Best Flushmount Wood Insert Hybrid-Fyre, Ci2600, Epi 3c

[jonb4270]

Hello, I am new to Hearth.com and am looking for some advice on the best fireplace insert for my situation. Currently I have a large stone fireplace with a propane insert in it. I am looking to convert it to a wood burning appliance. Given the size of the opening(50"wx25"hx25"d) I am looking to get as big of an insert as possible with a large viewing area. If anyone has any experience with a model that would work for this situation it would be greatly appreciated. Also cat vs non cat and benefits of each. I am new to wood burning but will have plenty of space for seasoned wood and plan to keep a couple years in advance after this year.
The models we are currently considering are:
FPX Large Hybrid-Fyre Insert
Napoleon EPI 3c
Regency CI2600
Osburn Matrix
Enerzone Destination
Any other suggestions of similar styles would be appreciated.
Thank you

 

[begreen]

In general you will get better heating performance from a non-flush fireplace. Flush fireplaces need a blower to force convection. If the only choice is flush then at least try to get one with an ashlip. This will help stop ashes from being sucked into the blower and blown around the house. Take a look at the Hearthstone Clydesdale while you are searching.
(broken link removed to http://www.hearthstonestoves.com/store/wood-products/wood-inserts/clydesdale-wood-insert)

Get at least a few cords of wood right now and stack them top covered. If possible find some ash wood for burning this year.

 

[begreen]

There is a long thread on the Regency CI2600 here. https://www.hearth.com/talk/threads...-ci2600-fireplace-insert-risky-costly.132252/ After some initial design changes this is looking like a decent heater. For more info on the FPX also look at threads on its twin brother the Lopi Large flush hybrid.

 

[jonb4270]

Thanks for the advice. We do want flush with a blower for asthetics and as this will be a supplementary heat source for downstairs free standing stove and forced air propane used as little as possible hopefully.

 

[jonb4270]

Here is a picture of the current fireplace for reference.

 

[jeffesonm]

I was very pleased with my Osburn Matrix... it worked great and looked fantastic. I changed to a bigger, freestanding stove since I use it as my primary heat source but I still miss the Osburn.