I tried to force myslef to blog around this time last year because everyone tells me it is a must.  I find that I am seriously lacking the self-discipline to make myself do it consistently, but it is a new year and I am determined to blog!  Maybe I have felt that I don’t have anything to blog about, or maybe I am so disheartend by this economy and the world we are trying to survive in that I have found it difficult to be excited about the business of selling stoves and fireplaces.  As I write this I am chuckling about my wording; three years ago I was working my tail off to “Thrive” our business was growing and it was an exciting time!  A mere three years later - three years that feel like 50yrs - I am struggling to keep our business alive (notice I didn’t say “Dream - keep the dream alive” because it is not the dream I had).  Probably not the PC thing to write on the blog that is a “must” have, but the truth at the moment.

Nevertheless, I am here as your determined blogger to remind everyone that Wood is Good!  That there has never been a better time to invest in a wood stove/insert or efficient fireplace.  I know what you’re thinking!  “Winter is almost over and I have made it this far without that expense, why would I buy one now?” You know what I have to say to that? Well, you’ve got a point.  (I am assuming that now you can see why I am such a good sales person).  If you are on a fixed income, or have lost your job, then you absolutely have a point.  But, if you have the means and desire for a fireplace/stove (weather wood or gas), then now is the time.  You will still have plenty of cold weather to enjoy the new appliance and you’ll be able to take advantage of the Tax Credit for efficient wood products installed.  OK, I did my selling bit. 

I think tomorrow I will talk about what growth I am finally seeing in the contemporary gas world.  I was personally predicting it to take off about two years ago, but I am slowly seeing its’ growth in the last year or so.  I think I will also be more upbeat tomorrow as I feel strangely excited about my new commitment to blogging.

Hello -

Our store has had many requests for a wood stove that sells for $500.00 or less.  While I understand that everyone is looking for a deal in this economy, I just don’t have them.  I have been concerned about this!  I have been researching the big box chain stores that I continually hear is offering a wood stove for $300-$500.00.  Our Fireplace and Wood stove Guru has always stated that when you put fire in your home, saftey must come first.  That being said he has always stayed away from the “Cheap” wood stove.  I started doing some research to see if there really was cause to not offer a “cheap” wood stove.  What I found out was very interesting.  Many of the “cheap” wood stoves were not UL Listed (meaning that they did not pass the rigerous saftey standards required or never even attempted to do so).  I also learned that most (if not all) insurance companies will not cover a fireplace or stove product that is not UL listed!  How terrible to have a house fire, and then to find out that it won’t be covered under your insurance policy!!  So, while I agree that one shouldn’t spend more than they have to one a wood stove or fireplace; safety is a requirement and knowing that your insurance company approves the wood stove you are installing is also a huge relief!  Please don’t be swept away by the price tag alone.  Speak to an industry professional and understand what you are paying for.  If having a stove that is efficient, and EPA approved isn’t important to you then knowing that it is UL listed should be!