We bought a wood-burning stove second-hand, and got free wood from timber offcuts chucked out by truss-roofing builders.
I boil up pots of water and have the kettle running. This has saved up to 30% on our electricity bill, especially for dishwashing and floor washing! Kettles are fast-boil these days and take a lot of power.
I even have a flat iron with the cord cut off and heat the iron on top of the stove!
One of the best investments we ever made - and so warm and welcoming, too!
By Leonie
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By susan_a362 (Guest Post)
08/23/2004
We had a 'soapstone' woodburning stove. It was purchased used from a dealer. It was expensive, however it has endearing qualities. Looks like marble in choice of colors. Catalytic converter burns the smoke and can be used in Denver on no-burn days. The doors are double glass and never need to be cleaned - the heat cleans the glass. Best, you can sit on it, or not worry about kids burning themselves! It is very heavy, though. Sold our house - hope to buy another one someday.
By
07/14/2004
I don't think you're a nervous ninny Rosalie! Treated pine is injected with arsenic and, here in Western Australia where many people have woodstoves, it is a big no-no to burn treated wood because of the fumes given off.
Regards
Jo
By Rosalie (Guest Post)
07/14/2004
Please be careful about burning TREATED lumber. It is better not to do it. Treated lumber can give off noxious fumes when burned. No matter how well the stove is ventilated.