We have just decided to stay put in this house for a while so there are some things that need doing. We are in New England and as we enter the summer we're looking at the best time to buy a wood stove/pellet stove/insert what have you. So I want to hear all about them.
I grew up with a wood stove and loved it. BUT it took up a good amount of real estate in the family room. Our house is little so this is going to be going in to the fireplace. I'm looking for easy, efficient and cost effective. I've seen wood stoves that are kind of in the fireplace. I've seen wood stove inserts with blowers. I've seen pellet stoves and I'm sure there's more out there. What are the pros and cons? We could also consider going gas (doing an insert in the fireplace) but I am not sure that would be less expensive in the long run.
It will need to heat 1500 square feet if that matters. We have little-ish kids. The room is quite narrow (11 feet) so it can't project too far.
We've been using the fireplace, but that's about the least efficient thing you can do. We love the smell of wood, and love having the downstairs toastier than the upstairs. Any insight, feedback or experiences would be excellent!
I grew up with a wood stove and loved it. BUT it took up a good amount of real estate in the family room. Our house is little so this is going to be going in to the fireplace. I'm looking for easy, efficient and cost effective. I've seen wood stoves that are kind of in the fireplace. I've seen wood stove inserts with blowers. I've seen pellet stoves and I'm sure there's more out there. What are the pros and cons? We could also consider going gas (doing an insert in the fireplace) but I am not sure that would be less expensive in the long run.
It will need to heat 1500 square feet if that matters. We have little-ish kids. The room is quite narrow (11 feet) so it can't project too far.
We've been using the fireplace, but that's about the least efficient thing you can do. We love the smell of wood, and love having the downstairs toastier than the upstairs. Any insight, feedback or experiences would be excellent!