The winter season brings with it the need to heat our homes efficiently. Although there are several heating options, today we want to talk about one of the lesser-known, but incredibly effective alternatives: paraffin stoveThis type of stove is used as a more economical solution compared to conventional electric systems and even, in some cases, gas stoves. If you are looking for an option that will not shoot up your electricity bill, you should consider how a paraffin stove can be the answer.
In this article, we will explore in detail what paraffin stoves are, the different types that exist, how they work, their advantages and disadvantages, and how to optimize their use and maintenance.
Features and benefits of the paraffin stove
A paraffin heater has the particularity of providing heat in a more uniform and pleasant way than other forms of heating. Instead of concentrating the heat at a specific point and generating temperature contrasts, the heat it emits is distributed evenly throughout the room. This prevents one part of the space from being toasty and the other from freezing, something common with electric heaters.
Advantages:
- Homogeneous heat: The paraffin stove heats more evenly than electric heaters, offering a much more pleasant thermal sensation.
- More economical: Paraffin stoves offer a lower monthly cost than alternatives that run solely on electricity. In fact, a paraffin stove can reduce monthly heating costs by 20% to 30%.
- Easy installation: They do not require installation or complex works. You just need to take them out of their packaging, fill the paraffin tank and turn them on.
Types of paraffin stoves
There are two main types of paraffin stoves on the market today, each with unique features to suit different needs. Below we describe the most popular types:
1. Wick paraffin stoves
Paraffin wick stoves do not require an electrical connection. They work by simply filling the tank with paraffin and lighting the wick, which is soaked in fuel to generate heat. This category is ideal for those who do not want to depend on electricity or are looking for a simpler and more economical option.
It is essential to note that the first time you use a wick stove, you will need to wait about 30 minutes after filling the tank for the wick to absorb the fuel properly. After that first use, the stove can be used immediately.
2. Electronic or laser paraffin ovens
Unlike wick stoves, electronic ones do require an electrical connection. Their main advantage is that they come equipped with electronic controllers from the burner, thermostats and options for fuel savingsSome can even be programmed to turn on and off at certain times.
In addition, because they include a fan, they distribute heat even more efficiently than wick or electric stoves, achieving a much more balanced climate throughout the space.
Requirements for good operation
To get the most out of a paraffin stove, it is crucial to pay attention to certain factors that will ensure better performance and a safe environment. Here are some recommendations:
- Location: These heaters are designed to heat rooms up to 50 square meters, so it is not advisable to use them in smaller spaces without adequate ventilation. Also, avoid them in small bathrooms or bedrooms, as paraffin could generate toxic gases if there is not enough air circulation.
- Proper maintenance: Paraffin stoves are easy to maintain, but they do require frequent cleaning to prevent the build-up of residue. It is also necessary to ensure that parts such as the wick and the resistance are in good condition. In fact, some electronic stoves have a self-cleaning system for the burner, which makes this task much easier.
- Ventilation: The combustion of paraffin produces gases and water vapour that must be properly evacuated to avoid health problems. Make sure to use the stove in rooms with sufficient ventilation to avoid the accumulation of harmful gases such as carbon monoxide.
Please note that electronic stoves usually have security systems that turn off the device if they detect dangerous concentrations of gases in the air, making them a safer option for homes with poor ventilation.
Consumption of the paraffin stove
The consumption of a paraffin stove is mainly determined by its power. However, in general terms, the fuel consumption of this type of stove is low. A 20-litre can of paraffin costs about 40 euros, and the stove consumes between 0,13 and 0,30 litres per hour depending on the power of the model.
So, if you use the heater for about 4 hours a day for 5 days a week, the monthly cost can range between 25 and 33 euros, which is considerably cheaper compared to many electric heaters.
In addition, areas where there are drafts or doors that are constantly opened, such as some offices, are ideal spaces for this type of heater, since they are able to restore the temperature quickly after each change of air.
Maintenance tips for greater durability
Maintaining a paraffin stove is quite simple but essential. Not following certain guidelines could shorten the life of the appliance and affect its efficiency. Here are some tips to keep your stove working optimally:
- Turn on correctly: Avoid holding the starter button for more than 4 seconds to protect the resistor.
- End of season: At the end of winter, let the stove burn off all the paraffin so that the wick dries completely and does not harden.
- Replacements: If the resistor fails, replace it with a new one easily by opening the casing and removing the damaged part.
- Changing the wick: You should change the wick at least once a season to ensure proper combustion. To do this, remove the burner housing, take out the old wick and insert a new one, making sure it is properly aligned.
By following these guidelines, your stove will maintain its performance and waste less fuel over time.
Finally, paraffin stoves are a very efficient option, especially for those looking for an economical and autonomous way to heat large spaces. With proper maintenance and responsible use, you will enjoy efficient heat without compromising your pocket.