Clean Sweeps of Michigan's Blog

Wood Stoves Manufactured Before 1990 Are Inefficient

Although some people see them as old fashioned, wood stoves are a beautiful and popular heating appliance. Whether you use it as your homes primary heat source or as a supplementary heater, wood stoves create a warm and comfortable home with all of the charm of a wood burning fire. One of the biggest appeals of wood stoves is that they can last for decades without needing to be replaced. However, even if your old wood stove is still in good condition, you may want to consider upgrading to a modern, more efficient appliance. Many older wood stoves, especially those built before 1990, are inefficient. Modern EPA certified wood stoves, however, burn fuel much more efficiently while also minimizing particulate emissions and reducing the overall carbon footprint of the stove.

Wood stoves and EPA certifications

While wood stoves are gaining popularity in suburban areas, they have been a staple heating method in cabins and other homes in rural areas for years. However, most older stoves were built to create heat, not protect the environment; because of this, the EPA created regulatory emission requirements for wood stoves. All newly produced wood stoves are required to meet the EPA certification requirements. This means that the smoke and particulate emissions must be at or below the allowable limit. These certifications help make your stove more efficient while also protecting the air quality in your area.

Why having an EPA certified stove matters

Because wood stoves can last for decades with regular maintenance, many homeowners are reluctant to spend the money to replace a “perfectly good” stove. However, it many cases the benefits of a newer, modern stove far outweighs the costs. The primary benefit of purchasing a new wood stove is their efficiency. Older and non-certified stoves can produce as much as 30 grams of smoke per hour. Comparatively, certified stoves create 2 grams or less in the same time. Likewise, newer stoves also create less particulate emissions, improving air quality for both your family and the surrounding community.

Is my current stove EPA certified?

Many homeowners with existing wood stoves wonder if their appliance is EPA certified. Instead of finding hours digging for an old manual or packaging material, it is surprisingly easy to find out if your stove is certified or not. All EPA certified stoves are clearly labeled with a tag stating their certification. This tag is typically found on the back of the stove. If you are unable to find the tag or the back of your stove is not easily accessible or visible, the EPA has created an ongoing list of stoves that have received their certification. While an EPA certification is an important indicator that you have an efficient stove, your appliance may also have additional certifications. Underwriters Laboratories and other groups provide safety certifications for stoves, fireplaces, and other appliances; stoves with certifications that address safety concerns may be more appropriate appliances for families with small children or pets.

If you love your wood stove but are ready to upgrade to a more efficient and environmentally friendly model, contact or stop by Clean Sweeps & Air Ducts of Michigan today. Our expert staff can help you find the right stove for your family that will keep you comfortable and warm all winter long.

Spring is the Best Time to Make Fireplace Upgrades

A crackling fire on a cold winter’s night can quickly turn any house into a home. Over time, however, fireplaces and other heating appliances can age, deteriorate, or go out of style. Whether you want to install a new heating appliance or replace an existing one, spring is the perfect time to do so!

Why have fireplace upgrades done in the spring

After a long winter of use, many homeowners let their fireplaces fade into the background until the first cold snap of fall arrives. However, you should start thinking about making fireplace upgrades much sooner!

The spring is the perfect time of year to have fireplace upgrades done. First, mild spring weather minimizes the chance of delays for any outdoor masonry changes or repairs that need to be made. Some masonry projects cannot be done in either very hot or very cold weather; because of this, spring is an ideal time to have work done!

In addition to the weather, spring is also the perfect time to have fireplace upgrades done because you are likely not using your heating appliance. There is nothing more frustrating than waiting for your new fireplace, stove, or other heating appliance to be delivered and installed when the weather is chilly and you want to be using it! Likewise, because fall and winter are our busiest seasons for repairs and installations, you may find yourself waiting longer than usual for an appointment.

To avoid time delays due to the weather and have your fireplace finished and ready to go before the temperatures drop, have your fireplace updated this spring!

Benefits of a new heating appliance

There have never been more choices when it comes to fireplace inserts and stoves. Likewise, new heating appliances are more energy efficient than ever; many stoves and inserts are EPA certified to produce little to no air pollution. With a wide range of fuel choices, sizes, and styles, there is a perfect heating appliance for every home on every budget.

Gas fireplaces and inserts: Modern gas fireplaces and inserts are able to create extremely realistic flames at the touch of a button. Homeowners love the convenience, efficiency, and low cost of operating a gas heating appliance. Likewise, direct vent gas fireplaces can be installed almost anywhere in your home without the need for a chimney.

Wood fireplaces and stoves: A crackling wood fire can add instant warmth and ambiance to a room. While wood may seem like an old fashioned or outdated fuel choice, these appliances are anything but. Wood stoves are available in a variety of styles ranging from traditional cast iron to more modern styles.

Pellet stoves and inserts: For many homeowners, pellet stoves and inserts offer the best of both worlds between gas and wood. Pellets have a realistic burn and smoky aroma while also requiring minimal stoking or reloading; some pellet stoves only need to be reloaded every 2-3 days, even when being used round the clock. As pellet stoves and inserts continue to gain popularity, pellets are becoming increasingly easier to find in retail stores.

Whether you want to upgrade your existing fireplace or install a new heating appliance, the spring is the perfect time to upgrade your fireplace. Contact Clean Sweeps of Michigan today or stop by our showoroom in Ashley, IN and let our expert staff find you the fireplace or heating appliance to meet your family’s needs!