Potbelly Stove

A potbelly stove is originally made out of cast iron and are used as one of those wood-bruning stoves. Potbelly stove is a freestanding type that's vented out through a wall or ceiling. Shaped like a barrel, the potbelly stove stove got its name based on its shape. This stove is also known for its bulge in the middle. The potbelly stove was actually used during the late 1800s and into the early 1900s. Today, the potbelly is known as an antique collection that symbolizes country store designs.

How the potbelly stove is used

The potbelly stove is used mainly to heat large spaces such as stores, schools and train stations. For this purpose, the potbelly stove is made as a functional heating device. People may gather around the potbelly stove while conversing with each other or simply waiting for the train to come.

In place of a fireplace, the potbelly stove was later used in homes to provide the needed warmth of a wood fire.

The difference of the potbelly stove to other stoves

Although the potbelly stove is made of cast iron, it still differs from other kinds of cast iron stoves. These include box stoves, parlor stoves and cylinder stoves. The main difference comes from the distinct shape of the potbelly stove. Cast iron stoves actually sport different designs and styles, based on the periods or years they were popularly used. The potbelly was among the earlier varieties. Aside from its shape the resembles a bulging barrel, the potbelly stove also has a claw feet. SOme designs, however, feature a block base. The potbelly stove has a hinged door where wood may be placed to burn. Its wide door also allows for the cleaning of the gathered ashes at the bottom of the potbelly stove.

Available potbelly stove

Though the old-style potbelly stove still exists, there are now manufacturers to introduce new designs for this kind of cast iron stove. Some owners of country homes and farmhouses who wish to relive the past go for the potbelly replicas. This is to sport the old-fashioned look and feel of the potbelly stove. Some houses actually have kept old potbelly stoves that are still operating. Owners of the potbelly stove may convert the stoves to electric or gas, instead of burning wood for heat.

Newer designs of potbelly stove are sold at higher prices, though some genuin stoves may have varied price ranges depending on the make, year and model.