Alternative Heating Sources

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Heating Alternatives

Keeping Your Family Warm

Being prepared with alternative heating devices in your home is worth the investment should your electricity go out during cold months. Many homes rely on electricity to power the home's heating system. If yours is one of them, you will be out of luck. Other types of heating devices can be used to provide warmth and comfort for you and your family. But remember, alwaysfollow safety precautions and instructions when using alternative heatingdevices in your home to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

For Indoor & Outdoor Use

Solar Generator

Solar-powered

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Fireplace

Firewood or Gas

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Fireplace Inserts

Vented Firewood or Gas

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Wood Stove

with Venting Kit

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Gas Space Heaters

Kerosene and Propane

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Canned Heat Stove Heater

Warms & Cooks

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Hand & Body Warmers

Various

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Alternative Heat Sources

For Outdoor Use Only

Fuel Generator

Propane, Gasoline, Natural Gas

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Outdoor Fireplace

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Outdoor Firepit

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Gas Patio Heaters

Propane, Natural Gas

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Alternative Heating Sources

Which Options Are Right For You?

Solar Generator

Solar generators use solar panels to capture renewable energy from the sun and store it as electricity in either portable or tied-in power stations. They can provide reliable energy as a backup power source in a power outage or on a full-time basis. They run quietly and are low maintenance. During a power outage, having a solar generator will enable you to use much of the same heating appliances you may already use, lessening the need to fall back on more alternative methods.

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Fireplace

If you have a gas fireplace, you shouldn’t have any problems using your fireplace in a power outage, if there are no components that rely on electricity themselves to function. If you have a wood-burning fireplace, you have a great source of alternative warmth should the electricity go out. Besides using InstaFire, which is a fast and easy solution, being able to successfully use your fireplace everyday requires stocking up on firewood.

You may already be set to do this. If not, this will take a bit of planning on your part. Here are some tips to consider.

Seasoned Wood

The moisture content of wood affects efficiency. Make sure to use properly seasoned firewood for optimal burning. If you are seasoning it yourself, make sure you have the proper wood harvesting knowledge, skill, and tools including a wood saw or chainsaw, gridiron, trivet, and spit. If not, you'll have to buy it pre-seasoned and ready to go.

Storage

Maintain a meaningful amount of firewood in storage so it will be there when you need it. Rotate through it and replace it when you can and use the FIFO method.

Tools

If you are planning on using firewood as one of your main fuel sources, here are tools you will want to have on hand: fireplace tool set (ash shovel, poker, etc.), fireplace bellows, ash bucket, hearth wood rack, firewood carrier, and outdoor wood rack.

Safety

Make sure to follow all safety guidelines when using a wood-burning fireplace, including having your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly.

Note: If you have a wood-burning or gas open fireplace with no glass enclosure, your fireplace is losing up to 75% of the generated heat to the chimney. If you would like to make your fireplace work more efficiently, especially if it will be one of your main sources of heat during a power outage, you may want to consider adding a fireplace insert. A fireplace insert increases the efficiency to 70 to 75% resulting in more available heat. You burn less fuel for better results.

Fireplace Inserts

A fireplace insert is a self-contained metal box with a glass front that is installed inside an existing open hearth fireplace. They burn more efficiently and trap the heat, which provides more heat for your home. This helps you save money on heating costs. Fireplace inserts are zone heaters, meaning they heat specific areas of your home where people are spending most of their time. There are two different categories of inserts: vented and ventless. Let's take a look at vented inserts and see how they can help keep you warmer than a traditional fireplace.

Vented Inserts

Vented inserts are boxes that are placed inside your existing fireplace and connect to your flue and chimney structure. Once installed, you use your fireplace the same way. The only difference is the efficiency that is created with this setup because they are designed to convert fuel into usable heat more effectively.

For Wood-Burning Fireplaces

A wood-burning insert will make your wood-burning fireplace more efficient. You simply light the wood and kindling as you normally would, and the insert will help increase the heat available by reducing heat loss.

If you are interested in switching from wood to gas, a gas fireplace insert can be retrofitted into your existing wood-burning fireplace. Gas fireplaces have several advantages over traditional wood-burning fireplaces, including convenience. With a gas fireplace, there is no need for wood cutting, stacking, or storage. They turn off instantly and are easier to keep clean.

COST

The cost of installing a wood-burning fireplace insert into a traditional wood-burning fireplace can vary depending on the size, style, and features of the insert, as well as the cost of installation. This can vary between $700 to $6,500. The price comes down by more than half if you already have a solid brick foundation in place.

The cost of converting a wood-burning fireplace to gas can vary depending on the type of gas fireplace you want to convert it to. Costs range from $500 to $5,000.

For Gas Fireplaces

A gas insert will do the same for an existing gas fireplace. It will provide maximum heat to your home with only minimal heat loss. They require little maintenance and are easy to use.

COST

The cost of a vented gas fireplace insert can vary depending on the size, type, and features. Without installation, costs range from $2,500 to $3,500 for the unit alone. Keep in mind that installation costs and any necessary modifications to your gas line or chimney will add to the overall cost.

Seek professional installation

Due to various placement conditions and other considerations, it is best not to install an insert yourself. Please look for professional assistance for installation.

NOTE: For both wood-burning and gas, make sure to select an insert that does not require electricity. Some models may have features such as blowers or remote controls that need electricity to operate. Fireplace blowers are not necessary for the operation or safety of a fireplace.

Wood Stove

A wood stove is a freestanding wood heater usually made of cast iron or steel. It has a closed fire chamber, a fire brick base, and an adjustable air control. They are designed to burn firewood efficiently and produce heat for a room or home. If your home does not have a fireplace, installing a wood stove may be the next best thing. There are benefits to burning wood in a wood stove rather than in a fireplace. Less wood is required to produce more heat than the traditional fireplace.

This is because wood stoves have closed combustion systems that radiate heat from all sides and transfer this heat out into the room. Fireplaces lose most of the heat up the chimney.

Buying & installation

Wood burning Stoves come in different sizes, styles, efficiency, and price. Wood-burning stoves are available at home improvement, farm supply, and wood stove retailer locations. When looking for a wood stove, find a brand that has been tested for safety and has received certification.

A professional knows the local codes and regulations and will help you determine the best location for your stove based on the layout of your home and the type of stove you choose and will ensure proper ventilation and clearance. This is not something you can do yourself.

Cost

The initial cost of purchase and installation can be high. The sticker price of an installed wood stove starts at around $1,500 and can get as high as about $5,000. On average, a wood stove, including installation, will cost $3,000 to $3,500. You must also factor in the cost of wood if you are not harvesting it yourself.

Extra costs that may arise - The flooring underneath the wood stove must first be prepared for its weight. This may require strengthening joists, rebuilding the subfloor, or pouring a small concrete-like slab. Due to the immense heat produced by the wood stove, a fire-resistant hearth should be built below the wood stove. If the wood stove is installed near a wall, a heat shield must be placed to protect the wall.

Each brand has unique features and benefits, so research and compare the options to find the best wood-burning stove for your specifications. Brands include Timberwolf, Nova, Ashley Hearth, Drolet, Stove, Vermont Bun Baker, and US Stove.

Gas Space Heaters

Kerosene and propane heaters are the primary source of home heat in many countries. In the United States, they are used as supplemental heat or a source of emergency heat. Using a fuel-based space heater indoors can be a great way to stay warm during the colder months. They don’t have any electrical components so you can count on them to keep you warm if the power goes out, or even if it doesn’t. There are two types of portable space heaters that are safe to use indoors: propane, and kerosene.

Propane and kerosene heaters have their own unique characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages when it comes to heating. Depending on the size of the fuel tank, both propane and kerosene heaters can run up to twelve hours a day if they are fueled and maintained properly.

Kerosene

On the upside, kerosene has a higher heat content and lasts longer than propane. But it’s a bit heavier to handle and requires large tanks. If using a kerosene heater, only use 1-K grade kerosene and never use gasoline. Learn more about kerosene and how to store it. Learn more about storing kerosene.

Cost - The average cost of purchasing a kerosene space heater range from $50 to $500 and brands include Dyna-Glo, Sengoku, Mr. Heater, DuraHeat, and Remington.

Propane

Propane is less expensive than kerosene and is cleaner burning and more energy efficient. Propane is also lighter and easier to handle than kerosene, but it does not burn as hot. Learn more about propane and how to store it. Learn more about storing propane.

Cost - The average cost of purchasing a propane space heater range from $10 to $600 and brands include Dyna-Glo, Comfort Glow, Mr. Heater, Bluegrass Living, and Remington.

Safety

Propane and kerosene heaters are generally safe for indoor use, but their use requires that certain safety protocols be followed, and precautions taken. Space heaters should be placed several feet away from flammable items such as blankets and furniture.

A carbon monoxide sensor should be installed in your home. It will alert you to any dangerous levels building in your home, giving you time to act to both turn off the heater and add ventilation to the room. It’s also a good idea to have a fire extinguisher nearby in case of an emergency. Do not leave your home with the space heater turned on.

Canned Heat Stove Heater

Vesta from InstaFire is a lightweight, self-powered indoor and outdoor heater, and stove combo. It works well as an indoor space heater for small spaces, and can cooks meals using the same fuel, all at the same time. It is a perfect addition to your emergency preps because no electricity is needed. The Vesta is designed to run specifically on InstaFire 6-hour canned heat, a special blend of chafing fuel that heats quickly. The chafing fuel is non-toxic and smokeless and burns free of carbon monoxide or other hazardous fumes.

It has a low flash point making it much less of a fire hazard than ignitable fuels like propane. Other brands of canned heat that are compatible with indoor use can be used as well, though they strongly suggest using their brand. At least one can is required to run the Vesta but up to three cans can be used for better results.

How it works

Once a can is lit, it takes up to three minutes for the fan to start spinning. It takes another five to eight minutes to reach its full speed and emit maximum heat. At that point, the fan will blow three to four miles per hour, like a small space heater.

As a space heater, the Vesta can warm up an area as large as 200 square feet in size. One can last from 2 to 6 hours. As a stove, you can boil water and cook meals. Although the chafing fuel is nontoxic and generally safe for indoor use, it is still highly recommended, like all other cooking devices, to provide adequate ventilation in any room where it is in use.

Where to buy: The Vesta is available for purchase online from the maker's website or from My Patriot Supply.

Hand & Body Warmers

Hand and body warmers are an important part of emergency preps, especially in cold weather when the electricity goes out. They provide instant, long-lasting warmth to your body and extremities, helping to protect you from the cold. They are safe, non-toxic, and odorless, and can provide warmth for several hours. Hand and body warmers can help you stay warm and comfortable until the power is restored, or other heating sources become available. There are three types: disposable, rechargeable, and reusable. Let’s look at each.

Based on specific brands, temps reached can vary between a minimum of 104 degrees to 149 degrees. Read the documentation or packaging carefully so you buy what is best for you.

Disposable

Disposable hand and body warmers are small single-use packets that produce heat on demand to warm cold hands or other body parts. You place them in your glove or adhere them directly to clothing and jackets. They contain iron, water, salt, carbon, cellulose, and vermiculite. When exposed to air, the iron reacts with the oxygen and forms iron oxide, also known as rust. The warm generated will last until the iron is used, usually about 12 hours.

Disposable hand and body warmers last from 7 to 24 hours. Brands include HotHands, Grabber, and World-Bio. Price ranges from around $6 for a pack of 10 to $24 for a pack of 40.

Rechargeable

Rechargeable hand and body warmers are battery powered. Like disposable, you can slip them into your gloves or pockets to keep you warm. But unlike disposable ones, you can use these warmers again and again by simply recharging the batteries.

Rechargeable hand and body warmers last for battery life depending on brand and model. Variations are from 8 to 15 hours. Brands include Ocoopa, Zippo, Beskar, Karecel, and Gutimo. Most cost between $10 and $50. The most affordable rechargeable hand warmers typically have a 5000 mAh capacity or lower and range from $10 to $18.

Reusable

Reusable hand and body warmers contain a supersaturated solution of sodium acetate that releases heat when it crystallizes. The solution is stored in a packet with a small metal strip. When the metal strip is bent, it triggers the formation of crystals within the hand warmer. As the crystals spread, heat is released from the stored solution.

To reuse these hand warmers, you need to boil the packet in water to melt the crystals back into a liquid. This process restores the solution to its supersaturated state, allowing it to be used again. Unlike disposable hand warmers, reusable hand warmers do not contain iron. Instead, they rely on the heat released by the crystallization of sodium acetate to provide warmth.

Reusable hand and body warmers vary in duration of heat expelled. Variations are from 30 to 60 minutes. Brands include HotSnapZ and Zippo. Brands cost between $10 and $30, usually with more than one per package.

Add to your grab & go bag

Hand and body warmers make a great addition to your evacuation kit. They are lightweight, won't take a lot of room, and will help keep your warm should you be outside for any length of time.

Fuel Powered Generator

A generator can be a lifesaver during a power outage. It can provide electricity to power essential appliances and devices, such as heating and cooling systems, refrigerators, medical equipment, and phone chargers. This can help you stay connected, comfortable, and safe during an emergency. Having a generator on hand can give you peace of mind and help you weather the storm with minimal disruption.

There are three categories of generators that can assist you when your home loses electricity.

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Outdoor Fireplace

Do you have a built-in fireplace installed in your backyard? If so, you may want to use this space for additional warmth for your family if the electricity goes out and you don’t have one inside. If so, plan on stocking up on whatever fuel it requires whether it be firewood (charcoal and InstaFire also work) or propane. If it’s natural gas, there's nothing you need to do. Cast iron chimneys retain heat, so once it gets hot, it will stay hot and keep your outdoor living area nice and warm. If you are fortunate to have a backyard fireplace, don’t miss out on being able to utilize it in an emergency. It’s all about having the fuel you need ready to go in storage.

Outdoor Firepit

If you have an outdoor fire pit, you’ll want to stock up on whatever fuel it runs on. Unless it runs on natural gas, you won’t be able to use it after you run out of fuel if there are any type of supply chain issues. If you don’t have an indoor fireplace, consider getting a firepit for your backyard for backup heat. When looking for an outdoor fire pit with warmth as your number one goal, there are a few things to consider.

What to consider when purchasing

BTU

This measures how much thermal energy something emits. Look for one that offers the most heat using this measurement.

Type of firepit

Wood burning pits are considered the very best for heat output because wood burns hotter than gas. If you want to avoid the hassle of smoke, ashes, and maintenance, you might consider choosing a gas fire pit instead. They may not burn as hot but are still a great option for warmth and are easy to light and control. They also come in a variety of styles, including fire tables and fire bowls.

Built-in or portable

A major consideration in deciding between a permanent vs. portable fire pit is how much space you have. Built-ins take a lot more room because you must consider not only the firepit itself but also the seating surrounding it. If you have the space, this is a great option. Portable fire pits, on the other hand, are more versatile and can be moved around your outdoor space as needed. They also come in a variety of styles and sizes, so you can choose one that fits your needs and preferences.

Double Duty Firepit

There are certain types of portable fire pits that are designed to work well for both heat and cooking. Some require propane and others work with traditional firewood or charcoal briquettes. Popular brands include BioLite FirePit+, Primus Kamoto OpenFire Large, Breeo Y-Series, Winnerwell Large Flatfold, Wolf, and Grizzly Campfire Trio.

Gas Patio Heaters

Gas patio heaters can provide warmth and comfort to outdoor spaces. These heaters typically run on either propane or natural gas, with the gas being piped up through a hose that runs the length of the heater and ignited in the burner at the top of the heater to produce a warming flame. Neither type have any parts that require electricity to function. When buying a gas patio heater, consider the type of fuel you want to use, the size of your patio, and the BTUs needed to heat the space.

Natural Gas Patio Heaters

Natural gas heaters offer long-term cost savings and are easy to maintain. These heaters are connected directly to your gas line and provide continuous heat for as long as needed. These heaters are not portable.

Natural gas patio heaters can vary in price depending on size, design, and efficiency. The range of cost is between $200 and $1,500. It can go as high as $2,000 for larger, more efficient models, like an infrared heater. Top brands include ANNVA, LZZ, Sunpak, and Highland.

Propane Patio Heaters

Propane heaters offer warmth and portability. These heaters usually feature a basic shape and a base that houses the LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) tank, which connects to removable propane tanks that must be purchased separately. Learn more about storing propane.

Propane patio heaters can vary in price depending on size, design, and efficiency. The range of cost is between $100 to $500. Top brands include Texsport, AmazonBasics, Fire Sense, Mr. Heater, and AZ Patio Heaters.

Safety

When using a gas patio heater, follow some safety tips to minimize the risk of accidents. Keep your heater away from walls, ceilings, furniture, carpet, or other flammable material to prevent fire hazards. Use your patio heater only on a flat, level surface, and regularly check for gas leaks.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for lighting the heater, and never leave it unattended when it is on. Always have a fire extinguisher within reach in emergencies. To protect your patio heater, use a cover when not in use and ensure proper ventilation because gas patio heaters release carbon monoxide. By following these safety tips, you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of your gas patio heater while minimizing the risk of accidents.