Monday, February 8, 2010

Is New Really Better than Old?


















In design and fashion, old becomes new, trends become fads, and then fads become old-fashioned again. The hearth world is not so fast moving or complex. The term OLD is not related to the stoves’ appearance or design style, it describes an antiquated fire -box combustion technology and/or manufacturing practices that are outdated, inefficient, and possibly an environmental concern.

When it comes to wood stoves, NEW is definitely better. And 75% or greater efficiency is a must, not only because it qualifies for an up to $1500 IRS tax credit, but because it keep our air cleaner with lower particle emissions and reduces the amount of wood burned through advanced combustion performance.

However, it’s important to differentiate that – Morso- an almost 157 year-old stove manufacturer; with a rich history, can also be an innovative leader that is producing some of the world’s most environmentally advanced- new -cast iron wood stoves on the market today. Their “thinking-green” mission includes powering the lion share of manufacturing with renewable wind energy, using 98% recycled cast-iron, and recycling wherever possible.

Yet, in the case of Morso there are some long held traditions that are still embraced. Instead of using high-tech machinery to build your new wood stove, highly trained individuals handcraft each stove as if it were going into their own home. The loyal and proud human resource at Morso - from manufacturing right through delivery - cares greatly about quality standards, environmental impact, and the satisfaction of their customers worldwide. Another historic practice, that sets Morso apart, is the commissioning of world renowned designers to create some of their most admired wood burning stoves. Most recently, Danish art icon Monica Ritterband applied her elegant and refined, yet simple and direct style to the modern, contemporary Morso 7600-series.

While decade’s birthdays do deserve extra recognition, if your wood stove is turning 10 or more, you really need to evaluate its performance and compliance in terms of today’s EPA standards. If your aging stove is not environmentally sound, this may be the right year to change-out your old wood stove for a new energy efficient Morso model. Depending on where you live, your state may already offer a wood stove change-out incentive; if not the IRS consumer tax credit that expires December 31st should be motivating.

Go to http://www.morsona.com and check out the great selection of high performance, energy-efficient wood stoves. You’ll be able to find the best stove for your home, no matter the size or décor preference.