I'm not apposed to an indoor model, I can get a el-cheapo for around $1,200 or a decent one for closer to $2,500. Problem there is we are STILL hauling the wood inside (basement then at least). Plus, I can't run a loop to the shop at that point, or at least not as simply.

 

Just buy a $1,000 shed from Lowes or Home Depot and put it in there. All the mess will still be outside and you will have a nice warm place to tend the fire and STILL save a few grand. Why not just put it in your shop and run the line to the house? that is exactly what I did.

BTW-- where in Md. is Port Deposit? I live in Frostburg. If you are up this way you could check out my setup.

 

It's a really good system if you have a lot of access to local wood. If you have to buy wood, the prices here have gone up enuff to start offsetting the savings after you factor in the daily labor. A truckload of 8ft logs, 10 full cords, is running $750 up here. $50 or better with volume discounts for a rick, both delivered. 10 cords'll get most through the year, that's still way cheaper than 2 or 3 propane fills, unless you're short on the time needed for wood. Figure 20 minutes a day to load it, which includes mixing the coals and stacking for max efficiency. Periodicallly emptying ash and occasional flu clean out. Putting a shed or pole building around the face of it will help you in the elements and help keep the wind off it, really increasing burn time. Most that opt for the ash auger end up removing them. Too many problems jamming, etc.

 

Not a bad idea really.

I am right around the Susquehanna River, very close to PA and DE.