When Should You Consider Replacing Your Old Wood-Burning Stove?

Wood-burning stoves are a traditional method of heating homes. They provide warmth, and an inviting atmosphere, and give your living space aesthetic appeal. However, technology has progressed since the inception of the wood-burning stove, and we understand more about the environmental impacts. 

It’s becoming increasingly important to evaluate the efficiency and safety of your heating methods. If your home is equipped with a wood-burning stove you might be curious if it’s time to upgrade your heating system. In this blog, we’ll go over some key signs that may suggest it’s time to replace your old stove. 

1. Age of the Stove

One of the most significant factors to take into account when deciding if it’s time to replace your old wood-burning stove is age. For the most part, wood stoves can last anywhere from ten to twenty-five years depending on the care it’s received over the years. If your stove is older than ten years, you may want to hire a professional to come out and take a look. If your stove is older than twenty-five years, it’s safe to say your stove is old and it may be time to upgrade. 

Old stoves are less efficient and a huge hazard when compared to newer models. Modern wood-burning stoves have upgraded designs and come with better insulation and emission-reduction technology. This makes them much more environmentally friendly. 

2. Inefficient Heating

Have you recently started a blaze in your wood-burning stove and found that it doesn’t heat the area well? If that’s the case, then it’s time for an updated model. Old wood-burning stoves often struggle to achieve and maintain the right temperature in your living space. This can lead to more fuel consumption and raise your heating bills. 

When you upgrade to a modern wood-burning stove, which should be equipped with the latest technology it can significantly improve heating efficiency and provide more warmth for a fraction of the wood. 

3. Increased Maintenance Costs

Antiquated wood-burning stoves will require more frequent maintenance and repairs. If you’re finding that you have to continually call for repairs and deal with constant problems, that’s a clear indication that you need to update your wood-burning stove. Modern stoves will typically require less maintenance and come with new warranties, which can ease your mind. 

4. Safety

When you are considering your heating equipment, safety should be the priority. Older wood-burning stoves pose an array of safety concerns. Some include creosote buildup in the chimney, cracked or damaged components, and other accidents. 

Creosote buildup can lead to chimney fires and cracks raise the hazard risk. If you suspect your wood-burning stove is suffering any of these issues we recommend getting an inspection right away. Don’t wait until it’s too late. 

5. Environmental Impact

Environmental issues are being discovered more and more it seems. Due to this, homeowners are trying to find ways to lessen their carbon footprint. Outdated wood stoves tend to emit higher levels of gasses that lead to air quality issues. When you upgrade to an EPA-certified wood-burning stove it will reduce your emissions giving you and your family healthy air to breathe. 

6. Aesthetic Appeal

While antiques can be beautiful, is your wood-burning stove looking a bit haggard? Newer versions of the wood-burning stove are not just more fuel efficient, they’re attractive. Replacing that old, run-down stove with a new model will add beauty to your living space. It’s a small renovation that can modernize your home. 

7. Get Professional Help

While you might be tempted to install the new stove yourself, it’s recommended that you hire a professional wood stove installation service to do the job. Stove installation is something that takes expertise. Installing a stove yourself might save you a few bucks. But, if you don’t do it correctly, you could be putting your home in danger. And, it will cost you more money for repairs if any mistakes are made. 

Do You Need A Wood-Burning Stove Replacement in Portland or the Northwest Oregon Area?

If you live in or around Portland, Beaverton, Lincolnton, Oregon City, OR, or Vancouver, WA or surrounding areas contact us at Lifetime Chimney & Masonry. We’ve been installing wood-burning stoves for years. Our chimney technicians are the best in the business and we’d love to help you upgrade your wood-burning stove.