Tip # 1 Check Local Ordinances Before Purchasing a Wood Stove
Since wood stoves produce smoke that is deposited outside your home into the air, it is imperative that you check the local ordinances on the legalities of installing a wood stove in, or outside, your home. Some cities ban woodstoves altogether, while others insist on a certain type of stove that meets strict EPA standards. A quick call to your local government office will give you the answers you need before you make the purchase.
Tip # 2 Purchase the Stove That Fits Your Needs
Once you are given the go ahead by your local government, you will soon learn that there are a variety of wood stoves available in the marketplace today. One important factor in choosing which stove you ultimately buy is the area in which the stove will operate. Do you want it to heat the whole house, or just a portion of the house? Is there ample room for the stove to be installed in the room you are considering, or would an outdoor wood stove be a better option? Do you want to cook on your wood stove? When purchasing a wood stove, be sure to explain to the sales professional the way in which the stove will be used. This will give them the critical information they need to direct you to the stove that will best suit your needs.
Tip # 3 Make Certain that Your Wood Stove is Properly Installed
Proper installation of your new wood stove is paramount for the device to function safely and correctly. Remember that your stove not only burns at a high temperature, but it also creates harmful smoke and gases that, if not properly vented, can cause serious problems inside the house. It is adviseable to have a professional install the stove. Choose someone who is reputable and has experience working with a wide variety of stove types.
Tip # 4 Choose Optimum Wood to Fuel the Stove
Your the if wood burning stove the uses traditional logs folder (rather than wood pellets), your selection of wood types will have a Considerable effect on its efficiency. Remember this general rule when dealing with wood logs: the denser the wood, the more heat they will eventually generate when they burn. Wood such as oak and maple will burn longer and provide more total heat than softer woods.
Tip # 5 Be Sure Wood is Thoroughly Dry Before Burning
The moisture content of wood will determine the success with which it burns. Wood that is cut and stored for 6-12 months will be a contain less moisture than wood that is freshly cut. This type of wood, which is often called "unseasoned" should be avoided. "Seasoned" wood are logs that have a moisture content of less than 20%.