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Masonry Wood Fired HeatersThough many North Americans will be unfamiliar with these unique radiant heating systems, they have been around for a very long time. With a fundamental design scheme that dates back to the Roman Empire, they are still being built in many countries today though the science and engineering has obviously come a very long way. Consider the following benefits of this Centuries old technology that combines the present day science of solid fuel combustion with the architectural excellence of masonry, stone and tile.
How are they Different?Masonry Heaters differ most significantly from their Western steel or iron woodstove counterparts in that they are constructed typically of earthen materials like firebrick, common brick, clay, mortar and tile or concrete based materials. They differ “functionally” in their more efficient use of the same amount of fuel and their comfortable “slow release” of heat into the environment of the home. For centuries, the heat storage and radiation qualities of stone and tile have been acclaimed and accepted as superior.
EfficiencyMasonry Heaters typically range in efficiency of combustion from 80-90% in the value of particulate waste and un-combusted gases. That translates into lower average exhaust gas temperatures discharged and cleaner overall emissions into the earth’s atmosphere. With global concern over the greenhouse effect and the ozone depletion issue on the rise- this makes good sense for the environment. It also means less wood consumed by the homeowner. With an average of 80 lbs of wood burned per day, masonry heaters treat the forests and their harvest of renewable heating fuel in a more sensible and responsible manner. Masonry stoves are typically burned for two 1-2 hour periods per day- while radiating heat 24-7.
ComfortScientific tests indicate that the release of heat from masonry heaters is better suited to the human physiology than that from traditional wood stoves. The heat from a masonry heater doesn’t “stratify” in a given living space making the heat more even and comfortable- kind of like the heat from the sun. It is known that wood stoves dry the air and charge the atmosphere in which they operate with positive ions. Not so with masonry heaters.
SafetyBecause of their masonry mass and multiple types of earthen material, combustion of wood in a masonry stove has been likened to “…building a fire in a safe”. That is true! The safety and peace of mind offered by masonry heaters is appreciated by tens of millions of Europeans and many North Americans are catching on.
Environmentally ResponsibleIn Finland, 90% of all new homes are built with Masonry heaters as their primary heat source. As of the writing of this brochure, the U.S Government is preparing to offer serious tax breaks to homeowners who install alternative heat source systems like masonry heaters. Our dependence on foreign oil and gas supplies must be balanced by creative alternatives and adjustments in our lifestyles and habits.
BeautyAs far as beauty is concerned, the distinction of a masonry heater is unsurpassed. Each stove is a work of Old World Artisanship- with a unique offering of individual and stylized options including glass doors, heated benches, water heating coils and bake ovens. With heating oil and gas prices on the sharp increase- a Masonry Heater crafted in the old world style by Dale Demary is the intelligent choice.
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