Wood Insert for Heatilator ZC Fireplace

[Bearcat88]

Hi,

I've been told by two different and well respected local Fireplace shops that one cannot install a wood insert into an existing zero clearance fireplace due to a recent code change. I have a heatilator E36 that's in great shape but provides no heat. Can someone here direct me to where I can find said codes and maybe update me on when this happened and why?

Thanks much.

 

[begreen]

It's an older fireplace that is not intended for extended heating. The newer EL36 does allow for permitted inserts that have been tested to be installed, but I don't find this in the 1998 E36 manual. Did they provide the code changes?

 

[Bearcat88]

They did not provide the code changes, just stated it wasn't allowed at all with any ZC fireplace. And both were kind of cranky about it. The fireplace was installed in 1999. I'm considering just yarding out the old ZC and installing a new one, but not if I can get away with an insert.

 

[bholler]

They did not provide the code changes, just stated it wasn't allowed at all with any ZC fireplace. And both were kind of cranky about it. The fireplace was installed in 1999. I'm considering just yarding out the old ZC and installing a new one, but not if I can get away with an insert.

An insert that will fit into your prefab fireplace if allowed is going to be a very small one and you will still have the drafty zero clearance unit in place. I would recommend either replacement with a high efficiency prefab or convert to an alcove and freestanding stove.

 

[Bearcat88]

I'm getting to that conclusion myself. I redid all the original fake lava rock with cultured stone in 2002 or so and was hoping to not have to tear into it. I suppose I could do a gas insert, that's what they all want to sell me. I just don't care for gas and have access to lots of wood.