When it’s cold outside, who doesn’t love a cozy fireplace or woodstove? Wood heat is a comfortable way to warm your home, and there are many reasons it’s a practical choice, too.
For one thing, in many parts of the United States and Canada firewood is abundant and inexpensive. Another benefit is that it’s a reliable source of power, because unlike most other heat sources, it doesn’t rely on electricity. If you heat with wood, even during a blackout, your home will stay warm.
Choosing wood heat is a good option for the environment, too. Burning wood does release some pollutants, but EPA-certified woodstoves are very clean burning. And wood is both a renewable source of fuel, and carbon neutral.
Whether you’re considering buying a woodstove, or just wondering how to get the greatest benefit from your fireplace, a few simple tips can make it easier to work with firewood and help you heat your home more efficiently. Check out these helpful resources for more information.
Different Types of Wood Heat
Guide to Woodstoves. When choosing a woodstove, there are a few basic options to consider.
Wood Cookstoves. This single appliance can be used for cooking, heating and heating water.
Fireplaces and Heat. Fireplaces can either heat your home, or be a net loss of heat. Find out how to get the most efficient use out of your fireplace.
Pellet Stoves. Here’s the lowdown on this popular type of heater, including past concerns with supplies of pellets.
Outdoor Wood Boilers. This type of wood heater is about to get cleaner and more efficient.
Tips for Working with Firewood
How to Chop Wood. Follow these tips to make chopping wood easier and safer.
How to Stack Firewood. Correctly stacking wood will help it dry faster.
The Monster Maul. Learn more about this favorite tool for splitting wood. It’s no longer available, but here’s where you can find a very similar tool.
Collected Advice from Mother Earth News Readers. More than two dozen homesteaders weigh in on their experiences with wood heat.
Do you have more tips for heating with wood? You can list them in the comments section below.
Megan E. Phelps is a freelance writer based in Kansas. She enjoys reading and writing about all things related to sustainable living including homesteading skills, green building and renewable energy. You can find her on Google+.
