Ambiance Elegance 36 to Replace Contractor Prefab?

[sammich]

Hi everyone, first time posting here. Getting right to it, we bought a house last year with a pre-fab fireplace and we’re looking for a replacement upgrade to serve as a primary heat source for that level of the home (about 1500 sq/ft).

We were considering pulling this whole hearth down and building an alcove in its place for a wood stove because we figured that was the “correct” answer for heat, but the local shops have actually recommended we replace this with a modern wood-burning fireplace insert to keep cost and work scope manageable. The existing chase is relatively narrow so they’ve recommended an Ambiance Elegance 36 for this application rather than a larger unit. Of course if we go this route we’ll also be replacing all venting, adding metal studs, and replacing existing drywall and combustibles with cement board.

The shop swears these Ambiance units are a good solution for us but I always do my own research. Unfortunately I haven’t been able to find very much online for reviews of Ambiance fireplaces in terms of heating effectiveness and day to day use, so I’m curious if anyone here can share their knowledge or experiences with them.

Final notes…I’m on 5 acres of heavily wooded firs and pines and we don’t have gas installed in the home, so that conversion isn’t a consideration. Thanks in advance!

 

[begreen]

Welcome. A complete replacement with a modern, efficient EPA Zero Clearance fireplace is definitely an option, though not inexpensive. There are many good choices available from RSF, Pacific Energy, Valcourt, Ambiance, FPX, etc. The wide choice of manufacturers provides a wide choice in firebox design, features, and aesthetics.

Supreme's fireplaces are less commonly reported here, but there are several postings.. Search on "Ambiance Elegance" and you will find threads on this ZC fireplace.

An EPA fireplace or stove will need additional height to draft properly at high altitude. What is the location's altitude and about how tall is the existing flue system on the current fireplace?

There are also a lot of threads on alcove installations. This requires good planning, but it's definitely an option. Note that whatever the choice, fully seasoned wood is necessary for a good burning stove or fireplace.