Removed stove- Now what??

[Nancy needs fire]

I purchased my 75 yo home last August and was very excited to use the wood stove insert for heat and ambience. Following evaluations by a stove company and chimney sweep, I was told the stove (Enviro)had seen its usable life and was not safe for operation. Yesterday I had it removed. I’d appreciate any suggestions for making use of my fireplace again. I'd consider another insert- either wood stove or traditional wood. Using it as a traditional fireplace, or a gas insert with an open front (more for ambience).

I’ve noticed many pre-owned inserts on Facebook marketplace and am curious how to tell if they’re decent and who to hire for installation.

This is all new to me and I’d be grateful for any direction you could give.

 

[DAKSY]

Depending on how long you plan on remaining in this home, you might want to consider avoiding a used insert, & purchase a new one from a reputable hearthshop

 

[stoveliker]

I would put an insert in rather than using it as a traditional fireplace; the latter leak out a lot of heat when not in use, leading to a net negative heat input to your home (i.e. your other heat will have to work harder over the years).

Was the liner inspected? I see it's not insulated; does it meet 2" clearances from the outside of the brick chimney to any combustible (joist, stud, rafter)? If not, you need an insulated liner for safety (and code).