Appalachian Gemini?

[kkesler]

Anyone use these? Not much in the review section.

We currently have a Temco TFC 424 prefab fireplace. Dealer I am currently working with says that although some inserts are approved for prefab, the prefab manufacturers don't approve inserts so he won't install them. He is recommending the Appalachian Gemini zero clearance wood stove to replace my fireplace, which means tearing out the existing fireplace, stone surround, etc..

Opinions?

 

[Shane]

Sounds like he's leaving a lot of money on the table. A EPA rated ZC fireplace is not a bad idea, but is more costly than simply doing an insert. Have you talked with any other dealers?

 

[kkesler]

Not as yet, but I am getting the impression that inserts in prefab fireplaces are not very popular (even prefab rated ones).

I am confused when you say the dealer is leaving money on the table, yet that the new fireplace will be more costly?

 

[Shane]

Money on the table in the sense that many people will not/cannot afford the expense of totally ripping something out and replacing it, but would/could afford to purchase an insert. He is right in saying that many Fireplace manufacturers do not approve inserts being installed into them. Not because it's un-safe but because they have not specifically tested whether it's safe or not, and that process would be quite costly. Our company has installed hundreds of zero clearance fireplace approved wood inserts in the 23 years we've been in business. As long as the insert is installed properly and the zero clearance fireplace is installed properly there should be no problem. The only way I would personally consider taking the ZC out and replacing it all together would be if the inserts available that would fit in your existing ZC were not large enough to heat the desired area, or if you like the looks of a new ZC over an insert look. Also check with your local AHJ ask them about the requirements for your specific area.

 

[kkesler]

Do you (or anyone else) have any experience placing inserts in the Temco I listed? I would really rather not spend the money to have the entire fireplace redone.

 

[kkesler]

Well, I have called some more dealers and none will install an insert without blessing from Temco. So what is out there that is similar to the Applachian?

 

[Shane]

Fireplace Xtrordinair, Vermont Castings Sequoia and Sequoia II, Quadrafire, RSF. I know there's a few others as well. I sell the Fireplace Xtrordinair and can vouch for their quality. I haven't sold the Sequoia or SequoiaII yet but have seen them at the show and they're a quality unit as well. Quad and RSF are two other brands that I don't sell that seem to have satisfied owners too.

 

[kkesler]

Thanks!

 

[DavidV]

I currently burn an appalachian stove. Like it a lot. But I got mine used for cheap. I imagine anything that let me heat the house cheaply would make me happy.

David

 

[WoodTick007]

I have a gemini xl and love it...its an incredible heating unit, The people are Appalachian are great If you have any questions call and speak to Janet or Craig. I use mine to heat my 1400spft home no problem.... Last year my furnace was NEVER turned on...LOL

 

[kkesler]

Ended up getting a RSF Onyx installed. It has a blower in the unit and another that blows through ductwork to the bedrooms with a thermostat in the master. Once it gets cold we shall see it works.