Wood burning insert question

[berrley]

We need help deciding what kind of insert to buy for our fireplace. We are on a budget and have enough money to either purchase a new lower-end insert from a place like Northern Tool or we could buy a used Buck or other quality brand off of Craigslist. Which route should we go and if we buy used, does anyone have any advice about what we should look for in an insert? Thanks.

[ace admirer]

in a used one: good blower, look for heat/stress cracks at flue exit, and at corners of door frame, seal around (easily replaced) any area that could leak from the fire box into the blower/heated air passages, rust from a damp or wet fire place.

ours was purchased used.

[Country Lady]

I'd have to get DH to chime in about what to look for, but we have a Buck insert we bought almost 6 years ago. I love that thing!! It's one of the larger ones that says it'll heat something like 2500 sq.ft. Our home is 2350 and it does a good job. When it's extremely cold, then we have to give it a little help with the central heat, but that is seldom. Our fireplace is in the center of the house with all bedrooms off the main living area, so heat doesn't have to go down hallways. Our bedroom is nice and cool for sleeping. Did I mention that I love it?

[ai731]

We've got a Pacific Energy insert, and love it. Burns *very* clean, heats well. I'd go for a good quality second-hand (well inspected) over a cheaper brand new... Especially on an insert where you can't necessarily see cracks or buckles in the metal once it's installed and running...

[Batt]

We have a Buck insert and love it. As stated, look for existing warp-age and cracks (most of which can be welded, but is a good bargaining chip.). Make sure the blower works...it will run if on, otherwise it is thermostat controlled and will not run at room temperature. Check the glass and seals. Best of luck!!