Hi there! I've been anonymously reading for a few weeks now in an effort to fully research buying the proper stove or insert for our home.
We have an old (1847) home and are looking at taking some heat (pun intended!) off of our yearly propane costs by installing a freestanding or insert stove. The house is 1,750 square feet located in central Virginia. It's also very poorly insulated in the original rooms. I've already spoken with a local chimney company who has explained the need to have a 6" liner installed.
Our fireplace measures as follows:
Opening - 39.5"w 34.5"h 17"d
Hearth extension - 24.5"
Cement surround - 6" on sides
Center line to mantel trim - 26"
From reading this thread I've gathered that freestanding stoves are more efficient for a variety of reasons, but I haven't had any luck determining whether or not our fireplace is suited for it.
Should we stick with an insert? I've also had a hard time find any faceplates that will fit our opening. Any guidance on brands, models, etc. would be a life saver! I've included a photo of our fireplace.
We have an old (1847) home and are looking at taking some heat (pun intended!) off of our yearly propane costs by installing a freestanding or insert stove. The house is 1,750 square feet located in central Virginia. It's also very poorly insulated in the original rooms. I've already spoken with a local chimney company who has explained the need to have a 6" liner installed.
Our fireplace measures as follows:
Opening - 39.5"w 34.5"h 17"d
Hearth extension - 24.5"
Cement surround - 6" on sides
Center line to mantel trim - 26"
From reading this thread I've gathered that freestanding stoves are more efficient for a variety of reasons, but I haven't had any luck determining whether or not our fireplace is suited for it.
Should we stick with an insert? I've also had a hard time find any faceplates that will fit our opening. Any guidance on brands, models, etc. would be a life saver! I've included a photo of our fireplace.