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March 19, 2010
Before
After
Upgrade to a new energy efficient, clean burning wood stove. Buying a new wood stove to replace an old stove will save you lots of money. Newer stoves are more technologically advanced and efficient; you will get more heat from your firewood and better distribute that heat throughout your home. In addition, newer wood stoves burn much cleaner resulting in a significant reduction in smoke emissions.
Visit Fireplace Village to see all of the great wood stoves available. We also install and service all of the wood stoves that we sell. Sign up to be a Fireplace Village Facebook Fan and get a special discount on your wood stove purchase. In addition, you may qualify for a 30% federal tax credit.
March 18, 2010
The basic wood stove is a big metal box that contains a fire and yields radiant heat. Without air movement the area near the stove is often uncomfortably hot while the far side of the room is chilly. If you want to stay comfortably warm you need to find just the right distance from the wood stove – and stay there.
Adding a wood stove fan can increase the efficient heating of your stove by pushing the heated air around the stove into the room beyond. Electric fans or blowers are installed on some wood stoves but they do have some weaknesses. Power is required to run certain fans and the heat from the burning wood can result in a short life for the fan.
A preferred way to distribute heat from your wood stove is to use a self-powered fan. One way to power a fan is to use the heat from the stove to boil water. The resulting steam drives a piston which runs the fan blades. This moves the heat rising above the stove into the larger portion of the room.
Another type of self-powered fan draws heat upward through a base of aluminum. The base has a “peltier cooler” midway which creates low-voltage electricity to power the fan motor.
Self-powered fans are more in keeping with the spirit of using wood stove as they are self-sufficient and do not require outside power to use. A wood stove with a self-propelled fan really is a stand-alone heat source.
Fireplace Village carries the widest selection of wood stove accessories in New England. You can buy wood stove accesories and fans online at Fireplace Village.
March 17, 2010
There are several types of wood burning hearth appliances that people use to heat their homes. These appliances can be either as a primary source of heat, supplemental heat, or can be for enjoyment and ambiance. The wood burning hearth appliances include:
• Wood stoves
• Pellet stoves
• Fireplace inserts
• Fireplaces
In addition to wood burning appliances there are also alternative heating options, which utilize natural gas or liquid propane as the fuel source. The gas stoves and appliances would include the following:
• Gas stoves
• Decorative fireplace logs
Wood Stoves
A wood stove is an appliance that is usually made of cast iron, steel, or stone. Wood stoves that burn wood for fuel can be used as a primary or secondary source of heat. Learn more about choosing the right wood stove.
Pellet Stoves
Pellet stoves are similar in appearance to wood stoves; however, instead of wood, pellet stoves burn a renewable fuel made of ground, dried wood and other biomass wastes compressed into pellets. Pellet stoves operate by pouring pellets into a hopper which feeds automatically into the stove. Unlike wood stoves and fireplaces, most pellet stoves need electricity to operate. Because they pollute so little, pellet stoves do not require EPA certification; however, some manufacturers voluntarily seek this certification.
Fireplace Inserts
Fireplace inserts (sometimes referred to as fireplace stove inserts) are similar in function and performance to free-standing wood stoves, but are designed to be installed within the firebox of an existing masonry or metal fireplace. A certified installer will make sure the flue liner in your masonry chimney is installed correctly. If your fireplace is factory built (or “zero-clearance”), you must use an insert that was specifically designed and tested for your unit to make it more efficient and less polluting.
Fireplaces
There are two major types of wood burning fireplaces, traditional masonry fireplaces that are typically built of brick or stone and are constructed on site by a mason; and “low mass” fireplaces that are engineered and pre-fabricated in a manufacturing facility prior to installation. Most fireplaces, whether masonry or low mass, are not used as a primary source of heat; their function is primarily for ambiance and secondary heating.
Stoves
Gas stoves are designed to burn either natural gas or liquid propane. They emit very little pollution, require little maintenance, and can be installed almost anywhere in the home. Today’s gas stoves can be vented through an existing chimney, or direct vented through the wall behind the stove. Some gas stoves do not require outside venting.
Decorative Fireplace Gas Logs
Decorative fireplace logs can be installed in an existing fireplace. While not designed to be a significant source of heat, decorative gas logs provide an alternative to burning wood. Because they burn either natural gas or liquid propane, they have low emissions.
Fireplace Village is the largest fireplace and stove retailer in New England. We have over 50 burning fireplace and stove displays in our showrooms. Visit one of our New Hampshire stores today and invest in a new clean burning, energy efficient wood stove or pellet stove. Or upgrade that wood burning fireplace with an energy efficient fireplace stove insert. If you have a gas fireplace think about upgrading those old gas logs to a cleaner more energy efficient gas log set or new glass gas fireplaces.
March 16, 2010
If you were thinking about upgrading your gas fireplace we have something new and unique. Real Fyre from RH Peterson has a new gas fireplace option that you should consider. Real Fyre has introduced a new Glass and Contemporary Alternative Series. This new offering eliminates traditional gas logs. The gas logs are replaced by glass and or river rock and geo shaped rocks. The look is exceptional and perfect for modern décor or those looking for a something beyond traditional fiber or ceramic gas logs.
The Glass Gas Fireplace System brings a contemporary touch to any decor. The burner system is easy to assemble and install, and is environmentally safe. The glass system can be used in gas fireplaces or in outdoor fire pits. Specially formulated tempered and tumbled glass is safe to handle since it has no sharp edges. Available for use with natural or propane gas. Colors available include Clear, Black, Emerald, Bronze and Sapphire. Try mixing colors in combination or create a design customized to your own fireplace or outdoor pit.
River Rocks give a new contemporary look to your fireplace. Add colored glass to present an even more dramatic look. River Rocks are made from high-heat resistant ceramics. River Rocks are smooth as if pulled from a river bed. They are available in random natural colors.
Geo-Shapes add distinctive and dimensional architectural accents to any hearth. Numerous shapes – Geo Dome, Geo Diamond, Geo Tetra – as well as pyramids, cyclinders, cones, obelisks, and spheres are available. Geo-Shapes are available in ivory, slate or terracotta colors. Mix and match them to create your own artistic fire.
Fireplace Village carries all of the environmentally friendly Real Fyre premium gas logs. You can see them at one of our New Hampshire locations. We expect to have the glass gas fireplace series on display in our Bedford, NH location very soon.
If you’re looking for a traditional flame but don’t want the bother of firewood, you may consider pellet stoves. Be realistic and think about the pellet stove negatives before buying anything.
The cost and availability of pellets for your stove may be a deterrent. Pellet prices and availablity have fluctuated greatly over the last 5 years. The beauty of wood is in the availability. If your source raises the price, you can easily find someone else at a more reasonable rate. Pellet suppliers are much rarer and that may lock you into a certain cost structure.
Pellets may be more difficult to store and also may not burn quite as long as dried, seasoned hardwood. Made from recycled materials, pellets are eco friendly, but responsibly forested and grown hardwood is also a renewable resource. Pellets are usually sold in 50 pound bags so transporting and loading of pellet stoves can be difficult.
Pellet stoves need electricity to operate. If your power is interrupted the pellet stove will cease operating. Lastly, pellet stoves typically require more maintenence than wood burning stoves due to the fact that there are more moving and electrical parts.
Consider all of the positives and negatives surrounding pellet stoves. Then you can make an informed decision that’s best for your family.
March 15, 2010
One of the leading names in the manufacturing of wood stoves and and fireplace inserts is Jotul Stoves and Fireplaces. With a U.S. location in Gorham, Maine Jotul North America has won four consecutive VESTA Awards. This is the top technology recognition for the hearth products industry.
Jotul wood stoves are constructed of cast iron. This material is hard wearing and durable and provides excellent heat radiation. Cast iron wood stoves hold heat longer and distribute it more evenly than other materials used to build wood stoves.
The design of Jotul wood stoves features traditional Appalachian styles with gracefully curved legs and stoves that can be loaded with wood from the front or side. These energy efficient and attractive wood stoves can be purchased in the standard matte black or in ivory, brown, blue or green enamel.
The Jotul F3CB is the best selling small cast iron wood stove in North America and provides great value for the buyer by providing options of a short leg kit and a fire viewing open door. This model qualifies for the U.S. tax credit of up to $1,500 offered for home buyers who install energy efficient products.
Heat distribution of Jotul cast iron wood stoves and fireplace inserts is excellent. The smallest models can efficiently distribute heat to a 1,300 square foot area while larger models can heat over 2,000 square feet.
Jotul fireplace stove insert designs offer a flush face insert, the Winterport. The small to medium size allows retrofitting into many pre-constructed fireplaces builders have used in new home construction in the moderate price range. Keeping the beauty of a fire in mind, the Kennebec model provides 20% more fire viewing area than stoves of competing manufacturers.
For contemporary styled homes, Jotul offers a tall, slender free standing gas stove providing three-sided viewing of the gas fire inside. Other gas stoves provide realistic flames using ceramic fiber logs that display the warm glow associated with burning real wood.
For quickly heating a smaller space such as a bedroom or bath, the Nordic QT can be installed with zero clearance from the wall behind it. If you prefer a gas fireplace that looks as though it is a built-in feature of your home, the Acadia corner gas fireplace is a true zero clearance fireplace. When combined with a Quickface system of surround and mantel, the Acadia adds an architectural feature to the room.
Quality Jotul wood stoves, fireplace inserts and fireplaces carry easy to understand instructions for building the three break-in fires a new stove requires. Also included are tips for controlling the draft for your new stove or fireplace and recommendations for the best maintenance schedule to be followed for a new wood stove, fireplace insert or gas stove from Jotul.
 Fireplace Village carries the entire line of Jotul stoves and fireplaces. Visit one of our five locations in New Hampshire to view Jotul stoves and fireplaces.
There are a number of sources for free firewood and inexpensive firewood. Check these out in your area.
Craigslist
The most obvious source of free firewood is on Craigslist. Lots of people take down trees and offer it to whoever is willing to cart it away. Sometimes its cut to wood stove lengths, usually its green, sometimes it disappears quickly, and it’s almost always good to have a pick-up, if you are interested in quantity.
Local tree cutting services
A lesser known, but excellent way to get free firewood is by contacting local tree cutting services in your area and see if they ever have extra wood that they need to offload. This may not be applicable in areas where there is a big firewood market but generally, tree cutters often have to pay to dispose of their wood and they are more than happy to drop it off in your driveway. You will then need to split it, stack and dry it. Some companies have sign-up forms on their websites because they are actively looking for easy ways to dispose of wood from trees that your neighbor may be cutting, or that come down in a storm.
Federal and State Cut-Your-Own Firewood Programs
While not free, National Forests and many state forests, allow you to cut your own wood for as little as $10 per cord. You’ll need a chain saw, a pick-up truck or rental trailer If you would like to use a wood stove to heat your home and do not have access to your own source of wood, it may be worthwhile to look into programs in your area which allow cutting on public lands. In 1982 the Forest Service issued 655,000 permits to cut firewood on national forest land. Managers estimate that 2.8 million cords were cut. This shows an extraordinary demand for firewood that is still little understood or appreciated.
National Forests
Every National Forest Ranger District has a firewood policy. They often issue permits to cut wood under certain conditions and in certain areas. To find your closest National Forest, check Maps and Links to National Forests and Parks By State . The cost is usually between $10-20 per cord, with a cord purchase minimum. You must provide your own chainsaw and have a tractor or truck to transport the wood you cut.
State Programs
Several states in New England have statewide firewood programs, so state forests do not each require their own program. In Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey, cutting is available on public land with a different permit than those used by the National Forest programs. We’ve compiled information about programs in Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York and Vermont but many other states probably have cut-your-own programs.
Connecticut
The Division of Forestry issues cutting permits for Connecticut state forests. Residents can purchase wood at $30 per cord, in units of either two or four cords. Poorly formed, unhealthy, and low-value trees are marked with orange paint to indicate that they are available for firewood permit holders to cut. Utility companies may also offer firewood cutting permits on their forested land. Firewood Program Applications are accepted starting in January of the calendar year. Please contact the Division of Forestry at dep.forestry@ct.gov for an application.
Maine
The Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands offers firewood permits to individuals with a chain saw and pickup truck. Foresters mark suitable firewood trees near roads, for easier hauling and minimal disruption deeper into the forest. Firewood is sold for $25 per cord, with a 10-cord maximum for any one permit holder each year.
Call the Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands at 207-941-4014 for more information.
New Hampshire
The New Hampshire Division of Forests and Lands offers cut-your-own programs on several state reservations. Residents can cut a maximum of two cords during the cutting season, at $25 per cord. All permits are for dead and down wood only, and individuals must have their own truck, chain saw, and basic safety equipment.
To obtain a permit, contact the Division of Forests and Lands at 172 Pembroke Road, PO Box 1856, Concord, New Hampshire 03302-1856, Tel. 603-271-2214.
New Jersey
The New Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry allows firewood cutting for personal use in 5 participating state parks and forests. The wood is sold for $20 per cord, up to a maximum of five cords during the cutting season. Permit holders can cut and remove their firewood from standing timber in designated areas.
For a permit, call or visit one of the following areas for reservations:
Northern New Jersey
High Point State Park
1480 State Highway 23
Sussex, NJ 07461-3605
(973) 875-4800
Stokes State Forest
1 Coursen Road
Branchville, NJ 07826
(973) 948-3820
Southern New Jersey
Bass River State Forest
762 Stage Road
Tuckerton, NJ 08087
(609) 296-1114
(609) 861-2404
Belleplain State Forest
County Route 550
PO Box 450
Woodbine, NJ 08270
(609) 726-1191
Brendan T. Byrne State Forest
P.O. Box 215
Route 72 East, Milepost 1
New Lisbon, NJ 08064
New York
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation offers cut-your-own firewood permits for State Forest land in Chenango, Madison, and Broome counties. They use a lottery system to sell cords of wood for $15.00 per cord, in units of three, five, or ten cords. Trees are marked for cutting off-road, and permit holders must provide their own chain saw and 4-wheel drive truck for access and hauling. For applications and additional information on the homeowner firewood program, contact the DEC in Sherburne for Chenango and Madison Counties at (607) 674-4017 or Kirkwood for Broome County at (607) 775-2545.
Vermont
Vermont’s “Wood Warms” initiative offers firewood to low and middle income households in two formats. Split firewood from loggers is available for pick-up through a voucher system, and 50 small roadside lots in state forests or on state lands are marked for cut-your-own permitted systems. Cut-your-own wood is available in three cord units for $10 per cord. The heating assistance initiative has already generated over 1,600 cords of wood for low-income Vermonters. The following are the areas (and contact info) that will have individual firewood lots in 2009: -Barre District (802-476-0170): Lots located in the towns of Orange, Morristown & Roxbury. -Springfield District (802-885-8845): Lots located in the towns of Bridgewater, Cavendish, Grafton, Ludlow, Plymouth, Rockingham, Sharon, Weathersfield & Weston. -Rutland District (802-786-0060): Lots located in the towns of Castleton and Shrewsbury.
March 9, 2010
For a new style, or to replace an aging set, upgrading to new gas logs can transform the look of your fireplace.
As you go about your annual cleaning of the log set, watch for cracking, warping and general wear. Extensive use will take its toll on the gas log set. Upgrading keeps your fireplace in good working order and looks fabulous for years. New gas logs may also save you money as many new gas log sets are more energy efficient than older gas log models.
Make your fire larger with a wider gas log set or different shaped gas logs. You may be surprised by the selection. When upgrading to new gas logs, visit Fireplace Village to check out the wide selection and variety of available. At Fireplace Village you can buy fireplace and wood stove accessories online.
March 8, 2010
Other than cleaning the firebox of ash build up and having your chimney cleaned, much of the wood stove annual maintenance involves checking over the unit.
Conduct a simple test to check the seal of your door. Use a piece of paper to see whether your wood stove door is closing well against the gasket. If not, replace your gasket promptly. Look for a wood stove door kit at your local fireplace dealer.
Clean the glass door to maintain a clear, safe view.
Check the baffle and firebricks for wear and cracks. They will not need replacing every year, but will certainly need to be checked and any changes noted.
The chimney and stove pipes should be checked for blockage and any creosote build up needs to be cleared away. Be sure to hire a certified professional.
Wood stove annual maintenance is necessary for to get the maximum enjoyment and safety from your stove. Fireplace Village provides wood stove maintenance service in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
March 5, 2010
For a clean and safe way to transport ash, look for a stylish ash bucket. This handy tool has an important job, so choose wisely.
Your ash cannot be transported in just any bucket. It needs to be a non-flammable material (such as stainless steel). A lid will also keep flying ash in and curious hands out.
Fill your ash bucket using a flat shovel and attach the lid. Carry the bucket away from the hearth, preferably outside of the house and far from flammables like wood decks, siding or fences. Some people put water in the bucket as well to moisten and dampen the ash, deterring any sparks from lighting up.
Choose an ash bucket that suits your hearth and other accessories. Then use this valuable tool to help with regular wood stove and fireplace maintenance. Fireplace Vilage carries a wide selection of fireplace accessories in our New Hampshire locations and have fireplace accessories available for purchase online.
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