Operating a Wood Stove
A wood stove is becoming an increasingly popular choice for home heating due to their many benefits. Sometimes referred to as an outdoor wood furnace, these stoves resemble sheds and are self-contained structures that house a wood burning and water area. The water is heated to boiling, usually reaching temperatures between 160 and 180 degrees F, and is pumped through a piping system to heat homes, garages, swimming pools, and spas. There are many benefits to using them and as more people recognize these advantages, they are making the switch and converting their home and heating to the convenience of them.
Keeping the stoves outside provides a number of different advantages to the homeowner. However, it is important to realize that there is a certain degree of smoke that is exhibited from the stove. This can prove to be bothersome for neighbors, so it is always important to check with your local zoning laws to ensure that you can have an outdoor stove. Another fact to take into consideration is that the Environmental Protection Agency doesn’t regulate outdoor wood stoves or furnaces. The EPA has a list of stoves that are cleaner than others. Yet, there is no doubt that stoves and furnaces are an increasingly popular alternative-heating source. It’s important to understand what type of wood to burn to reduce the amounts of smoke that they emit.
Always operate them according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that you reduce the amount of smoke and are using the stove in the cleanest manner possible. When choosing outdoor stoves look for an orange tag. This tag signifies that the unit has been tested by the EPA and meets safety levels for air quality. The orange tag also holds important information regarding the unit. If you are planning to use them year round or only during seasonal months, you can find this information listed on the tag.