Since the start of the pandemic, indoor fireplaces and wood stoves have been in demand.
“It gave new life to our wood heating industry,” confirms Carole Morin, manager of Boutique Chaleur in Longueuil.
According to Mme Morin, the pandemic has allowed Quebecers to rediscover their homes and make renovations. Thus, many have chosen the avenue of wood heating.
She points out that sales have doubled over the past two years.
Still allowed to heat with wood?
Carole Morin assures that despite popular belief, it is still necessary to have a supplementary wood heater in Montreal, it is enough to know the regulations well.
“Quite simply, it takes you a device that is EPA certified. It is also important to know that in Montreal, the standard is 2.5 grams of particles emitted by the fireplace,” explains Ms.me Morin.
Even if the price of an appliance may seem high at first glance, between $5,000 and $10,000, the store manager reminds us that this type of renovation adds added value to a property, and that it is more of an investment.
“It’s profitable, even when people invest up to $120 per cord of wood, because today, the devices can do 8-9 hours of autonomy with a charge”, specifies Mme Morin.
She believes that with optimal use of an appliance, it is possible to save 30 to 40% on her electricity bill.
The still popular electric fireplace
Despite the rise in popularity for wood-burning appliances, electric fireplaces remain a customer favorite.
“At the holiday season, things go like hot cakes,” underlines Carole Morin.