The Cast Iron Wood Burning Stove
Cast iron wood burning stoves are a warm, traditional heating option with many benefits. It does not come without challenges, however. The weight of the product limits its mobility and the initial cost is quite high.
large wood burner is important to employ a professional for installation and any required chimney work. These pros are familiar with local codes and safe practices for installation.
Versatility
You are not limited in the possibilities you can make with a cast iron stove. You can pair it with a forced-air furnace or heat pump for an energy-efficient and eco friendly home. This is particularly relevant if you live in an extremely well-insulated house with a tight envelope of walls, windows and doors.
When combined with other green building strategies for homes like passive solar heating and high-performance insulation A cast iron wood stove can provide an excellent source of warmth for the entire house. This is possible because a wood stove can be connected to your house's HVAC system using an efficient method of ducting.
The most modern wood stoves available can burn pellets instead of logs. Pellet-burning wood stoves are extremely efficient, producing more heat with less fuel. In fact, some of these stoves have efficiency ratings over 85 percent. They are also significantly less polluting than traditional wood stoves.
In recent times, manufacturers of cast iron stoves have begun to explore different materials, such as steel. Steel is a mixture of iron and, in most cases it is between 0.01-1.2 percent carbon. It also contains a variety of other metals such as manganese and molybdenum, silicon, aluminum vanadium, chromium-cobalt zirconium. Steel is lighter than cast iron and is an ideal choice for people who need an electric heater that can be carried around.
Steel stoves are typically less expensive than cast iron models which makes them an excellent choice for budget-conscious home owners. Many of these wood stoves don't have the same durability or timeless appeal as cast iron stoves.
Steel stoves can also warp when they are exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations. This could cause problems because it allows more air to enter the firebox which can reduce the efficiency of the flame and causes a volatile and unsafe flame. Cast iron on the other hand, can withstand these drastic temperature changes without warping or letting more air into the firebox. Jotul makes the best wood stoves made of cast iron available on the market. Their extensive network of US and Canadian dealers can help you find the right model for your requirements.
Durability
It is important to consider the length of time a wood stove will last when selecting one. Stoves constructed from durable materials such as cast iron and steel last longer than stoves made of weaker materials like porcelain or fiberglass. However even the top-quality wood burning stoves can be damaged over time in the event that they aren't properly maintained.
Cast iron is a highly robust material that can withstand high temperatures and rapid changes in temperature without deteriorating. Cast iron stoves can last for a long time however, they require regular maintenance to look and function optimally. Stoves made of steel can break or warp when exposed to rapid temperature changes.
The US1261E cast-iron logwood stove manufactured by United States Stove Company shows how a durable, high-quality cast-iron stove can provide years worth of efficient heating at a low cost. The 54,000 BTU output of the stove can heat up to 800 square. ft. of space, which is ideal for log cabins, large workshops, and garages. The stove can hold logs as long as 19 inches and has an integrated cooktop to add versatility.
Cast iron wood stoves are recognized for their ability to retain heat. Cast iron absorbs heat and releases it slowly over a longer period of time, which helps maintain a stable room temperature. A cast iron stove is an ideal option for those who prefer an old-fashioned, rustic style in their home design.
One of the latest advancements in the field of wood stove technology is the invention of pellet-burning stoves, which have become increasingly popular in homes across the nation. Instead of using conventional wood, these stoves use small pellets made of sawdust or bark, as well as other wood scraps which have been dried and then pulverized. These pellets are much more hygienic than wood and release far fewer harmful gases.
The Jotul Alderlea cast iron wood stove has all the charm and durability of a traditional wood fireplace, but offers many modern features to make it a more energy efficient and versatile heating system. The stove has a large viewing area, reduced depth for easier installation and a cast iron profile that retains warmth and heat after the fire has died down. The stove is also available with doors either on the left or right, making it possible to fit into an array of areas.
Convenience
Wood stoves are a fantastic way of keeping your home warm in winter. Cast iron wood stoves are made of tough, durable materials that will last for decades. You can enjoy the warmth they bring for many years. A stove that has high efficiency ratings is able to provide more heat to your home than traditional fireplaces. Some of these stoves can achieve efficiencies of over 85 percent.
These efficient stoves are less polluting than traditional fireplaces and are more eco green. They are also compatible with green building strategies for homes and heating systems with ducted heating.
The most common kind of wood stoves available on the market are steel, but cast iron is a very popular choice with consumers due to its aesthetics and durability. Cast iron can be made into more ornate designs than a stove made of steel, and it is available in a range of colors to match any style of decor. Many stoves have an antique appearance, while others feature sleek curves and modern cast iron artwork.
Cast iron is also a much more durable material than steel, so it takes longer to heat up and holds the heat longer than stoves made of steel. It also heats up more evenly and can help reduce hot spots in your living space. Certain manufacturers offer cast iron wood burning stoves that have painted finishes, which can enhance the look of your home.
Aside from the design, the main difference between steel and cast iron stoves is their weight. Steel stoves are lighter in weight which makes them easier to move around than cast iron models. However, it is important to employ an expert to carry out the installation of any stove regardless of the material it is constructed from. A professional will ensure that the stove is positioned in a secure and safe position.
Pellet-burning wood stoves are a recent design. They burn a variety materials, like sawdust and bark, that have been dried, ground and then compressed into tiny, compact pellets. They are much easier to manage and use than traditional logs and can be loaded from a hopper, or put into the stove via an automatic hopper system.
Maintenance
Wood stoves are a popular option for heating homes. They are durable, long-lasting and simple to maintain. A high-quality cast iron wood-burning stove is an investment that can last for a long time. However there are some additional maintenance requirements owners of wood stoves must be aware of.
Wood stove maintenance starts with emptying the ash pan and firebox after each use. Spread the ashes over the hearth when they are cold to prevent dormant flames from re-igniting in the wind. After a few times, you should also spread a thin layer of ash on top of the hearth in order to insulate it naturally. Always keep an ash bed of between 1/8 and 1/4 inch at the bottom. This aids in the burning of the wood, and also serves as an effective barrier to keep insects and pests out.
Stove cleaning is an additional important wood stove maintenance task that can be done with a commercial masonry cleaning product available at many hardware stores. Follow the manufacturer's directions for use.
A chimney professional should inspect and clean the flue every year to minimize the buildup. Creosote is a hazardous chemical that can cause house fires. During this process, the flue is inspected for cracks or warping. The stove and flue should be inspected for leaks at connections, joints and connectors.
Removing and checking the rope seal on the door of the stove is another regular maintenance item. If the seal begins to lose its shape and becomes flat, it could let fumes escape. It must be replaced.
There are other steps that must be taken in addition to the basic maintenance of the wood stove including the installation of carbon monoxide detectors in the home, and keeping an adequate distance between the fireplace and combustible materials. A chimney sweep should be employed to inspect and clean your chimney regularly to decrease the chance that carbon monoxide can leak. This is especially important for older stoves that have not been maintained properly and operated. A regular schedule of cleaning, inspections, and regular maintenance will significantly increase the longevity and efficiency of any kind of wood stove.