I'm in the process of deciding which high efficiency, zero clearance fireplace to buy. From what I've read on this forum, it seems almost everyone really likes both Fireplace Extrordinair as a company and the FPX Elite units specifically, especially the big 44 Elite model. These are catalyst models and apparently really put out the heat.
So I concentrated my research on these models and went to the local showroom to see the Elite 36, which is sized a little better for my needs than the 44. After looking at the 36, it really does look like a nice unit and appears to be of good quality. However, after reading the sales brochure, I notice it says the Elite has a 7 year material and workmanship warranty and a 2 year warranty on "all parts, electronic and labor." I can understand only covering labor for 2 years, but the 7 year warranty on parts and workmanship seems really skimpy. Don't many of the reputable ZC fireplace manufacturers provide at least a 20 year warranty and many even lifetime? I understand that the catalyst is not included and will need to be replaced about every 5 years as a part of normal operation. And I can accept that the fan motor or possibly some of the electronics may go out in less than 10 years, but I expect any fireplace I choose to last well over 20 years without mechanical parts breaking on it. Is this an unrealistic expectation? What is the consensus on a warranty of this nature when compared to other brands? Any input appreciated...
So I concentrated my research on these models and went to the local showroom to see the Elite 36, which is sized a little better for my needs than the 44. After looking at the 36, it really does look like a nice unit and appears to be of good quality. However, after reading the sales brochure, I notice it says the Elite has a 7 year material and workmanship warranty and a 2 year warranty on "all parts, electronic and labor." I can understand only covering labor for 2 years, but the 7 year warranty on parts and workmanship seems really skimpy. Don't many of the reputable ZC fireplace manufacturers provide at least a 20 year warranty and many even lifetime? I understand that the catalyst is not included and will need to be replaced about every 5 years as a part of normal operation. And I can accept that the fan motor or possibly some of the electronics may go out in less than 10 years, but I expect any fireplace I choose to last well over 20 years without mechanical parts breaking on it. Is this an unrealistic expectation? What is the consensus on a warranty of this nature when compared to other brands? Any input appreciated...
