What a wood stove insert does
A wood stove insert is a self-contained firebox that slides into an existing masonry fireplace. The insert seals the fireplace opening, drafts through a stainless steel flue liner up the existing chimney, and delivers EPA-certified clean combustion instead of the heat-loss and creosote risk of an open fireplace. Inserts retain the look of the fireplace while converting it into a primary heat source.
Which fireplaces these inserts fit
Both Buck Stove inserts have minimum interior masonry fireplace dimensions: the Buck Stove Model 91 catalytic requires a fireplace at least 31-3/4 inches wide by 23-1/2 inches high by 15-1/2 inches deep. The Buck Stove Model 21 non-catalytic fits smaller fireplaces with minimum 23-1/8 inches wide by 21 inches high by 15 inches deep, and is also approved for use in specified pre-fabricated zero-clearance fireplaces. Measure the inside of the fireplace before ordering.
Insert or freestanding
Both Buck Stove models in this collection install as either a masonry fireplace insert or as a freestanding stove with the appropriate leg or pedestal kit. The same stove serves either configuration; you choose at installation. The Model 91 ships with a factory-installed blower and a 4.4 cu ft firebox that heats 1,800 to 3,200 sq ft. The Model 21 ships with a blower as standard and a 1.6 cu ft firebox that heats 800 to 1,800 sq ft.
Catalytic vs non-catalytic
The Model 91 uses a three-cell ceramic catalyst combustor that ignites smoke at 700 to 900 degrees Fahrenheit, delivering 1.2 g/hr emissions and the longest sustained burns. The Model 21 uses three stainless steel secondary air tubes for clean combustion with no catalyst to replace over time. See the Buck Stove comparison guide for the full side-by-side.
FAQ
What size fireplace fits a wood stove insert? The Model 21 needs a fireplace at least 23-1/8 inches wide by 21 inches high by 15 inches deep. The Model 91 needs at least 31-3/4 inches wide by 23-1/2 inches high by 15-1/2 inches deep.
Do wood stove inserts need a flue liner? Yes. Both Buck Stove inserts require a stainless steel flue liner that runs the full length of the existing chimney. The liner is part of the insert installation kit.
Can a wood stove insert be installed in a pre-fab fireplace? The Model 21 is approved for specified pre-fabricated zero-clearance fireplaces per the manual. The Model 91 is not designed for zero-clearance or pre-fabricated fireplaces.
Is professional installation required? Yes. Insert installation involves chimney evaluation, flue liner installation, and clearance verification. Both Buck Stove owner's manuals require professional installation by a qualified hearth installer.
Browse related collections: All Stoves · Wood Stove Inserts · Small Wood Stoves · Large Wood Stoves · Catalytic Wood Stoves · Non-Catalytic Wood Stoves · Mobile Home Approved.
