Coal Stoves: Solid Fuel Fireplace Insert

Reviewed by:
The Old House Web

This coal burning fireplace insert has the heating capacity of a coal stove without the bulk and wide clearances required by freestanding models.

Trimmed in brass and available in many color and decorative tile combinations, this insert is a welcome (and warm) addition to your fireplace. The heavy cast iron doors have a large viewing area. With the capacity to heat 2,000 square feet of living space, this stove can be your primary heating source.

The one-piece, 1/4" thick steel body is surrounded by an air jacket that captures otherwise lost heat and forces it into your living space with two powerful blowers.

The firebox can generate up to 80,000 BTUs and burn untended for 24 hours. As with all coal stoves, it required periodic shaking down and emptying of ashes.

Harman Stove does not sell directly to the public, but it's Web site lists dealers throughout North America. Expect to pay $1,500 to $3,000 for coal stoves of this quality (September 2005).

Name: Magnafire Series Coal Stove Elite Insert.

Fuel: Pea, nut and stove-size coal.

Flue size: 7 inches (oval)

Weight: 560 lbs

Dimensions: 27-3/4" deep x 34-9/16" high x 48-1/4" wide.

Height to top of flue: 23-3/4".

Front clearance required: 16".