I have done a lot of research the last two weeks (and browsing this site!) to determine what I should install in my existing fireplace and looking for any advice. This would be primarily used as supplemental heating to try and offset some oil usage (maybe 1-2 cords per season?).
My home is a 1400 sq.ft. ranch with a central fireplace that cannot be used right now. Consulted with local chimney sweep and suggested a wood insert because it's less reliant on moving parts. Some friends + family suggest pellet insert due to easier accessibility (pour a bag, set thermostat), so that's appealing. Is the maintenance for pellet inserts more or less than wood inserts? I've read about scraping burn pots and emptying ash pans, but what about the bigger cleanings?
I would be always be buying wood since I don't have a ton of time with a young baby, but also looking into North Idaho energy logs to store in my garage (pallet = $550) or even Envi blocks. Time spent processing wood is a factor for now; I have a wooded back yard that I could go gather wood to add to bought piles. I understand purchased wood will need to dry properly, hence buying NIEL's for the first year.
Fireplace dimensions: 35" W x 29" H x 23"D
Chimney rep has a Regency manufacturer so I was looking into the I2450 or I2500.
Thanks in advance!
My home is a 1400 sq.ft. ranch with a central fireplace that cannot be used right now. Consulted with local chimney sweep and suggested a wood insert because it's less reliant on moving parts. Some friends + family suggest pellet insert due to easier accessibility (pour a bag, set thermostat), so that's appealing. Is the maintenance for pellet inserts more or less than wood inserts? I've read about scraping burn pots and emptying ash pans, but what about the bigger cleanings?
I would be always be buying wood since I don't have a ton of time with a young baby, but also looking into North Idaho energy logs to store in my garage (pallet = $550) or even Envi blocks. Time spent processing wood is a factor for now; I have a wooded back yard that I could go gather wood to add to bought piles. I understand purchased wood will need to dry properly, hence buying NIEL's for the first year.
Fireplace dimensions: 35" W x 29" H x 23"D
Chimney rep has a Regency manufacturer so I was looking into the I2450 or I2500.
Thanks in advance!