Hello - I have spent many an early morning, perusing this site. Now a member. The wit and wisdom is perfect, the information coming from all the experience is critical. I bought my first stove at 15 years of age and plumbed it into my fathers garage when he went to Florida. 5 stoves later, including a Brick, Russian FP / Stove, (which worked so well, I was not always allowed to use it). We now run a CB6048 - alas I am now falling apart so new plans have to be made.
In this home, the CB is piped to a manifold which feeds a slab w/ radiant, then an oak floor with radiant - then feeds all the hot water. Warm on warm on warm.
First thing I do each day is visit the CB and the last thing I do is visit the CB. Me and the dog.
My oldest child burns firewood, the middle burns pellets, the youngest still pays ..
The burning of wood is an ancient ritual, for most of this group, passion and pragmatism comingle, we enjoy the heat, the ritual, the saving of money, the independence.
Personally I do it for multiple reasons, but being of Irish, independent descent - I really like sticking to the "Man". having a lower property tax bill, I love buying a lot of adult male toys, spending time out doors, being physically exhausted, burning deadwood, having a neat woodlot, watching the wood pile dry in the summer, having the hottest house around, saving some money ... the list is long.
I thank almost every tree I cut, except those that get hung up. I could go on, but time to head outside. Thanks to the Heart forum and its members. H