Whether you love them or hate them, there is no denying the undying trendiness of wood burning stoves. Their popularity has risen and fallen over the years, largely due to environmental concerns. Wood burning stoves have been written off many times, yet, there has been an increase in sales in recent years. This has probably been fueled in part by more extreme winters and higher heating bills. But don’t ignore the wood burning stove’s appeal as an interior design choice. If you’re having trouble deciding whether to buy one of these stoves, these pros and cons might help you make your decision.
The Cons
Where You Live: If you live in a rural area, you will have easy access to firewood. You can cut down trees and store the wood, giving it enough time to dry before winter comes. If you live in a city or urban area, gas fireplaces might be more widely used in a city where most of the population lives in rental homes or apartments. You may have difficulty getting a steady supply of firewood, and even then the cost might be too much to handle.
Constant Cleaning: You will need to clean your wood burning stove after every use. Air coming down the chimney can sometimes spread ash in the room. This might be a bit too much for some busy people. Additionally, you will have to ensure that you get the chimney professionally swept every year as a fire prevention measure.
The cost of Installation: For some this is too expensive a project, especially if it involves retrofitting. Since it offers long term saving it is still worth considering if you can afford it.
The Pros
Environmental Benefits: The most obvious benefit of owning one of these stoves is your reduced reliance on fossil fuels. While some argue that wood burning produces carbon dioxide, this level is no higher than trees produces in the atmosphere before it is cut.
Versatility: Modern wood stoves can do more than keep you warm on cold nights. Some can be used for cooking, or to provide hot water to the home.
Lower Heating Costs: You can save money on your heating costs with a wood burning stove. They are very effective at providing warmth, so sometimes you will not even need to use your heater.
If you want to buy a wood burning stove, you don’t have to be deterred by what many see as disadvantages. Weight the decision carefully, but keep in mind that this item comes with responsibilities. Talk to us about maintaining your wood burning stove, and why an annual cleaning of your chimney is necessary.