Catalytic combustors in wood stoves allow for long, efficient burns with fewer noxious emissions. But there's a learning curve to using these stoves, more suited to folks who heat with wood rather than occasional users who want a quick, pretty fire.
American manufacturer Vermont Castings now offers two of its most popular models as combo units that can be burned with or without the catalytic combustor. The 2N1 (get it? Two-in-one) Encore or Defiant allow users to bypass or use the catalytic combustor, a process that the manufacturer claims takes less than a minute.
The stoves have an efficiency rating of 86 percent when using the catalytic combustor. A non-catalytic burn is slightly less efficient, 78 percent, but a nice option if you only need to fire up the stove for a few hours on chilly days in the spring or fall.
In keeping with environmental friendliness, the stoves are made entirely of recycled materials. They are available in classic black or four baked on enamel colors.
The top-loading stoves offer easy access to the combustor and burn chamber without the use of tools. Pictured here is the Encore 2N1 model.
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