WOOD HEAT Article 1 John Vere
Wood heat is a very attractive option for most of us here in the Kootenay’s. Unlike most other energy sources, we have some control over how much it will cost us per BTU and there is an abundant supply of fuel.Wood heat is also very dependable keeping us warm even when the power goes out.
Wood heat is at best future proofand not likely to rise in cost like gas, oil and electricity are predicted to do.
It is hard to find a household around here that does not have awood heat system installed. Trouble is many are still those old belchers that never die! They were made from heavy steel and cast iron but they have absolutely no energy saving technology.They are just a box you burn wood in so most of the energy goes up the chimney resulting in pollution. Even if you can’t see smoke, there is fine particles that can be hazardous to our health.
New stove technology uses this wasted fuel and burns it in the firebox using secondary combustion or in some stoves a catalytic element.
Not only do you get more BTU’s per cord but there is very little pollution and less creosote build up in your chimney. A new stove will therefore pay for itself after a few seasons. It’s also less work to maintain.
But installing a new stove does not help if your firewood is wet. It is very critical to burn well seasoned dry firewood to achieve proper results. Most people do not season their wood or store it properly. The money invested in Burn it Smart practices will reward you in long term savings, a safer home and most of all, cheap energy to stay warm. You can receive $250 if you decide it’s time to upgrade. Google RDKB Woodstove or Email me.
John Vere