What to Look For in a Wood Burner Clearance Sale
Efficiency
If you are searching for a sale or clearance on wood burners, you should take into consideration the efficiency of the appliance. The efficiency of a wood burner measures the amount of heat that is transferred to your home instead of going up the chimney. This directly affects how much firewood you buy and the frequency at which you burn it. EPA certified stoves must display the efficiency of their combustion and overall heating. To get the most bang for your money, search for a stove made of wood that has an EPA-certified overall efficiency of at least 70%. Higher efficiency means less waste and a greater savings on fuel. They also mean less time chopping and stacking wood, and less trips to the pile during winter storms. This means more time to enjoy cozy evenings by the fire.
Safety
Almost all wood stoves sold today have been tested for safety. Stoves that have not been tested include those purchased used or antique stoves as well as stoves made in small, informal welding workshops. Most insurance companies will refuse to issue policies covering homes with uncertified stoves.
freestanding wood burning stove that is certified will have an indication of the minimum distance required between the stove and combustible materials like furniture and walls. The instructions provided by the manufacturer for installation will include this information. Additionally the results of the tests conducted by the manufacturer will show whether the stove meets the requirements for fire resistance.
Even with proper clearances wood burning tools can still be dangerous. Children must be kept away from the equipment and should never be left alone in a room in which a wood burner is being used. They can be extremely hot and can cause burns to skin and clothing in just a few seconds. Make sure to disconnect your tool when it is not in use.
Safety from fire doesn't only concern construction materials; it also includes anything that is stored near a stove such as rags and cleaning products. It's important to keep blankets, curtains, throws, rugs and other fabrics out of the stove's clean space, too.
By using shielding, you can reduce the clearances mentioned above. However, it is important to review the manufacturer's recommended clearances and always err on the safer side. If you're unsure of the appropriateness of a particular shielding material, consult your local inspector or building control officer to ensure that it complies with current regulations for fire safety. It's also an excellent idea to install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors around your stove.