The ancient people burned wood. They did it for thousands of years without considering whether it's good or wrong to deplete the forest. Then people learned to use coal, oil and other fossil fuels. They did it for ages and only recently started to think about the consequences. What if our ancestors were told that it is possible to burn food without actually harming the nature? Burning food? Although it may sound terrible, shelled corn is a great bio-fuel that is cheap, easily accessible and safe for the environment.



The concept of corn stoves is quite old. The first examples were built by handy farmers themselves closer to the end of 19th century. The first heating device of such kind was allegedly the result of maize overproduction when it was discovered that dried seeds - or shelled corn - burn nicely and provide heat similar to that of wood logs. The idea became popular during the years of Great Depression.

Yet it was not before 70s of the last century when corn stoves hit the mass production. Other similar products joined - barbecues and water boilers.

The main perk of using such heating devices is obviously money saving. You will spend on average $3,000 to $3,300 each season burning fossil fuel oil and only $1,500 to $2,300 burning shelled corn. Another benefit, which is not less important, corn stoves are sources of pure green energy. Maize is grown on fields, it helps filtering the air naturally, plus maize seeds doesn't produce carbon monoxide and nitrous compounds when burnt.

How to Choose Corn Stoves?

There are corn stoves, water boilers and barbecues or grills available for sale. The first is used to provide heating for home during the winter season. Water boilers are used to produce hot water or even to be incorporated into the central heating system of a home. Corn Grill is a good way to start your own green energy campaign by test-driving maize kernel energy. It is a great alternative to the conventional grills that burn wood, coal or even consume electricity. Your friends will love to come to your open-air parties.

Corn Stoves Checklist

* Start with measuring your house's square footage or cubic footage. You will need this number when approaching your dealer. Too small a stove will make you freeze while an enormously big one can waste your money and overheat your home.

* Choose a dealer carefully. See if you can find a neighbor or relative who has already used similar heating equipment and ask for a feedback.

* If you choose to buy your stove from an online shop or eBay, you are likely to save money but be careful. Consult the dealer before you pay the money. Is he going to provide you with after-sales support, can he provide instructions on installing, or maybe he even installs it for free.

* Check if you are able to source cheap shelled corn in your neighborhood and that you are capable of storing kernel properly. It takes a dry and clean room to store it; you cannot afford the dampness to spoil your burning agent.

* Make sure that the features of the device are explained to you - there are several types of heating devices - some can use mixed source of energy that also includes wood pellets, some can strictly not.

* Check the feed system. How often will it be necessary to fill more maize into the hopper? How long can device burn unattended before feeding new portion in?

* Does it have any warranty? It is extremely important, especially if something goes wrong.

If you are ready to advance into the new environmentally friendly technology, a green energy heater will be a great purchase for you. Although it can be quite expensive (prices range from $500 to $3,000) you'll save money on fuel, help protecting the environment and show good will to your community.