Help me decide, Osburn Stratford VS Monaco Flame XTD ZC fireplaces.....

[mjstef]

I've read all the thread i can find on these 2 but can't find a comparison. Looking at both of these fireplaces to replace my 2005 Marco (sued out of business) fireplace. Both will fit the hole and both look pretty decent. Here is what i'm seeing.

Osburn Stratford, $2,300
Additional $500 for doors and faceplate.
Weight 424#
75% efficient
Optional: forced air distribution kit
Optional: firescreen to burn with doors open
Comes with fresh air intake
Comes with 176 CFM blower

Monaco Flame, $1,845
Weight 350#
77% efficient
150 CFM blower
Louver kit an upcharge the way it looks. Standard black, $156.00
3 Inch Fresh Air Intake Kit, $48
No forced are dist. kit that i can find.

Really leaning toward the Monaco but looking for input.

 

[begreen]

Looks like there is the forced distribution available for the Flame Monaco and one 176cfm fan. The weight disparity also seems odd. It's best to get the specs from the mfg. website and/or the manual which lists the shipping weight as 438#:
http://www.flame-intl.com/product.aspx?Id=447&CategoId=19

 

[mjstef]

I can replace from the backside on the enclosed porch but one issue is all the rock is going to have to be re-done as i am only 36" tall from the hearth up to the rock and 43" across. (I can make filler plates for the sides.) Trying to see if any others out there are shorter but no luck so far unless i want to spend 6-8K.....

 

[begreen]

That is pretty normal for a replacement. Have to head out now but check measurements on the Pacific Energy fireplaces, like the FP16. Maybe look at RSF too.

 

[mjstef]

Went and re-measured. From my Hearth to the bottom of the rock is 34". From where the old fireplace sits 2" below the Hearth i have 36". Wonder if the Stratford will actually work?? Side filler plates would be easy for me to make......

 

[mjstef]

It looks like i can install the bottom 2" behind the hearth so this will be my new fireplace......