Gravity feed propane heater/furnaces

[Tango]

Any climate controlled structure needs the air turned over regularly to avoid a host of problems including moisture build up. These days, small 12v computer fans are a great, low energy option for cycling the air. Like I said, it doesn't take much, but bringing in fresh air and removing stale, moist air is critical to maintaining both comfort & safety.

[nat_ster]

If your in the Canadian winters, you best have some serious $$ for insulation if your going to use propane.

I feel propane should only be used as a last resort due to the dangers. Electricity is best in small spaces like a bus if your in a place that has a electrical connection.

If your off grid, and no one else is close, a coal burning stove that also uses wood is hard to beat. Each ton of coal cost $50 and had the same BTU as 6 cords of birch fire wood. Last year I burned just under 2 tons ($90 worth) all winter in my bus shed. That was all winter, and my bus shed has no insulation on the floor, and holes that leak air.

Nat

[Longrun]

A wood stove is definitely in the long term plan, I grew up in a cabin that only had an airtight stove and a cookstove. But when the fire burns put in the middle of the night, it's dang cold waking up. So a second heat source that kicks in or can be left unattended while I'm out working is key.

[nat_ster]

With coal, the fire burning out is not a issue.

Coal will last 12 to 24 hours between loading's.

Nat

[Tango]

I do wish coal was more readily available throughout more of the US for the reasons Nat stated. Much denser energy source with a lot less cleanup. A dual fuel coal/wood stove would be my first choice (wood as a back up).

[Scooternj]

Originally Posted by Tango

I do wish coal was more readily available throughout more of the US for the reasons Nat stated. Much denser energy source with a lot less cleanup. A dual fuel coal/wood stove would be my first choice (wood as a back up).

Hardware store I used to work at in High School (now since closed) used to heat with coal in the winter- two stoves double stacked in the main part, one in the other part. Unless it was really cold, one stove was sufficient, otherwise all three were lit.