Those considering whether to buy a gas or a wood-burning stove have been advised that the latter will add warmth and beauty to a home in a way that the former cannot.
Tim Lucas, a freelance writer, said in an article on suite101.com that wood-burning stoves are a versatile choice, as they can be used for cooking as well as keeping a property warm.
"Nothing beats coming in from the cold to a blazing hot wood stove. A good wood stove can add beauty and warmth to a home, but there are many other benefits," he stated.
Among the plus points is the fact if the power ever goes down, gas stoves are useless and that wood can often be obtained for free from sources such as Craigslist, Mr Lucas added.
Those planning to switch from a woodburner to a gas appliance need to have the system cleaned and inspected before going ahead, Howard Rowell, from the Royal Chimney Service in Milwaukee, told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel recently.