I have the benefit of being able to base my opinions on the previous insert (smaller Lopi) It used to be able to cook you out of the living room. I am trying to get the VC to do the same, as it fits the space better, has a larger fire box, looks nicer, and I dont have the Lopi anymore.
My VC Montpelier dosnt seam to get as hot as the Lopi. I was burning some of the left over wood, mixed with some semi-seasoned stuff. I installed it using the same liner, but with out a block off plate. I did notice that changing to dry cut up palate wood last year made a difference in heat output, but not significantly.
The VC was bought lightly used, then I used it all last year. After doing the "dollar bill gasket test" proved that the gasket is marginal, I can pull the dollar through but with some resistance. With nice dry wood the glass stays clean. I have tightened up the handle a bit also, if I snug it up too much its almost impossible to close! I think the gasket has gotten compressed to the point of being flattened out.
My plan of attack is:
Build a block off plate using 1/8in steel and insulation over the top.
Replace the door gasket.
Is there anything else I should look for anything else I can do? I also noticed that the damper on the top can be almost completely closed and the fire still burns quite bright. Should I disassemble the stove and look for an air leak??
My VC Montpelier dosnt seam to get as hot as the Lopi. I was burning some of the left over wood, mixed with some semi-seasoned stuff. I installed it using the same liner, but with out a block off plate. I did notice that changing to dry cut up palate wood last year made a difference in heat output, but not significantly.
The VC was bought lightly used, then I used it all last year. After doing the "dollar bill gasket test" proved that the gasket is marginal, I can pull the dollar through but with some resistance. With nice dry wood the glass stays clean. I have tightened up the handle a bit also, if I snug it up too much its almost impossible to close! I think the gasket has gotten compressed to the point of being flattened out.
My plan of attack is:
Build a block off plate using 1/8in steel and insulation over the top.
Replace the door gasket.
Is there anything else I should look for anything else I can do? I also noticed that the damper on the top can be almost completely closed and the fire still burns quite bright. Should I disassemble the stove and look for an air leak??