Russo WI-30?

[klrklr]

Hello.

Newbie here (newbie to the forum, not newbie to FP inserts)...

We have been looking for a used fireplace insert and were hoping to buy either a Buck Stove or a Quadra Fire, both of which we've owned previously. We have found a Russo -- supposedly model WI-30 -- and are just trying to do a bit of homework before pursuing. I have attached photo of this unit, in case the model number or ID is important to providing feedback. The guy who's selling it must not be the original owner, either. He could only find a tag with "Russo" on it but didn't know much else other than dimensions. I sent the photo to Russo, and they said it was a WI-30. This unit does have a blower and is 26" W at the back, 21" H, and 15" deep.

Does anyone have experience with a Russo insert and know whether it's a decent unit? It's not critical that we have an insert, but it would be nice to have help heating the house. Just don't want a junky unit that doesn't perform well.

Thanks,
Karen R.
Arkansas

 

[webbie]

Russos are good stoves - that is a pretty nice unit at the right price......

 

[klrklr]

Thanks for the fast response, Craig. The guy is asking $500. Any idea when this unit was made (generally)? We haven't seen it in person yet, but it looks like it might have been painted. We'll have to give it a serious once-over, of course. I don't really care for the curlique design in the viewing window but could probably live with it. Do you happen to know whether this is a non-cat unit?

Thx again.
Karen

 

[webbie]

I'd have to guess about 1987-88

If I had to guess, I would say that it had an optional cat - maybe a cartridge that went into it. It was right before the EPA made it mandatory.