Pellets and Wood Sawdust

Antique Wood Pellet Stoves

Pellets are usually made from 100% wood sawdust with no additives. In the past, these sawdust byproducts would have been destined for landfill sites. Nowadays they are used to produce nearly smokeless heat for wood stoves. They take up a fraction of the storage space because pellets are more compact than wood.

Most pellet burning stoves can be loaded to release pellets slowly so that manual tending of the stove’s heat is unnecessary. This can allow time-released pellets that maintain a steady temperature and ensure safe and steady combustion. Many Harman wood pellet stoves require electricity to operate. But battery packs are available in case of power outages.

Wood Pellet Stoves Installation

It’s very important to underline that wood pellet stoves are easily installed and maintained for almost any location in the home. Here are some regular tasks to provide smooth operation of your pellet stove.

These are:

• Emptying the ash pan each week.
• Filling the hopper with pellets.
• Cleaning the burn pot, hopper, doors, glass and ash traps periodically.
• Professional annual servicing.

In addition, you can use pellets in antique wood stoves these days.

Portable Fire Pits Brands – Sojoe and California Firepits

Portable Fire Pits

Nowadays there are several brands that make portable fire pits. These fire pits vary in their specs and features. For example, the Sojoe fire pit and the California firepit can be used as a barbecue pit. Arctic makes nice portable pits which are more upright, like an outdoor fireplace. Actually, they aren’t suitable for grilling. However, they are great for sitting around for warmth.

So before buying a portable fire pit, you should consider a number of things.

First of all, you’d better think about the size of your future fire pit. Portable firepits vary in size. Think about what you plan to use your outdoor fire pit for. If you’ve got a big pickup truck or SUV then you can haul around a huge fire pit without a problem. Make sure your fire pit will fit in your car. If you plan to use it in your backyard, then the size doesn’t matter as much. You can go for a big one if it fits. There are some fire pits that are relatively small, with a diameter of 22 1/2″ like a big Weber grill.

One portable fire pit may be more portable than others. You should also think about the weight before purchasing one. Some fire pits are made of thicker metal than the others. And different types of metals weight differently. So you should make sure that you can pick it up and move it around relatively easily. In addition, there are some portable fire pits that have wheels on a couple of the legs and a removable handle on the other side. They can be tilted up and wheeled around. It’s very important to underline that this is especially helpful for larger or heavier outdoor fire pits.

Design and Versatility of Protable Fire Pits

Now some words about design and versatility. Most portable fire pits are designed to be able to place a grill grate over it to make it into a barbecue pit for wood fire cooking. Many of such fire pits come with the grate. In addition, most of them come with a mesh lid. For instance, chimineas and other upright fire pits are not quite suitable for grilling. This is why if cooking on a barbecue pit is important to you, be sure to find a fire pit with the capability and accessories for being both an outdoor fire pit and a barbecue pit.

They are usually made of different materials. However, all of them basically have the similar structure. They have a bulbous bottom for the fire and a long chimney-like neck. They generally have designs on them and are quite attractive as an outdoor fire pit goes. No doubt that this type of outdoor fire pit is perfect for a porch, deck or backyard. Chimnea can help you to build an unforgetable and attractive place which provides warmth to gather around with family and friends.

Start your fire in these fire pits the same way you would in your wood fireplace.

Outdoor Chiminea

If your dream is to have a chiminea in your backyard, then you should consider some options when buying one:

Size of Chiminea

First of all, think about the suitable size of your future chiminea. Chimineas vary in size. For instance, a smaller one may be useful because it will fit on a small porch or deck. It can have drawbacks. You should make sure, the bottom bowl part is big enough to accommodate pieces of wood the size you will be using. Most firewood is not that small, so a smaller model may be a hassle since you’ll need to cut your own wood.

The Material of Chiminea

So words about the material of chimnea. The classic Mexican version is built out of clay, like terra cotta. It looks very attractive. However, it is not without problems. For instance, clay can crack with time, especially when exposed to the high heat of a fire. Moreover, they usually can’t handle large fires for extended periods of time. Before buying you ‘d better ask if your chiminea is air-dried or kiln-dried. Kiln-dried models are more likely to be painted and sealed, making them more durable.

Metal Chimineas

Metal models are very durable. They are either cast iron or copper and aluminum. They are heavy. However, this kind of chimnea doesn’t crack. Aluminum is lighter than cast iron. The downside to a metal model is that they can rust if left outside and exposed to water. This is why they require a tarp cover to protect it from weather between uses. You can also sand out the rust spots and re-paint it. Aluminum models tend to rust less than cast iron.

Spark Arrestor for Chimnea

Next thing to consider is a Spark Arrestor. This is a  mesh screen, similar to a fireplace screen. Some chimineas come with a spark arrestor either in the neck or in front of the opening to the bowl or both. If yours does not come with these mesh screens, you should consider buying one or making one. Spark arrestor is extremely important as it prevents burning embers from escaping.

When buying any outdoor fire pit you should consider, whether you would like to cook on your outdoor fire. You should keep in mind that a chiminea is not an ideal fire pit for grilling. There is no where to place a grill or rotisserie since the large, long chimney neck is directly over the fire.

Zero Clearance Fireplace

Here are benefits related to this type of fireplace:

• It’s very important to underline that zero clearance fireplaces can be placed almost anywhere in your home. Sometimes they appear permanent. However, these fireplaces can be easily moved from one room to another with very little effort.
• In addition, this type of fireplace costs less compared to any other form of fireplace on the market.
• These products are low maintenance. They require very little attention when it comes to the operational aspects associated with them.
• Besides, zero clearance fireplaces are energy efficient. There are some models that have an efficiency of up to 70%.

If you wish to purchase this kind of fireplace, then first of all look for the size of the firebox opening. Keep in mind that the size of the firebox opening should be relative to the size of the room. As a rule, for every foot of room space measured, an inch should be added to the width of the box opening.

Benefits of Zero Clearance Fireplaces

There are many benefits of zero clearance fireplaces. Nowadays they are very popular.These kind of products are predicted to be one of the most highly demanded fireplaces in the recent future. Overdoing the decorations on your zero clearance fireplace can make it look fake and unrealistic. You can look through magazines and books to find the design that suits you.

If you plan to purchase a zero clearance fireplace for your home, you can expect to pay at least 800 hundred dollars. You should keep in mind that the price of the fireplace will depend on the style. Make and design of the fireplace you choose.

Fisher Wood Stoves

One simple fact made Fisher wood stoves much better than the competition. Bob Fisher discovered that the wide fireplaces that were so popular were quite wasteful. This happened because heating wood in these fireplaces didn’t heat the room very efficiently. And to fix this, Fisher sealed up part of the fireplace and welded the iron in such a way that it left only a small six-inch opening for the chimney. As the result, this fireplace was able to heat an entire A-frame home.

The Models of Fisher Wood Stoves

The fire could also be controlled more easily. In addition, these new wood stoves could easily be used for cooling. Fisher wood stoves were made from heavy steel plates ¼’ and 5/16′ thick. The doors were made of cast-iron. Bob Fisher gave the original names for the models of stoves. They were “Papa Bear,” “Momma Bear” and “Baby Bear.”

EPA Clean Burning Stoves

In the mid-1980s the old wood stoves were replaced by clean burning stoves. Fisher wood stoves released about 50 – 80 grams of smoke for every kilogram of wood that was burned. It’s very important to underline that the new clean burning Fisher stove released less than 6 grams of smoke on every 1 kilogram of wood that was burned. These new clean burning stoves are known as EPA outdoor wood stoves.

Design Of Fisher Wood Burning Stove

As for the design, the design of the Fisher stove was based on observing how heat was lost from a fireplace. By closing the chimney off and limiting release to only a small hole, 6 inches in diameter, the heat would be retained in the room. The Fisher wood stoves had a plume-pipe that extended from the top of the steel box structure and released the smoke outside. Older models had steel doors. Newer models had heat resistant glass doors to show the fire within.

Nowadays the stoves designed by Bob Fisher are manufactured no more. However, they are still sold as vintage goods and have become collectors’ items.

• Outdoor fireplace made from durable steel with protective porcelain finish
• 4 mesh side screens contain sparks and provide view of fire from every angle
• Removable screens allow for stoking fire or roasting marshmallows
• Elevated fire platform; built-in log rack; some assembly required
• Measures 29-1/4 by 29-1/4 by 31 inches; 1-year limited warranty

No doubt that the Patio Caddie is perfect for small decks, terraces and patios. It has a rust-resistant porcelain body, heavy-gauge porcelainized cooking grid, heat gauge in the lid, thermostatic handles, and a stable, wobble-free base.

For apartment dwellers with limited outdoor space, Char-Broil created their Patio Caddie grills. Compact yet efficient, the propane grill offers 187 square inches of cooking space, ideal for small households or as a vacation home grill. Activated by a push-button electronic ignition, a 10,000 BTU burner roasts mesquite chicken or a half-dozen bratwurst.

The freestanding grill’s body features porcelain-steel construction that resists rusting. Equipped with heavy-gauge porcelain cooking grids, the grill distributes heat evenly while cleaning with ease. A grease catcher collects drippings for simple disposal. Char-broil employed their patented Thermsulate lining to ensure steady temperatures, which can be monitored on the temperature gauge.

Besides the grill lid includes thermostatic handles. The grill’s body is supported by a sturdy plastic base and can be moved to and fro on the wheels implemented on two of the grill’s legs. For the best care, clean the grates with a mild detergent and avoid use of steel wool and other abrasives. The grill affixes to either an 11-1/2- or 20- pound propane tank. This item requires assembly and necessitates the use of a Phillips screwdriver, wrench and pliers. Hardware is enclosed with the thorough assembly instructions.

It’s very important to underline that the Patio Caddie also comes in electric models. A 5-year limited warranty covers the main body of this grill while a 1-year warranty protects smaller parts. The grill measures 22 by 16-3/4 by 44 inches and weighs 52 pounds upon shipping. Propane tank not included.

CharBroil Trentino Outdoor Fireplace is a great choice. Patio caddie gives you a  perfectly seared, tender and juicy grilled foods all year long.

Keep in mind that the wood, that is used in the wood pits, has to be stored and kept dry. The fire has to be started and kept going by you. Besides you’ll need a fire screen to keep the embers from flying away. You’ll also need a fire pit cover to keep everything dry. Don’t leave the old burned firewood in your fire pit, because the rain can occur. If you leave the wood, then when you decide again to have a fire on the patio, you have to spend much time cleaning out all the black soot from the bowl.

Avoid using fresh or unseasoned wood. It’s practically impossible to get the fire started. The evaporating moisture would keep on dousing the fire, thrusting all the more smoke over guests and neighbors. That is why it’s so important to use suitably seasoned or treated wood. In this case a fire begins easier, produces more heat, and saves your guests from running out of your house for air.

A few words about different kinds of wood. It’s important to underline that there is small disparity in energy content per pound between the different wood kinds. However, densities differ greatly and influence the cost of firewood. Usually the denser the wood, the more is the energy content as well as heat generation. Hardwoods generate longer-lasting fires along with coal beds. And the softwoods burn more rapidly. They don’t create a great deal of a coal bed. That is why the only benefit of softwoods is that they catch fire quicker. So they can be used as starter wood. The finest hardwoods in terms of heat generation devoid of intense smoke consist of pecan, maple, ash, birch, white oak, beech, red oak, dogwood, apple, and hickory. The majority of excellent softwoods in terms of fast warming fires that generate average heat and are used up earlier than you go to bed are spruce, southern yellow pine, and fir.

If we talk about open-air fire pits, the perfect wood will be apple and pinon pine. Apples wood is popular because of its lovable fragrance and the way it burns hot without producing a great deal fire. It is also known as the best cooking wood. Pinon isn’t so good for cooking. But it generates a breathtaking aroma and keeps away mosquitoes as well as other insects naturally. No doubt that  different woods  perform in a different way and serve different functions, from a practical as well as economical sense. So the best  wood is the one most accessible to you, easiest to tear that doesn’t have sand or mud, and doesn’t leave sap on your hands and clothes. Besides it is very important to have as much as necessary wood, properly sized to your open-air fire pit or hearth and weathered, as it should be.

Free standing fireplace is one of the best ways of adding warmth and atmosphere of a boisterous fire to almost any space in any home.There is a huge variety of fireplaces’ decor, which is providing customers with almost everything they can imagine to fit about any home situation and need. If you have been thinking about purchasing a fireplace, but couldn’t accomplish it because of your house architecture, free standing fireplace is ideal for you.

Free standing fireplaces are not built into wall meaning they can be moved and placed to virtually any available space. Numerous free standing fireplace designs are available nowadays, and they amaze because of their exclusive charm and appeal. Any of the innumerable free standing fireplace designs is to become an focal point of attraction in any room. In order to come up with the most suitable free standing fireplace design, you should to consider size, the and choice of fuel.

Free Standing Fireplace

You can choose a free standing fireplace unit which has a traditional look or opt for a modern or better still one that has a more contemporary appearance. Like with any other fireplace design, making the right choice is the first and arguably main step that will ensure the unit enhances the look of the space in addition to performing its intended function.

The location of the free standing fireplace where it is going to be placed hugely determines the design that you will opt for. Typically, a free standing fireplace can be placed interiorly or exteriorly, or on patios to utilize a functional space especially when the evenings and nights are cold.

Of course, traditional wood burning furnaces may be more common, but as a really useful tool, a forced-air furnace unit is preferable. If the furnace is of correct proportions and is working properly, it can produce the desired amount of heat with no problem. Most modern wood burning furnace devices have the ability to control the amount of burn needed to keep your house at a nearly permanent temperature.

Wood Burning Furnace

The main advantage of a wood burning furnace is the low cost. They are usually less expensive because wood is cheaper than gas or oil. It’s also renewable. Though there are exceptions – in some areas wood is pretty expensive.

As with any wood burning fireplace, it is important to be sure that combustible material is nowhere near the furnace. Some companies recommend at least four feet of a clearance on every side of a wood burning furnace. It’s advisable that the space left for a wood burning furnace is a little more than what is required for other kinds of furnaces, just because additional care should be taken to ensure that burning embers have no chance to land on potentially dangerous materials. Though in case of the furnace working properly, however, the logs should never leave the furnace.

Bay fireplace is a fireplace which has three glass sides and two end sides which are shorter than the third. For a corner variant bay fireplace may have one short and one long side.

Peninsula fireplaces have three glass sides that are inbuilt into a wall, half or partial. In peninsula fireplaces two sides of glass are longer than the third side. A peninsula fireplace is usually a focal point of your room. It allows to clearly see the fire from any direction.

Why people choose corner wood burning fireplaces? The main reason is that a corner fireplace doesn’t take the entire wall.

Corner Wood Burning Fireplace

Designs of corner fireplaces have much variety and innumerable advantages. Just like any other kind of fireplace, the design types of corner fireplaces depend on the type of fuel that will be used, whether the fireplace will be built-in in the corner or freestanding, and the overall d?cor of the entire unit.

Your corner fireplace design should fit with the rest of room d?cor. Comparing to usual fireplaces, corner fireplace design will surprise you in their variety and singularity.

Corner fireplace is ideal for virtually any part of your house. If for example you have a room which has many built-in features, leaving no space for a traditional built-in fireplace, then a corner fireplace will be your best option because it requires no fundamental renovations.