Going to pickup used VC Defiant Encore (0028) tomorrow. What should I look for??

2gnospam said:

Hi. Just wanted to get a few tips from the experts about a used VC Defiant Encore Model #0028, Serial Number 18820 (approximately 22 years old). Sellers says unit is in good shape but needs new catalytic combuster. Unit is black and paint is original and in good condition. I have heard some stories about warped backs? What should I look for to make sure it is a "good" used stove. I will be out $400 plus drive time and cost of new cat. Thanks for your help!

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A catalytic combustor will run you $240. It will probably need the Refractory Assembly, also. That will run you $275. That brings your total to $915 for a 22 year old stove. I'd look at other options.

If you factor in the cost of the tax credit (what is it ? 30% of whatever upto I forget) then you could get a new stove for only a little bit more.

2gnospam said:

My local VC dealer wants $2400 for the same model. Ideas on getting it cheaper? What alternatives would be in the same size class (heating ~ 1600 sq ft)?

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If we are looking for inexpensive solutions look at:
Englander 13-NC
Drolet HT2000
Napoleon 1400PL

All could be had for under (sometimes well under) $1500. Sometimes you can get the Englander for under $800 (emphasis on sometimes. Usually around a grand, though). They will put off as much, if not more, heat than the VC. So, for about $100-300 dollars more than you would have to spend on the VC, you would have a new stove that would also qualify for the Tax credit, which would make it nearly the same price as the 22 year old VC.

Pretty much the only way I would take a 22 year old stove is if it was free, for the simple fact that I don't know how it was burned in/abused or how much I'm going to have to spend to make it work correctly. At a minimum all gaskets will need replaced, catalyst needs replaced and possibly the refractory material depending on whether it was abused. I would seriously look at stove suggestions listed above as I think you will have less headaches in the long run. Just my two cents worth good luck!

If you're going for an older used cast iron cat stove, Jotul might be a better bet - but hard to find.

I went the same route, and bought a used 0028. I learned a lot because it needed a complete rebuild which I did myself, but if I had it to do over again, I would have gotten something else (like an older Jotul as someone else suggested, etc).

If you insist on looking at the stove anyway. Check the condition of the refractory package, which can be seen from the catalyst access panel in the back. It should be in one piece and not cracked, pieces missing, heavily flaking, etc. A new one does cost about $250. Make sure there are no signs of over firing: warped firebacks, grate, severe paint chipping (though It sounds like there isn't a paint finish), and any cracks. If it needs a lot of work, I would pass unless you want a project, but parts will get expensive.

I had a 23 year old Defiant Encore. It needed a combustor, and probably a new refractory chamber. Otherwise it was in very good condition. I couldn't give the stove away. I ended up tossing it in a scrap heap.

2gnospam said:

Looks like I might best like a new or used F500. Thanks for the input!

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Solid choice.