Moving from open fireplace to stove or insert

Congrats on your decision, you will not regret it. I was in the same boat about 3-4 years ago, made the transition from an open fireplace to an insert and couldn't be happier.

If I can do you it anyone can do it! I have some solid DIY skills and the folks on here helped me so much that it made the install really straightforward and not very hard at all. I will dig up my post which has some good info on a DIY install. My install was not perfect but hopefully can guide you in the right direction.

Chimney, FP opening dimensions along with budget will determine much. O and your gonna need a friend or two to lift that sucker

 

Here you go!

Drolet 1800i Install

 

Yes, I installed my own in the old fireplace. If you are any bit handy, it's pretty easy.

Here's my thread on the diy install.
Got my efficient Fireplace insert!!!!

 

Here may be the biggest "issue", the existing chimney damper. Get measurements of that. Also how easy or difficult it is to remove. An angle grinder can always get the liner to fit in the space. The diameter of the liner required might make the decision easier, or harder for you with regards to which insert to go with.

A good dolly or hand cart is necessary.

Any stairs to deal with?

 

This ^ ^ ^

 

Great reminder!

I remember grinding away at that damper to give me enough clearance for the liner.

 

I got lucky and was able to just cut the bolt that kept the damper in position. No grinder needed beyond that. That bolt and nut are easily replaceable if I need to I for any reason.

 

Yep, I have an angle grinder. I'll have to pick up a hand truck.

 

I will be getting a liner. I burn almost constantly from Oct to whenever the wood runs out, usually sometime around early March. Burn a mix of hardwoods and softwoods to get the fire going and go through about 6 cords. My main thought is to have to burn less so I can sell more.

 

Sounds like your on the correct path. General rule of thumb is to plan on a insulated liner to meet code/safety regs and in large part to enhance draft performance and ease of cleaning. Now comes the fun part..... Selecting the insert or stove!

 

It might be worth asking your insurance company if a DIY instal is ok.

 

I have a stove in my fireplace and love it. It burns pretty much continuously. But... the blower rattled a ton so I turned it off and put a fan next to it. No regrets. The EPA double burn thing is super cool, I like it a lot more than i thought I would. My wife was impressed with the bright pretty fire compared to the old smoke dragon stoves.

 

Likely needs cleaned...takes no time for ash/dust to build up enough to throw it off balance (and it doesn't take much!) the easiest way to clean it is to take it out and blow it out with compressed air.

 

I faired pretty well if I recall. I was able to easily remove the damper lid and just had to notch it a bit to make it fit.

 

Mine rattles too from time to time, drives me crazy sometimes. Last year I pulled apart and cleaned it really good and lubed it up. So far has been much better.

 

It is a brand new stove and started rattling after the second fire. I might get back there and take it off for some maintenance but I believe it is screwed into place. Also, most of the time, it is very hot. Maybe I will take a look again in the off season.