People have been heating their homes with wood stoves for centuries. Although built on the same premise, modern wood stove designs are nothing like those old pot belly stoves of the past.
The first wood stove was patented in Strasbourg, France in 1557, and the Chinese had been producing cast iron stoves as far back as 220 A.D. But it would take another 150 years for it to become a popular source of heating in the U.S. In 1744, Benjamin Franklin invented the ‘Franklin Stove’ in Pennsylvania which was much more efficient than other heating sources at the time. But as efficient as it was smoke, soot and fumes would vent in the room. Then 28 years later, the addition of an L-shaped pipe to the chimney by David Rittenhouse prevented smoke venting in the room and became the new standard for the Franklin Stove; a design that modern wood stoves are still based on today.
Improved Heating Efficiency
While inspired by a centuries old invention, modern wood stoves have been transformed into safe and highly efficient heating appliances. In fact, EPA-certified wood stoves are up to 50 percent more efficient and use 1/3 less wood fuel to produce the equivalent amount of heat found in older catalytic wood stoves. And since these newer stoves burn cleaner there is also up to 90 percent less creosote residue which not only greatly reduces the risk of a chimney fire, but reduces chimney maintenance costs.
Since the 1990’s, the EPA has been mandating lower emissions for wood stove manufacturers. The lower emissions are also good for the environment and this renewable energy source reduces the carbon footprint. Consumers can feel comfortable installing wood stoves in any room in the home that needs a heater like the kitchen, living room and dining room, for example.
New Modern Designs
Wood stoves are making a comeback as a low cost alternative supplemental heating solution. Finding a safe, well designed, and high efficiency wood stove isn’t a problem. Your only issue will be deciding among the wide selection of makes, models, designs and styles that are available. Whether you are looking for a contemporary or a traditional rustic design, we have an impressive selection of soapstone, steel and cast iron wood stoves that will be a perfect compliment for providing consistent and quality heat for any home. We even have wood stoves designed with a built-in cook top just like those that were heating homes more than two hundred years ago.
Lower heating bills with an environmentally friendly wood stove. Visit the FyrePro showroom near you and our experts will help you select the wood stove that will be a perfect fit for your home.