Insert in zc prefab trouble

[4Griffs]

Hello there,
I have a Quadrafire 2700I that was installed into a Heatilator A42R. I had it installed 20 years ago when I bought the house new. Local wood stove company told me back then that the units were compatible. Fast forward to present day. Old chimney sweep company I used for years went out of business. Never had any issues. New chimney sweep company threw a fit when they saw what I have. Deemed it unusable and condemned. Told me everything has to be replaced! Does this sound right? Should I get some second opinions? Thanks in advance.

 

[Brawndo71]

I had an older 1982 Heatilator MF36 fireplace that did not allow an insert. I will have a new high efficiency Osburn fireplace installed next year, needs whole new chimney. Your manual says wood burning inserts are allowed. Have an authorized dealer contact Hearth and Home for more information.

 

[begreen]

Do you have the manual? The A42R manual has a specific section on insert installation requirements:
B. Wood Burning Inserts
WARNING! Risk of Fire! Improper installation of wood inserts may cause fi replace or chimney system to overheat.
If a wood burning insert is being installed in this fi replace, Hearth & Home Technologies recommends full reline of the chimney.
• Cooling air openings at the top of the chimney must not be obstructed in any manner.
• Hearth & Home Technologies recommends securing the reline at the top of the fl ue and using the cap certifi ed for use with this fi replace system

The 2700i manual also has specifics for installing in factory built fireplaces. If the install was done properly then it should be ok.

 

[4Griffs]

Update. Found out my prefab is actually a Heatilator EC36. When the Quadrafire 2700i was installed the liner was not updated to HT liner. So looks like I’ve been playing with fire for a very long time with this setup. Looks like a complete tear out is the next step. Any suggestions on an efficient wood burning direct replacement for the EC36? Or something that would fit the existing chase with a few modifications? I believe this is going to be very costly!
Thanks.

 

[begreen]

I don't find any language that prohibits this installation in the manual. If the insert is connected to a proper flue liner within the fireplace chimney system, then it may be ok.

If the intent is to replace the old ZC fireplace with a modern one, start a new thread that includes pictures of the current fireplace setup and of the chase exterior.

 

[Brawndo71]

I am going with an Osburn Everest II or III for my Heatilator MF36 replacement. Building firewood racks today for the stockpile. Current quote is $17k-20k, depending on new mantle, stonework choice etc.

 

[begreen]

That should definitely increase the heating factor nicely.

 

[4Griffs]

Quick update. I got a second opinion from a certified inspector. He told me after his inspection that my system 100% safe and no problems. The previous guy that told me I needed a full replacement has a reputation for leading homeowners into believing that. Thank you to everyone that helped in your responses to my questions!