Coal insert stove

Tom,
I am interested in exploring a coal insert stove for my fireplace to supplement my oil heat this winter. What are ''must knows'' as Iinvestigate coalinserts? What do you like about coal inserts? What do you not like about coal inserts?Downeast Coal carries the inserts do you know of other dealers? Are there used inserts available?
Thank you,
Robby MacDonald
Bangor, Maine

Hi,
Inserts have a limitation in that they are in the fireplace, if you need to access the chimney and wish to clean it, you will be dragging the stove outof the fireplace.
I prefer a stove in the room, where there is more surface to emit heatdirectly into the room.
Coal is somewhat simpler to use and store and is a decent fuel. The ash hasheavy metals in it and should not be put on gardens. It is also a fossilfuel which contributes to climate issues.
In shopping for a unit, it would be nice to see one operating and/or have the opportunity to talk to a current owner.
Tom