Insert VS free standing

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Burning Hunk
Hearth Supporter
Dec 9, 2010
109
IL
I have a nice fireplace but want to get more efficient heat. I thought about an insert but I like the free standing stoves better. My fireplace won't house a very big insert and I have a 2700 sq' house. Has anyone ever put a free standing stove in front of their fireplace? Looking at different stoves it looks like I would have to knock a hole in my brick to get the stove pipe in the chimney cavity. Any ideas or opinions would be appreciated.

Matt
 
upload_2017-12-8_16-26-52.png

Like that?

You're going to have more issues with clearances, both height of stove fitting, distance to mantel and hearth in front of the stove. It's tough and will take awhile to find the right stove and may still need some re-construction.

Best bet is to find a rear exit chimney stove.

upload_2017-12-8_16-28-52.png
 
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There is an any mantle except for the piece on the very top. It’s all brick . Thanks for the pictures, that gives me something to look for .

Matt
 
Look for a rear ven stoves. Like Woodstock makes some and the are very pretty also have a great reputation around here.
 
My pic in my avatar.
 
I have a nice fireplace but want to get more efficient heat. I thought about an insert but I like the free standing stoves better. My fireplace won't house a very big insert and I have a 2700 sq' house. Has anyone ever put a free standing stove in front of their fireplace? Looking at different stoves it looks like I would have to knock a hole in my brick to get the stove pipe in the chimney cavity. Any ideas or opinions would be appreciated.

Matt
A picture or two of the existing setup will help us see what you are seeing. If you can add or supply the dimensions that also helps a lot.