BIS 1.0 Help

[PacNW_Newbie]

I bought a house with a BIS 1.0 fireplace insert. I am new to the Pacific NW and heating with any kind of wood stove. I am having a chimney sweep come to have a look at things this week, but I have a few questions in the meantime.

1. Google results say that a wood stove lifespan is 10-20 years. Mine is likely around 30 years old. Could it still be viable and safe for heating my 1400 sqft home?
2. Are Homefire Prest Logs safe to burn in a BIS 1.0? These logs seem quite popular here. They don't contain wax or chemicals, just compressed sawdust. They are very low moisture (2%) and burn long and hot (8,626 BTU per lb). The manual says to avoid construction materials like pressed wood or plywood, as intense firing can overheat and damage the firebox. It recommends seasoned hardwoods of 15-20% moisture content. Anyone have experience with these logs in an older fireplace insert?

Thanks for any advice!

 

[begreen]

Yes, and yes. The fireplace may pass inspection and be safe to burn, especially if it was lightly used by the previous owners.
HomeFires are a good solid fuel. If the fireplace is in good working condition, then burning 4 at a time should be ok. Place them Lincoln log style, 2 on the bottom loaded N/S with a 2" gap between them and 2 on top loaded E/W at 90º with a 1" gap between them. Light with a good starter like 1/4 of a SuperCedar puck in the middle gap between the 2 lower logs and the upper logs.

 

[PacNW_Newbie]

Yes, and yes. The fireplace may pass inspection and be safe to burn, especially if it was lightly used by the previous owners.
HomeFires are a good solid fuel. If the fireplace is in good working condition, then burning 4 at a time should be ok. Place them Lincoln log style, 2 on the bottom loaded N/S with a 2" gap between them and 2 on top loaded E/W at 90º with a 1" gap between them. Light with a good starter like 1/4 of a SuperCedar puck in the middle gap between the 2 lower logs and the upper logs.

Thank you for your reply! That's very helpful.