Deciding on Alternative Heat Sources for Your Home

When the wind begins to whip at your face and your fingers and toes start feeling like miniature ice cubes you know the cold weather is here and turning on the heat is not far away. Typically people heat their home by oil or natural gas and as both are these are rising this can become a financial headache. 

There are alternative heating source out there but you should take your time and investigate which sources are right for you or even if you really want to change your present heating system or just do a few life style alterations. Keep in mind these ideas are in addition to and not replacement of, your current heating system.

Lets begin by listing the possibilities:

    · Wood stove
· Pellet stove
· Corn stoves
· Coal stoves
· Solar panels


Remember, no matter what decision you make, take the time to investigate thoroughly. Talk to neighbors, friends and family. Browse the Internet, as it is a wealth of information. Definitely contact several contractors – have them come to your home to assist you in the decision of size and location as well as an estimate of cost. Between the cost and installation the first year savings might be nil or a break even at best, the future years you will be thanking yourself.

Wood stoves…

It is extra work as you will need to stack wood and load the stove but it does emit heat that can warm not only the bones but also the sole. Stroke it up in the morning and keep it burning all day and the home will obtain cozy warmth smothered in atmosphere. As an added perk, if the power goes out you still have heat.

Newer stoves are more efficient and burn clean. Quite different than the “olden days ones” where they stored up creosote and were not only dirty but dangerous as well. The New stoves are easy to operate. The beauty of it is that they are beautiful now. They are smaller, more attractive with accents, stone inlays, porcelain, enamel and tile and painted many different colors! Check out the new fireplace insert that fit into the your already there hearth.