High efficiency replacement for heatilator type insert

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Rb440mike

New Member
Jan 16, 2022
5
Perry, Mi
I’m a new member. I have been lurking on the site for a while and finally have the money for a high efficiency insert. I have not been able to identify my current unit. Just guessing a heatilator. The house was built in 1970 and there is one in the basement and one upstairs. The insert extends out into a block chimney. What I am wondering is if I can install an insert without removing this ? It goes down about 3 inches below the to the bottom of the firebox. There are a couple of heat tubes that go to the upper vent that would need to be cut for the flexible liner. I’m really just trying to get an understanding before I talk to any contractors. My worry is about supporting the new insert at 400ish pounds. Thanks
Mike

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Well now that I figured out it is a superior heatform, the questions about removing the tubes are answered. The remaining question is about the floor of the fireplace being lower than the hearth. Can I just weld up structure to make a new floor for the insert to sit on? I think I will do the install myself. Thanks
 
Well now that I figured out it is a superior heatform, the questions about removing the tubes are answered. The remaining question is about the floor of the fireplace being lower than the hearth. Can I just weld up structure to make a new floor for the insert to sit on? I think I will do the install myself. Thanks
You can just stack bricks as well
 
My Osborn 1700 insert showed up today. Now to figure out the best way to get the liner in. Unfortunately that won’t be here until next week. I have a question on removing the center tube from the superior heatform. I can take it out with a saws all or a grinder. Do I need to weld a plate on both sides of where the tube was just in case there is a liner leak? I will definitely put a plate inside the heat vent up top I just don’t know how well it needs to be sealed. Welding over the back of the tube way up in the fire place will be rough. I bought a liner that is oval for 4 ft to hopefully get through that area as it’s only about 5 1/2 inches wide. Any advise would be greatly appreciated.

Mike
 
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