What to Look For in a Wood Burner Clearance Sale
Efficiency
If you are searching for a sale or clearance on wood burners, consider the efficiency of the appliance. second hand wood burning stoves is the amount of heat that is absorbed into your home, rather than up the chimney. This directly relates to the amount you spend on wood for fire and how often you use your wood burner. EPA certified stoves must demonstrate combustion and heating efficiency. To get the most bang for your money, search for a wood stove with an EPA-certified overall efficiency of at minimum 70%. Higher efficiency means less waste, and you'll save money on fuel. They also mean less time spent cutting and stacking wood as well as less trips to the pile during winter storms. This means you can spend more time with your family around an inviting fire.
Safety
The majority of wood stoves that are sold today have been tested for safety. Stoves that haven't been tested include those purchased used or antique stoves, as well as stoves made in small, informal welding workshops. The majority of insurance companies will not to issue policies covering homes that have stoves that are not certified.
A stove that is certified will have an indicator that indicates the minimum distance between the stove and combustibles such as furniture and walls. The manufacturer's instructions for installation will also contain this information. The test conducted by the manufacturer will indicate if the stove meets the standard for fire resistance.
Even with the proper clearances, the wood burning device can be dangerous. Do not leave children alone in a room that has wood burning equipment. They can be extremely hot and could cause burns to your skin and clothing in seconds. Also, be sure to unplug the tool when you aren't making use of it.
Fire safety isn't just about construction materials. It also includes cleaning products and rags that are kept near the stove. It is important to keep blankets, curtains, throws, rugs, and other fabrics out of the stove's clean space as well.
With the use of shielding, you can reduce the clearances listed above. You should always consult with the manufacturer to determine the recommended clearances. Consult your local building inspector or police officer if you're unsure if the material you use for shielding is suitable. They can confirm that it is in compliance with current standards for fire safety. It's also an excellent idea to install carbon monoxide and smoke detectors around your stove.