speed blower, tri-mode thermostat-compatible controls, up to 36 hours per hopper load, and mobile-home approval — EPA 2020 certified, with efficiency reaching 75% HHV when the optional top vent adaptor is installed for vertical venting. For buyers converting a drafty masonry fireplace into controllable, pellet-fueled zone heat with minimal manual intervention.