Pellet insert possible in a Superior BCF-3885 heat circulating fireplace with optional fan system (t

Hello folks, we've just joined the forum, and want to get a pellet insert or free standing stove.
We have the Superior BCF-3885 fireplace with the metal chimney system enclosed in a wooden box with vinyl siding (yuk!)
This fireplace has vents over the fireplace opening and underneith as well.
This face is supposed to be used with the optional fan system, and there's a switch on the wall next to the fireplace, but it doesn't seem to do anything, it has no effect.
Initially we thought we'd like to get an pellet insert, but after talking to someone at a store in New Hampshire, the fellow said that he would have to cut into that unit, and we're not sure we want that to happen. Especially if there is a fan system back there that just needs a little trouble shooting.
Can anyone tell us if it's possible to install an insert into this kind of fireplace without wrecking it? Any installers that have had experience with this particular unit?
We would like to utilize it if we can get it working, so that in case of a power outtage we could use that to at least keep the temperage up for a longer period of time, if the battery on the pellet stove runs out.

So, now we're leaning towrds a free standing pellet stove, right next to the fireplace. They seem to be $500 cheaper as well.
This store sells Harmon and Winslow stoves. We know that Harmon's are considered very good stoves but this dealer said they're out till January 09! And they want $3,830.! Geez!
I haven't dug up any info on the Winslow "Country P140" insert yet and wondered if anyone has any feedback on that model, or Winslow's in general?

We're also looking for a possible dealer/installer recommendation in our area. We're taking a look at a place called Energy Unlimited, and would like to hear from anyone who has used them. If you drew a circle 30 miles around the rt2 /495 interchange, that's our area.

Thanks, and we love this forum, and hope to get and give help and feedback as we go through trying to ween ourselves off the oil company leeches!
Next project after this is solar hot water. At least there's a tax wite off for these! Not sure for how long though.

Thanks Craig. We're leaning towards the free standing Lopi Yankee at this point, with the duct going up the exhisting Z/Cc himney, Searching the list has provided mostly positive feedback on this unit.
We have different opinions on how high the 4" pipe has to go up the exhisting steel chimney insert.
The dealer we're considering buying the Yankee from says that it only has to go up a few feet.
Another dealer said that "code" says it has to go all the way up to the top. It's approximately 25 feet to the top.
We're not sure if he just doesn't want to put in that much pipe or what? Any ideas? Does Ma code require this?

Also, the second dealer has a pellet stove that we're somewhat intrigued with.
It's made in Quebec. An Enerzone Bio-MF45. They claim to have this unique patented technology they call COMBEX.
A motor on which are mounted two housings with impellers. One for combustion, the other for exhaust.
Anyone ever heard of this?

We're having the exhisting chimney cleaned this thursday afternoon. As far as we know it's never been cleaned.
We only use it 5-10 times a year so we didn't even think about it. I suppose if we have it cleaned and have the new 4" pipe go all the way up, we only have to have that cleaned each year, and the exhisting chimney should stay clean?
If we order the Lopi Yankee this week, the dealer says they'll be in by late September/Early October.

Oh, one more thing. Our chimney sweep said to call Supior and find out if putting the new stove ducting only part way up the Z/C chimney would void the warranty of the fireplace/chimney. At this point we're leaning towards having it go all the way up. Just seems the safest thing to do.

Al