90s Insert vs Modern Day Insert

[CptYogi]

So I have a Lopi X96 insert with a new blower that came with my house I purchased in 2022. Newer to the wood stove game, but I've gotten the hang of it. I am contemplating buying a newer insert, non cat, but I am wondering is a new one of comparable or slightly bigger size going to make much of a difference in heating? I know I should get less emissions and possibly longer burn times, but am I really going to notice the difference in heat over that longer burn to justify buying a new stove?

 

[begreen]

The X96 was a decent early secondary burn stove and a solid heater. It's built like a tank. A bigger stove would put out more heat for a longer time, but one of similar size would not make a giant difference assuming the stove is in good shape.

Have the secondary tubes been replaced? I think they were steel in this stove and the replacements are stainless. Check the current tubes for any cracking or sagging.

 

[begreen]

Are power outages frequent in the area? This insert heats pretty well with no blower. That's a plus if outages are common. However, a modern insert with a blower will circulate heat better off the firebox so it may be more efficient in that way.

 

[CptYogi]

Appreciate the info. I will have to check on the secondary tubes. I know the previous owner had replaced them once, as I have the receipt he left for it, but don't know the date offhand. Luckily power outages have only been for a minute or 2 when I've had them.

 

[begreen]

Reading your original posting, it says the insert has a new blower. I didn't know that was an option for this insert.

 

[CptYogi]

In case anyone else comes across, this is the blower I got as the original didn't work. https://fireplaceblowersonline.com/99000123-front-mount-blower-assembly-for-avalon-lopi-stoves/