New house we are buying with VC insert

[Tracks74]

We have an accepted offer on a new home with a Vermont Castings Montpelier insert. My goal is to heat the 1800 sq foot home with wood primarily. The VC is non-catalytic and I assume is undersized and short burn times.
Given the dimensions, do you all have an insert you would recommend or would you you remodel the brick work for a catalytic stove?
Pics if the fireplace are from the home listing below.

 

[begreen]

It might be worth trying the VC insert a try for a season to see how it works out. If the house is well insulated it might be ok. If looking for a replacement we need the fireplace opening and rear dimensions plus the depth. No need to change the brickwork for a cat or non-cat stove.

 

[Tracks74]

Sounds good BG. I know I have time on my side. House comes with 3+ cords of precut/split wood and time to experiment.

 

[begreen]

Sweet. It's a good looking insert.

 

[weatherguy]

My friend has that stove and his house about the same square footage though it's a two story home. It does most of the heating and he loves it, it's also a nice looking stove.

 

[kennyp2339]

It maybe worth pulling the outside cover to see if there's a block off plate installed, and what type of liner system you have, also an inspection of the chimney / liner and unit is a must before burning.

 

[KaptJaq]

I burn the VC Montpelier in a ranch that has about 1,800 sf on the main floor. It keeps the LR, DR, kitchen, & study in the low 70s, the 3 BRs in the mid to upper 60s. My ceiling insulation is pretty good, the walls are 60 years old and settled. I have an internal chimney with insulation above the heated area. The insert gives me good 6 hour burns and enough embers to restart up to 8 hours. That is with 3 yr seasoned red oak well packed. I have a second stove in the walkout basement that I use on really cold spells or when we are using the family room down there.

I'm quessing that your climate is a little colder than mine so a lot will depend on the insulation.

If you have questions about the insert let me know.

KaptJaq

 

[Tracks74]

Thanks for the feedback everyone!