Posted on October 22, 2010.
Wood stove (logs not pellets) vs. corn stove ... Advantages / disadvantagesa I currently have a wood stove needs to be replaced. A friend of ours says he has a corn stove and appears to be persuading my husband to do so. I need more information before making a decision. I had never even heard of a corn stove. Any advice or suggestionsa
The first was corn stove wood stove pellets changed. It was done by a farmer in Iowa, where corn prices were low (~ 15 years agoa). He saved more corn by burning instead of wood pellets, than it could have on corn. Soon, many other farmers in the region were doing. Now it is quite common. You must use them, depends on the price (long term).
Robert & hounddog right about the effect on ethanol and corn prices, if things remain the same. The only reason to be viable because of massive subsidies from the federal government. Sugarcane, switchgrass, and many other things are much more efficient to produce ethanol. The grants are the result of legalized pimping and corruption, and it's madness on a grand scale. As such, it could not last, but possible. - aaaaaa Ideally there is a stove that can burn anything you put in, or is convertible.
I never understood why people use wood stoves instead of fireplaces. Yes we all need heat, but no matter how good the stove he never gives the ambiance of a real wood fire. Regarding using corn, pellets, etc. I think these products are really just a fad. If you need heat and do not care to look at thenyou flames might as well sit in front of your dryer.
a bag of 50 pounds of corn is way way cheaper than a cord of wood!
It burns more, less expensive, and it is simply better value! Corn burns cleaner than wood too!
disadvantagesa it is not as elegant as the burning of wood!
SHOPPING FOR A STOVE CORN-BURNING or boilera - QUESTIONS TO ASK
When considering the purchase of a corn-burning stove or boiler, you'll no doubt have many questions. Below you will find questions that are designed to help you gather the information necessary to make an informed decision. The answers to these questions may vary from model to model, and are also dependent on personal preferences and the anticipated location and function of the stove. However, satisfactory answers to all questions must be received at the dealer before committing to a purchase.
The corn-burning stove have UL or CSA certification label on the testa
Is operator's manual for the stove that 100% state shelled corn can be burned or corn should be mixed with wood pellets for good combustiona
Are there any other fuels that can be burned in the stove corn-firea If so, what adjustments or stove modifications are required to burn other fuelsa
How often the feed hopper to be filled when the stove burning at full capacitya
What are the maintenance requirements of the corn-burning stove compared to other stovesa How often do clinkers need to be knocked loose and removeda Has an additive (such as oyster shells) are burned with corn to ease the cleaning requirementsa
Are sugars from burning corn likely to accumulate in the combustion chambera If yes, what is the recommended way to remove the sugarsa
Where can shelled corn be purchased in this areaa Be sure to have a plan for storage of shelled corn you purchase for the heating season and perhaps beyond. (See the link on the website "Requirements for storage of shelled corn.")
What is the recommended moisture shelled corn in order to obtain good combustion of fuelsa
What type of exhaust ventilation system shall be provided for the stove to burn corna What are the requirements of local code and insurance req.