Advice on my first stove

Hello everyone! I am very excited about beginning my journey into the world of coal heating! I have never lived in a house that has had any kind of stove. I am a heating and air conditioning installer, and i cant think of anything that might be cheaper, and warmer than coal. So, here are the options... There is a stove on craigslist that i was considering, The Franco Belge for $250 that seems to be in nice shape, or a Gilbrator model DDS (found locally) for $300. Also seems really nice. has a blower. Anyone know how many BTU's this thing is capable of? Im leaning towards the Gilbrator. it would burn anthracite, right? and I can use my terra cotta lined chimeny that my boiler used to use? (boiler is coming out) should i think to much about radiant efficiency or combustion efficiency? these are my questions so far. also, is it cost effective to go haul my own coal, or is it always delivered? who are some recommended suppliers? I live in Lancaster County (ephrata) Im looking forward to a warm floor! Thanks for your advice!
Kevin

I have heard good coments on both stoves, I'm sure owners of both types will chime in and will have many questions about heating needs, location, house layout etc. good luck and welcome to your new hobby.

They are both good stoves. They both put out a lot of heat. However the Franco requires more regular attending than the Gibralter. Not that one is better than the other, just that the FB requires tending about every 6 hours or so if you want a good burn. I see that your an HVAC installer. Unless you can plan on being home to deash during the day on a regular time schedule, I would recommend the Gibralter.

More thoughts......Don't get hung up on efficiency. These are not gas burners that can tweek to 90 to 95% efficiency. Where your coal heat comes into the mix is it puts out heat continuously, not a quick blast here and there. Burning coal means you will need to learn a different language and a different thought line. More patience will be greatly rewarded with heat and money savings for heating your house and DHW.

The Gibraltar is the better stove for that location. A Franco Belge is more intended for the living area since it's output with a long burn will not be high owing to a relatively small fire pot.