STOVES - Woodstove, Fireplace and Patio Shop

When shopping for a stove there are many factors that must be considered. It is important to be aware of the industry "buzz words" such as zero clearance, insert, freestanding, efficiency, BTU ratings, direct vent and clearance requirements to name a few. What we have assembled over the next few pages is a preliminary model of important factors to consider before buying a stove. Although we have reviewed many areas regarding a stove purchase it is necessary to speak with a knowledgeable, and preferably certified, salesperson before before spending any money.

Familiarize yourself with the following concepts before buying a stove or stop in and talk to our sales consultants. Our consultants have years of experience and are certified by the Northeast Hearth Products Association. Their strength lies in their ability to help you determine the right stove to satisfy your particular goals. The following information is designed to provide you with an understanding of the considerations involved in purchasing the proper hearth appliance.

factors to consider when looking at stoves.

EFFICIENCY - look for the "overall heater rating" this is a combination of "burn efficiency", the efficiency of the stove to generate heat, and the efficiency with which the stove transmits heat to the room -the whole story

BTU RATING - simply stated this is how much fuel will be burned

FLOOR SPACE HEATING CAPACITY- again the heating capacity can be quoted based on normal operation or maximum output and is dependent on many other variables

What are the heating requirements for your space?

Determining the heating requirements based on room size, requires consideration of many factors. It is impossible to properly calculate the heating requirements from the dimensions of the room alone. Other factors that require consideration:

Ceiling
- height,type (flat, cathedral etc.)

Windows
- single pane storms, thermopane or Triple E

Insulation
- walls, floor, ceiling and R-factor

Intended Use
- primary or supplemental heater

Existing Heating System

Air Flow
- ceiling fans, through wall grates

Existing Structures
-fireplace, hearth, chimney

Wood, Gas, or Pellets

	WOOD	PELLETS	GAS
Heating power	Very powerful heater - can heat large areas Up to 3,000 SQ. FT.	Can heat small and medium sized areas Up to 2,000 SQ. FT.	Up to 2,000 SQ. FT.
Other features	Immunity to power outages Wide range of stoves to choose from Warmth of real wood fire Opportunity to exercise (Put on your lumberjack shirt and start swinging!)	Clean convenient fuel source Level heat output Thermostatically controlled heat	Immunity to power outages Clean convenient fuel source (Piped right to your house) Simulates a wood fire Thermostatically controlled
	WOOD	PELLETS	GAS

Cast Iron, Steel or Natural Soapstone


Type of heat	Radiant	Radiant & Convection	Radiant & Convection
Appearance	Various decorative features	Traditional and functional	Mix of finishes - Enamel and natural stone
Heating characteristics	Heats and cools at a moderate rate	Heats and cools quickly	Heats and cools slowly
	CAST IRON	STEEL	STONE