RSF Opel Cat question

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blowhard

New Member
Hearth Supporter
Nov 25, 2009
5
AB, Canada
I'm fairly certain I'm going to buy an RSF Opel III, the other choice being a RSF Delta. With the Opel does anyone have experience with the catalytic converter? My understanding is that I'll get less creosote and longer burn times. I have to buy my wood so getting more heat out the wood is important. I'll be burning primarily spruce/pine as harder woods (birch/larch) are double the price. Thanks!
 
My opinion or best educated guess, the only reason RSF offers a cat is because they are required in some areas. According to their literature these units omit less emissions without the cat installed. The fact that no one on this forum has ever admitted to having one (that I can find) I think kinda backs me up on that.
 
I had a chat with tech support at RSF and burnt2perfection was correct. RSF only recommends it for installs that require EPA status. The fireplace actually does burn cleaner without the cat installed! So much for my theory that I could get better overnight burns with the Cat. If my area ever does require EPA status the cat can be installed at a later date thru the firebox.
 
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