I remember those chilly evenings, huddled by a drafty old fireplace that seemed to suck more heat than it gave. My home often felt like a patchwork of warm and cold spots, and the thought of another winter with exorbitant heating bills was truly daunting. Finding an efficient and reliable heating solution wasn’t just about comfort; it was about creating a consistent, cozy environment and finally curbing those energy costs that were spiraling out of control. An effective wood stove insert could have made all the difference back then.
- 69,000 BTUs heats up to 1,200 Sq. Ft
- Cast iron feed door with large 16.5" x 9" ceramic glass window and heavy gauge 3/16" reinforced plate steel with firebrick lining
- Accepts logs up to 18 inches in length
Essential Considerations for Your Heating Upgrade
For anyone grappling with an inefficient fireplace or looking to supplement their primary heating, a wood stove insert offers a powerful solution. These units transform a traditional, often drafty, fireplace into a highly efficient heat source, radiating warmth throughout your home and significantly cutting down on fuel costs. The ideal customer for an Ashley Hearth AW1820E 1,200 Sq. Ft. Wood Stove Insert is someone with an existing masonry fireplace, aiming to heat a moderate-sized area (up to 1,200 square feet) with sustainable, cost-effective wood fuel. If you’re looking to heat a sprawling, multi-story mansion, or if you don’t have an existing fireplace, this might not be the right fit; in such cases, a freestanding wood stove or a furnace upgrade would be more appropriate. Before committing, consider your heating needs: the square footage you want to warm, your access to seasoned firewood, and the dimensions of your existing fireplace opening. Also, factor in the cost of installation, which often includes a chimney liner, and the maintenance required for wood burning. Understanding these elements ensures you select a unit that truly meets your home’s demands and your lifestyle.
- Capable of reaching temperatures up to 54,000 BTUs and heat up 900 square feet of surface
- 112,800 BTUs heats up to 2,500 square feet
- 152,000 BTUs heats up to 3,200 square feet
Introducing the Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert
The Ashley Hearth AW1820E is a 1,200 Sq. Ft. wood stove insert designed to revitalize your traditional fireplace into a powerhouse of warmth. This model promises efficient, robust heating, boasting 69,000 BTUs capable of warming up to 1,200 square feet. It comes as a complete insert unit, ready for installation into an existing masonry fireplace opening. While many inserts focus on sheer power, the AW1820E also emphasizes a classic, colonial aesthetic with its black finish and cast iron feed door. It stands as a competitive option for those looking for an affordable yet effective upgrade, often compared favorably to older models like the Vogelzang TR004 or the US Stove Company 2200IE for its improved efficiency and modern design principles. This particular fireplace insert is ideal for homeowners seeking to make the most of their existing hearth, particularly those with moderately sized living areas or an open-concept layout that needs supplemental heat. It may not be the top choice for those requiring minimal maintenance or an ultra-modern aesthetic, as wood stoves naturally require more hands-on operation and cleaning.
Pros:
* High heat output (69,000 BTUs) for its size.
* Over 75% heating efficiency.
* Durable construction with cast iron door and reinforced steel.
* Accommodates logs up to 18 inches.
* Attractive Colonial style in a sleek black finish.
Cons:
* Small firebox size requires frequent reloading.
* Heat output may fall short of 1,200 sq. ft. in certain layouts.
* Potential for quality control issues (e.g., weld integrity, door hinges).
* Blower fan can be loud.
* Glass window can accumulate creosote quickly.
Deep Dive into Performance and Advantages
My journey with the Ashley Hearth AW1820E 1,200 Sq. Ft. Wood Stove Insert has been quite an experience, offering both impressive warmth and a few learning curves. After extended use, I can confidently break down its core features and the tangible benefits they provide, along with areas where it might fall short of expectations.
Robust Heating Capacity and Efficiency
One of the primary reasons anyone considers a wood stove insert is for its heating prowess, and the AW1820E certainly delivers a substantial punch. Rated at 69,000 BTUs, it’s designed to warm up to 1,200 square feet, and in my experience, it effectively heats a significant portion of my main living area. On chilly mornings, I’ve noticed a considerable temperature rise within a 10-foot radius, making the living room incredibly cozy. The benefit here is obvious: reduced reliance on my furnace, translating directly into lower heating bills. This efficiency, reportedly over 75%, means more of the heat generated from your wood actually stays in your home rather than escaping up the chimney, which is a major upgrade from a traditional, open fireplace. However, it’s important to note that the 1,200 sq. ft. claim might be optimistic for open-concept homes or those with high ceilings, as heat dispersal can vary greatly. For best results, consider the layout of your home; it truly shines in more enclosed, standard-sized rooms.
Durable Construction and Materials
When investing in a heating appliance, longevity is key. The Ashley Hearth wood stove insert is constructed with heavy-gauge 3/16″ reinforced plate steel, which gives it a reassuringly solid feel. This robust steel, combined with a firebrick lining, is crucial for retaining heat and withstanding the intense temperatures of wood combustion. The cast iron feed door adds to its durability and classic aesthetic. These materials aren’t just for show; they ensure the structural integrity of the unit, reducing the risk of warpage or failure over time. For someone like me, who relies on wood heat for a good part of the winter, knowing that the stove is built to last provides immense peace of mind. The colonial style of the cast iron door also adds a touch of traditional charm to the living space, seamlessly blending with various home decors.
Generous Ceramic Glass Window
The large 16.5″ x 9″ ceramic glass window is, for me, a significant feature. There’s something inherently comforting about watching the flames dance, and this window provides an excellent, unobstructed view of the fire. Beyond the aesthetic appeal, it allows you to monitor the burn, ensuring optimal air intake and fuel management. Ceramic glass is designed to withstand extreme temperatures, offering safety and durability. The benefit extends beyond mere enjoyment; it enables me to easily gauge when to reload or adjust the damper, contributing to more efficient burning. However, I have found that this beautiful window can accumulate a thick layer of creosote quite quickly, especially if the fire isn’t burning hot enough or the wood isn’t perfectly seasoned. While it cleans off with a good ceramic glass cleaner, it does require regular attention to maintain that clear view.
Log Capacity and Fuel Management
The ability to accept logs up to 18 inches in length is a practical advantage, as it accommodates standard cut firewood. This means less chopping and splitting for the average user, simplifying the preparation process. However, this is also where one of the main disadvantages of this wood stove comes into play: the firebox size. While it accepts 18-inch logs, the overall chamber volume is quite small. I typically find I can only fit about three to four decent-sized logs at a time. This necessitates more frequent reloading, especially if you’re trying to achieve an overnight burn. My previous stoves could be stocked to last much longer, but with the Ashley Hearth AW1820E, I often find myself adding logs every couple of hours. While this isn’t a deal-breaker for daytime use or supplementary heating, it does demand more attention than larger units, particularly if you’re aiming to heat a primary residence solely with wood.
Integrated Blower System
A built-in blower fan is essential for circulating the heat generated by any wood stove insert effectively. This wood stove insert includes one, and when it’s running, it does a commendable job of pushing warm air into the room and beyond the immediate vicinity of the fireplace. Without a blower, much of the heat would simply radiate forward or be lost up the chimney. The benefit is a more even distribution of warmth throughout the heated area, reducing those frustrating cold spots. However, I must confess, the fan can be quite loud, especially on higher settings. It’s not a gentle hum; it’s a distinct, noticeable whir. While it’s effective, some users might find the noise disruptive, especially in quiet living spaces. I’ve found that supplementing with a thermal-powered fan on top of the insert (if your hearth allows, or near the unit if not) can help move air more quietly once the main blower has done its initial work.
Installation and Design Aesthetics
The Ashley Hearth AW1820E is designed as an insert, meaning it slides directly into your existing fireplace opening, which simplifies installation compared to a freestanding unit that requires a dedicated hearth pad and chimney connection. Its compact dimensions (20.2″D x 27.2″W x 22.4″H) make it suitable for a variety of fireplace sizes. The black, Colonial style is unassuming yet elegant, allowing it to fit into most traditional home decors without being an eyesore. For me, the ease of installation (though still requiring professional setup of a chimney liner for safety and efficiency) was a significant draw. It seamlessly integrated into my existing hearth, giving my living room a much-needed aesthetic and functional upgrade without a major renovation.
Addressing Specific Challenges (and DIY Solutions)
During my tenure with the Ashley Hearth AW1820E, I’ve encountered a few challenges that are worth mentioning, primarily relating to potential manufacturing inconsistencies. Some users, myself included, have noted issues like missing handles upon delivery or problems with the internal flange not being fully welded. In my case, an unsealed flange caused smoke to escape into the room when the fan was on high, which was concerning. While I was able to repair this myself (being handy with a welder), it speaks to potential quality control gaps. Similarly, reports of hinge pins backing out and the door detaching are serious safety concerns. These issues, while solvable for some, highlight the importance of thorough inspection upon delivery and the potential need for basic repairs or immediate returns if you’re not comfortable with such fixes. For most buyers, these could be frustrating hurdles, underscoring the value of a comprehensive warranty and responsive customer service. My experience led me to wonder if spending a bit more on a higher-end unit from a specialized dealer might avoid such initial headaches.
What Others Are Saying: User Experiences
Having thoroughly explored the depths of this product, I also took the time to review feedback from other users online, and the sentiment is largely consistent with my own observations. Many users praise its ability to heat well for its size and price point, noting its efficiency in transforming inefficient fireplaces. One user recounted replacing an old “smoke dragon” and, despite a few initial hiccups like a missing handle and a smoky flange (which they commendably fixed themselves), found it performed adequately for their 1,000 sq ft space. Another appreciated the good value it offered, especially if purchased during a price drop, highlighting its efficacy in making a drafty fireplace a productive heat source. While some mentioned the small firebox and questioned the full 1,200 sq ft heating claim in open areas, the consensus points to a solid “starter” insert that, for its price, punches above its weight, particularly in more contained spaces.
Final Thoughts on Your Heating Solution
If you’re still battling a cold, inefficient living space and those constantly rising heating bills, addressing the problem of a drafty fireplace with a modern solution is paramount. The complications of not doing so extend beyond discomfort, impacting your wallet and potentially even your home’s air quality with inefficient combustion. The Ashley Hearth AW1820E 1,200 Sq. Ft. Wood Stove Insert offers a compelling solution, especially for those seeking an affordable entry into efficient wood heating. Its strong heat output, durable construction, and significant efficiency improvements over traditional fireplaces make it a great fit. While it has its quirks, such as the smaller firebox and occasional quality control issues, it undeniably delivers on its promise of transforming your hearth into a significant heat source. Don’t let another winter catch you unprepared; click here to check out this powerful wood stove insert and take the first step towards a warmer, more cost-effective home.
Last update on 2025-08-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API