insert vs free standing wood stove

[ichildress]

Hello all! Have been lurking here for several days trying to find info on my question, and just decided to post. I am currently in the market for a wood stove insert or free standing to put into my fireplace. It originally had a cast iron insert that was in horrible shape and I am just lucky I didnt burn the house down. I had that insert pulled out in the Spring. The heated area of my home is small, approx 1100 sqft. I have been looking at the Regency Asheford, and the Blaze King Princess. The biggest "wants" for me are a large window/viewing area, and quiet, thermostat regulated blowers. I am worried about getting a stove that is too big for my house as I don't want to get run out of my living room! The point being, is this why people put free-standing stoves IN their hearth? Bc they are smaller and perhaps better suited to a smaller home? I have seen this done many times, but have never thought to ask why. My hearth is pretty deep so I think one would fit well.... The chimney service I am dealing with is coming September 4th and will certainly ask him as well, but really want to get the ball rolling as I know it can take time to get an insert/stove ordered and shipped. Thanks in advance for your thoughts!!

 

[begreen]

There are advantages to each and there is an aesthetic choice as well. A Blaze King insert would do fine. There is no Regency Ashford. Did you mean the Altera? There is a freestanding BK stove by that name. In noncat, also look at Pacific Energy and Osburn inserts if there is a dealer nearby.

 

[ichildress]

The Ashford is a Blaze king! Sorry. Have looked at so many...

 

[BKVP]

I know once you have an Ashford in that fireplace, the good looking Boxer will sleep much closer to the hearth. Makes me consider the pet contest again....it's been a few years.