I would like to place a wood stove in my fireplace. I have already run a stainless-steel liner down the old masonry chimney, and now it's time to buy a stove. I was looking at a Lopi, which I hear is a good stove, but it costs $1700. Then I saw a Century at my local Menard's for $895, and it looks pretty good, but some comments about that brand on this forum were not glowing (pun intended). Should I spend the big bucks for the Lopi, or get the Century and pocket the change? I would use the stove only on weekends and some nights to supplement my natural gas, forced-air system. I want a stove that is made to last, efficient, and easy to operate.

-- Bill Krier (bkrier@mdp.com), February 18, 2002

Answers

I was in your situation about 17 years ago. I opted for the cheaper look alike stove at menards. Cussed myself till the day I sold it. It was a pain to get going, generated a lot of creosote, and hurt like hell every time I kicked it. I then bought a Lopi and found out what a well engineered, heavy duty stove was like. Have had Lopis ever since. Liked them so much that I'm glad to say I've been selling and installing them for the past several years. There are some other good brands out there, but don't just listen to some salesman ;). Check with people that have had them for some time. Just a few plusses that I see in the Lopis. The bypass damper, which makes starting a cold stove much easier as well as not spilling smoke into the room, is my favorite feature. Next is the air wash system which does a very effective job of keeping the glass clean. Of course thats just my opinion. good luck Bill

-- jz (oz49us@yahoo.com), February 18, 2002.