Expert: James Ball - 11/8/2010

Question
Is it possible to hook a woodstove into a fireplace.  The fireplace doesnt throw much heat.  What can I do to put in a wood stove?

Answer
Hello John, you can put a hearth stove or insert into a masonry fireplace (not a PreFab) first you will need a stove that fits and then check with your local building department as to what they require, but in most case's I want to see the stove/insert lined with SS and insulated to the top of the chimney (better installation, efficiency of the stove, less cleaning, safer, easier to clean.
I would have a local Certified Chimney Sweep www.csia.org, (there you can look up by zip code to find one near you) take a first hand look at what you have they should be able to help.
Hope this helps
James