We are asked a lot of questions. Our experts have all the answers. Here are some of our frequently asked questions. If you have a question, please contact us.
What is the most economical way to heat my home?
Wood is the most cost effective way to heat your home. Depending on the house design, an average home using an EPA approved stove will burn 4 cords of wood per year. At $250 per cord, the total cost would be $1000 for the winter.
By comparison, when electricity is used as a primary heat source, at $.10/kWh, it would cost $2,900.00 to generate the same energy. And electicity rates are on still on the rise.
Heating with wood keeps you warm and could save you over $2,000.00 per year!
See Natural Resources Canada "Burn it Smart" Publication for more information:
http://www.canren.gc.ca/prod_serv/index.asp?CaId=103&PgId=584
Also try the following fuel cost comparison tools:
Quality - Sunpoke's stoves are built with thicker steel, they are more efficient, and are built to last for many years.
Service - Go to the professionals. You will receive outstanding service and information from our knowledgeable WETT certified staff. We install and service everything we sell.
See Natural Resources Canada "Burn it Smart" Publication for more information:
http://www.canren.gc.ca/prod_serv/index.asp?CaId=103&PgId=584
What does E.P.A. stand for?
It stands for Environmental Protection Agency. It is the agency that set industry standards for pollution control. This agency sets the industry standards for polution control. EPA approved stoves are built according to performance standards that aim to limit harmful emissions. Emissions from an EPA approved wood stove are reduced by up to 90%. You will see virtually no smoke coming from your chimney. This also means a reduction of creosote build up in your chimney.
See Natural Resources Canada "Burn it Smart" Publication for more information:
http://www.canren.gc.ca/prod_serv/index.asp?CaId=103&PgId=584
How do I decide what room to put a wood, pellet or propane stove?
Put the appliance where you live. Choose the area of your home that you want to be the warmest in. This is typically the main floor such as kitchen/living room/dining room area. This way you will be warm and while eating your meals and relaxing in the evening.
See Natural Resources Canada "Burn it Smart" Publication for more information:
http://www.canren.gc.ca/prod_serv/index.asp?CaId=103&PgId=584
How does heating with wood compare with other forms of heat?
1 cord of seasoned hardwood generates approx. as much energy as: 200 gallons of # 2 heating oil; 1800 lbs of coal; 32 thousand cubic feet of natural gas; 251 gallons of propane gas; 6500 Kilowatts of electricity.
What type of stove or fireplace will work when the power is out?
Wood, gravity fed oil stoves, propane and natural gas will function during a power outage. Pellet stoves will also work, but need a battery back up and are limited to the length of charge in the battery.
How often should I have my chimney cleaned and when should I have it done?
Creosote is the primary cause of chimney fires. You should have your chinmey cleaned once a year by a WETT Certified Technician (Sunpoke Staff). It is best to clean your chimney in the Spring of the year after your last burn. This is because it is better to remove any creosote build-up before humidity rises in the summer. Creosote left in your chmney during high humidity days can accelerate curosion to your chimney and stove pipe. Book Sunpoke for your chimney cleaning between January 1 and August 31.
See Natural Resources Canada "Burn it Smart" Publication for more information:
http://www.canren.gc.ca/prod_serv/index.asp?CaId=103&PgId=584
What time of year is the best time to have a hearth product installed?
Sunpoke can install a wood, pellet or propane hearth product any time of the year. Spring is the optimal time as there is less chance for back orders. Our peak season is August to January. So if you would like a hearth product installed before the heating season it is best to book before end of August.
