Wood-burning stoves are a beautiful addition to any home. And, they emit 90% fewer emissions into the atmosphere than open fires. So they’re a great guilt-free solution to a global problem.
Many people who own wood-burning stoves use them to heat their homes during the winter months. They also use them to cook food as well as keep their homes warm.
Wood-burning stoves are inexpensive and easy to install. Yet, they do need maintenance and care. It’s important to clean out the stove on a regular basis and check the air filter.
If you want to learn more about wood-burning stoves, read on!
What Is a Wood-Burning Stove?
When most people hear the term ‘wood-burning stove’, thoughts come to mind of an open log burner inside your home. But a true wood-burning stove has a closed front and burns real logs or kindling to create heat.
A wood-burning stove is the best way of heating your home. That’s most true during the winter months when it gets cold outside. It’s also useful for cooking.
These log-burning stoves burn wood logs or pellets that contain no chemicals. Further, they emit only smokeless fumes. They also have an efficient heat output.
There are many different styles of wood-burning stoves available today. The most common are:
Portable Stoves
These stoves come in small sizes and are great if you need to move around often. Some portable models include wheels which make moving easier.
Chimney Wood Burners
This style of stove has a metal flue pipe that runs through the roof of your home.
There are two main types of chimney stoves; open and closed. Open chimney stoves allow all the exhaust gas to escape through the top opening. Closed chimney stoves trap the exhaust gas within the stove itself.
Electric Stoves
You may not know what an electric stove looks like but chances are you’ve heard of one before. An electric stove uses electricity instead of fuel to produce heat.
While some people prefer electric stoves due to convenience, they aren’t always safe. We’ve included these as they give off the effect of an indoor wood-burning stove without the need for a chimney flue.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Wood-Burning Stove?
There are many benefits associated with owning a wood-burning stove. Here are some of the main benefits to give you an idea of what’s in store.
Save Money
If you want to cut down on your monthly electric bill, then consider buying a wood-burning stove. The cost of running an electrical heater is much higher compared to the price of operating a wood burner as wood is one of the cheapest resources around
Keep Your Home Warm All Year Round
You don’t have to worry about having cold winters when you use a wood-burning stove because they keep your home warm all year round. This means that you won’t have to pay high utility bills during the winter months. In addition, you’ll enjoy spending time with family members while enjoying the warmth from the fire.
Natural Fuels
One benefit of using a wood-burning stove is that it runs on natural fuels. These include fuels such as firewood, charcoal briquettes, and coal.
This means that no harmful man-made chemicals get released into the environment. You don’t have to worry about buying expensive gas or oil either.
Cooking
Another benefit of using a wood-burning stove is cooking. Since it heats up fast, you won’t have to wait long for dinner to get ready. Plus, you’ll save money too since you’re only paying for gas or electricity.
Feels Like Home
Wood-burning stoves create a cozy environment where people feel at home. When you walk through your front door after work, all you see is warmth coming from within.
Your family members will love this feeling. Further, they’ll appreciate how much time you spend caring for the stove.
Resale Potential
A wood-burning stove adds value to any property by increasing resale potential. People often buy houses because they want to live in a place that feels comfortable. Having a wood-burning stove helps make your home look attractive and inviting.
How Do I Install My New Wood-Burning Stove?
Installing a wood-burning stove isn’t difficult. Most homeowners buy a kit containing everything needed to complete the installation process. Kits usually cost between $100-$200 depending on brand and model.
How Do You Use a Wood-Burning Stove?
You don’t have to live in a cold climate to enjoy having a wood-burning stove installed in your home. Most homeowners choose to buy a model that heats many areas within their home.
One common area where a wood-burning stove is often placed is near the kitchen sink. When cooking meals at night, it helps to make sure everything is ready by warming up the water in the sink.
Another popular location for installing a wood-burning stove is the fireplace. Fireplaces provide warmth throughout the entire year. That makes them perfect for those chilly nights.
Since a wood-burning stove produces its own heat, it isn’t necessary to turn on any other heating devices.
If you decide to buy a wood-burning stove, consider one with all accessories needed to operate. Make sure you get a warranty too.
How Do You Choose a Wood-Burning Stove?
When choosing between the wood-burning stoves, think about how often you plan to travel. Portables tend to have smaller capacities than other options.
On the flip side, chimneys don’t allow you to travel with ease. Electric stoves offer the best combination of size and mobility.
Also, look for one that includes all necessary accessories. These accessories can include a chimney cap, damper, flue liner, grate, and frame. These ensure proper installation and safe burning in the home.
Once you decide on the model you want, make sure you choose a quality brand. If possible, try out the product first so you know exactly what you’re getting into. It will save you time and money down the road!
And, make sure you choose the right firewood. Check out https://www.buyfirewooddirect.co.uk/ for examples of quality firewood.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Style?
Each type of wood-burning stove has its advantages and disadvantages. The majority of these are personal preference and use cases. So let’s take a closer look at each one.
Portable Stoves
Portable stoves, as you’d expect, are easy to use and carry around. These are great if you want to use your stove on camping trips or you wish to move it from room to room. Because of their portability, they’re often simpler to use as well.
Yet, portable stoves don’t hold much wood due to their compact size. They also can be dangerous when used indoors because there’s no way to vent smoke in a safe manner. This means that anyone who suffers from respiratory issues should avoid using them.
Chimney Stoves
Chimney stoves are very easy as there isn’t much setting up. Once it’s installed, it’s good to go! Once lit, the flame travels through the pipe and burns inside the house.
That said, chimney stoves are more expensive than other types of wood-burning stoves. That’s because of the installation costs if you don’t have a chimney. But it’s also due to their authentic feel justifying a premium price of luxury.
Electric Stoves
Electric stoves are the most convenient option for many available today. You plug it in and start enjoying warm air immediately.
Electric stoves come with many different features. These include adjustable thermostats, timers, and remote controls.
The downside is they need electricity which may not always be accessible. Also, some models need an outlet nearby while others do they aren’t as efficient as others.
And, of course, they only replicate wood-burning. Great for asthmatics, but not so good for the unbeatable warmth of a genuine wood-burning stove.
How Do You Clean a Wood-Burning Stove?
When cleaning a wood-burning stove, make sure there are no obstructions around the flame. As well as keeping the flames clear, be careful with hot surfaces.
Never leave children unattended while playing with a stove. They could by accident knock something onto the floor causing damage.
To clean a wood-burning stove, wipe away dust from the top surface. Be mindful of the parts that can catch fire if left uncleaned.
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For example, do not attempt to remove ash buildup using an abrasive cleaner. Instead, use soap and warm water. Once cleaned, dry the stove. This prevents moisture build-up which may cause rust.
If you notice any cracks or holes in the stove, repair them before continuing. If possible, replace the entire unit instead of repairing it. It will save money over time.
How Much Does a Wood-Burning Stove Cost?
Wood-burning stoves come in many different sizes and styles. Some models include features such as adjustable burners, glass doors, and more.
Depending on the type of stove you select, prices range anywhere from $100-$10,000. Plus, depending on where you live, shipping fees might apply.
If you want to buy one online, make sure to read reviews first. Many people complain about poor customer service and high delivery charges.
Make sure you look for one with a warranty too. Most manufacturers offer at least two years of coverage against defects.
It’s best to contact the manufacturer or professional installer for warranty information. They can help fit your stove for you as well.
Can I Install a Wood-Burning Stove Myself?
Yes, you can indeed. Yet, suppose you don’t have experience installing gas lines, plumbing, or renovations. Then hiring someone else might make sense.
If you decide to hire out the job, find a reputable company that has been doing work like yours before. Ask friends and family members about recommendations.
Also, check online reviews on websites such as Trustpilot. Do this to make sure that the company you are having helps you fit the burner.
How Long Does a Wood-Burning Stove Last?
Depending on how well maintained your stove is, its lifespan will vary a lot. The average life span of a wood-burning stove is between 20-30 years.
But, keep in mind that these numbers refer to regular maintenance practices. So, if you’re neglectful, expect your stove to break down sooner.
Maintenance and Care of Your Wood-Burning Stove
Taking care of your wood-burning stove is paramount, even if you have a warranty in place. If you want to extend the life of your stove, here are some tips:
- Keep the flue free of debris
- Make sure all vents are open during operation
- Check the pilot light often
- Use a quality fuel source and avoid cheap alternatives
- Maintain proper ventilation by opening windows and/or turning fans on high
- Have your fireplace inspected once a year by a professional
- Clean chimneys often
- Replace filters every 6 months
If you follow the above advice and take care of your wood-burning stove, you’ll also save money in the long run. There’s a good chance it may be the last stove you ever need!
Wood-Burning Stoves Transform Your Home
A Wood-burning stove is an excellent choice for those who want the warmth of wood-burning. Yet, it might be they don’t have enough space or time to build one on their own. wood-burning stoves can act as a backup heat source during power outages.
Plus, they’re easy to use and maintain, and they provide a lot of comfort when it gets cold outside.
Now we’ve got you excited about wood-burning stoves. It’s time to turn the heat up and check out more of our hot-to-handle home articles!
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