Review of Vermont Castings --- dutchwest federal large -- Freestanding Stove burning Wood only

Review of Vermont Castings --- dutchwest federal large -- Freestanding Stove burning Wood only
Installation Type: Wood/Coal - into masonry chimney
Date Reviewed: prior to Nov. 2004*)

Satisfaction Ratings from 5 stars (best) to 1 star (worst)
Satisfaction with unit = ✰✰
Satisfaction with dealer =
Satisfaction with manufacturer = ✰✰✰✰

Other Information about the Home and Stove
Room Size (Sq ft): 700 | House Size (Sq feet): 1000
Bought in 1995 , Price Paid:
Location : hammondsport, ny 14840, usa
Purchased from: Fireplace Retail Store -

Likes: puts out good heat when catalytic converter is operating, relatively inexpensive

Dislikes: when catalytic converter is not operating (not needed in warmer conditions) it: frequently leaked smoke into the house, created major soot build-up, stained window; ash pan too small; awkward to use for heating items on top; workmanship not good enough to keep smoke from leaking, even after replacing warped door; not enough heat in coldest conditions

Comments: after my experience with stoves that use catalytic converters, I would never buy one again... they are too difficult to adapt to differing weather conditioons and too complicated to use efficiently

* Dates that reviews were submitted were not recorded prior to Nov. 2004