This is some of the info I’d like clarification on to see if I’m on the right track regarding these 2 stoves:
1. The Napoleon 1402 insert has a "vortex" system which seems like one of the better non-cat designs. It says it uses 1 lever to regulate "both" primary & secondary air at the same time. It also has a fully lined firebox with 145lbs of firebrick. I think it has a good glass cleaning system?
2. The BK Princess apparently has one of the best cat designs going and a thermostat that controls the burn cycle. It doesn't seem to have side bricks to protect the firebox which seems like it would open it up for damage to the walls? I guess a little dirtier glass. Do all cat stoves function with basically the same success by re-burning all gas & smoke before it leaves the firebox? Are all cats pretty much equal?
-->Can someone tell me how hard each is to get prepared to sweep so that the creosote falls into the firebox? Both seem to stick out on the hearth about the same amount for radiated heat. Both use what I've heard are "the quieter" squirrel type fans, although the Napoleon uses two 200cfm fans as opposed to the Princess which I think uses 2 less powerful fans?
Thanks for your input
1. The Napoleon 1402 insert has a "vortex" system which seems like one of the better non-cat designs. It says it uses 1 lever to regulate "both" primary & secondary air at the same time. It also has a fully lined firebox with 145lbs of firebrick. I think it has a good glass cleaning system?
2. The BK Princess apparently has one of the best cat designs going and a thermostat that controls the burn cycle. It doesn't seem to have side bricks to protect the firebox which seems like it would open it up for damage to the walls? I guess a little dirtier glass. Do all cat stoves function with basically the same success by re-burning all gas & smoke before it leaves the firebox? Are all cats pretty much equal?
-->Can someone tell me how hard each is to get prepared to sweep so that the creosote falls into the firebox? Both seem to stick out on the hearth about the same amount for radiated heat. Both use what I've heard are "the quieter" squirrel type fans, although the Napoleon uses two 200cfm fans as opposed to the Princess which I think uses 2 less powerful fans?
Thanks for your input