New Montpelier wood insert installation question

[TECH 9]

Just had Montpelier wood insert installed. There is a 6in stainless steel liner and is capped at the top of the chimney. Is this the same idea as a chimney plate. The installer said the cap would stop any air from entering the chimney cavity. Is this done right or is this cutting corners? From what I have seen the chimney plate is usually where the flu is? Also does the insert and surround need to be sealed airtight around it or is that why there is a chimney plate to stop drafts? Any advice would be appreciated. Had the 1st fire to cure the paint .... stinky but looked awesome. A little browning on the hinge side of window but glass was mainly clear after the fire burnt down. So far so good

 

[summit]

so is there a block off plate at the top? if so, then in theory it should hold out any cold air, but a plate, and or insy should be installed in the damper area to further prevent such an issue.

 

[YZF1R]

What summit said. Yes, you should also block off and/or insulate above the stove at the old damper area to ensure a dead air space in the chimney and heat not going up it. No, you do not need or really want to seal the insert or surround. I plan to remove the surround at the end or beginning of the heating season or both just to check on the flue connection. (I already have.)

I also have a Montpelier. Used it for a month or month and a half at the end of last season. VC is not well received by most but I like mine. I have well seasoned wood. The stove burns well and once started, the primary air is closed all the way within about a half hour. Vigorous secondary burn, clean glass, lots of heat, etc. I figure I'll stay out of the friendly and constructive arguments on VC here until I have a full season under my belt. Also, I have never burned any other modern stove, so I simply may think my Montpelier is good because I don't know any better. But so far, I'm very happy with it.

Steve

 

[summit]

most people who have bought a montpelier thru our shop likes the insert.. big glass, small louvers, nice looking surrounds, strong fan. easy install w/ the wheels and removeable flue outlet.. but, yes: insulate the damper to achieve the stove zen of which you speak.

 

[TECH 9]

Thanks to all. I will contact the installer and question why that lower plate near the flu was not installed. I will keep you posted.

 

[allhandsworking]

I have had mine threw last year and loved it! My wife thought I was crazy when I installed it but soon fell in love. When I get home she always asks for me to make a fire. I used to burn 650 gals of oil now I burn maybe 150! (2 story insulated 3 bedroom tudor insulated old windows)

My only advice is to have really good seasoned wood and keep your splits smaller than 4" for more heat!

I do have some cracks in the brick liner but this is said to be normal! I have seen it in prefab fireplace so it sounds true! I would have liked the insert better if it had standard fire brick but I guess they were trying to acheve a certain look! Most of the complaits about the insert are from people inexperance and unseasoned wood!