Support after the sale is always key. We had the big DVX 60 installed by a local contractor that deals with Mendota exclusively and specialized in retrofits. We didn't have an insert installed. They retrofitted the DVX 60 into our existing wood burning firebox. We had a Heatilator prefab wood burning fireplace (typical with newer construction) so the retrofit was relatively easy. It looks like it was always meant to be there. Beautiful installation work. However, the evening after it was installed we started having problems with the pilot going out and the remote transmitter getting too hot and shutting things down. Our installer was more than helpful. They came out and worked with us until things were right. They moved the transmitter to a wall switch away from the firebox (it had just been sitting under the firebox near the controls and was getting cooked). Also made some adjustments to the thermocouple so the pilot stayed lit. Couple other minor tweaks and all was well. We've been enjoying it ever since. The flame is spectacular and really warms the room up. They will come back once a year to make sure things are working as they should. Couldn't be happier. After sale care is so critical to making the experience a pleasant one.
I wish I had your luck with installers - I suffered bozos who did a lousy job installing and converting the fireplace to propane. I've had three "technicians" trying to sort this fireplace without any improvement. I finally rebuilt the box myself and installed the correct thermocouple and a new thermopile. Among other things, the installers did not assemble the logs and coals correctly and the gas ignition was delayed causing a large "boom". The original thermopile was also putting out low voltage which was not opening the gas valve fast enough. None of the technicians figured it out. So I now have an operational fireplace, but it has never looked at pretty as in the Mendota video 'commercials'. It's Mendota's responsibility to ensure that technicians are trained in installing and maintaining their units. In this regard they have fallen flat on their face. I'll never buy or recommend a Mendota unit again!
I have REALLY enjoyed the informative videos for woodstoves and fireplaces. You just can't get this type of counsel at a franchised/ chain store. And it seems most of the products are designed to maximize profit by cranking em out as cheaply as possible for you and for themselves. I would rather pay more for quality-built, made in the USA, enduring/ reliable product made by environmentally conscious, artisans of their craft who take pride in their work! Thank you very much for the education
The flame is nice while it works but had to replace thermocouple twice, thermopile once, gas valve once. Replacement party's only through dealer are marked up big time, if you can find a dealer nearby. Not happy at all, poor reliability.
Support after the sale is always key. We had the big DVX 60 installed by a local contractor that deals with Mendota exclusively and specialized in retrofits. We didn't have an insert installed. They retrofitted the DVX 60 into our existing wood burning firebox. We had a Heatilator prefab wood burning fireplace (typical with newer construction) so the retrofit was relatively easy. It looks like it was always meant to be there. Beautiful installation work. However, the evening after it was installed we started having problems with the pilot going out and the remote transmitter getting too hot and shutting things down. Our installer was more than helpful. They came out and worked with us until things were right. They moved the transmitter to a wall switch away from the firebox (it had just been sitting under the firebox near the controls and was getting cooked). Also made some adjustments to the thermocouple so the pilot stayed lit. Couple other minor tweaks and all was well. We've been enjoying it ever since. The flame is spectacular and really warms the room up. They will come back once a year to make sure things are working as they should. Couldn't be happier. After sale care is so critical to making the experience a pleasant one.
I wish I had your luck with installers - I suffered bozos who did a lousy job installing and converting the fireplace to propane. I've had three "technicians" trying to sort this fireplace without any improvement. I finally rebuilt the box myself and installed the correct thermocouple and a new thermopile. Among other things, the installers did not assemble the logs and coals correctly and the gas ignition was delayed causing a large "boom". The original thermopile was also putting out low voltage which was not opening the gas valve fast enough. None of the technicians figured it out. So I now have an operational fireplace, but it has never looked at pretty as in the Mendota video 'commercials'. It's Mendota's responsibility to ensure that technicians are trained in installing and maintaining their units. In this regard they have fallen flat on their face. I'll never buy or recommend a Mendota unit again!
I have REALLY enjoyed the informative videos for woodstoves and fireplaces. You just can't get this type of counsel at a franchised/ chain store. And it seems most of the products are designed to maximize profit by cranking em out as cheaply as possible for you and for themselves. I would rather pay more for quality-built, made in the USA, enduring/ reliable product made by environmentally conscious, artisans of their craft who take pride in their work! Thank you very much for the education
The flame is nice while it works but had to replace thermocouple twice, thermopile once, gas valve once. Replacement party's only through dealer are marked up big time, if you can find a dealer nearby. Not happy at all, poor reliability.