The Cast Iron Wood Burning Stove
Cast iron wood burning stoves are traditional, warm heating option that offers many advantages. It's not without issues, however. Its heft limits portability, and its initial cost is quite high.
Engage a professional for the installation and any chimney work required. They are knowledgeable about local codes, and they are aware of safe installation methods.
Versatility
You are not limited in the possibilities you can make with an iron stove. You can use it with a forced-air furnace or heat pump to create a more energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable home. This is particularly true if you have a highly-insulated home with a tightly sealed wall windows, doors and walls.
When combined with other green home building techniques like passive solar heating and high-performance insulation, a cast iron wood stove could be an excellent source of warmth throughout the entire home. A wood stove can be connected to the HVAC system of your home using an efficient ducting system.
Some of the most sophisticated wood stoves available can burn pellets rather than logs. Pellet-burning stoves are highly efficient, producing more heat with less fuel. Some of these stoves are rated to have more than 85% efficiency. They are also significantly less polluting than traditional wood stoves.
In recent years, manufacturers of cast iron have begun to experiment with other materials for their stoves, such as steel. Steel is a mix of iron and, most typically between 0.01-1.2% of carbon. It also contains various metals, such as silicon, manganese, nickel, molybdenum, vanadium, chromium and zirconium. Steel is lighter than cast-iron which makes it an ideal choice for people who need an electric heater that can be carried around.
Steel stoves are generally less expensive than cast iron models which makes them a great alternative for homeowners with a tight budget. Many of these wood stoves do not have the same durability or timeless charm as cast iron stoves.
Another concern with steel stoves is that they can warp when they experience rapid changes in temperature. This can be a serious issue, since it allows more air into the firebox. This decreases the efficiency and security of the fire. Cast iron is, however can withstand these dramatic changes in temperature without warping or allowing more air into the firebox. Jotul manufactures the highest-performing wood stoves made of cast iron available on the market. Their extensive network of US and Canadian dealers will help you locate the right model for your needs.
Durability
It is important to consider the length of time a wood stove will last before selecting one. woodburning stoves constructed from durable materials such as cast iron and steel tend to have longer lifespans than stoves constructed from weaker materials, such as fiberglass or ceramic. However even the best wood burning stoves can wear out over time in the event that they aren't properly maintained.
Cast iron is an extremely durable material. It can withstand extreme temperatures and rapid temperature fluctuations without causing damage. Stoves crafted from this material will last for a long time, although they require regular maintenance to ensure they are looking and functioning at their best. Steel stoves can break or warp when exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations.
The US1261E cast iron log wood stove made by United States Stove Company is a good illustration of how a top-quality cast iron stove can provide years of reliable heating for an affordable cost. The stove can heat up to 900 square feet of space in log garages, cabins, and workshops with its powerful 54,000 BTU power output. The stove can hold logs up to 19 inches and comes with an integrated cooktop to add versatility.
Cast iron wood stoves are also recognized for their ability to retain heat. Cast iron absorbs heat and releases it slowly over a longer period of time, which helps to keep a room temperature stable. A cast iron stove is also an ideal option for those who prefer a rustic, traditional look in their home decor.
Pellet-burning stoves are among the newest innovations in wood stove technology. They are becoming more well-liked in homes across the country. These stoves make use of pellets instead of conventional wood. They are made from sawdust and other wood scraps that have been dried and pulverized before being pressurized. They are more hygienic than wood and release less harmful gasses.
The Jotul Alderlea 1.2 cast iron wood stove has the strength and beauty of a traditional wooden stove while offering many modern features that make it a versatile and energy efficient heating solution. The stove has a large viewing area, a smaller depth that makes installation simpler, and a cast-iron profile that emits heat even after the fire has gone out. The stove can also be fitted with doors that can be added on the left or right side, making it a perfect choice for a variety of areas.
Convenience
A wood stove is a great method to keep your home warm during winter. The robust, sturdy materials in cast iron wood stoves help make them last for decades, so you can enjoy the cozy warmth they bring for long time to come. A stove that has more efficiency can heat your home more effectively than the traditional fireplace. Some of these stoves have efficiency ratings that exceed 85 percent.
They emit less carbon dioxide than traditional fireplaces and are therefore more eco green. They are compatible with green home building strategies and ducted heating.
Cast iron is the most popular kind of wood stove available on the market. Its beauty and durability make it a popular choice for people who buy. Cast iron can be made into more ornate designs than a steel stove and is available in a variety of colors to fit any style of decor. Many stoves have an antique appearance, while others have sleek curves and modern cast iron artwork.
Cast iron is also a more durable material than steel, meaning that it takes longer to heat up and holds the heat for longer than steel stoves. It also has a better ability to evenly heat up which can help reduce hot spots in your living space. Some manufacturers offer cast-iron wood burning stoves that have been painted, which can improve the appearance of your home.
The primary difference between cast iron and steel stoves is their weight. Steel stoves are lighter, which makes them easier to move. However, it is important to engage an expert to carry out the installation of any stove no matter what material it is constructed from. A professional will make sure that the stove is put in safely and securely position.
A recent innovation in wood-burning stoves is the creation of pellet-burning stoves which are designed to burn a variety of materials, including sawdust or bark, as well as other wood scraps that have been dried, pulverized and compressed into small pellets. They are more convenient to handle and use than traditional logs and can be stocked from a hopper or fed into the stove through an automatic hopper system.
Maintenance
Wood stoves have long been a popular choice for home heating. They are durable, long-lasting and simple to maintain. In addition, a quality cast iron wood stove is an purchase that can last an entire lifetime. Wood stove owners need to be aware of some additional maintenance requirements.
The first step in wood stove maintenance is to empty the ash pan after every use. Spread the ashes on the hearth once they are cold to stop dormant embers from re-igniting in the breeze. After a few use you can also apply an even layer of ash on the top of your hearth. This will allow you to insulate your hearth naturally. It is crucial to keep a one-eighth to one-quarter inch ash bed on the bottom of the stove. This will help with the combustion of wood, and also acts as an obstacle to keep out pests and insects.
Stove cleaning is an additional important wood stove maintenance task that can be done with a commercial masonry cleaner available in the majority of hardware stores. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for use.
The flue should be inspected and cleaned each year by a chimney expert to avoid the buildup of creosote which is a hazardous chemical that can spark fires in your home. During this process the flue is examined for any warping or cracks. The stove and flue should be inspected for leaks around joints, connections and connectors.
Another maintenance task that is commonly performed is checking and replacing the rope seal that surrounds the door of the stove. If the seal is flattened and loses its shape it may let fumes escape and will need to be replaced.
Other steps are necessary beyond the basic wood stove maintenance for example, installing CO detectors in your home and keeping a safe distance from the fireplace to any combustible material. A chimney sweep must be hired to inspect and clean your chimney system regularly to decrease the chance that carbon monoxide will leak. This is especially crucial for older stoves that are not maintained or operated properly. A regular schedule of cleaning, inspections, and routine maintenance will significantly improve the longevity and efficiency of any kind of wood stove.