Advice on Purchasing a Wood Burning Fireplace Insert

[Dr Webb]

Greetings

Wife is interested on getting a wood burning insert for the fireplace.
We're regular users of our fireplace and easily keep a supply of
inexpensive hardwoods around and, with upcoming increases in electricity
costs around here, thought is was about time that we sunk the $4-5K into a
wood burning insert.

We've been looking at the following brands:

Regency, Jotel, Napoleon, and QuadraFire

Costs look like they fall into the following three categories:

* the insert
* fixing up the flue
* labor for installation

We would be immensely grateful to hear any advice and experiences folks
have had regarding the various insert brands, dealers, service, and
performance of individual units.

Also, FWIW, we live near Baltimore.

TIA.

Regards,

Dr. Webb

 

[Steve Spence]

I've not used the Jotul inserts, but have used the jotul standalones. Very
fine performance and workmanship.

 

[JERD]

While Adelaide, Australia, is a long way from Baltimore ( been there, great
place) and suggesting brands is not an option, I can say that when we
installed a wood burning fireplace it has dramatically reduced electricity
heating costs during our winter.

Also have unlimited free hardwood access.

The ambience in our lounge room has dramatically improved. There is nothing
like sitting in front of a good wood burning fireplace. Slow combustion,
inbuilt fan that runs off my solar system. What more could one ask for!

Go for it.

JD