Many people have been coming into our shop lately and inquiring about pellet and gas stoves. However, once they see our beautiful hearthstone wood burning inserts, they begin asking questions about wood. I thought I would take this opportunity to tell you a couple of the pros and cons about all three types of fuel for inserts, fireplaces and stoves.

Gas heating appliances are easy to use, more economical than you would think, and they can be connected to a thermostat for a consistent heat. Also, many come with a remote control, so literally, at the touch of a button you can be sitting in front of a roaring fire. However, gas is not a renewable source of energy, and you will still pay the high fuel prices. Though they are a more efficient way of heating; gas stoves, fireplaces and inserts are generally a convenient secondary or supplemental heat source for your home.

Stoves and inserts that use wood pellets for fuel can produce quite a bit of heat. They are very efficient and for the most part, are mess free. The pellets can be stacked easily in the garage or shed in bags and they burn very efficiently. Pellet stoves can be used to heat your whole home throughout the winter. And though they do not have the pretty flame we are used to with burning wood, manufacturers today are making more attractive pellet stoves to suit more needs. Probably the biggest drawback to a pellet stove or insert is the need for electric power to run. In a snowy Nor’easter, if there is no power, there is also no fire.

Wood makes a beautiful fire; wood is a renewable fuel source -so no more huge heating bills; and wood burning fireplaces, inserts and stoves can heat your whole home all winter. Manufacturers of wood burning heating appliances have much higher standards making stoves, inserts and fireplaces that are more efficient with higher EPA ratings today than in the past. Therefore, pollutants are reduced and efficiency is increased. So then what are the drawbacks to wood? Wood requires storing and lugging. As opposed to gas and pellet, when you get home from work, you cannot just push a button and have a fire to relax in front of.

All of these fuel sources have a place based on your lifestyles, your home and your needs. At West Sport, our goal is to help educate you on all the fuel sources available. We want you to make the right decision for your home and family so that you can get the most enjoyment out of your new fireplace, stove or insert.

New Year’s Eve is just around the corner, and with the New Year the home energy tax credit expires. We can help you. You have until December 31, 2010 to purchase your wood or pellet burning fireplace, fireplace insert, or stove if you want to take advantage of this tax credit. At West Sport Grill and Fireplace Shop, we have everything you need to take advantage of this money savings. But, we are also offering $200 off every Hearthstone pellet or wood burning stove, insert or fireplace. We feel that Hearthstone will meet or exceed your expectation which is why we have decided to offer this additional money savings. Burning wood is one of the most romantic, beautiful and satisfying ways to heat your home.

Wood burning stoves, inserts and fireplaces can be very economical, while also offering the additional benefits of a beautiful flame, relaxing warmth, and a romantic ambiance.
Environmental concerns and strict EPA regulations have helped wood stoves grow in popularity. EPA-certified stoves now burn 72-82% more cleanly than those of the past. Wood has a much higher BTU capacity than gas, and wood is also a renewable resource. The tax credit is being offered for all hearth appliances that use renewable energy- this means wood or pellet burning. You can count on wood and wood pellets being around as a reliable and clean source of fuel for years to come. With rising fuel and gas prices, wood stoves are a much more economical way to heat your home. And you will stay warm even if your power goes out.

Happy Holidays from West Sport, this is our gift to you, as our neighbors. Come in and save $1500 dollars before December 31.

Now that winter is here have you found that you have a room in your home that just is not warm enough? With the electric heaters from Comfort Furnace, this no longer is an issue. Comfort Furnace is an attractive electric furnace that is both safe and efficient. It costs less than a coffee maker to run this electric space heater (less than $1 a day)! And, by using infrared heat, like the sun, it is more effective than the traditional electric heater. Unlike most heaters that provide uneven hot spots, the heat from a Comfort Furnace surrounds you–no matter where you are in the room. It heats the air through infrared heating elements.

The result is an even, soft heat that is normally balanced between the floor and ceiling by no more than a few degrees difference. Because of today’s spiraling gas, oil, propane, and other energy costs, The Comfort Furnace will pay for itself in no time, and it is designed to last 15-20 years. But this electric heater also promotes healthier, cleaner air. Comfort Furnace heaters destroy bacteria, virus, mold, mildew and other organic organisms that cause respiratory distress, colds and flu’s. They are the perfect heating source for your home. And, it is a safe source of localized heat that cannot burn or harm your pets, children, or furniture.

But even better, the comfort furnace is attractive. Invite people over to and see if they can spot your new Comfort Furnace which looks more like an end table. Unlike the dangerous and inefficient space heaters of the past, it looks exactly like a piece of furniture. Which means this more efficient and effective way to heat your home can match your décor as well. So if you have a refinished basement that just is not warm enough, or a tucked away home office where the heat does not travel too, no worries, West Sport in Sudbury has the answer. Located near Framingham, Marlborough, and Wayland, visit or call us today.

Ventless gas fireplaces literally do not have any venting which makes it a little more economical to install. Homeowners love the practicality of this heating device because it only requires propane or natural gas and the air circulating in the room where the unit is to be used. Not to mention, you get to enjoy a roaring fire at the touch of a button! No mess or fuss.

This type of fireplace can produce enough BTUs to be considered an alternative or secondary heating source. It can efficiently heat a room, and you'll find there are a wide variety of styles and designs that look just like a traditional fireplace and mantle. Gas Fireplaces can even be hooked up to a thermostat, for a constant temperature. Keep in mind when you are purchasing a vent-free gas fireplace that West Sport handles all of your installation needs.

A ventless gas fireplace is an excellent addition to any household and can improve the décor greatly, as well as increase your home value. They can mimic a roaring fire just as well as a traditional fireplace, without the effort. If you are interested in how to improve the style or character of your home fill out a request for quote form, and the Grill and Fireplace Shop at West Sport will help you with your purchase.