Yes, as we have all become painfully aware, oil prices are skyrocketing!
For those of us in the northeast, accustomed to oil fired heat, this was a huge blow this past winter with no relief in site. If you haven't though about it yet, now is the time to get ready. Many people are converting to wood or pellet stoves. As you review your options, be sure to keep safety in mind!
My assistant has a 1939 home with a 1968 oil fired boiler for heat and hot water. Due to facing the very real cost of $500/month this coming winter for heat, she is in the process of installing an electric water heater, tearing out the oil fired boiler and installing a wood stove. This can be either as economical as you make it or as expensive as you make it.
In her case, she was able to find a 30 gallon electric water heater for $25 from a friend who only used it for a week and a free wood stove. I'm writing this to ask people to take her lead when it comes to installation. The money she saved on the front end, she is using to have both professionally installed. She is quite handy and is reconditioning the wood stove prior to having it inspected.
If a wood stove fits well into your lifestyle, it can be a great alternative to oil, just be sure that you spend the extra time and find the right professionals to get it installed properly, following all local codes. Your local code enforcement office can be a great resource. Be sure to check with them prior to purchasing your items.
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