Coal stoves: That’s still a thing?
Coal stoves might seem like a thing of the past, when miners were digging in the valleys of Northeast PA or Virginia. Whereas many of these coal-mining communities are now part of our history, coal is still a wonderful heat source used by many in the United States and all over the world. Close to 200,000 American households use coal to heat their homes, and some say the energy source is making a comeback.
So, why should you consider a coal stove when making your next purchase or upgrade?
Coal is an economic fuel source
Coal is the lowest cost heating source, and is less expensive to install and service compared to wood, pellets, gas, propane or oil. Its cost-per-million-BTUs (British Thermal Units) is $7.38, whereas gas is double at $14.71, and wood and pellets coming in at $15.63 and $15.24, respectively.
In a practical sense, many homeowners have said it costs between $200 and $400 per season to keep their house between 70 degrees and 72 degrees. For gas or electric heat, that could be the bill for one month of usage in the winter. Coal is one of the most abundant fossil fuels, and can help you save thousands of dollars each heating season.
Coal burns cleaner than ever before
Unlike with wood and pellet stoves, Anthracite coal produces virtually no smoke or particulate emissions because of its low sulfur content.
The latest models use low maintenance and self-serviceable burners, so there are no concerns of chimney fires from creosote build-up and leaking fuels or gases. Because of the nature of Anthracite coal, it can be safely stored for extended periods without risk of damage.
Also, the land on the mine is often reclaimed and restored after being worked on; forests are replenished, and erosion and sedimentation controls are re-established.
It’s easy to use
Pick up a bag, dump it in, and let the heat warm your house. There is no stoking a fire, chopping and cutting wood, and making sure it doesn’t burn out. Like mentioned previously, coal stoves require less frequent maintenance and cleaning compared to wood stoves in order for it to run efficiently.
The days of shoveling coal into the stove is a thing of the past. The latest coal stove and furnace design include automatic temperature control, feed systems, and ash removal. An average stove that has been filled with anywhere from 35 to 50 pounds of Anthracite coal will heat evenly without tending for more than 36 hours, eliminating the need for constant monitoring.
Pick it up or have it delivered!
We sell Blaschak anthracite rice coal at our Camp Hill location. Come in to pick it up, or you can have it delivered within a 40-mile radius of our store for a small fee.
For more information about our coal stoves and furnaces, contact AES Hearth and Patio to make a consultation appointment if you live in Camp Hill, Carlisle & Central PA.
