Heating with wood for free.

[SSScout]

With the recent discussion about Totin' Chip and such, I have been reminded of the unfortunate fact of the catastrophic loss of our White Ash trees here in the east , due to the Emerald Ash Borer.  I have had to oversee  (and participate in ) the removal of more than 20 mature , large trees of late, both around my own house and our Meeting House Property . One counted 87 rings (!). 

With all that in mind, I offer for your edification,  a guide  sent to me some time ago (you may note the dated prices),  on how one might "Heat Your Home With Wood For Free": 

How to Heat with Wood for Free!

 

            It is easy to heat your home for free with wood!  I have done it for many years , and I have been asked by many to detail the economics of it. Here, then, is my accounting of heating with wood over the last few years!

            Wood is available for free from many sources. Neighbors may need a tree cut down. Road crews leave wood by the road for picking up. Untended lots need thinning.

One just needs a little equipment.

Build wood rack from scrap lumber :  FREE!

Install catalytic equipped wood stove, double wall stove pipe: $2,432.

Purchase chainsaw, case, chain oil,  hardhat, safety goggles, Kevlar chaps & vest, heavy gloves:  (“on special”!)  $544.95.

Two gallon gas can and 2 gallons of gas: $9.48.

Buy old second hand pickup from cousin: $850.

Rebuild engine, new clutch, new tires, pass state inspection:  $1,347.85.

Pay fine for cutting wood without a permit on park land: $150.

Replace rear window in pickup (threw log thru it): $87.

Sharpen saw chain after hitting rock in tree crotch:  $15.

Buy 2 extra saw chains:  $53.05.

Repair neighbor’s roof edge after maple fell the wrong way:  $327.

Repair chainsaw after using regular gas in it (needs 2 stroke mix):  $98.47.

Buy two gallons gas and pint of 2 stroke oil:  $9.48.

Doctor visit after wood rack falls on foot:  $20. Copay.

Crutch rental:  FREE (local service club)

Clean rug and smoke damage when wife forgets to open damper:  $180.28.

Lawyer visit, recommendation of marriage counseling:  $250.

            As you can see, it is easy to heat your house with wood for FREE!  Of course , not everyone is as adept at wood cutting as some, so your experience will no doubt be different.  Good Luck!

Edited April 28, 2018 by SSScout