We’ve welcomed a new addition to the Integrity Chimney family – Soot Soldiers! Soot Soldiers is a local chimney company well-known for its high-quality sweep and inspection services. And since we’re experts on bigger chimney and fireplace projects here at Integrity Chimney, that makes this the perfect marriage.

Request an Appointment
Build My Fireplace
Financing
570-221-4113

Can a Wood Stove Save Me Money on Heating?

by | Nov 20, 2023 | Wood Stove Heating

a wood log and wood pellets with a wood stove with fire burning in the backgroundSick of dealing with heating prices that continue to go up year after year? Then, you may be interested in exploring cheaper alternatives to gas, oil, and electricity. Most households in the United States use natural gas and electricity for heating, and last winter, homeowners paid an average of $920 to heat their homes for the season according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) – and that amount only increased for oil and propane. This year, heating prices are predicted to be in line with 2022.

With prices that high, there has to be a better solution, right? Well, we’ve got good news – there is a more reasonable option. Consider adding a wood stove to your home this fall for cost savings and efficient heat. A wood stove may seem like an old-fashioned idea, but there are many choices nowadays in terms of design and materials, ensuring you get that contemporary look you’re going for. Rest assured, we can help you find a wood stove that’s a perfect fit for any space – and there’s a lot more flexibility in where they can be installed since they’re freestanding appliances. 

If you’re in the Lackawanna County area and you’d like to install a wood stove (or have questions about the process), reach out to the team here at Integrity Chimney by calling 570-221-4113 or by contacting us through our website. We’re here to help!

How Can a Wood Stove Save Me Money on Heating?

More homeowners are turning to wood stoves as their preferred heating source and are reaping the benefits of lower energy bills because of it. But why is wood better for your budget compared to other fuels? Let’s look at the most important part – the fuel source.

It’s easy to get affordable firewood in a lot of regions – and if you’re able to chop and season the wood yourself, then that’s even better for your bank account. In addition, modern wood stoves that are certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are designed with high efficiency in mind and, therefore, don’t need as much wood to produce heat as older models.

To top it all off, wood stoves don’t only save you money in the present – they’re often considered a great investment towards your future. Well-maintained wood stoves have shown that they can positively impact your overall expenses as time progresses. As a bonus, adding a wood stove could boost your home’s real estate value if you don’t already have a fireplace.

original infographic on wood stove dos and don'ts

Can You Add a Wood-Burning Stove to Any Home?

For the majority of homeowners, the answer is yes! As long as you have enough space to meet local safety and zoning requirements, you can add a wood-burning stove to your space. In fact, it’s actually easier to put in a wood stove than to build a masonry fireplace from the ground up or install a prefabricated system, as wood stoves don’t require a ton of demolition and construction.

Can you put a wood-burning stove into an existing fireplace and chimney?

Have an old fireplace that you’re tired of looking at and want to spruce up? Think about going for a wood stove insert instead. We’ll first have to check the chimney type, the diameter of the flue, and the size of the fireplace opening, as well as make sure that the hearth is safe for use. After that, barring anything unexpected, we can typically use the chimney structure that’s already in place to create a venting system.

How Can I Select the Right Wood Stove for My Needs? 

Well, it really comes down to what’s best for your home. Wood stoves are available in all shapes and sizes, and what’s best for your neighbor may not be what’s best for you. Consider these questions: What kind of space do you have? How large is the area that you need to heat? What works with your home’s decor? What are your unique style preferences? Do you already have a chimney in your home? These are just some of the questions you’ll have to answer when picking the right stove.

We do have a few tips to keep in mind while you’re shopping:

  • Opt for an EPA-certified wood stove. They meet strict emission standards and are often more efficient.
  • Take careful measurements of your space before buying a stove. A few inches can make a world of difference.
  • Don’t be afraid to compare products and read reviews. Some stoves have stronger reputations than others for a reason.

Are Wood Stoves Expensive To Install?

The cost of installing a wood stove can be a hard thing to determine because several factors influence the final number. Things like… variances in the cost of stoves, whether or not you have a functional chimney system that can be repurposed, and the type of home you have – to name a few. You can always contact our customer service team and provide them with more information to get a price estimate.

But remember – while it is a financial commitment to install a wood stove, the real advantage is the impact it can have on your energy bills and home value in the long term.

Call Integrity Chimney To Install Your Wood Stove Today!

Ready to upgrade your home with a new wood stove? Give us a call today to schedule an appointment, so you can enjoy your new cozy space as soon as possible. You can get in touch with us online or by phone at 570-221-4113. We’re here to get the job done right.