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What
You Need to Know Before Choosing a Stove
A
stove is simply a controlled fire within the home. The
idea of containing and controlling this elemental power
has been around for centuries. But in recent years,
because of stricter air-quality laws, there have been
dramatic improvements in stove efficiency and cleanliness.
Simply put, heating stoves are much better than they
used to be. Recent technological improvements, however,
have led to increased complexity in stove design, which
can make your buying decision a confusing one.
There’s
never been a better time to buy a new stove. But which
one? You have a wide range to choose from: there are
hundreds of models on the market, some very different
from others. To narrow the field, first answer some
questions:
What
are your heating needs?
If
your stove is going to be the only heat source for your
house, you’ll need a powerful, efficient model.
If you are looking for a secondary heat source, mostly
for coziness on cold winter days, then a smaller, one-room
heater may be appropriate.
What
kind of fuel will you be using?
If
you live in the city, natural gas may be the only practical
choice. If you live in the country, you can burn wood—
a traditional, renewable option, gas or pellets.
Do
you have size constraints?
A
slim gas stove to tuck into the corner may be best if
you live in a condominium. If you have a living room
with a cathedral ceiling or have plenty of room to spare,
a big wood stove is fabulous.
How
will you use your stove?
If
you want a stove that’s strictly utilitarian, perhaps
placed in a basement or another non-living area, then
cost and efficiency may be the biggest factors in your
decision. If the stove will be the focal point of your
family room, then aesthetic issues like color, decorative
detail, or a large door glass may be more important
concerns.
What
is your budget?
Small,
plain stoves made of inexpensive materials cost less
up front, but may not last as long. Other models may
be more costly, but will last much longer. Don’t
forget to take long-term costs into account.
The
more you know about what you need, the easier it is
to make a decision.
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