Woodstoves and Mobile Home Safety

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The hard-ducting outside air inlet requirement assures that the stove won't be depleting oxygen within a closed home. Although the method of installing this freshair feed duct depends upon the stove manufacturer's design, it must pass through the structure at some point, usually at the floor . . . thus, you must measure and cut through the hearth pad as well. The rear heat shield used by many manufacturers to bring their stoves into compliance with mobile home regulations should be designed to fit around or over the duct; if there's interference, don't discard the shield; contact the stove manufacturer for instructions.

The leg fasteners, too, must pass through the hearth pad to connect to the floor. Most designs consist of metal leg clips secured to the deck by long screws, so make the holes through the hearth slightly larger than those in the floor so the fasteners can pass through the pad material freely.

Finally, protect yourself and your family by taking some precautions before you light the first fire. Familiarize yourself completely with the operation of your particular stove. You might even want to seek approval—preferably in writing—from both the building inspector and the insurance agent, after allowing them to inspect your installation. It may seem that you're going to a lot of bother, but it's worth it . . . especially when you can finally relax before your own hearth, satisfied with a safe and economical amenity.

Before committing yourself to a wood-heating system in any kind of home, you might consider reading Jay W. Shelton's excellent book, Wood Heat Safety . . . which is available at a cost of $10.95, plus $1.50 shipping and handling, from Mother's Bookshelf, 105 Stoney Mountain Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28791.

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