There are few things more cozy and relaxing than wrapping up in a blanket on the sofa in front of a fire. The only question is, should your stove be gas or wood-burning? There are several factors you should consider before taking the plunge on one or the other.
Here are a few of the main differences between the gas stoves and wood-burners.
Maintenance
Wood stoves create a lot of grime and smoke from burning the firewood, which means regular cleaning for you. You’ll also have to make sure the chimney stays clear, as soot buildup in the chimney is a huge fire hazard. Gas stoves, on the other hand, tend to be much more low-maintenance, as they aren’t actually burning anything to create a flame and therefore don’t generate any soot or ash. Getting them checked and serviced yearly is all that’s recommended to keep them running safely and efficiently. (A yearly checkup is recommended for woodburning stoves as well.)
Efficiency
With both climate change itself and people’s awareness of it on the rise, our society today is increasingly going green. Energy-efficient products are highly desired, not only because they often save money in the long run, but because they’re easier on the environment. Companies are constantly trying to think of new ways to improve their products’ energy efficiency.
Wood-burning stoves are pretty inefficient. The fuel costs a lot and is burned through quickly. Gas is much cheaper and more efficient, lowering both your heating bill and the cost of keeping the stove running. Gas is also an instantly available, easily regulated heat source. Wood burning stoves are slower to get started and are much harder to regulate the amount of heat.
Ambiance
When it comes to ambiance, however, nothing beats the crackles and pops of a wood-burning fire, and the smell is familiar and comforting. A wood-burning stove definitely makes a room feel inviting and warm. Gas stoves have come a long way and now have fairly realistic-looking flames, but the sound and smell aren’t there, so the feel isn’t quite the same.
For more information on gas and wood stoves in Washington, you can contact us on our website. We have many high-quality stoves to choose from and even offer financing.