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Wood heat is the efficient and affordable local energy source for much of Canada - Environmental Communication Options/Huff Strategy

Wood heat is the efficient and affordable local energy source for much of Canada

May 13th, 2014 6:05 AM

(May 13, 2014, Huntsville, ON) Roughly one-third of Canadian homes get some or all of their space heat from wood stoves. For some it is their only source of heat, while many others use it for supplementary heat, as part of an effective zone heating system or to combat power outages. Wisely managed, Canada's supply of wood suitable for residential heating is practically unlimited. It is renewable, virtually carbon neutral and insulated from the vagaries of world petroleum pricing politics. Wood stove technology has improved dramatically in the past 25 years and continues to evolve. More efficient and cleaner wood stoves make burning wood in rural areas a smart heating choice. Last winter in central Ontario, a homeowner heating with wood could have had substantial savings running into the thousands of dollars compared with using other home heating fuels. These savings were attainable despite a winter when many families set personal records for wood consumed. “A new model wood stove can be expected to use a third less wood than old technology, non-certified wood stoves under similar conditions,” observed Tony Gottschalk, Manager of the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association of Canada (HPBAC). “For many people the biggest attractions of new, efficient wood stoves are in resource and labour savings--in simple terms you need to gather and burn less wood to get the same amount of heat.” New technology wood stoves emit up to 90% less particulate matter and only trace amounts of other chemicals. The new stoves are EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) certified in the USA and meet the requirements of CSA (Canadian Standards Association) B415 here in Canada. The local benefits of the homegrown wood heat sector are often overlooked. With most firewood being sourced locally or even on one’s own property, the money paid for this heat source stays close to home, in the wallets of neighbours and local businesses. If you own a non-certified stove, consider an upgrade. Localized air quality issues associated with wood burning are almost always caused by old, outdated wood stoves or older technology outdoor wood boilers. Many cities and towns across Canada have a fireplace store. These stores can provide important advice and installation services. Winter is inevitable, so spring is a good time to start your research and comparison shopping.
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For more information or to schedule an interview contact: Tony Gottschalk, Manager of the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association of Canada tonyhpbac@bellnet.ca 1-800-792-5284. The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association of Canada (HPBAC) is the Canadian industry association for manufacturers, retailers, distributors, representatives and service firms in the hearth industry. The association provides professional member services and support in education, statistics, government relations, marketing, advertising, and consumer education. There are more than 575 members in the HPBAC. hpbacanada.org.