Replies

1. 
   Dan_Wood | Feb 28, 1999 10:23pm | #1

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   I've installed 4 Rumford fireplaces in the last
   3 yrs here on the west coast.All were floor hearth
   combined surround and mantle.Customers are all very happy with the heat produced but mostly just the romance of a smokeless wood fire.

2. 
   Guest_ | Mar 01, 1999 09:37am | #2

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   Sir,

   I have installed a pre-fab Rumford made by Bell
   Fires. It is a zero clearance unit that uses 8"
   solid-pack insulated stainless steel pipe. The
   firebox is lined with about 3" cast refractory
   and employs a stainless steel smoke chamber. All
   the math is done for you, the flue is state of the
   art, and the system allows you to use a chimney
   top damper.

   Superior Clay Corp. manufactures a clay smoke
   chamber/damper kit for all masonry, Rumford fireplaces.
   Again all math is done for you. This system
   employs conventional firebrick and clay flue
   liners.

   There are a lot of books out there that have
   instructions on building a Rumford. I must caution
   you... be prepared for smoke. Rumford builders and
   owners say - "We're having some trouble with
   smoke coming out into the room." I say "No...
   really?"

   Rumfords are really a lot of fun to burn. I have
   one of them myself. If you are truly interested in
   heat and efficiency, I suggest an EPA certified
   zero clearance unit or free standing stove.

   If someone tells you about some oddball high
   efficiency masonry heater etc., make sure you see
   one they've done before you try it yourself. I've
   seen this go wrong quite a few times.

   P.S. I had to shake my head when I saw Norm Abram's mantel
   installation program. He had a Rumford. He had smoke
   stains all over his new stone work. I guess it can
   happen to anybody.

3. 
   MRL | Mar 01, 1999 12:00pm | #3

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   Geoff
   I’ve been a masonry contractor for 25 yrs. Building fireplaces for all of those years. If you would like some information on Rumfords go to http://www.rumford.com, here you will find much info with graphics to give you or your mason enough inspiration to build one that is suited to your circumstances.
   Remember, outside air will provide the combustion air if it is installed properly. Radiant heat is what you’re going to feel, how cold it leaves the rest of the house is subject to debate. Obviously if the thermostat is located close to fireplace its not going to be kicking the furnace on. I’ve just finished a certified Rumford in Washington State, here you can still burn your certified Rumford during no burn periods of winter. Although I’ve never seen the fireplace "police" giving tickets yet. Regardless whether you go large or small opening, the unique style of burning with a Rumford is very pleasing to the all viewers.
   Take some pictures and send them to Jim Buckley.

   Michael Leistiko/builder

4. 
   Geoff_Matthews | Mar 01, 1999 12:00pm | #4

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   Anybody have experience or know where to go to get information on design and installation of a Rumford (sp?) firplace in an existing fireplace and chimney. I understand this design makes for effective use of wood as a heat source as opposed to most fireplaces. Thank you in advance.