Wood Stove & Furnace Advice

1. Wood heaters use a renewable resource that prevents the depletion of oil or coal reserves. They also eliminate the associated air pollution of burning these fuels. Since wood is a natural carbon based fuel and new woodstoves are designed to minimize emissions it truly is an environmentally friendly heating source. 2. A wood heater as many uses. It can be both functional as a heater and cooking surface as well as decorative center focus in a family room or living area. Many wood heaters feature either burner type units on the top of the heater for top of the stove cooking or oven type cooking areas. 3. Modern wood heaters burn 72-82% cleaner than they have in the past with significantly less pollution to the environment than other heating sources. New airtight technology and design has virtually eliminated the amount of smoke produced by wood heaters. 4. Wood has a higher BTU (British Thermal Unit) capacity than gas heating sources so it takes less wood to produce the same amount of heat. This not only saves money but it reduces demands on natural resources. 5. Burning wood is economical, comforting and produces a relaxing atmosphere in your home. The glass fronts of most new wood heaters allow easy visual checking of the fire as well as provide a nice atmosphere for the room. 6. Wood heaters can be placed where they are most needed in the home. This will provide direct heat to this area for additional comfort. The heat can be circulated to other areas of the house using the natural airflow through the house. 7. You can choose the size and design of the wood heater to match your individual and decorative needs. Most wood heaters now come with a glass door and are made of cast iron or plate steel and can be painted or enameled depending on your preference. 8. There is no need to depend on outside sources of energy for heat. This is particularly important if your area is prone to power outages in the cold months. 9. The cost of running a wood heater is minimal compared the cost of any other traditional or alternative form of heat. 10. Cutting and splitting your own wood provides positive health benefits with an excellent cardiovascular workout combined with weight training benefits. There are numerous benefits to using a wood heater to warm your house. Environmentally friendly and definitely cost saving wood heaters are worth considering to either fully heat your home or to supplement your current home heating program. The wide variety of styles and finishes makes a wood heater a part of the fixtures and design of your home, not just a source of heat for your home. Many freestanding wood heaters are the centerpiece of the room. The glass door available on many models actually allows the wood heater to double as a beautiful fireplace. Not only are the flames visible through the glass but also the glass provides protection from sparks and cinders that may be associated with a traditional open fireplace.