Hello from a woodstove insert noob

[Rylsetter]

Just wanted to say hello, and say thanks to everyone for all the info here. We recently moved here to Western TN from NJ. Our new home has a nice, big masonry fireplace at one end of the house, but it really does little to heat our home. The heat-pump seems to work harder when the fireplace is burning, fairly typical I guess. So, we've made the decision to get an insert. The more I've researched the harder the decision has been on what insert to buy.

I've decided on a LOPI 1750I, with installation in about a week. (wish it was sooner, they're calling for 6 degrees tomorrow night.) The house is 1500+ sq ft, and well insulated. The stove will mainly be used to heat the main living area, about 800sq ft. There's also a 20' hall down to the master bedroom, with the other rooms closed. I'm hoping the 1750 will be ok for this task. I was afraid anything larger would chase us out of the main living area.

I've no real questions yet, just hoping the LOPI is a good choice. All the info I've found here will help as I learn to use the stove. Just hoping I don't have to post in a panic if things get out of hand.

 

[Poindexter]

Beware the closed off bedrooms. You probably want to open those doors at least a couple times a day.

I know beans about inserts, but some kind of fan arrangement to push cold air along the floor from the bedroom towards the sto - insert might be welcome.

 

[Simonkenton]

Most fireplaces are poor heaters, as you know. Good luck with your insert, it will be a massive improvement over your fireplace.

 

[Warm_in_NH]

Welcome. Wish you the best of luck with your new insert.

I'm sure someone will give you the dry wood speech but it really does make a huge difference. Dry wood will make the difference between you loving or being frustrated with your new insert.