Wood Burner Safety
According to State Farm Insurance, solid fuel-burning appliances, such as wood burners, "are the largest source of heating-related fires in U.S. homes." You should consider some safety factors when deciding whether or not to use a wood burner to heat your home. Does this Spark an idea?
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Inspection
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Verify that your wood burner is listed by a recognized testing lab. A listing means the wood burner has been tested and passed the safety test. In contrast, a wood burner that has only been tested does not necessarily mean the wood burner has passed the safety test.
Prevention/Solution
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Install a carbon monoxide detector in your home to detect potential increases in carbon monoxide levels. In addition, keep a fire extinguisher nearby the wood burner.
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Maintenance
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Annually inspect the wood burner for wear and tear on the joints, firebrick liner, and the stovepipe. If there are any issues, discontinue use immediately until repaired.
Considerations
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Make sure the wood burner has been properly fitted, placed, and installed according to the National Fire Protection Association's standards to give proper clearance to nearby flammable building material.
Function
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Wood burners heat a home by burning solids. Only use burn solids that are recommended by the manufacturer and that do not have preservatives, paint or other chemicals to avoid corrosion and creating poisonous gases in your home. Only use a starter liquid that is non-flammable and non-combustible.
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