will this gas fireplace [Regency B36XTE] fit in my existing opening?

[redwood78]

I am in the process of removing my current wood burning zero clearance fireplace to put in a ng fireplace. My goal is to get a mid-range unit in the 30,000 btu range (give or take 5,000 btu) to go into the existing opening without modification. My dimensions are 39" wide and 33" high. Depth I am not certain of but I don't think depth will be a problem. I went to a local Regency dealer after narrowing down my choices online to possibly the Regency 36D or Regency B36XTE. The 36D lists as being 36" wide and 30.5" high. That would obviously fit pretty well although it would leave a gap in the height measurement (which I assume can be filled or covered with a frame or surround). The B36XTE lists as being 36" wide and 35.25" high. So the width is ok but its 2.25" taller than the opening. I tracked down the manual to my existing Superior Fireplace unit and the listed height on my current unit is 34.5". So the Regency B36XTE is really only .75 inches taller than my current unit it appears. [Manual pages are attached]. It seems like my current zcf is sitting just behind the brick, and so it works even though it's taller than the opening, if that makes sense. I prefer the significantly larger viewing area of the B36XTE over the 36D. And so I'm left wondering..

1) Will the Regency B36XTE fit without modification of the existing opening?
2) If modification is needed, is it a big deal to take out the metal lintel and top course of bricks?
3) Is there another fireplace I should consider? (.. although I really like the Regency B36XTE)

Thank you, and apologies if I'm using incorrect terminology, which I probably am. Any input much appreciated.

 

[DAKSY]

In order to get Either unit in that opening, you're going to have to install from the rear anyway,
as that's the ONLY way to get the ZC woodburner out or there without damaging the brick finish.
Once the old one is out, your ACTUAL opening will be easier to measure.
There may be enough room below the hearth to the sub-floor to give you the height you need.
If there isn't, you may be able to remove enough of the sub-floor & replace it with a thinner piece
of plywood in order to get the dimensions you need.
You just need to ensure that you can get the front of the gas unit open to access the valve cavity.

 

[redwood78]

Thanks for the response. The rear of the fireplace is wood frame and stucco. Going through that is gonna be a problem i would think. I am actually working on getting the current zcf out from the front, but its rather slow going.

 

[redwood78]

Progress