Ideas for a small fireplace opening

[Northwoods]

Hello!
First post here, I'm just looking for advice on what options I may have for fitting a wood burning insert or free standing stove inside a fireplace opening that is 22"w x 27"h x 18"d. I've searched all over the internet and this forum and so far don't have any options. My house is 1,400 sq. ft., two story 1920's house with a central fireplace in the living room. This would be a supplemental heat source to our oil fired boiler and old cast iron radiators. Thanks for any ideas you may have!

 

[mellow]

A picture would help, some inserts can sit more on the hearth.

 

[mellow]

I would extend the hearth and put a freestanding rear vent stove in front of the fireplace, that 27" height will be tight but I think you could fit a Woodstock Keystone or Fireview in front of that.

 

[begreen]

For all that brick that is a small fireplace. I like the idea of a Woodstock stove there.

 

[Sprinter]

That central location is ideal and the masonry will be nice in soaking up the heat and radiating off later. The suggestions above sound good for your area especially if it's only supplementary. Depending on the tightness and insulation value of the house, a well chosen stove may surprise you at how well it performs.

 

[weatherguy]

I think your best bet, and probably only bet is to put a rear vent free stander, don't think there' any inserts for that odd opening, usually it wider than higher. Check the clearance needed for the Woodstocks mentioned above, I think you can fit either one.