Recomendations on Wood Stove Insert

[Qvist]

Does anyone have any recommendations for an economical way to put an astetically pleaseing wood burning insert or fireplace like a heatilator into this fireplace. House is 1900 square feet and this would be a backup source of heat to lite at low temps. The chimney is clay lined and the fireplace as far as i can tell has never had a fire in it. Damper is still in place. For now I may use the fireplace until I can get an insert if I can repair the damper. The flue is fairly large likely 8x8 square.

 

[Qvist]

22 inches deep, 34 inches wide at the widest and 22.5 inches tall at a minimum at the sides

 

[Qvist]

Would this use case be better off with a zero clearance fireplace or an insert? I am just trying to find a starting point with it.

 

[stovelark]

A medium insert sounds like it would likely fit. Lots of choices out there. Important to find a dealer that you like and trust, plus more importantly an installer you trust. The insert will need a full length liner installed, get a couple of quotes to see what you are getting into. Then there's the good dry seasoned wood that is essential to get as well.