Installing Wonderluxe Dual Fuel stove in front of fireplace.

[FarmerBobby]

Hello everyone, new member here. I’m great at doing the actual handiwork, but not that well knowledgeable on the technical side. My father was a chimney mason for over 20 years, but he recently passed and I no longer have access to his well of knowledge.
My old fireplace insert was scrapped due to low efficiency and degradation of the firebox. Had a small stove that was just piped up into the chimney for the past few years due to low funds but I am ready to make the proper repair. Came across a great deal on a Wonderluxe stove from a coworker. I will be sweeping the chimney and installing an insulated liner, register plate, cap, etc. My main question is what is the optimal placement for this stove in this situation? I’m going to have to extend the hearth so the stove isn’t up against the face of the chimney so I can access the dampener and have the airflow space for the blower fan. How far away from the face of the chimney do I need to be? If I’m reading the manufacturer’s label properly I need 5 3/4” minimum of hearth space in front of the stove and I have more than enough height from the floor. I know a 90 degree pipe connection is not ideal for airflow yet a lot of people still do so, would 2 45 degree pipe connections make a difference?
I understand this is not the optimal stove for this setup, but it will more than easily heat the house and would rather not try to hunt down a stove that would fit in the fireplace or spend the money on a newer insert. However I am open to all comments, questions and concerns, and if the majority rule that this is not a good idea then I am willing to change plans. Thank you.

 

[FarmerBobby]

 

[kborndale]

Do you plan to burn wood or coal? If you plan on burning wood then I would get a stove that is made for only burning wood. Dual use stoves normally don't burn either fuel all that great. Plus US Stove quality is questionable.

 

[begreen]

It's a popular value stove and an easy to use heater. Ashley has sold thousands of them. It's not the most efficient, but in good condition they are safe and reliable.

It's good that the goal is to make the install safe. The main thing in addition to properly lining the chimney, providing a stable and safe hearth, will be operating it in a safe manner.

Was the stove thoroughly checked out in advance for firebox integrity? Do you know the age of the stove. Typically, they only last about 10 yrs. though some go longer.

For best performance, burn fully seasoned wood and start out with smaller fires when learning to operate the stove.

 

[FarmerBobby]

I do plan on burning just wood. My coworker purchased the stove 7 years ago from Tractor Supply. He said it was more than enough to heat his 2400 sqft house, he switched over to a pellet stove. How would you recommend checking the firebox integrity.

 

[begreen]

With a bright light, closely examine the interior of the firebox for integrity. Pay close attention to any signs of deterioration, cracking, failed welds, etc. If a professional sweep is putting in the insulated liner, have them look at it too.

 

[brenndatomu]

I had one of those...they'll throw some heat! But, aren't the most efficient.
Make sure you have DRY firewood for it (like 2-3 years cut split stacked dry) or it'll creosote up the chimney like nothing else!
Also, make sure you install a manual damper on the stovepipe, these are easy breathers and will try to run away on you, unless you have a very short chimney.
They still make those, but it's an epa approved clean burn version now...my buddy has one and likes it a lot. (He used to have one like yours before too) I have seen some of the newer style for sale on marketplace pretty cheap...but they aren't that expensive when new though either.

 

[brenndatomu]

You mentioned needing to extend the hearth. Generally, you should keep at least 36 inches from the front of the stove to any combustible materials, but this can vary based on the stove's specifications. Ensure you refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the exact clearance requirements.

These are a little different than the average stove, they are side loading "circulators" and are shrouded, kinda like a furnace.