Saturday 26 December 2009

Building a Firewood Shed and Other Wood Stove Accessories

You may not think of a firewood shed as a wood stove accessory, but, in the big picture, it is one of most important. You might have the best gas chain saw, extra chains, sharpening tools, and fireplace tools, but if your wood is wet it will not burn.

The shed need not be fancy or expensive, neither does it have to be a messy pile of boards and tarps. You can buy ready made firewood racks, but they tend to be rather small and expensive. If you only use wood for taking the chill off or for the occasional atmosphere fire, then a small ready made one will work just fine.

Building your own shed can be a very satisfying project that can include other family members. Because it is a shed, not a kitchen cabinet, there is plenty of room for error and it will still work well. When small children are allowed to help Dad with such projects, the memories can last a lifetime. Hammering and sawing boards can be a great learning experience, and a firewood shed is the perfect kind of project to work on together.

It is important to decide on the size of the shed, which will be determined by how much wood you expect to use for the winter. In Vermont a typical house uses 5 cords of wood for the season. This is a lot of firewood, and it might be more than you are willing or able to build a shed for.

A full cord of wood is 4 ft. x 4 ft. x 8 ft., or 128 cubic ft. From this, you can calculate the size of shed you need. You can also use the basement, a garage, several sheds or one shed and several covered piles.

The wood needs to dry at least 6 months before burning. If the prevailing winds and weather tend to make the wood wet, you should consider adding at least a partial wall to the shed to protect the wood. The more air exposure the wood has, the better it will dry.

Other wood stove accessories you will need, if you are going to use a new or used cast iron wood stove or fireplace insert, would include a metal ash pan, shovel, floor protector, and stove top water steamer.

The dangers of using green wood are real and can result in a chimney fire. The moisture in the wood cause it to burn incompletely, which makes the wood smolder, rather than ignite. The gases emitted condense on the walls of the stove pipe or chimney and solidify as a coating of condensed fuel, just waiting to ignite.

If the chimney is coated with creosote and you have a very hot fire, or a lot of sparks and flames, the creosote may ignite into a torch like fire. This fire sounds like a rushing wind as it explodes in the chimney, and the temperatures can be high enough to actually melt stove pipe or adjacent combustible materials.

Sunday 13 December 2009

Alcohol Camping Stoves Are the Smallest, Lightest and Easiest Backpacking Stoves Around

Alcohol camping stoves are the perfect choice for the backpacker looking for a small, lightweight, easy-to-use and inexpensive stove.

The alcohol camping stoves are very simple, they have very little moving parts, no jets or orifices to clog and clean. Alcohol is a renewable resource and is a non-petroleum based product. If you have a spill in your backpack, it will evaporate quickly, leaving no tell-tale odor. It's the perfect "green" fuel.

Ok, let's look at the pros and cons for the alcohol camping stoves...

PRO

1. Simple - No Pumping, Pressurizing, Priming or Pre-lighting.
2. Fuel - Renewable, Evaporates quickly, Burns clean (no soot), Not oily or smelly.
3. Lightweight - Can weigh as little as a few ounces.
4. Reliable - They light first time every time, as long as you guard your match against the wind.
5. Safety - Fuel evaporates quickly and will not explode (non-inflammable).
6. Fuel Transport - Easy; can be carried in a plastic bottle. Do not use an untreated aluminum bottle. If you're not sure, don't use it. See the note at the bottom of the page.
7. Fuel Availability - Everywhere; can be found in drug stores to hardware stores.
8. Noise - Very quiet and generally cannot be heard. This can also be a con.

CON

1. Noise - As I said above, being quiet can be a pro or a con. Pro in that it is quiet, but a Con because you sometimes cannot tell if you have a flame or not.
2. Flame - Alcohol burns clear (slightly bluish) and this makes it very difficult to see. Especially in the daylight.
3. Heat Output - Alcohol camping stoves put out about half of the heat per ounce other liquid fuel stoves produce, i.e. white gas, kerosene, Coleman style fuels, and butane or propane.
4. Group Size - A small group of 1 or 2, maybe 3, is best, because of the slower cooking time. This isn't really a con, but it is something to consider.
5. Cooking Time - Is slower because of the reduced heat output, but for 1 or 2 people it is just fine.
6. Safety - NEVER, NEVER fill the stove with more fuel while it is still burning or hot. This actually goes for ALL stove types.
7. Cold - Alcohol camping stoves are not very reliable in freezing weather. As the temperature drops, the evaporation rate of the alcohol drops. This makes them very hard to start. A work-around for this is to pre-heat the stove with a candle.
8. Durability - Since they are so small and lightweight, they can be fragile. They can be bent, crushed or destroyed easily without the proper care.

Do-It-Yourself (DIY): Alcohol camping stoves are perfect for the DIY crowd. The internet is full of instructions on how to make an alcohol camping stove.

FUEL

1. Isopropyl - NOT Recommended. This can be purchased from any drug store, but it will always have too much water mixed with it. It's never just pure alcohol.
2. Denatured - This fuel comes mixed with other poisonous chemicals. Many times the label will say that it is suitable for marine stoves. I would go with that brand. Another way to tell if the denatured that you have will be any good, is to burn some of it in a metal dish and check for any residue left behind. Do not use it if there is any residue.
3. Grain - Alcohol works well, but can be expensive. Stay away from the colored grain alcohols and go for the clear such as the Everclear brand. Keep in mind that you brought it to use in the stove and not to keep your belly warm. P.S. This is the only fuel than can be consumed by humans. ALL the others are poisonous.
4. Methyl - Other names are methanol, wood alcohol, methyl hydrate, liquid fondue fuel, gasoline line antifreeze. This is a highly poisonous fuel. However, methanol evaporates faster than ethanol at all temperatures and you would have a better chance of starting your stove in cold weather. Store this fuel and the stove that uses it from your food and pots.
5. Gelled Alcohol - Such as Sterno, Canned Heat, Jelled Alcohol. This is good for keeping food warm, but not for cooking. Not enough heat output.
6. Diethylene Glycol - Extremely poisonous and is Not Recommended.

Types of Alcohol Camping Stoves

1. Open Flame - This is the simplest of all the alcohol camping stoves. It's basically an open shallow metal container that you pour the alcohol in and you light it. The pot is sitting on a wire frame above the stove. They are simple to build and operate, but are not the most efficient with the fuel to heat ratio. However, they are a very reliable stove.
2. Chimney or Updraft - This style of stove utilizes the updraft created by the heat of the fire, up a chimney, to the top of the stove and heating the pot. It mixes the air with the fuel at the bottom of the stove to get a better controlled flame at the top. The pot sits on a stand above the stove. It has a good heat output and is very reliable.
3. Low Pressure Side Burner - This utilizes the low pressure draft created like the Chimney stove, but the pot sits directly on the stove. Same stove as the Chimney stove, just a different way of using it. It has good heat output and does not need a pot stand.
4. Open Jet - This stove works by vaporizing the fuel and shooting it out little jets. The fuel is poured in through the top center; it is very lightweight and will simmer, but is only good for small pots. You will need to have a pot stand to keep the pot off the stove.
5. Hybrid Side Burner Jet - This is like the Open Jet, but the vents are on the side. The pot sits right on the stove top so a pot stand is not needed.
6. Pressurized Jet - This is like the Open Jet stove, but the center is closed allowing the fuel gasses to build up pressure. It burns hot and does not allow for simmering. You will need a pot stand for this stove.

Points to Consider

1. Consider making an alcohol camping stove for yourself.
2. Are you going to be doing a lot of extreme cold weather cooking?
3. Burner style - You do not have to settle for just one style. You can have a different style depending on weather conditions and/or altitude.
4. Boil time to fuel usage ratio - This ratio is how long does it take to boil 1L of water to how much fuel is used. This is very important when you are determining how much fuel to carry with you.
5. Flame control - Do you want to be able to simmer or not?
6. Size of group - Remember that 1-2 people are best per stove.

Note: Aluminum: "SIGG, one of the oldest and largest manufacturers of reusable aluminum bottles, actually lines their aluminum with an FDA approved coating that prevent toxins from leaching." According to Elizabeth Borelli of Nubius Organics.

Monday 7 December 2009

Camping Stoves - Come on Baby Light My Fire

Whoever invented camping stoves should be awarded a knighthood in my own humble opinion. On our first camping trip I almost lost my entire family to starvation after I insisted that camping was about getting back to nature, remarking on the fact that I had never seen or heard of camping stove trees in the wild.

Armed with enough matches to build an entire generation of matchstick men, we embarked on our journey with full stomachs and a cold bag full of uncooked food ready and waiting to be introduced to a roaring campfire.

I can safely say that there was a lot of roaring but can confirm that the only fire within our vicinity was the one in our empty bellies. After several hours of failing miserably to get the campfire lit the only thing that was smoked in our camp was us.

I am now a fervent advocate of camping stoves. Our stove has changed the way we feel about camping. We now enjoy tasty, healthy and cooked food around our campfire.

Camping stoves are very reasonably priced, and are easy to research and find online.
There are however some simple considerations to bear in mind when deciding which one is right for you.

Fuel Source:
Different makes and models use different fuels. Decide on the fuel that you are most comfortable with. What weight you are happy to carry around and how easy it will be to buy extra fuel in your camping vicinity if you run out. The most popular and convenient is white gas.

How many people will you want to cook up a storm for? You will need to decide how many burners you require, or what size grill will accommodate your needs if that is the route you are taking.

Weight and Size:
Take a moment to consider how far you will be transporting your camping stove off road. If you will be eating within a short distance of your auto then this will not be such a major consideration. However, of vital importance is the ability to actually fit your camping stove into your mode of transport. My first choice had to be returned for this very reason.

Wednesday 25 November 2009

Tips on Buying a Good Camping Stove

In order to choose the best camping stove, it is advisable to take into consideration several important factors such as the size and weight of camping stove, the type of camping activity, the type of fuel, and the brand of the camping stove.

They are essential during a camping trip. Therefore, it is helpful that you choose for the one that suits you best.


Size and weight

Its size and weight of can make or break a camping experience. If you're camping by yourself, or there's only two or three of you, then a huge camping stove is not a good idea. For a camping party of less than three people, choose one that's compact and lightweight. This would mean that you would not be burdened with your camping stove whether you're traveling to or from your campsite or having to deal with worrying about leaving some items behind because there's no more room since you've got a huge camping stove with you.



Type of camping activity


If you're camping with your friends, and if you are a rather large group, then it's best to invest in a two-burner stove. These types of stoves allow you to cook two types of food at the same time, cutting the time needed to cook enough food for a large group. If you are on your way to a beach camping trip, then a combination of a stove and grill is your best option, especially if you're planning to do some grilling.


Type of fuel

There are fuel options, these are white gas, propane gas, unleaded gas, kerosene, or butane. However, most camping experts would recommend the use of either propane or white gas.

White gas (also known as Coleman fuel) produces most heat; it is also more environmentally friendly since it burns cleanly and does not have any odor nor does it affect food taste. Propane gas is more easy to use, but it can weigh heavier than white gas despite its simplicity. It is both easy to operate and to ignite. It has also proven of its good performance in warmer temperatures at lower elevations.


Brand

When searching, it is best to check the brands that are well-known for making quality products. This ensures good performance from your camping stove as opposed to the risk of buying lesser known and cheaper brands. Although branded camping stoves might be more expensive, some of them also give you a warranty. It is important, and choosing the wrong one could lead to disastrous events; a proven track record in quality and performance is important, so it's best to do your research once you've narrowed down your choices based on the criteria given above.

Friday 30 October 2009

Backpacking - Top Tips on What to Look For in a Backpacking Stove

As there can be many options when it comes to buying a backpacking stove so many backpackers get confused in choosing the best stove. It is an extremely useful item so making the correct choice is key so follow these great tips to realize the options that are available.


When it comes to choosing a backpacking stove the first thing you should consider is choosing a stove that actually satisfies your backpacking needs. A huge bulky stove is no good for backpacking but in contrast, a stove that is too small isn't much use either as it will be too small to prepare your food. Although you should consider your own requirements when you are choosing one, there are a few basic points to bear in mind that every backpacking stove should have.


A backpacking stove needs to be durable and sturdy. It is much safer to have a sturdy stove. Look for features like strong legs as you may not always have smooth ground to set up your stove. You should be able to stir a pot without it tipping over.


Choose a stove that is easy and simple to use. Look how easy it is to set up and fold up once you have finished using it. It should fold up to be very compact so it can fit in your backpack without taking up too much room. Observe how easy it is to connect up to your fuel and disconnect afterwards. Fully read the instructions and understand how to vary the heat. There are stoves available with built in wind screens - this is something you may want to consider as it is a brilliant help in windy weather so that your stove stays lit throughout your cooking.

Wednesday 28 October 2009

Wood Burning Stoves - Which One is the Right One For You?

There are hundreds of different wood burning stoves available to you. How do you decide which on is the right one for you. Here are some of the very basic things that you need to consider before you buy.


The very first thing to figure out is whether you are going inside or outside. Which ever you choose there are distinct advantages to both.


If you go outside then you will be keeping the mess of the wood and smoke outside of the house. The down side is that you will have to run plumbing from the outside of the house to the inside. With many wood burning appliances the size and weight of the stove will make it almost impossible to get it inside the house.


If you go inside, then you have the mess of the wood and sometimes smoke when you load the stove in the house. The plumbing part will be made easier. If you are going with a hot air wood furnace then you will almost have to go inside, because there are not very many good options to get hot air into the house from the outside. Simply getting the wood furnace into the house can be very difficult because of the physical size and weight of the unit.


As you begin to think about which wood burner you are going to buy, you need to narrow the basics down first. Will you be using hot air or hot water? Are you going inside the house or outside the house? Are you hooking to a central heating system or just heating an area? And maybe, you need to question whether wood is the primary fuel that you want to burn? Wood pellets, corn, sawdust, or coal may also be viable options.


Searching for the right heating for your home can be a difficult process. Make sure that you explore all of the many options that you have to make sure that you purchase the right wood burning stove for you home.

Tuesday 20 October 2009

Shopping For a Woodstove: Features to Look For

If you're like millions, and are desperately searching for an alternative heating source to oil for this coming fall/winter, then you've probably considered investing in a wood stove. In my opinion, they're great! They're economical, energy-conscious, aesthetically charming, and most effective. But, if you are in the market for one for either, the first time or the first time in a long time; you'll need to know all the contemporary features that woodstoves now offer. Below, is a quick reference guide on the most important features to look for in a new wood burning stove for your home.

· Material

There are three basic materials that your new woodstove can be made from: welded steel, soapstone, and cast iron. Starting with the most basic, welded steel is the least aesthetic and consequently the cheapest of the three, so if you are looking for purely functional: this is your best bet. Cast iron is probably the most popular and prevalent among homeowners, because it is functional, beautiful, and moderately priced. Soapstone is what is regarded as the Cadillac model of woodstove. It has a very different, yet pleasing look to it; and offers the same top-notch efficiency and functionality as well.

· Catalytic or Non-Catalytic Combustion

Basically, catalytic combustion wood stoves use a technology where the exhaust gasses are developed through a filter of sorts, outside of the main firebox; to produce a long, steady heat output. Non-catalytic, on the other hand, produces its combustion or heat in the firebox and uses something called a baffle to divert gas; and pre-heated air to produce a more powerful, shorter-term (yet efficient) heat output. You'll find in shopping that the higher-end models typically use catalytic technology, but this is not necessarily the best choice; as manufacturers are swiftly switching to production of non-catalytic-most probably due to efficiency and emissions standards.

· Heat Output

If this is your first time shopping for woodstoves, you may have no idea what kind of heat power your house will need. Typically, an average-sized medium home needs 5,000-20,000 BTUs per hour to keep itself warm continuously; but of course this depends whether you have a catalytic or non-catalytic wood stove, and the more specific size of your home. It's always best to ask what the manufacturer or store recommends for your given square footage home.


· Heating Capacity

When it comes to how much home a given wood stove will heat, knowing your home's square footage can be helpful but should not be paramount when deciding what size woodstove you will buy. For example, perhaps you have a large home with a lot of square footage, but it's broken down into lots of small spaces. In this case, buying a large capacity woodstove will not necessarily serve you well. This being said, here is a general rule of thumb when it comes to choosing the size of your woodstove: small stoves will heat a large room or small house, medium wood stoves will heat a medium-sized home, and large woodstoves will best heat a larger home or one that isn't well insulated (an older home typically).

Saturday 26 September 2009

Choosing a Stove for a Green Kitchen - Energy Star is Just a Start



Have you made a commitment to live greener? Many people are working toward becoming greener in their everyday lives in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, cut back on their carbon footprints and save money. As part of that effort, green enthusiasts have turned their attention to their kitchen habits. While there are many small steps that people can take to go green in the kitchen, one big step is replacing that old kitchen stove with a more energy efficient model - one that suits the way you cook and reduces the amount of energy that you use to put food on the table.

When it comes to choosing greener appliances, most homeowners rely on the Energy Star rating. Energy Star is a government certification program that labels appliances that are energy efficient. It's so successful that it's become an international standard. Choosing a stove that has an Energy Star is the most obvious choice when buying a new stove, but it doesn't really do much to narrow your choices down. There are other choices you can make that will affect how much energy you use and how much carbon you save.

Electric or Natural Gas

The first question most cooks ask themselves when choosing a new stove is "electric or gas"? There are points in favor of each choice. Gas is obviously a fossil fuel, which is a limited resource, but until we switch over to renewable energy sources to generate electricity, most electrical power is generated in coal-burning power plants. As long as that's the case, a gas stove and an electric stove are pretty similar in terms of carbon footprint.

Advantages of Gas Stoves

Gas stoves offer many advantages for cooks. They include:

* Easier and more accurate temperature control
* Instant-on heat
* Instant adjustments in temperature when you lower or raise heat
* No heat waste when cooking is done

Advantages of Electric Stoves

Electric stoves also offer many advantages for cooks and in energy efficiency.

* Burner elements sized for cooking utensils
* Easy to clean, especially glass cooktops
* Electric stoves offer additional cooking modes - convection, fan, microwave, etc

Of course, there are drawbacks to both electric and gas stoves as well. Electric stoves with glass cooktops and induction elements, for instance, require the use of real metal cookware - glass pots and aluminum pots won't work right because the heat from the induction element won't transfer properly. In addition, the cookware used on a glass cooktop must be perfectly flat or much of the energy used for heat will go to waste.

Energy Efficiency Tips for Choosing a Kitchen Stove

* When choosing an electric stove, choose the stove with the most efficient heating elements possible. Cooktops with induction elements are the most energy efficient, followed by halogen elements and finally electric coil elements.
* Gas stoves with electronic ignition use 40% less gas than those with a pilot light. - Choose a model that you'll be happy with for at least a decade. The longer you use your new stove, the longer it will stay out of the landfills.
* An electric stove with an oven that has convection and microwave options gives you more flexibility in energy use.
* Read the Energy Guide label to compare one stove with another when making a choice for a green kitchen stove.

Remember, though, that the most efficient stove in the world is only as efficient as your cooking habits.

Monday 7 September 2009

How to Choose Corn Stoves For Your Home

The ancient people burned wood. They did it for thousands of years without considering whether it's good or wrong to deplete the forest. Then people learned to use coal, oil and other fossil fuels. They did it for ages and only recently started to think about the consequences. What if our ancestors were told that it is possible to burn food without actually harming the nature? Burning food? Although it may sound terrible, shelled corn is a great bio-fuel that is cheap, easily accessible and safe for the environment.

The concept of corn stoves is quite old. The first examples were built by handy farmers themselves closer to the end of 19th century. The first heating device of such kind was allegedly the result of maize overproduction when it was discovered that dried seeds - or shelled corn - burn nicely and provide heat similar to that of wood logs. The idea became popular during the years of Great Depression.

Yet it was not before 70s of the last century when corn stoves hit the mass production. Other similar products joined - barbecues and water boilers.

The main perk of using such heating devices is obviously money saving. You will spend on average $3,000 to $3,300 each season burning fossil fuel oil and only $1,500 to $2,300 burning shelled corn. Another benefit, which is not less important, corn stoves are sources of pure green energy. Maize is grown on fields, it helps filtering the air naturally, plus maize seeds doesn't produce carbon monoxide and nitrous compounds when burnt.

How to Choose Corn Stoves?

There are corn stoves, water boilers and barbecues or grills available for sale. The first is used to provide heating for home during the winter season. Water boilers are used to produce hot water or even to be incorporated into the central heating system of a home. Corn Grill is a good way to start your own green energy campaign by test-driving maize kernel energy. It is a great alternative to the conventional grills that burn wood, coal or even consume electricity. Your friends will love to come to your open-air parties.

Corn Stoves Checklist

* Start with measuring your house's square footage or cubic footage. You will need this number when approaching your dealer. Too small a stove will make you freeze while an enormously big one can waste your money and overheat your home.

* Choose a dealer carefully. See if you can find a neighbor or relative who has already used similar heating equipment and ask for a feedback.

* If you choose to buy your stove from an online shop or eBay, you are likely to save money but be careful. Consult the dealer before you pay the money. Is he going to provide you with after-sales support, can he provide instructions on installing, or maybe he even installs it for free.

* Check if you are able to source cheap shelled corn in your neighborhood and that you are capable of storing kernel properly. It takes a dry and clean room to store it; you cannot afford the dampness to spoil your burning agent.

* Make sure that the features of the device are explained to you - there are several types of heating devices - some can use mixed source of energy that also includes wood pellets, some can strictly not.

* Check the feed system. How often will it be necessary to fill more maize into the hopper? How long can device burn unattended before feeding new portion in?

* Does it have any warranty? It is extremely important, especially if something goes wrong.

If you are ready to advance into the new environmentally friendly technology, a green energy heater will be a great purchase for you. Although it can be quite expensive (prices range from $500 to $3,000) you'll save money on fuel, help protecting the environment and show good will to your community.

Tuesday 25 August 2009

Three Popular Stoves For Heating Your Home

It is incredible how stoves have become the consumer's choice in recent times. With the rise in energy and home heating costs, it is hardly surprising that this has happened, in my opinion; I am surprised that it hasn't happened sooner!

So, what is the best stove to buy?

Well, this is entirely dependent on your heating requirements and style choice - what I mean; is that it is personal preference that plays the major key.

In this article I will be discussing three of the popular stoves presently available, although I will say this with a pinch of salt, as we are in the Christmas period now and the availability of stoves has become somewhat scarce. With this said; many of the less popular stoves are still available, so if you are able to compromise, then getting a stove before Christmas could still be possible.

First Choice

The AGA, Little Wenlock Classic Multi-fuel Stove in Matt Black; possesses the perfect blend of new and old, by combining state-of-the-art design with traditional beauty.

With a nominal heat output of 4.7kW and a dedicated pre-heated, secondary air supply, makes this stove a fantastic choice for any home!

This Little Wenlock can be installed with a top or rear flue, has one of the most effective airwash systems available and this coupled with it's interchangeable wood burning plate and built-in ash pan, offers you one of the most efficient wood burning stoves available on the market.

Second Choice

The Huntingdon 25 available from Stovax, is probably one of the smallest stoves available from the Huntingdon range of Stovax stoves, but provides much of what the larger models offer.

This Huntingdon is ideal for burning wood logs, smokeless fuels or peat briquettes and has been designed to suit both the décors of a country cottage and a contemporary living space.

Third Choice

The Firefox 5, available from the Gallery Collection of fireplaces, is a fantastic choice! Perfect for any living space, this product can be suited to both traditional and contemporary settings.

The Firefox 5 has a controllable heat output up to 5.5kW and has an authentic cast-iron construction. With its secondary airwash system that helps to maintain cleaner glass panels and aids in the combustion ability and its flexibility with fuel source (suitable for burning wood, peat, coke, coal, anthracite and smokeless fuels), makes this choice, a great choice for all!

As a final point; whatever stove you choose, it is important to always work with responsible, professional and reputable fireplace suppliers and installers.

Sunday 9 August 2009

How Many Wood Stoves Will it Take to Heat Your Home?

Would you think I was lying me if I said "One?"

It may seem hard to believe, but it's actually possible to completely heat an average-sized home using wood stoves. In a best-case scenario, it is even possible to heat your residence with just one wood burning stove. However, this can only happen if several important conditions are satisfied.

What are those conditions? Before we get into that, you first need to understand that wood burning stoves are classified as space heaters. As opposed to the average central heating system, which uses a series of pipes and ducts, modern stoves generate radiant heat that warms a home directly.

This is excellent news for modern home owners, because newer houses are designed to be energy efficient. They require less heating to maintain comfortable air temperatures, which makes it realistic to heat a moderately-sized modern home with a single wood burning stove. Here's how this would happen.

Condition One: The stove needs to be installed in the home's main living area. Ideally, this will be in an open, communal area, where family members spend a lot of time. This is frequently on the floor shared by the kitchen, living and dining rooms-the places where people eat, read, watch TV and hang out. If it isn't possible to do this, you may have to use more than one stove to heat your house.

Condition Two: Heat flow needs to be possible. The one-stove approach works especially well in open-plan houses. If your residence has large rooms with few divisions, keeping everyone warm with just one large stove is really feasible. But if your house is broken up into multiple niches and smaller rooms, more than one wood burning stove will probably be necessary.

Condition Three: You need to choose from advanced wood stoves that are certified by the Environmental Protection Agency. This is really no more than a small caveat, since all wood stoves designed after the '90s are EPA-certified, which means they are fuel efficient and have minimal environmental impact. However, if you're not aware of this fact, you could inadvertently sacrifice the carefully engineered benefits of modern wood stoves by buying older, used models. Now you know--so check off that concern.

So, back to our opening question. How many stoves will it take to heat your home? As we've seen, the answer is conditional. But with a little advance planning, heating your residence with just one efficient, powerful wood stove can be a reality.

Wednesday 29 July 2009

Should You Buy A Used Pellet Stove?

Right off the bat, it's easier to buy a used pellet stove than a new one simply because you have fewer choices. But lack of choice doesn't have to mean lack of quality. I'm sure the owner of the used pellet stove you're looking at believed it was the best possible choice at that time.

Whether you're looking for a used, or even a new pellet stove, the information that follows will make you a smarter consumer.

Visit Your Local Building Department

Installing a wood or pellet stove usually requires a building permit. While you're picking up your permit application, tell the person helping you the type of heating appliance you plan to install and ask what kind of additional documentation, if any, is required. This is especially important if you own a mobile or modular home.

When I talked to the City of Quincy building department, they said a product brochure with clearance and venting information would be helpful. You can get all this information by visiting the stove manufacturer's website, downloading the owner's manual and printing it out.

Choose Your Fuel and Stove Size

If you live in the Corn Belt, the choice of fuel is obvious. If you live in the Northeast, the fuel of choice is wood pellets. Since fuel corn is "imported" to the Northeast, the price of wood pellets is competitive with corn. Wood pellet fuel is also becoming a common commodity in home improvement stores as more home owners in this region purchase wood pellet stoves.

You don't need a big stove to save big. Most of the used corn and wood pellet stoves I've seen produce 35,000-45,000 btus - enough to heat a typical 1,200 square foot ranch or the main living areas of a two story home.

If you can get a good deal on a larger, 50-60,000 btu stove, one of these will work great too since these high output models come equipped with 5 heat settings ranging from a low of 8,000 btus for chilly days, to max power for the coldest weather.

Look for These Features and Extras:

Electronic ignition

Just because you're buying a used pellet stove doesn't mean you should return to the dark ages of pellet stove heating with gel starters. Frankly, I wouldn't buy a stove without electronic ignition.

Large hopper capacity

A standard size hopper holds 40 pounds of pellet fuel. This is enough fuel to heat your home for 20-30 hours. A larger capacity hopper, although not necessary, adds convenience by requiring less frequent fillings.

Heat output controls

During the months that transition in and out of the heating season, you won't need the full heating capacity of your pellet stove. A heat output control will ensure maximum comfort from minimal fuel. Heat output controls can take the form of a thermostat, hi/lo blower, or variable speed auger that controls the rate pellets are fed into the burn pot.

Air washing system

Believe it or not, the #1 complaint people have with pellet stoves is dirty viewing glass. An air washing system, now standard on many new pellet stoves, removes the fly ash from the viewing window and eliminates frequent cleaning.

Extras

Many sellers of used pellet stoves include the venting pipe, hearth pad, log set, and any left over pellet fuel in the purchase price. These extras can add up to hundreds of dollars in additional savings.

Where to Find a Used Pellet Stove

Start with craigslist. Since most used pellet stove sellers offer pick up only, craigslist enables you to refine your search by City or State. This is a big time saver. A recent check in the Boston area turned up 12 used stoves within a 50 mile radius of my home.

ebay has plenty of listings too, you just won't find as many local sellers as you will on craigslist. When I narrowed the ebay search results to a 50 mile radius of my zip code using the Search Option function, it returned only 1 seller.

However, ebay will conveniently notify you by email whenever a new listing pops up and it's possible to delay payment for 3 months by using their credit card.

Search tip: A search on either craigslist or ebay will turn up MORE used pellet stoves if you use the term "pellet stove" rather than the narrower "used pellet stove." Also try "pellet", "wood pellet", or the brand name.

How Much Can I Expect to Save?

Generally speaking, the higher the original retail price, the more you will save percentage wise. Stoves that sold for $3,000 new can often be purchased used at savings of 50-70%. Stoves priced new under $2,000 seem to depreciate less.

Delivery

If you choose to pay for delivery, call a shipper like Yellow Truck or a courier service to make arrangements. If you buy from an ebay seller willing to ship the stove, a freight shipping calculator is provided on the sales page.

No matter who ships your stove, make the sure the truck they send has a lift gate so you can get your 300 pound stove off the truck.

Installation

Most cities and towns require a licensed pro to complete the installation. If you're an experienced home owner, finding one shouldn't be a problem. If you're new to home ownership, I recommend a service like Need a Contractor for a list of pre-screened contractors is your area.

Contact the Seller

Don't hesitate to contact the seller with any questions you might have. He or she can be especially helpful in determining whether the used pellet stove for sale is still under warranty.

Monday 27 July 2009

Installing A Countertop Stove In Your Kitchen

Because the kitchen is such a gathering place in the home, it is often the place that remodeling begins. The kitchen is often the heart of the house; the place where families gather and entertaining often occurs. So it's no wonder that homeowners choose to spend much of their renovation dollars in the kitchen - where small changes can affect big transformation and the value of the overall home can be dramatically increased.

Countertops, especially, have the ability to significantly impact the kitchen area - setting the tone for design and giving the kitchen a multi-layered functionality. Often, when choosing countertops, homeowners will opt for the traditional kitchen design that features a built-in countertop stove. But there are clear advantages and disadvantages to the countertop stove; deciding whether or not to have one depends ultimately on your personal style, functional needs, and budget.

Most busy homeowners today can appreciate the functionality of a streamlined kitchen. Our often chaotic lives leave little time to accomplish the myriad of tasks that need to be handled on a daily basis. So it's not a surprise that most of us respond positively to those kitchens that are both compact and stylish.

A countertop stove fits into this description as it integrates seamlessly into the kitchen furniture. Whether gas or electric, the countertop stove can be customized to fit your décor and blend effortlessly with your other kitchen appliances. Homeowners normally find this type of stove to be an added convenience - offering form and function; as well as a supplement to the home’s overall value.

Of course, as with anything else, there are disadvantages to this stove that should be considered before a purchase is made. The most notable of these drawbacks is that there is a higher possibility of kitchen fire than with other stove units. Because the countertop stove is integrated directly into the kitchen counter, the risk of cloth and other materials coming into contact with the stove is higher.

Obviously, the easy way to combat such a possibility is to mount a smoke detector in the kitchen area - a law that most of us already adhere to in our homes. Further, it is always important to practice constant vigilance when cooking on any stove. And, as always, children should be kept away from all stoves until they are old enough to understand and responsibly use the appliance.

The countertop stove - like any stove that you choose – can be purchased through an appliance store or large home improvement retailer. Once delivered, the stove can be installed by the company from which you purchased it or by an independent contractor.

The installation of appliances should not be tackled by a do-it-yourselfer unless they have a thorough knowledge of appliance installation. This should be adhered to especially when dealing with a gas appliance; a professional should always be involved in handling natural gas lines.

A countertop stove can be a wonderful way to streamline the decor of your kitchen and keep you cooking your best while still looking your most stylish.

Friday 17 July 2009

15 Camping Stove Safety Rules

Unless you are the pioneering type, a camping stove will accompany you on any camping trip. While they are very convenient and easy to operate, different stoves work on different fuels and work in different ways. So always read the owners manual. Aside from that, here are 15 rules that should be followed in regards to camping stoves for your protection and mother natures.


1 – Being as children are a big part of camping, the use, refueling and storing of a stove should only be done under a knowledgeable adult.


2 – Use only approved, undamaged fuel containers. Keep them far from open flames and any other source of heat.


3 – When you need to changed the compressed gas cartridges, or when you need to refill liquid fuel containers, allow the stove (or lantern) to cool completely .


4 – Refill stoves or lanterns outside away from any other flames or heat source. For liquid fuel use a funnel and then allow any spilled fuel to evaporate before attempting to ignite.


5 – Place your camping stove on a cleared, level surface. On snow, place it on a large piece of plywood. This will keep the stove warmer and reduce the tendency for it to tip over.


6 – Check stoves, hoses and tanks before each outing. Check for bent valves, cracked hoses and stripped treads that could cause leaks and possible explosions.


7 – Keep the fuel tanks as far from the actual camping stove as possible. Always keep your head and body to one side when lighting in case it creates a flare up.


8 – Never leave a lit stove or lantern unattended.


9 – Do not over load the stove. These are not made for heavy duty cooking but transportability. If anything larger then a 2 quart pot is needed, setup a second grill and place the stove under it.


10 – Do not discard empty containers. If they are not refillable, they should be disposed of properly being as the dumpster at the campsite might be disposed of by burning all refuse.


11 – Camping stoves or lanterns must never be used inside a tent or any building with poor ventilation.


12 – All canisters should be bright red or at least marked well so they don’t get confused with water bottles


13 - Carry fuel cartridges away form all foods. This may mean carrying it on the outside of a back pack.


14 - Shut off the supply valve at the tank before disconnecting hoses. Allow the extra gas in the line to bleed off.


15 – All ways read the manufactures guide lines and follow them.

Monday 13 July 2009

Harman PC 45 Corn Stove

Continuing on from Harman Pellet stove is the Harman PC 45 Corn Stove the state of art corn burning stove, the PC 45 stove has been designed to burn shelled corn but with a quick change of a burn pot can be used to burn pellet fuel too, all without tools.


After careful research the Harman team found that some form of agitator was required if there corn stove was to break the magic 40,000 BTU. Typically corn melt and fuses and forms partly burnt clinkers, but if the burning corn is agitated these 'clinkes' will be broken up and allowed to burn further. The corn ash ejected into the ash pan of the Harman Corn Stove is more completely burned than others stoves in the market.


The PC 45 Corn Stove is designed to be one of the longest between cleaning interval around, where other stoves need to be cleaned every few days at best , the PC 45 corn stove can last upto 2 weeks before the ash pan needs to be cleaned. The PC 45 is the first practical auto-ignition corn stove available. The igniter is designed to light corn in less than five minutes.


Harman's automatic temperature control eliminates "hot/cold" cycles. The real advantage of this system is efficiency by means of eliminating the 3 degree "overshooting" of a set temperature, fuel is not wasted by making the room warmer than is actually desired.


The Harman PC 45 has a large swing open ash door which is great for removing the over sized ash pan and includes carrying handles for easy transportation.


The Harman PC 45 is easily converted to burning pellets. An optional grate kit can be purchased if the customer desires to alternate between fuels. The corn igniter can ignite pellets in less than one minute after the initial feed stops.

Wednesday 8 July 2009

Family Camping Stoves - Five Features to Look For

The classic two-burner camping stove has not changed a great deal, since Coleman® introduced their model 425 stove in 1948; a version of which is still available from the company today. Gone is the white gas and the sometimes finicky hand-pump, but today's crop of two-burner propane camping stoves are immediately identifiable to anyone who is familiar with the older white gas models. Here are five important features to look for, when shopping for a dual-burner camping stove:

* Stable cooking surface. A single grate over the top of both burners provides much more flexibility for cooking with different sized pots, pans, griddles and dutch ovens, than smaller grates over each burner.
* Plenty of distance between burners. A two-burner camping stove is not very useful if you can only fit one pot or frying pan on the stove, at a time. Look for stoves that offer plenty of space between the burners, so that you can scramble eggs and cook a pot of coffee at the same time.
* Ease of cleaning. Like every piece of camping gear, the family camping stove is going to be used, abused and generally flogged. Smooth, wipe-down surfaces that are easy to access are best. Stainless steel is always a real plus, when it comes to the cooking grate and the drip-tray around the burners.
* BTU's -- the more, the better. The old white-gas model 425 could put out 11,000-plus BTU's on the main burner, and it could maintain that temperature at high altitudes. The newer propane stoves have a bad reputation for their performance dropping-off at altitude but, honestly, we regularly camp at 9,000 feet in the Sierras and have not experienced any problems.
* Wind screen. An integral wind screen around the cooking surface, like the classic Coleman 425 design, is most important when trying to light the burners, whether the stove has an integral ignition system, or not. However, a wind screen also helps to contain the heat around the burners, greatly aiding the cooking process in windy weather.


The two-burner family camping stove is a rugged and reliable piece of gear that will serve your family for many years to come. The newer propane models are easy to light and provide ample heat for just about any kind of stovetop cooking.

Happy camping!

Monday 29 June 2009

Wood Stoves Are A Great Secondary Heat Source

Checking the authenticity and usability of the wood stoves needs to be checked before making any purchase. Wood stoves were used in ancient America for many household and general purposes. A wood stove is a device, which is normally used in the kitchens for the heating of food, keeping it warm and making it palatable. A wood stove is often used for heating rooms or cooking food. Purchasing a free standing wood stove is a great way for anyone who doesn't want the hassle of building in the stove, this makes it easier if you decide to remove. A pellet-stove is very efficient because the pellets that are used are made from scraps of wood and compressed together.

Many wood stove that insert into the fireplace have fans that can blow the warm air and not the smoke into the rooms, this is a great way of getting more heat into the house. The primary reason for installing a wood stove insert rather than a stand alone stove is to utilize an existing fireplace, however there are additional benefits. A stove insert which is installed into an existing brick or stone fireplace will certainly be more efficient than a stand alone unit located within the room. Using glass doors that covers the front of a fireplace is a great way of stopping the heat from escaping, this reduces the heat from escaping but does not stop it completely.

An outdoor wood burning furnace is most well known for its ability to heat on a low budget. This low-cost heating is often most beneficial to homeowners. Wood heat is a comfortable way of heating your home but it does take some safety knowledge and precautions to do so safely. Heat is something that every home needs; unfortunately, it is sometimes difficult to afford.

Buying a certified stove completely reduces the chances of your chimney catching fire. Try to keep the chimney clean, over the years the chimney will accumulate creosote and this can cause a fire if not cleaned frequently. The chimney must be checked for an excess of soot deposited on its inside. The most convenient and preferable location for the installation of the chimney is the center of the house. Every pot belly stove has a chimney that is attached to let the smoke out.

The cost of heating with wood is relatively inexpensive. Many wood stoves come with a lot of accessories but you will need to purchase them because they are not given in the package when the stove is purchased. This adds a personal touch to the customers' wood stove as they can use the leg piece of their choice. Wood stoves come with a nice feature that catches the ashes it is called the ash drawer. Check the manufacturers warranty on all stoves and make sure this is sufficient for your use, many manufactures have a limited warranty period. With its fine design and elegance, a contemporary wood stove is sure to add style and class to any room. Wood stoves were used in ancient America for many household and general purposes.

Wednesday 24 June 2009

Know More About Outdoor Stoves

Outdoor stoves are used for preparing scrumptious dishes when a person is outdoors. You may either cook in your backyard or prepare meals when you are camping outside but for all such activities, you definitely need an outdoor stove. The term "stove" refers to a cooking appliance which is used for cooking purpose or heat generation.

For a camper or backpacker, it is necessary to carry an outdoor stove with him/her. The outdoor cooking stoves are very much acceptable since heat can be regulated as compared with open fires. Moreover, the outdoor stoves take much less time to cook food than charcoal grilles. Every time you set fire to the charcoal, you are intemperately reliant on outdoor conditions. It happens a lot of time that when you turn back to your campsite, after a day full of worked up outdoor activities, you are too exhausted to make repeated attempts to light charcoal. So, it is better to carry an outdoor cooking stove along with you.

Initially coal fueled or wood burning stoves were used, but due to the furtherance in technology, many more innovative and fitter versions of outdoor cooking stoves have been created. Pressurized cooking stoves are quite popular these days as they have the potency to set ablaze any type of inflammable liquid such as diesel, alcohol or any other type of motor fuel. They can for sure warm and cook the food very quickly and easily.

The outdoor cooking stoves are available in a plethora of designs, styles and shapes. Backpacking stoves are an perfect option for those who travel long distances. Some outdoor stoves are big, and can be carried by a car, canoe or horseback. Larger stoves store more fuel and facilitate the preparation of many dishes at a time.

Outdoor stoves are sturdy and strong and are made in such a way that they can withstand harsh climatic conditions. They are more or less reasonably priced and last for years, if maintained properly.

So, get a suitable outdoor stove and make your outdoor cooking a nice and pleasurable affair!

Thursday 18 June 2009

Things to Consider When Buying Coal Stoves

Coal stoves are a truly effective way of heating a home, however before you run out and buy one for your own home there are certain factors that need to be taken into consideration first. It is crucial that you know what these factors are as this will help you to determine just which is the right one for your home.

Firstly, you need to assess whether you have the space available to have a chimney installed on your property if you currently do not have one. Albeit some coal stoves today have their own metal chimneys which can be attached to an outside wall, you need to find out whether planning permission is required to install such an item first. The easiest way to find this out is by contacting your local authority and see what regulations they have with regards to the installation of brick or metal chimneys to a property that currently does not have one.

If you actually do have a chimney already at your home it is important that before you get any kind of coal stove installed you have it thoroughly inspected. There are plenty of company's who will carry out such inspections and provide you with details of any problems and what needs to be done to rectify them. Also arrange at the same time to have the chimney thoroughly cleaned.

A chimney is essential as this is what helps to vent the stove and so prevent toxic fumes from having access to your home. So even once installed you will need to make sure that it is regularly maintained. To prevent the build up of soot in your chimney it is important that you arrange to have it inspected and cleaned every six months to a year depending on how much it is used. Certainly those that are being used continuously should be cleaned every six months.

After the chimney issues the next thing you have to take into consideration when buying coal stoves is what size you want. The size you select will depend upon what size of home you have and just how many rooms you intend to heat using it.

After taking the above factors into consideration and you have selected your coal stove you now need to get it installed. It is best if you use a company who has plenty of experience in the installation of such equipment and not just the stove but also the other bits and pieces such as the chimney parts. Hopefully the store where you purchase your coal stove from will be able to recommend a company that can carry out these works for you.

It is vital that after your coal stove has been installed that you regularly check it over before it is lit. Over time just by looking at your coal stove you will be able to quickly identify any seals, grates or glass that needs to be replaced because they have become worn or damaged. This is especially crucial if you only have yours lit during the winter months.

Coal stoves as mentioned are a great way of ensuring that your home remains warm throughout the winter months. However, if you really want yours to be truly effective you need to make sure that you take care of it properly and that you use the best kind of fuel possible.

Monday 15 June 2009

Safety Precautions For Stove Use

Your stove is possibly one of the most useful appliances in your home, but it can also be the most dangerous if you aren't careful. It´s something that most people don´t think about much, but your stove can be the scene of many accidents. It pays to be cautious whenever you use your stove to avoid injuries and possible problems.

General Safety Precautions

Whether you have a gas, wood or electric stove, there are certain safety tips that should always be followed to keep your family safe.

• When cooking, turn the pots so the handles don´t stick out over the edge of the stove where small children can grab them and pull boiling hot food on top of themselves.

• Always keep a fire extinguisher handy near the stove, even if there is a sink nearby, grease fires will just spread if you throw water on them, so it´s better to use an extinguisher.

• Only let children cook under adult supervision.

• Use oven mitts and potholders to handle hot pans and pots to prevent burns from the high temperature metals.

• Don´t use metal spoons to stir food on the stove and then leave them in the pot. They heat up quickly and can burn your hand the next time you touch them.

• Avoid using loose, flowing clothing or leaving dish towels near hot burners, since these can catch fire.

Gas Stoves

For obvious reasons, gas stoves need extra safety precautions. You want to make sure that there are no gas leaks, so anytime you hear a hissing or smell gas and can´t tell where it is coming from, turn off your gas at the source, open all windows and exit the house. Call the fire department to check it out. Here are some other things to keep in mind with gas stoves.

• If your stove doesn't have a pilot light, be sure to light it immediately after turning the gas on. You can cause an explosion by waiting more than a second or two. Even minor gas explosions can seriously injure someone who is close to the stove at the time.

• Check regularly for gas leaks and if you notice any stove parts getting rusty or old, be sure to replace them.

• Gas tends to heat very quickly, so watch your pots carefully to make sure you don´t end up with soups boiling over or starting a fire in a pan. If you do end up with a fire, use your fire extinguisher, don´t throw water on the flames.

Electric Stoves

Electric stoves are the staple of most kitchens. They heat evenly with coils and electricity tends to be more stable than gas as far as safety goes. However, there are still some precautions specific to electrical stoves.

• Clean under the burners regularly to prevent fires. Extra bits of food that fall under the burner into the tray can catch fire if the burner is hot enough.

• Since pots are placed directly onto the burner, it´s pretty easy to accidentally touch the hot element. Be careful when reaching across the stove, even if it´s turned off, since the element can store heat for a while afterwards.

• Take care and use protective equipment to put things in the oven. Electric stoves usually have elements at the top of the oven and this can really be a danger when you reach far into the preheated oven.

Stoves are very useful and can be a great appliance to have, but they do need to be treated with care in order to avoid injury. Cook carefully and follow the safety precautions listed above to get the best, safest use out of your stove.

Tuesday 9 June 2009

Why Choose an Outdoor Wood Stove?

Many people like to have a heater in the garden to keep the place usable during the winter, and for many people the first choice is an outdoor wood stove, and mainly because of three reasons. These reasons are: it can keep the garden or patio warm, it can be used for cooking, and it also adds a great visual element to the garden.


The first thing to look at is how warm the heater can keep the patio or the garden. It's safe to say that a wood burning stove has such great heat output that you will never need to feel cold ever again. You do need to keep the stove filled with wood in order to keep the fire burning properly, but it isn't a difficult job, and does not need to be time-consuming if you prepare the wood beforehand.


The next great thing about a wood stove is that it can be used for cooking. Some wood stoves are in the style of a barbecue, in that the food can be cooked on a griddle resting directly above the fire. But some of the most expensive models actually have a cooking range on top of the stove, which means you can actually cook a full meal.


The visual element may not be so important for many people, but a lot of people think that to look at a real fire while sitting outside on the patio is one of the nicest things you can do, particularly on a chilly evening. If you have an electric heater you simply do not get this visual element, and that is why a wood stove really beats an electric stove hands down.


Now that you know the three reasons to buy and outdoor wood stove, all that you need to do is find the model that suits your budget.

Wednesday 3 June 2009

3 Ways Wood Stoves Save Money & the Environment

If you're reading this article, you probably own one or more wood stoves. Or maybe you've started exploring today's stove market, and wonder how easy it is to get a maximum return on your investment in radiant heating. Either way, you're in luck. Here are three suggestions that will help you stretch your heating budget to its limits while benefiting the environment and enjoying your stove in the process.

Before we dive in, you need to know that the primary cause of inefficiency in wood burning stoves is the incomplete consumption of fuel. When wood doesn't burn completely, overly smoky fires and decreased heat output are the results. Fortunately, by ramping up wood burning efficiency, you will be cutting down on both airborne pollution and fuel waste. Here are three ways you can use your wood stove with best results.

First, only burn seasoned wood in your stoves.

This is actually a familiar concept, similar to eating lean meat or low-fat yogurt. Recently cut, green wood, is full of moisture, which makes it hard to burn. Up to 50 percent of the weight of green wood can be moisture, which means that your stove has to work overtime to evaporate all that liquid before radiant heat is produced.

Dry, seasoned wood, by contrast, burns steadily and hot, causing top-rate heat output, money savings, and cleaner air. Therefore, when you purchase wood for your stove, buy the previous year's harvest for the current year's burning. If you have the foresight, you can also buy new wood and let it air dry for six months to a year (depending on the type), after which it will be ready for burning.

Second, make "Indian fires" in your stove.

Watched any Western movies lately? Back in the frontier days, Indian fires were the lean, green solar panels of back country heating. By burning small and hot, they were easily kindled, efficient to tend, and good to the environment. Today, not much has changed. Making small, hot fires allows your stove to dispense with unstable gases at an optimum pace, burning them off quickly. That results in better air quality and virtually no safety risks--not to mention better fuel economy. By carefully building a smaller blaze, you'll be a little more involved in tending your stove. But great heating efficiency and better air quality are such good dividends that you probably won't mind.

Third, feed your wood stove the right fuel.

This is basically common sense, but since common sense is so frequently uncommon, I'll go ahead and say it. When your stove is blazing in the corner, it's possible to get over enthusiastic and start treating it like an all purpose Master of the Blaze. Materials like plastic trash and junk mail can get thrown on the fire, in addition to more fuel-like items like charcoal briquettes, hunks of water-proofed wood from your decking project, etc. Admittedly, it's kind of fun to throw all manner of things inside your stove (especially if you love pyrotechnics!), but by doing so, you can damage your stove's inner workings, causes your heating efficiency to plummet, and release dangerous chemicals into the air. So resist the temptation. After all, they're called "wood stoves" for a reason.

Sunday 17 May 2009

Vintage Stoves – Classic Designs to Warm your Heart

Have you ever been to the antique market, or watching the “Antiques Roadshow", and seen those wonderful woodstoves for days passed? They are absolutely amazing, especially if you can find one in good shape. A friend of mine recently installed a “4 O’clock" stove

dating back to the early 1900’s, and it looks marvelous! It got me thinking about woodstoves, in general, and I started to research many of the vintage stoves. I have listed the most popular models below. Get yourself a cup of tea, put your feet up, and read on!

Victorian Stoves – These stoves date back to the late 1800’s. They are generally made from cast iron, and adorned with nickel. This early kitchen stove will meet all of your cooking needs.

Country Stoves – These stoves generally date to around the early 1900’s. It is very similar to the Victorian stove, but more effort has been out into the nickel highlights and the clean, crisp casting.

Retro Stoves – These particular stoves are simply updated versions of the above. In the 1930’s, when these stoves were immensely popular, the kitchen seemed to be the central point in one’s home. These stoves were integral to the “modern" kitchen.

Cylinder Stoves – These stoves are likely the most easily recognizable of the antique stoves. They were renowned for their extraordinary ability to heat a home, while taking up very little floor space.

Potbelly Stoves – Early American photographs abound with images of the potbelly stove. These stoves were found in railway stations, saloons, brothels, and many other historic settings on the western frontier.

Parlour Stoves – Back in the Victorian era, these beautiful stoves were a focal point in traditional parlour rooms. At the height of their popularity, artisans adorned them with various designs such as cherubs, mythological figures, and floral designs.

Franklin Fireplaces – This stove is pure Americana. It was designed by Benjamin Franklin, and early American inventor, craftsman, and President. All wood stoves used for heating owe their heritage to Benjamin Franklin, and his efficient design.

These are but a few of the stove types I came across in my research. These stoves are all wonderful examples of design and function. If you happen to see any of these stoves while shopping for antiques, do let me know. Or buy one for yourself! You won’t regret it!

Monday 11 May 2009

Coleman Stoves – 7 Tips On Caring And Cleaning

Coleman stoves are more efficient and look more dazzling when it’s in clean, and in spick and span shape. Proper cleaning and caring for your Coleman stoves would ensure you that it stays in top shape, looking brand new and will reap you benefits including better fuel efficiency, control of flame and absence of rust and oxidization.

Here are some tips on caring and cleaning for your Coleman stoves to make sure they last a long time doing cooking service for you and your family.

First tip: Clean your stove every after use to avoid build-up on burners. When it’s not going to be used for some time, you should still clean it regularly. Wipe the surface of your camping stove with warm water and dishwashing soap. It is very important that you dry it completely before storing.

Second tip: For more thorough cleaning, especially after a boil-over, unscrew the burner rings and bowls to check if there are any fluid or food debris on the manifold. In case there is build-up, soap with dishwashing detergent diluted with warm water then rinse it with clean water.

Third tip: For worse case like heavy volumes of grease and dirt build-up inside the case or on the burners, it is a good idea to bring the stove to a car wash for high-pressurized washing. Turn the stove upside down after the clean up to ensure that there is no water residue inside the manifold that can cause for it to rust and disrupt the efficiency of the stove.

Fourth tip: Store your Coleman stove properly after cleaning. Place it inside a plastic bag and seal it so that spiders or other crawling insects that can block fuel and airflow will not be able to crawl their way through the stove. This is also important to keep it dry and prevent rusting of the parts..

Fifth tip: If you have a liquid fuel stove, it is important that you transfer as much fuel as possible from the fuel tank to the fuel can to avoid the build-up of on the fuel tube of the tank. This is necessary to avoid fuel build-up on the fuel tube which can restrict the flow of fuel to the generator and burner.

Sixth tip: Oil the pump cup on the tank’s pump plunger with machine oil at least two times every year to allow the cup to seal against the inside of pump barrel and keep the pump working smoothly.

Seventh tip: Read the manual of the stove carefully and follow all instructions for cleaning and caring.

Take care of your Coleman stove, needless to say, it is a worthy camping equipment investment.
But making a camping trip a great family time is not all about fun and games. It’s not all about great food and great hiking. Sure, you have to bring your family to a nice camping site and create exciting and wonderful camping activities and games for them, but also one of the most important aspects of camping that you should never overlook is camp safety.

Thursday 7 May 2009

Pellet Stoves Gas Stoves Room Heating Systems

Sitting beside the fireplace in the coolest season in your sweet home always makes the surreal heavenly feelings. In the coolest climate it becomes very essential to make warm your rooms. There are a variety of room heaters could be found but if you want to have an economical, space saving and efficient room heater, the wood pellet stoves are the best choice.

Wood pellets are a type of wood fuel. These are generally made from the compacted sawdust. Wood pellets are usually produced as a byproduct of sawmilling and other wood transformation activities. These are extremely competent, produce very little waste, and inexpensive also.

Wood pellet stoves are versatile durable appliances. These are a kind of free standing fireplaces which do not required any chimney and hearth, but they add the fireplace ambiance to the rooms and they produce a considerable amount of heat. Most pellet stoves are auto-igniting and cycle themselves on and off controlled by an automatic thermostat. Automatic ignition stoves can be equipped with remote controls. Current technological researches have innovated the high definition pellet stoves. This type of pellet stove system automatically runs a diagnostic test if an imminent problem arises.

A properly cleaned and well maintained wood pellet stove or fireplace does not create creosote, the sticky, flammable substances. Wood pellets are burnt completely and create only a layer of fine fly-ash at the time of ignition. The performance and ash output of the pellets can be different as per the quality of pellet fuel. The best quality pellets produce less than one percent ash content, while standard or low grade pellets produce two to four percent ash.

The wood pellet stoves require electricity to its blower which distributes the hot air outwards. These stoves drive the hot air they produced outward, so that the heat can go farther than it would naturally. The pellets are burnt so completely that they hardly emit any smoke. As a result of that it is not compulsory to build a large chimney to channel smoke out of the home. Wood pellet stoves only need a small pipe leading outside to dispose of excess smoke. As the Wood pellet stoves are so efficient it creates less than a cup of fly ashes if around 40 pound of wood pellets is burnt. Wood pellet stoves generate heat more efficiently than bigger and more expensive gas heaters.

Wood pellet stoves are the best substitute for gas or electrical heating system. This is very economical and efficient enough to produce sufficient heat to warm an entire house. This is one of the most non-polluting heating appliances. Currently the heating system industry is substantially moving towards the bio friendly, combustible and renewable energy. The byproducts of the pellets are also used as the fuel for the wood pellet stoves.

Saturday 2 May 2009

The Best Way of Choosing the Best Wood Burning Stove For Your Home

Are you trying to decide how you can go about choosing the right wood burning stove? If so, you have come to the right place! Choosing a stove that burns wood for the home requires some careful consideration. There are many different types and models available in today's stove market, and the choice can be really difficult.


However, if you know what you need to consider right from the start, choosing the right wood burning stove for your home can be an easy task. Here, you will learn how!


The first thing that you should consider is why you are shopping for the stove that burns wood for your home. Do you want a unit that focuses on heating? Do you want to use the stove to cook with? Do you simply want a decorative piece for your home? You should consider these things so that you know what level of functionality that you are looking for.


A stove that is being purchased just to enhance the appearance of a home does not need to have the same level of functionality as the stove that is required for cooking or heating.


The second thing that you will need to consider is the amount of heat that should be able to come from the unit. Once you consider this, you should consider the overall size of the room or the home that will need to be heated. If you are not purchasing the stove to provide a source of heat, you will not need to worry about this consideration.


However, if you are, the next thing that you should consider is the method in which the heat will get from the stove to other locations in and around the home.


The third thing that needs to be considered when you purchase a wood burning stove is how often that the unit will be used. If it will be used frequently, you may consider a larger, high quality unit that aims to display the quality that is needed for long term use. If you just want a unit that will add a little décor to the home, and enhance the overall appearance of the home, you will more than likely not require a stove that costs a lot of money.


If you are in the process of choosing the right wood burning stove, you can follow the considerations mentioned here in order to make a decision that will work for you and your needs.


Daryl Plaza is a regular contributor to BeautifulWoodStoves.com - a website with information and resources for all your wood burning stove ideas and questions

Saturday 25 April 2009

Wood-Burning Stoves: Timeless Classics

Traditionally, wood-burning freestanding stoves were used in ski cabins and lodges, but today thanks to new design concepts they have become a welcome addition to any home.


Wood-burning stoves can be installed in any room of your house, but most often they are placed in living or dining rooms, as well as in patios. While traditional fireplaces generally work as a piece of décor, free-standing wood-burning stoves are generally used for more practical purposes, namely, for heating and even cooking. Thanks to new designs, your wood-burning stove will look attractive and still remain perfectly functional. Because it isn’t attached to the wall, a wood-burning stove will radiate more heat throughout a small or large room.


Most often, wood-burning stoves are usually built of stainless steel, soapstone or ceramics study stone and brick but can remain sleek and contemporary thanks to new materials such as fireproof glass and stainless steel details. The shape of these stoves is most commonly tall and cylindrical, with built-in wood storage under the burning chamber.


When choosing a new wood-burning stove, keep in mind that the size of your wood-burning stove is determined by the size of the space that needs to be heated. The fire of the stove should be substantial enough to please the eye as well as heat the room, but too much fire can literally turn your place into an oven.


When picking a place to put your new stove, avoid traffic areas such as doors. A stove surrounded by windows may be a good solution. The fire chamber door should face the room. Don’t forget to take stovepipe requirements into the account, making sure they are in compliance with your local building codes. Since wood-burning stoves are not strictly fireplaces, they don’t require any clearance between the fire chamber and surrounding combustible materials, such as wood or fabric.


Conventional wood-burning stoves vary in heat efficiency because their construction can be very different, too. The efficiency of a wood-burning stove depends on how much of its combustion energy turns to heat, which in its turn depends on how well it burns wood. Even the best wood-burning stoves don’t burn all wood completely. The smoke is actually composed of unburned wood particles. Another factor that impacts the wood-burning stove’s efficiency is how much heat escapes through the chimney.


To improve the efficiency of your wood-burning stove, consider a chimney sweep in the first place. This should be done by a professional fireplace expert. If you noticed that a lot of smoke is produced during the wood burning, you may need to alter the size of your stove opening, or reconfigure the existing fire chamber. If you notice that a lot of hot air escapes through the chimney, you may consider replacing the fire basket – the metal rack that supports the burning logs. New designs of fire baskets can greatly improve air circulation and heat efficiency.


Wood burning stoves today offer a great variety of looks and designs to suit any home style, from a retro Victorian house to a steel loft condo. Painted black, brushed steel or even red, with stovepipe to match, wood burning stoves with generous glass doors allow you admire the dancing flames during the cold winter season.

Sunday 12 April 2009

4 Reasons to Buy a New Wood Stove

Newer doesn't automatically mean better, but when it comes to the tested technology of advanced wood stoves, the benefits are hard to argue with. Current wood stove models--anything made after the early 1990s and approved by the Environmental Protection Agency--are at least a third more economical than the traditional pot belly stove. That means 33 percent less cash spent on seasoned wood (or 33 percent less elbow grease if you harvest your own fuel). In addition, today's wood burning stoves are nearly smokeless, keeping polluting fumes to a minimum. Let's break down the benefits in a little more detail.


First, Efficient Technology

At the moment you sign the check or swipe your credit card, the economical technology of a contemporary stove will cost you about $200 dollars. However, as heating savings begin to accumulate, that investment will quickly pay dividends. After just a couple seasons of use, you can expect your stove to have paid for itself--and thereafter you're moving further and further into the black with every fire you build. It's not hard to see why many homeowners find this kind of math attractive.


Second, Green Safety

Modern stoves give off 90 percent fewer fumes than the traditional models, which amounts to fires that are virtually smokeless. Practically, this means no dark, heavy smoke, no stifling, harmful emissions, no bad odor. This kind of efficiency makes stoves an environmentally friendly alternative. On top of this, 90 percent less smoke means 90 percent less creosote--a flammable waste substance that accumulates in stove flues. That means you won't need to hire a chimney sweep to service your stove, and it reduces the risk of stovepipe fires to almost nil.


Third, Maximum Wood Economy

This may sound slightly redundant, but let me point it out anyway. Contemporary stoves produce very little smoke, as we saw above--but this is a result of their fuel efficiency. They burn hotter with less wood, and they burn wood completely, leaving very little ash. This results in a smaller environmental footprint, as less wood is consumed. Do you see a theme emerging? More heat, less expenditure. In addition, today's stoves are easy to operate, so you'll spend a minimum of time getting your fires lit. No tinkering with a quirky machine to get the air flow right and the fire started.


Fourth, Wood Stove Style

This may be the last thing you think about, but it needs to be said: Today's stoves are much better looking than their predecessors. Advanced modern designs give us a pay-off in aesthetic terms as well. Stoves you'll look at now showcase graceful lines, custom colors, and stone and enamel materials in addition to classic cast iron and welded steel models. Contemporary stoves feature self-cleaning glass windows, which allow you to keep an eye on fires and make adjustments if necessary. But probably better than that, it allows you to curl up and watch the flames dance.

Convinced yet? By going with a new stove, you'll gain a radiant heating source that pads your bank account while adding to the beauty of your home.

Saturday 4 April 2009

Warm Up Your Home With A Wood Stove

A wood stove is a device, which is normally used in the kitchens for the heating of food, keeping it warm and making it palatable. Some antique wooden stoves can be used for the purpose of heating and cooking even today. Wood stoves are used for household cooking needs as well as for heating purposes.


One of the purposes of a wood burning stove was to enclose the fire so to generate more heat and make the heating more efficient. A wood stove is often used for heating rooms or cooking food.


They are made up of cast iron and other strong metals and are sturdy enough to handle the amount of heat generated. A stove uses other sources of fuel to burn and make heat, many use wood or pellets. Wood stoves are also used to heat homes apart from their cooking function. Some come with glass panes that can handle the heat but adds a nice touch when you see the flame.


It is important to know what types of fuel your particular type of burning stove can use and what cannot be used safely. When purchasing a pellet stove or a wood burning stove, there are many factors to consider before making the purchase. There are a few things to think about before purchasing and installing a wood burning stove in your home. After calculating the installation space understanding how to keep all the combustible items safe you need to hook up the chimney so the smoke is directed to the outside.


Want something different than carrying in wood, cutting wood and storing it, then try out the new pellet stoves, you can store the pellet easily, there is no cutting, no mess, but it gives you the feel of a wood burning stove. When looking at wood stoves and pellet stoves the pellet stoves are a little more expensive but the plus side is that they come ready to use, they are cleaner and easier to use. This is 20% less efficient than wood pellet or corn stoves. Pellet stoves are very easy to use, you don't need to cut wood all you need to do is open the bag of pellets and poor them in, the auger will move the pellets as needed to be burned. Pellet stoves have a mechanical part that feeds the fire when needed; you do not have to go near the hot flame. You can get the pellets anywhere today, most of the major hardware stores carry the easily to carry bags. Stove are cheaper and you can use them with a cheaper fuel source such as pellets, firewood or any other type of materials.


Antique wood stoves are collector’s items that are very valuable to some people. There are many different types of antique wood stoves available. Today you can find the stoves in local household stores, furniture stores and many stores that sell antiques.


Some of the older wood stoves are considered antiques, and many people use these pieces as decoration purposes only. Many antique pieces from the past are available for sale today in different antique shops and on the Internet.

Tuesday 31 March 2009

How To Repair A Gas Stove

How do you repair a gas stove when it breaks down in the middle of a dish you are whipping up? Or even before you've set that pot atop the burner? Can you determine beforehand if your gas stove has a problem and if that problem is within your (or will require) expert attention?

Compared to electric stoves, most problems with gas stoves are simple, mechanical and may be resolved with a few troubleshooting measures that you can do yourself. To repair a gas stove in your kitchen, you need only keen observation and common sense. Do-it-yourself, self-help, usually works, unless of course if at any time you smell gas, suspect a gas leak, and cannot identify where the leak is coming from. This is the time to get expert help.

On your own, here are a few tips to repair a gas stove:

What do you do when you have clogged burners? Your gas stove's burners have portholes around them through which gas is released and gets to the spark made by the igniter to light a controlled flame. Sometimes you will wonder why your burners are not lighting up even after several tries on your dial. Check out the burner portholes; they may be clogged so that gas cannot escape to reach the igniter. You can remove the burner top and grate, get the burner assembly with the portholes out, and check the clogs. In this case, you need only to clean those portholes, but do it by picking on each porthole with a toothpick or pin, making sure the hole is cleared but not deformed by your picking, brushing the holes to remove any leftover or residue, and then washing or brushing the burner completely. If this does not do it, get expert repair help already.

Can you adjust the flame setting or flame size? Ideally, you should see your stove's flame as bright blue in color and consistently burning. The blue color is the result of the proper mixture of the gas fuel and the surrounding air that assures you that the fuel is being burned efficiently. If the flame is of a yellowish or whitish color, there may be a problem with how the gas ignition is aerated or how air is mixing with the gas fuel. You not only get sooty pans this way; you also run the risk of gas being overly fed into the burner. To adjust the air and gas mixture to the safest and most efficient level, you can adjust the stove's pilot which is a screw valve located behind the control knobs. With a screwdriver, you can turn and adjust this pilot until you get a bluish flame to indicate you've reached the efficient air-gas mixture level.

Sometimes after cleaning and adjusting the pilot, you still cannot get an instant flame on your burners. You can also check the ignition this time. The spark ignition that is connected to your stove's control knob lights up the mixed gas and air to ignite a flame. The igniter is located either on the left or right side very near the burner. Examine the igniter and check for clogs or severed wire or damaged spark mechanism. Brush it to clean the clogs and reveal any damaged mechanism, which if there are any, can be bought and replaced easily. Some gas stove models use electronic igniters which over time also turn defective due to normal wear or tear. If so, then it may be time to replace the electronic igniter, too. Also, you can check if there is any cut wiring or exposed insulation in your electronic igniter; the module may be grounded and is not working properly.

When you smell gas and trace it to your gas safety valve, check out the valve for integrity as in there are no loose hose clamps or faulty valve gates. If after tightening these clamps and valves there is still a trace of gas odor, take your appliance to a competent repairman.

There may also be times you are pushed to panic levels when your stove emits more smoke than it used to. Before you panic, check your stove first for drip-buildup. Sometimes fat and grease drip and are accumulated on the burners and the burner drip pans. When touched by flame and burned, these drips create much smoke. You can simply remove those drip pans and clean away the drip-down grease, washing and drying those drip pans totally before your next use.

These are just some basic tips on how to repair a gas stove. However, for problems that you cannot accurately pinpoint, it is always best to let the experts handle it. Take your gas stove to the nearest repair shop when in doubt.

Sunday 29 March 2009

Heat Your Home To Perfection With The Right Stove

In winter, there is simply nothing better than escaping the elements by opening up your front door and retreating into a beautifully warm, cozy home. Unfortunately, too many of us haven’t solved our heating problems by the time the first chills of winter set in. In fact, instead of finding retreat in our homes, we come home only to shiver through one winter after another, cursing the cold and counting the days until summer.


If this sounds like your home, perhaps it is time to consider buying a stove to heat your house. Stoves are one of the oldest, and yet most effective ways of heating your home, combining age-old heating properties with the gorgeous ambiance that only a fire can bring.


If you are considering buying a stove for heating, there are a variety of different styles and models to choose from. Indeed, you will be pleasantly surprised by the diversity of stoves on offer. One thing that will not be a surprise however, is their ability to generate heat. That is because, unlike open fires, stoves require less air to burn the fuel, so typically cold drafts are eliminated when a stove is fitted.


Whether you opt for a traditional freestanding model, or more modern “insert” stove that is installed into a space in your wall, you are bound to find a stove that meets your needs.


Amongst some of the things you need to consider when you select your stove are your exact heating requirements, the dimension and space of your home or apartment, and the type of fuel you intend to burn. Some of the fuel options available include both hard and soft woods; materials such peat, compressed paper, straw, or wood waste.


You can also opt for coal or solid fuel. There are multi-fuel stoves on the market that enable you to use different fuels in your stove, however people tend to buy a stove with a particular fuel in mind, with cost and availability being an obvious factor in their decision.


Choosing a stove is easy when you know your heating needs. Once your stove is installed, you can rest assured that next time winter sets in, you will be as warm as toast.

Saturday 21 March 2009

Using A Wood Stove Is A Great Source Of Heat

Checking the authenticity and usability of the wood stoves needs to be checked before making any purchase. Wood stoves were used in ancient America for many household and general purposes. A wood stove is a device, which is normally used in the kitchens for the heating of food, keeping it warm and making it palatable. A wood stove is often used for heating rooms or cooking food. Purchasing a free standing wood stove is a great way for anyone who doesn't want the hassle of building in the stove, this makes it easier if you decide to remove. A pellet-stove is very efficient because the pellets that are used are made from scraps of wood and compressed together.

Many wood stove that insert into the fireplace have fans that can blow the warm air and not the smoke into the rooms, this is a great way of getting more heat into the house. The primary reason for installing a wood stove insert rather than a stand alone stove is to utilize an existing fireplace, however there are additional benefits. A stove insert which is installed into an existing brick or stone fireplace will certainly be more efficient than a stand alone unit located within the room. Using glass doors that covers the front of a fireplace is a great way of stopping the heat from escaping, this reduces the heat from escaping but does not stop it completely.

An outdoor wood burning furnace is most well known for its ability to heat on a low budget. This low-cost heating is often most beneficial to homeowners. Wood heat is a comfortable way of heating your home but it does take some safety knowledge and precautions to do so safely. Heat is something that every home needs; unfortunately, it is sometimes difficult to afford.

Buying a certified stove completely reduces the chances of your chimney catching fire. Try to keep the chimney clean, over the years the chimney will accumulate creosote and this can cause a fire if not cleaned frequently. The chimney must be checked for an excess of soot deposited on its inside. The most convenient and preferable location for the installation of the chimney is the center of the house. Every pot belly stove has a chimney that is attached to let the smoke out.

The cost of heating with wood is relatively inexpensive. Many wood stoves come with a lot of accessories but you will need to purchase them because they are not given in the package when the stove is purchased. This adds a personal touch to the customers' wood stove as they can use the leg piece of their choice. Wood stoves come with a nice feature that catches the ashes it is called the ash drawer. Check the manufacturers warranty on all stoves and make sure this is sufficient for your use, many manufactures have a limited warranty period. With its fine design and elegance, a contemporary wood stove is sure to add style and class to any room. Wood stoves were used in ancient America for many household and general purposes.

Friday 13 March 2009

Buying Tips For Camping Stoves

The vast selection of camping stoves tagged with technical terms a layman wouldn't understand, may be scary for some who are not that experienced when it comes to camping and buying camping stoves. However, purchasing the right camping stove is not as hard as it may seem.

Here are some considerations you should take into account when buying a camping stove. With these information and simple tips, selection and purchase would be much easier

Size

Camping brands like Coleman offer one, two and multiple burner camping stoves. What you should opt for should depend on the volume of cooking you intend to do. If you're solo packing, a camping stove with one or two burner may do but if you intend to go camping with the whole family or plan to have a camping cook feast with a bunch of friends, go for a camping stove that has two or more burners to save time cooking.

Type of Fuel

After deciding which stove size is suitable for your camping needs, the next thing to consider is the type of fuel you'll want to use. Your fuel options include propane, white gas (otherwise known as Coleman fuel), unleaded gas, butane or kerosene. However it is mostly recommended to use either propane or white gas only.

Out of all the camping stoves, those that are fuelled by white gas produce the most heat. It is the more environment-friendly choice for it burns cleanly without any odor or effect on food taste as well as produces less waste.

Many of the Coleman camping stoves that are fuelled with white gas operate on dual fuel system which means that the stove can run either on white gas or unleaded gasoline. However, it is best that you use only white gas unless during cases when you run out of it and can't buy any.

Propane camp stoves on the other hand are simpler and more easy to use, but weigh a lot heavier compared with white gas. But propane Coleman camping stoves are also great choices because of their easiness to operate and ignite, and good performance in warm climates and at low elevations. Most Coleman camping stoves powered with propane fuel even have electronic ignitions to save time and energy.

Type of Camping Activity

Another consideration to make is the type of camping you intend to do during your trip. For example, if you plan to go backpacking, choose a camping stove that is lightweight, has a single burner for this is easier to carry in your load.

But if you intend to go on a family camping trip, a group hike or RV camping, it is more appropriate to opt for three or four burner stoves that would allow you to create a grand fiesta for everyone.

Now, if you're planning to go on a beach camping trip or have a backyard party where you'll probably want to do some grilling on the side, a combination of a stove and grill is the perfect choice for you.

Many camping brands such as Coleman provides you with a wide array of quality camp stoves and background information on its features to make your choice much easier.

Sunday 8 March 2009

Why Are Wood Stoves So Popular?

If you have any aesthetic sensibility at all, then the allure of wood stoves might be hard to resist. Burnished metal and a crackling fire definitely appeal to the senses, and combined with luxurious radiant heat, it's no wonder that many home owners are looking to incorporate stoves in their living areas. However, there's more to the story than romance and atmosphere.

Depending on where you picked up your concept of stoves, the picture you have in your mind's eye may no longer be accurate. For example, remember those black, pot-bellied stoves that were a mainstay of the Western movie and your grandparents' house? Those old-era stoves have gone the way of the American cowboy. They're a thing of the past, and that's actually a good thing.

Contemporary stoves have all the aesthetic appeal of the old models, and then some. A wide array of materials have added new looks to the market. Today's home owners can choose stoves made of pewter, soapstone, welded steel, or porcelain, as well as the traditional black iron.

A variety of textures and designer colors add even more room for personal preference. The stately-looking "antique" designs have made a comeback, but graceful, modern-looking models are also popular. Today's stoves are equally comfortable in a hunting lodge, family room, or urban loft.

But there's more. Not only are today's wood stoves better-looking. They also burn hotter, cleaner, and with more efficiency. Producing almost no smoke and very little wood ash, contemporary stoves consume less wood and they're kind to the environment. Since the early 1990s, the Environmental Protection Agency has overseen the production process, ensuring that new models meet demanding emissions standards.

Today's stoves create a mere trickle of smoke--as little as 2-5 grams per hour. This means that they save you money with fuel economy, increase the air quality, and reduce the risk of fire to practically zero.

As you could probably guess, wood burning stoves now come in sizes and models that are suitable to almost every type of home. (For the purposes of this article, I'm assuming you aren't living in a cardboard box.) So whether you're living in a condo, a three-story house, or a loft space, there are stoves designed to heat your living area. The market may look kind of imposing. But there are a handful of questions that can clarify your needs.

Ask yourself, for example, "What do I want to accomplish? Am I heating one room, a small cottage or an entire house? Will I use my stove in a hot or cold climate, in the summer or winter months?"
With questions like these answered, you're ready to explore further. Are you ready to create some flickering fireside ambiance? Wood stoves have a lot to offer. Best of luck as you decide which stove is right for you.