What to Look For in a Wood Burner Clearance Sale
Efficiency
When looking for a sale on wood burners, consider the effectiveness of the appliance. The overall effectiveness of a wood burner measures the amount of heat that is absorbed by your home, instead of going up the chimney. This directly affects the amount of firewood you purchase and the frequency at which you burn it. EPA certified stoves must demonstrate efficiency in heating and combustion. Choose a wood burner with an EPA listed overall efficiency of 70% or greater to ensure that you're getting the most for your money. More efficient means less waste, and you'll save money on fuel. This means less time spent stacking and chopping wood, as well as fewer trips to your pile of wood in winter snowstorms. This means you'll have more time with your family around a warm fire.
Safety
The majority of wood stoves available today have been safety tested. Stoves that aren't tested include those purchased used, stoves made in small welding workshops and antique stoves. The majority of insurance companies do not protect homes with appliances that are not certified.
A stove that is certified will have an indicator that indicates the minimum distance between the stove and combustibles such as furniture and walls. The instructions of the manufacturer for installation will also include this information. The test conducted by the manufacturer will determine if the stove is in compliance with the standard for fire resistance.
Even with the proper clearances a wood-burning tool could be hazardous. Never leave children alone in a room that has the presence of a wood stove. They can be extremely hot and could burn clothing and skin in a matter of seconds. Be sure to unplug your device when you are not in use.
Best wood burning stoves doesn't just involve construction materials; it also covers anything that is that is kept near the stove, including cleaning products and rags. It is essential to keep curtains, blankets, throws, rugs, and other fabrics out of the stove's clean space too.
By using shielding, you can decrease the clearances listed above. However, you must review the manufacturer's recommended clearances and be on the side of caution. Speak to your local building inspector or officer if you're unsure if a shielding material is appropriate. They can confirm that it meets the current standards for fire safety. It's also an excellent idea to install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors around your stove.