Warm Weather Warning Signs?

If you live in the United States or Canada then you know that this fall has been exceptionally warm.  For many, this is further evidence that global warming is real, but no matter where you stand on the issue of climate change, take a moment to think about this.

In the northern part of our country, household heating results in more carbon emissions than any other activity in the residential sector--even more than air conditioning!  Now consider this: By switching from fossil fuel heat to a clean-burning wood or pellet system, you can significantly reduce your carbon emissions.  In fact, fewer investments can deliver such big reductions.  For most homes in our climate, a single pellet or wood stove can supply 80 - 100% of required heat, and at the same time, reduce your carbon emission by 10 - 20%.  What's more, because these stoves run on fuel that's grown, rather than mined, if we're managing our forests properly (replanting harvested trees with new ones) the use of firewood or wood pellets should be carbon neutral.  

Now let's talk about economics.  In states with cold winters, home heating is the single largest home energy expense, accounting for up to two-thirds of our annual energy bills.  Two-thirds!  But here's the good news: Cord wood and wood pellets are less expensive than heating oil, propane, or electric heat! Therefore, an investment of $2500 - $3500 on an energy-efficient pellet or wood stove can shrink skyrocketing energy bills.  

If you care about the quality of the environment, and the cost of heating, go green! Invest in an EPA-certified wood or pellet stove. If you already own one of these stoves but have not used it for one reason or another consider giving it another try. It may need a little cleaning or maintenance or even a replacement part or two but in the long run this is usually a better option than replacing the entire stove. Check out this article on replacing or repairing your older stove. With a flood of high quality aftermarket parts hitting the market the prices have come way down. Have a look at Stove Parts 4 Less and you will easily be able to compare the OEM and AMP parts that you are looking for.