VC Montpelier in a ZC Superior BR42

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RSNovi

Feeling the Heat
May 12, 2010
421
Michigan
I went to a couple of stove dealers today to discuss installing a wood insert in my prefab ZC Superior BR42. One dealer mentioned that they might be able to get a VC Montpelier in there but it would be tight.

I currently have a Jotul 500 stove in my basement and really like that stove. The jotul c350 insert is really small and the 450 won't fit. I wish I could stick with jotul.

Anyone run the Montpelier in a ZC? Seems like there are mixed opinions on VC these days.

Any other suggestions for a cast iron faced wood insert. My dimensions are:
36" wide front
24" wide rear
17.25" deep
21.5" tall if I trim some of the front lip off

I would just be going for some supplemental heat for the first floor of my house which is about 1200 sq ft. Really only care about 900 sq ft open area. Thanks.
 
From the Montpelier Manual:

"The Montpelier Medium Insert is listed for installation within a properly built masonry or heat circulating, masonry-type fireplace that is constructed in accordance with the requirements of recognized building codes. A heat-circulating masonry-type fireplace must conform to building code standards for masonry fireplaces, and must consist of a factory-built metal firebox with air circulation pathways that are surrounded by masonry materials. Air circulation pathways must not be blocked by the insert or surround panels.

The fireplace and chimney must be clean and structurally sound. Have them inspected by a qualified professional chimney sweep, a mason, or your Vermont Castings’ Authorized Dealer before the Montpelier Medium Insert is installed. Any deterioration (cracks, loose mortar or loose bricks) must be repaired.

Codes may permit removal of the damper in order to make a positive vent connection between the firebox and the chimney. However, the fireplace should not be modified in any way without first checking with your local building inspector or fire marshal. Provision should be made to restore the fireplace to its original condition if the insert is removed. Do not remove bricks or mortar that may jeopardize the compliance of the fireplace with local building codes.

The Montpelier Medium Insert is not listed for installation in factory-built fireplaces."

Make sure before you install that your installation complies with VC's requirements. There are other inserts that are specifically approved for installation in a ZC fireplace.

KaptJaq
 
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Well, it's a non-cat stove with burn tubes. So, that eliminates the majority of the problems associated with VC stoves. There is no cat, no assembly, no Everburn fountain assembly, no need to replace gaskets due to dampers and accessing the cat.

That right there are the big hurdles to overcome as you eliminate the high maintenance costs and upkeep associated with VC stoves. Which means this stove should be no different than buying any other non-cat insert.

I do remember people having issues with the blower and blower noise. But, I think those issues were resolved. For a "smaller" stove, it seems nice that it allows for 22" splits.

If you are limited in what you can fit in that area, I would be sure the blower issue is resolved, or confirm with your dealer that it is a possible known problem and that he will not leave you high and dry if you feel the blower needs to be replaced. If you can nail that down, you risk is minimal and probably no different than the risk you would take buying any other insert.
 
It does seem like only masonry fireplaces are suitable. That VC would have been a real nice size.
 
I do remember people having issues with the blower and blower noise. But, I think those issues were resolved. For a "smaller" stove, it seems nice that it allows for 22" splits.

VC redesigned the blower assembly. The blowers on the newer units are much quieter out of the box than the original design. The older units can be tweaked with a little gasket material to stop the vibration and noise.

Even so, I don't think the Montpelier fits the original poster's needs.

KaptJaq
 
Thanks guys. I started a new thread asking more general questions about my situation. Thanks for helping set me straight on some misinformation.
 
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