What to Look For in a Wood Burner Clearance Sale
Efficiency
If you're in search of an opportunity to buy a wood burner at a discount be sure to consider the effectiveness of the appliance. A wood burner's overall efficiency measures how much heat is transferred into your home rather than going up the chimney. This directly affects how much firewood you buy and how often you burn it. EPA certified stoves must show efficiency in heating and combustion. Find a wood stove that has an EPA listed overall efficiency of 70% or higher to ensure you're getting the best bang for your money. A higher efficiency means less waste, and you'll save money on fuel. This means less time cutting and stacking wood, and fewer trips to the wood pile during winter storms. This means you'll have more time with your family around an inviting fire.
Safety
Most wood stoves that are sold today have been safety tested. Stoves that have not been tested include those purchased used or antique stoves as well as stoves constructed in informal welding workshops. Most insurance companies refuse to protect homes with appliances that are not certified.
A stove that is certified is marked with an indication of the minimum distance between the stove and combustibles such as furniture and walls. woodburning stoves of the manufacturer for installation will also contain this information. The manufacturer's test will also show if the stove complies with the standard for fire resistance.
Even with proper clearances a wood burning tool is still a risk. Children must be kept away from the equipment and should never be allowed to be alone in a space where a wood burner is being used. They can be extremely hot and can burn your skin and clothing within seconds. Also, be sure to unplug the device when you're not making use of it.
The term "fire safety" doesn't only refer to construction materials. It also includes anything stored in the vicinity of the stove, including rags and cleaning products. It's important to keep blankets, curtains rug, throws, throws and other materials away from the stove's clear space as well.
With the use of shielding, you can reduce the clearances listed above. However, it is important to consult the manufacturer's recommended clearances and always err on the side of caution. Talk to your local building inspector or police officer if you're unsure if the material you use for shielding is suitable. They can verify that it meets the current standards for fire safety. Installing smoke and carbon dioxide detectors around the stove is an excellent option.
