Wood heat stoves are gaining in popularity all around the world. Apart from being cost-effective they are also energy-efficient.
The rising demand for wood burning stoves has led to the emergence of many options that can make it tough for you to make your choice. However, here are a couple of things that you need to consider to make sure the choice that you are making is the best one:
Stove type
The type of stove you use depends on the purpose you want to use it for. You can check out pellet stoves, multi-fuel stoves, stoves with manual ignition, or stoves with automatic ignition. Pellet stoves are easier to install; but you will have to go for a chimney or make arrangements for venting. Multi-fuel stoves are good if you can’t find the wood necessary for your stove. They can burn corn, cherry pits, soy beans, and many other items.
Stove size
Size is also something you have to consider before buying a wood burning stove. You will have to provide for the heating space, considering the number and size of blowers included in the unit. There are certain requirements such as distance to be maintained from the walls and combustibles. Some might also need a certain ceiling height and floor protector. You will find all this information in the product manual.
Cost and Maintenance Considerations
Cost is definitely one of the main deciding factors when buying wood heat stoves or fireplace inserts. Apart from the purchase cost, you should also consider the cost of fuel and the installation materials. Check how easy it is to get fuel in your area.
Maintenance should be easy and minimal. You might have to empty the ash bin regularly and check once in a while for creosote buildup; but that’s about it. Make sure you clean your chimney once a year, if you don’t have a vent-free stove.
Restrictions
One other thing to check for, before buying a wood heat stove is to make sure it satisfies the codes and regulations of your building, local municipality, and state. Not all wood burning stoves are approved in all states of USA.
Explore your options, check out the features, ask for a demo, and buy a quality unit from a reputed manufacturer. Get a certified professional to install your unit. Make sure you have their number to call for any service or repair that your stove might need.