Request some opinions/advice re alternatives for our existing fireplace which lives in an imposing rock wall in our family room.
A recent insurance survey identified that the open grate fireplace with a hanging metal curtain in front of it, should have an 18 inch hearth in front of it. The 22 inch high and 23 inch wide fireplace opening is about 12 inches up from the floor with a rock 'lip' projecting about 8 inches. We do have a semi-non combustible plastic shield laid on the carpet in front of it, which has prevented ash and cinders melting the floor carpet. The 'damper' originally operated by a turn-screw device has rotted away over some 25 years. The flue is presently blocked to prevent heat loss. The fireplace chimney has a 6 by 8 inch rectangular masonry flue in good condition. Such a fireplace while cheery when it was used is very inefficient and creates dirt/ashes and heat loss etc. There is no possibility of an ash dump because the back of the chimney is in a storeroom with same floor level. Chimney construction also provides a separate 6 inch by 6 inch flue which goes further down and is connected to a wood stove in the basement below this room. Insurance has approved that installation.
Alternatives may be;
1) Add hearth 18 inches out at floor level or very slightly above it. Repair or replace damper etc. Continue to burn wood etc.2) Convert by adding a propane gas fireplace insert. This would require a gas line, large gas bottle to be located outside (with certain clearances), with regulator, ice snow protection, access for refilling etc. Also certain regulations may require a different flue and/or a special stainless steel flue liner? Propane heat with the use of the small electric blower in such a fireplace is nice and would add local warmth to the room .
3) Install an electric fireplace. Have never liked these because of their 'artificiality' etc. But since rest of house with exception of the basement wood stove is 'all-electric' anyway it would be easiest to install and with no combustion involved cleanest. While I have the skills to maintain most items electric would probably be simplest (and cheapest) to maintain, myself (aged 70+).4) Although some interesting oil stoves are available fuel becoming more expensive? And the regulatory precautions for oil tank and fuel line are considerable and a concern; insurance against environmental damage would be another ongoing expense. So I omit this option.
Opinions/ideas welcome.