Information on Old Cast Iron Wood Heaters
The cast iron heater, or stove as it is called, is an iconic piece of history. The image of a vintage, potbellied stove with a tea kettle on its cook plate is ingrained in our consciousness. It evokes feelings of warmth, comfort and nostalgia. Cast iron stoves have a rich history, and their durability ensures that many examples survive until the present day. Does this Spark an idea?
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History
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As early as 1728, a German design of the cast iron stove known as a "Plate" or "Jamb" stove was being produced in quantity. In 1740, Benjamin Franklin invented the "Pennsylvania Fireplace," a cast iron stove with an open hearth, that later became known as the "Franklin Stove." By the second half of the 18th century, cast iron cook stoves and ranges were being produced and sold in large numbers. During the Victorian era in the mid- and late-19th century, stoves with intricate and elaborate designs were popular.
Material
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Cast iron possesses several properties that make it ideal for building stoves. It is relatively easy to form, and the process of "casting," pouring molten metal into forms, has been known for thousands of years. It is durable; there are many examples of antique stoves still available that still function. Cast iron also has unique heat-conduction properties. It is a good conductor of heat, and it also retains heat very well.
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Types
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Cast iron wood stoves have traditionally come in specific shapes and sizes for different applications. The cylinder stove had a large, cylindrical body and was mainly used to heat large spaces, such as garages and workshops. The potbellied stove was a small- to medium-size stove with a cook top, and it was meant to heat a small area. The "Franklin" stove was like a very efficient fireplace and could be sized to heat large areas. There are even full-size boilers that can be used to heat an entire home.
Size
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The heat output of stoves, like furnaces, is measured in BTUs. Modern manufacturers of stoves will provide information about heat output and the approximate area that a particular stove will heat, but with older stoves, this information may not be available. If the stove is to be the primary heat source, sizing is more critical than if it is to be used as supplemental heat. Having a heating professional size the stove for your needs is a good idea.
Shopping for a Stove
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There are options in every price range. Used and antique stoves can be purchased at auction for anywhere from under $100 to over $1,000 from retailers and online merchants.
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References
- Photo Credit Old Stove and Antique Chair image by bawinner from Fotolia.com
