I live in Western NC where we usually have somewhat mild winters. The last couple have been much colder than usual due to global warming. A couple of years ago I started looking at the outdoor wood boilers & comtemplated a purchase until I started reading about the amount of wood they use. I just got my LP gas bill (forced air furnace) and was shocked as were all my friends & neighbors who were using gas, heat pump, oil, etc. I started looking at the wood gasifier & reading this & other forums. They appear to be something I could use in that I have plenty of wood available and don't mind working it up. However, I have no dealer in this area and have no experience with a boiler. I might get some help from my heating contractor but it is doubtful if he could configure one of these units with storage. My question is this: Is it possible to make these things work without an experienced installer? After researching this for a week or so, it appears the econoburn may be a good model to try & I have ordered some information from them. I have a 2000 sq ft house that I heat with a gas furnace (ground floor) and a heat pump for the upstairs. I have a 1000 sq ft finished basement that is heated with a small LP gas non vented heater. The main floors have a lot of well insulated windows. My gas bill from Jan 10-Jan 11 was $3600. Any help or suggestions would be appreciated.