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Over the years we have developed a very simple pre-qualification checklist for those interested in wood burning outside furnaces. It is best to consider these items before going any further in the process. Wood burning outside furnaces are fabulous – just read some of our customer testimonials! They are however, not for everyone.

1. I have access to free or inexpensive wood.

This may seem obvious, but if you are going to have to buy wood – a wood burning outside furnace is probably just not worth the investment. Most of our customers have timber on their property that supplies their needs. Some have friends in the tree trimming business. Others have scrap wood available to them at their place of business. Whatever the source – it is usually free or inexpensive.

2. I live in a rural area.

You probably have experience burning wood in a wood stove or a fireplace in your home. Normally, the chimneys on these extend 2-3 feet above the peak of the roofline, thereby projecting the smoke up and away from the house and the neighbors. Occasionally, when the wind blows just right, your neighbors (who are probably burning wood too) may notice a little wood smoke. Not a big deal.

Notice that our wood burning outside furnaces have relatively short chimneys. If the wind is blowing in the right (or wrong) direction the smoke could hang close to the ground. Proper placement of the stove is important – and relatively easy in a rural environment. If you live in downtown Cleveland – or in a tight subdivision – this may not be for you.

3. I am willing to do a little work to save money.

Well, someone has to put wood in the furnace! Our goal is to design your system in such a way as to get 24 hours out of a load of wood. Most people like the idea of loading only once a day – maybe twice a day if it is really cold and windy.

4. I am spending too much on heating fuel.

– and/or –

5. My house is cold.

When your heating bill is as much as your mortgage payment – something has got to give! Either you are keeping warm and paying the price for it – or – lowering your thermostat to save money and paying the “price” for it! Either way someone is uncomfortable.

On more than one occasion we have had customers tell how their gas or electric utility sent a representative to their house to investigate a problem with the meter. They tend to notice when you go from $250 per month to $15 per month.