I Want To Add A Stove
Where Can I Add A Wood Stove?
Of the three types of stoves, wood stoves have the most restrictions as to where they can be placed because of the way they need to be vented. Wood stoves need a chimney that reaches above the roof (not necessarily the peak) and meets the NFPA 211 Standard (available for review at Saratoga Fireplace and Stove). This typically means the vent will be on an outside wall of a multi-level home or anywhere in a single story home that penetration through the roof is possible.
The other considerations are air flow in the home, traffic patterns and space. You want the stove in a location that allows maximum air circulation so the benefit is optimized, ceiling fans can be your best friend. Wood stoves need clearance to walls, typically between 12" and 24" (there are approved methods to reduce this clearance), as well as an approved hearth that extends beyond the stove in all directions. Watching the traffic flow is important to help prevent accidental touch, especially with small children.
When all these factors are taken into consideration, your new wood stove can be a great addition to the comfort and feel of your home as well as a safe efficient, entertaining way to save money.
Where Can I Add A Pellet Stove?
Pellet stoves require less planning than a wood stove but the considerations are similar. The venting of a pellet stove can go straight out the wall, up the outside of the house, up through the inside of the house, or connect to an existing unused flue. Unlike a wood stove the vent run of a pellet stove can have horizontal elements along with 45 and 90 degree bends. Restrictions do apply, but the versatility allows for many configurations.
The location is not as critical because pellet stoves use fans to move the heat around the home. The size of the stove, clearances and floor protections needed are far less than that of a wood stove.
Where Can I Add A Gas Stove?
Like pellet stoves, gas stoves have very flexible venting requirements and can be placed in many locations in the home. Their size and small clearance needs mean little disruption to furniture placement and traffic flow. Floor protection is not needed in many installations.
