The wigwams still dot the town to remind us that we are all responsible for green energy. As I pull up to Oregon Lawn and Farm, Oregon, Illinois, the owner begins his day by setting out displays. I follow him inside to find the smiling gentleman behind the counter eager to help me. I walk past the wood and corn burning stoves, which sport ample product information displayed upon the tops.
Behind the counter I notice a picture of his friend from Milledgeville, Illinois, who recently built an electric car. The owner of this small business is no stranger to green energy as he explains that he also built an electric car in the 70’s. Though he no longer has the car, he still has a photo of his accomplishment. He admits that he has moved on to other things.
He explains that the corn stove he installs has a long-life. In fact, he displays and uses a model which is 25 years old and currently has no issues so his customers can see the quality. The owner explains that if you perform proper maintenance, you will not have many issues with this brand of corn stove. He also offers to install a battery backup system, which comes in handy during the cold winter months of Northern Illinois.
He explains corn stoves currently do not offer a battery back-up system of their own so he and his son have engineered one, as an add-on item. Having experienced power outages during the winter, this is a nice option to have when the thermometer reaches sub-zero and the lights go out.
The owner also explains the difference between a corn stove and a pellet stove which can burn corn. The recommended fuel for a pellet stove is pellets, he explains. If the stove says it can burn corn as well, it is in fact suggesting that you mix corn in with the pellets as opposed to just burning corn in a pellet stove which can cause some issues and possible costly repairs.
He recommends that when purchasing a renewable energy furnace, that you consider the cost of your fuel source. For example, if you have wood in abundant supply you should burn wood and if you have corn, corn, otherwise you defeat the purpose of saving money on your heating bill.
On my way out of town, I stopped by the dam to listen to the cool water falling. The tranquility of the park made me wonder if the hydro-energy station in Dixon was still in use. I can’t wait to discover this hidden treasure.
You may contact Oregon Lawn and Farm at www.olf1.com or by email at olf1@verison.net.
Interesting blog. First time I've run across a blog exploring the topic of green energy in this very specific way (and I've come across a lot of blogs). Good luck! :-)
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