Simpson Duravent Pro or ICC Excel Pelletvent? (PICS)

Rich, I have an Enviro M55, corner installation, through the wall install with DuraventPro. The install was botched, done without an adapter. I spent last winter taping and sealing the pipe to keep the smoke from leaking out. I wasn't impressed with the design of the DuraventPro. To be fair, though, it wasn't done right.

However, the twist lock system of the Duravent is very hard to twist and lock, especially if you have to pull apart to do maintenance and repair. I was on the floor many times fighting with the thing.

In a few weeks i will redo the install with ICC Excel. No twist lock, just screws. Hope it is better.

Good luck.

I have no direct experience with the duravent, but for me the excell vent has been flawless. It never leaks and remains easy to take apart. Mike -

I never quoted a T as I don't plan on using one, but I did quote an ICC Excel adapter, elbow, pipe and termination cap a few months back, and I got the impression it was like 40% more expensive than DuraVentPro.

But for ICC you have to shop different dealers because they don't sell retail online, so you pay a bit more on that front.

Rich,

I did both of my installs with Excel. The first install I did 3 years ago that way because I felt I didn't know what I was doing and therefore needed the edge. The next install I did 2 years ago with Duravent Pelletvent (not the Pro) and it was a disaster. I had leaks all over the place and could never get it right. I took a bath on it, compared the DuraventPro to my Excel and concluded it just wasn't worth it particularly since the total parts cost differential was only around $100. The Excel has a thick replaceable seal, no twist lock, laser welded seams, and depending on the install you may not even need the screws. I've taken mine apart several times and am still impressed with the quality.

I don't recall prices but I recall my first install not being more than $400-500, and it was many more pieces than you need. I should think you can do it for less than $400.

One tip I will offer: if you buy the Excel ask for extra screws. They are small than what you can find in a hardware store. The dealer should oblige no problem.

I have the duravent, and it does leak (I caulk the seams) and it can be a pain in the butt to take apart. I've had a lot of trouble in the past with the clean out at the bottom getting stuck. I ended up using a car oil filter removel tool to get it off.