Dazed and confused

Must be that 420!

The first two are somewhat similar and use a combustion system very close to the one your acclaims used. However, there have been many members here who question the effectiveness and ease of use of these newer systems. Do a forum search on "everburn" and read about the concerns.

The Quad uses a different system, which according to some users here is friendlier.

Also, the fact that you don't use your stove full time should probably steer you away from the downdraft models.

Perhaps you should consider the Quad and maybe look around for some other choices if you want more selection to choose from. That is, of course, only my opinion based on your needs.

Craig said it nicely, BUT just to be sure: get the Isle Royale now because you will regret getting any stove that uses the downdraft ceramic refractory technology; mostly because it is extremely difficult to use and requires constant babysitting.

You might want to try a Lopi Leyden. They do have some nice features. I also looked at The new Vermont Castings, and the Isle Royale before choosing the Lopi and have now burned it for a season. It has a few downsides, but does have some definite advantages over the competition too. I do have some experience here because we've heated 100% with wood for over half a century and have watched a lot of different technologies come and go. My favorite stove is still the older Vermont Castings because of the construction, the safe thermostatic air control, and the top loading. About 1975 I switched over to the double wall insulated stainless steel pipe that is now known as "Duratech". That and the popularity of gasketed airtight stove were equally big advances. I didn't get to see the advent of top loading and bimetallic thermostatic air control. Those things were already popular and well worked out long before my time.

Ask away if you have questions.

Scotty

andy420 said:

Lopi- leyden
Harman - oakwood
Quad- Isle royale

I think I have it narrowed down to these three top loading cast iron stoves. Would you be so kind as to share your opinion on which stove you think is the best?????

I heat a 1600sq ft well insulated house. My acclaim was the perfect size and I don't want to get a stove that is to big for my needs. I don't need real long burn times as I let my stove go out every night unless it is real cold out.

10 below zero and 2 beagles are snoozing by the wood burner....life is good

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