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.
Showing posts with label stoves. Show all posts
Showing posts with label stoves. Show all posts
Sunday, 13 December 2009
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.
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, 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.
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.
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!
* 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!
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Wednesday, 4 March 2009
Comparing Wood Stoves and Pellet Stoves
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.
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.
Thursday, 5 February 2009
The Propane Stove Buying Guide
If you are looking to buy a propane stove, you should get acquainted with the technology before you buy. This equipment is a must for every trip and camping. If you don't have a good propane stove you can't do much of anything else.
1. Propane Stoves
Propane is cheap and will last many camping trips. It is because propane stoves propose good features and dependability on the field. Propane stoves are very portable. And ease of use is an attribute mostly preferred by consumers.
2. The Purchase
If you are going to buy propane stoves and see for yourself, you can check out these tips so that you will be getting only the best buy. Here is a comprehensive guide in buying propane stoves.
Select the propane stove that is easiest to clean. When you are out in the woods camping, water may not easy to come by. The best propane stove is the one that does not need water to clean it. And cleaning should be done in one easy feat. Cleaning and maintenance should be breezy enough for users even look forward to the experience.
Get the one that is built for heavy-duty use. This one echoes durability from all sides. As the point implies, your stove should be able to withstand the outdoor weather and the ragged use. Propane gas stoves should be made of strong materials. And each of its components should be as sturdy as the base.
Select the one that is most reasonably priced. The best stove would deliver quality and price down to a level reachable by consumers. It is not always true that good products are the pricey ones. There are still some manufacturers out there that could make good products but cuts on price.
Consider your needs. Propane stoves can come in double or a single burner types. If you do a lot of cooking while onsite, you are going to need the double burner kind. A single burner should be enough for you if you do more heating than real cooking. Whichever the case maybe, get the one that matches your needs while you are out having fun.
Get the one with variable power. A propane stove that can be adjusted to meet your cooking requirements would be ideal while on the road. The heavy-duty cooking needs more butane power to cook. While light cooking just needs ample heat. If the propane stove is versatile enough, it should be able to accommodate whatever you might be cooking.
Select the propane gas that has the longest warranty period. A long warranty period means the product is made to last a long time. It is noted that the warranty period of a device determines the durability of the product. If the product is guaranteed for a year, then it is bound to last for about five years, perhaps.
Get the brand most trusted. You know what they say. If it comes from the best, it must be the best. Companies who have been around for ages manufacturing propane stoves would sure be the best choice. A good company would have its own name to protect. Hence, it would deliver only the best line of products.
Select the one with a customer service hotline. For any device, electric or otherwise, it would be superb if they have some sort of a hotline number to assist customers with what you call the out-of-the-box experience. This is especially helpful for people who havent really tried using a propane gas stove before. Sometimes, instruction leaflets and manuals are hard to understand. It would really be better if there were a real person to talk to in some cases.
Get the one with the most positive ratings. If there are resources available, like online ratings, customer feedbacks, and survey forms available to you, you can well use these things to help you decide. It is a no-brainer that if the product has a lot of rave reviews, then it is worth evaluating further.
The trips you will remember the fondest will be the trips that you have the proper ammenities for. These are listed with the hope to lead you to the finest quality product out in the market. Propane gas stoves are sure to be the best equipment brought along by any outdoor enthusiast. If you get more work done when you are camping that means more time to spend with your family.
1. Propane Stoves
Propane is cheap and will last many camping trips. It is because propane stoves propose good features and dependability on the field. Propane stoves are very portable. And ease of use is an attribute mostly preferred by consumers.
2. The Purchase
If you are going to buy propane stoves and see for yourself, you can check out these tips so that you will be getting only the best buy. Here is a comprehensive guide in buying propane stoves.
Select the propane stove that is easiest to clean. When you are out in the woods camping, water may not easy to come by. The best propane stove is the one that does not need water to clean it. And cleaning should be done in one easy feat. Cleaning and maintenance should be breezy enough for users even look forward to the experience.
Get the one that is built for heavy-duty use. This one echoes durability from all sides. As the point implies, your stove should be able to withstand the outdoor weather and the ragged use. Propane gas stoves should be made of strong materials. And each of its components should be as sturdy as the base.
Select the one that is most reasonably priced. The best stove would deliver quality and price down to a level reachable by consumers. It is not always true that good products are the pricey ones. There are still some manufacturers out there that could make good products but cuts on price.
Consider your needs. Propane stoves can come in double or a single burner types. If you do a lot of cooking while onsite, you are going to need the double burner kind. A single burner should be enough for you if you do more heating than real cooking. Whichever the case maybe, get the one that matches your needs while you are out having fun.
Get the one with variable power. A propane stove that can be adjusted to meet your cooking requirements would be ideal while on the road. The heavy-duty cooking needs more butane power to cook. While light cooking just needs ample heat. If the propane stove is versatile enough, it should be able to accommodate whatever you might be cooking.
Select the propane gas that has the longest warranty period. A long warranty period means the product is made to last a long time. It is noted that the warranty period of a device determines the durability of the product. If the product is guaranteed for a year, then it is bound to last for about five years, perhaps.
Get the brand most trusted. You know what they say. If it comes from the best, it must be the best. Companies who have been around for ages manufacturing propane stoves would sure be the best choice. A good company would have its own name to protect. Hence, it would deliver only the best line of products.
Select the one with a customer service hotline. For any device, electric or otherwise, it would be superb if they have some sort of a hotline number to assist customers with what you call the out-of-the-box experience. This is especially helpful for people who havent really tried using a propane gas stove before. Sometimes, instruction leaflets and manuals are hard to understand. It would really be better if there were a real person to talk to in some cases.
Get the one with the most positive ratings. If there are resources available, like online ratings, customer feedbacks, and survey forms available to you, you can well use these things to help you decide. It is a no-brainer that if the product has a lot of rave reviews, then it is worth evaluating further.
The trips you will remember the fondest will be the trips that you have the proper ammenities for. These are listed with the hope to lead you to the finest quality product out in the market. Propane gas stoves are sure to be the best equipment brought along by any outdoor enthusiast. If you get more work done when you are camping that means more time to spend with your family.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
RSS Feed (xml)
