It might be tough to find a wood-burning stove, so make sure you know how to choose a wood stove so that you can get one that suits your requirements. There are many types of stoves, as well as the materials they are made of. Anyway, these things you will know further if you proceed further.
Considering all of the new and used alternatives, how should one go about making their decision? It may depend on many factors- your needs, purpose, size, and more!
This post will serve as your buying guide to find the best wood stove for your house and save time and money. We will talk about the types of wood stoves and the factors to consider. The sort of stove you wish to utilize will be your first decision. So, without further ado, let’s get in the details!
Types Of Wood Stoves
So, how to choose a wood stove? Non-catalytic and catalytic wood stoves are the two main types. Options one and two are combined in option three. Find out which one is ideal for you by reading the descriptions that follow.
#1. Non-catalytic wood stove
An alternative to catalytic burning technology is a baffle-recirculating system. This part can be located inside the stove’s firebox, just below the range’s hood. Baffle forces oxygen into the firebox so it can burn again before it’s extinguished.
The heat produced by this wood stove is more rapid and intense than that of a catalytic wood burner. They are more common and less expensive than catalytic wood stoves. Not only that, but they are easier to keep clean than a catalytic stove. A longer, hotter gas flow route is produced, which increases efficiency.
#2. Catalytic wood stove
Traditional wood stoves are less expensive than catalytic wood stoves on the whole. They are more challenging to maintain, and cleaning the catalytic converter is a constant hassle. Over time, the honeycomb catalyst inside these devices degrades and therefore needs to be replaced.
A new one can range anywhere from $200 to $400, depending on the model. It takes some effort to utilize a burner of this type since you have to monitor the temperature and change the handle when it exceeds 500°F.
The bypass must be moved in this manner to gain access to the honeycomb catalyst. Because of the low temperatures, the catalyst is effectively stored until it is required. Precious metals such as platinum and palladium are used to coat catalytic combustors. The catalytic combustor raises the reaction speed to increase the temperature. It was thought to be the system turbocharger.
For more efficient heat generation, the wood stove’s catalytic combustion converts smoke to fuel in the combustor, placed in the smoke stream. The majority of the energy in a log can be converted to heat in a wood stove rather than released into the atmosphere as pollution. Know the difference between catalytic vs non-catalytic wood stoves.
#3. Electric wood stove
There is also a hybrid version with a burning system and a catalytic combustor for increased power and lower emissions. This combines the characteristics of the two wood stoves above. You may want to know how to clean electric stove top coils.
What Are Kind Of Materials Used In The Construction Of A Wood Stove?
Wood stoves can be made of different materials. The most common ones are made of cast iron, steel, or soapstone. Let us discuss each of them below to know which one should you get.
#1. Cast iron
Wood stoves made of cast iron has more design options since it is poured into molds. If you choose this, you’ll be able to create stunning looks that are entirely out of the ordinary. Several kinds of stoves come with a porcelain shine coating, making the stove appear smooth and glossy. Cleaning up after using a stove that is made of this material is a breeze.
#2. Steel
Plain and straightforward, these wood stoves are made using steel plates twisted into a firebox shape. Because they are simpler to make, they are less expensive in general.
#3. Soapstone
Because soapstone is so dense, this style of stove holds a lot of heat. For some, the solid soapstone in these stoves makes them superior since they continue to provide heat even after the fire has gone out.
What To Consider To Choose A Wood Stove
When choosing a wood stove, there are some factors to keep in mind other than the type and material used. Below we have listed them, so make sure to remember them when buying.
#1. Aesthetics
Depending on the model, a wood stove may be supported on four legs or a pedestal. Legs can be changed in various versions. With legs, it’s much easier to clean all around and under it. Everything comes down to your personal taste.
#2. Shape
Nowadays, customers can choose from a wide range of stylish options. In addition to square and circular, there are also rectangular and even vertical designs available.
#3. Functionality
Check its capacity to keep logs. Make sure the length of firewood you intend to use will fit in your stove. If you have a damper or vents, use them. Your wood stove’s vent controls how much air it lets in. The damper for each stove will have its own placement. Some are tucked away in the pipes, while others are on display.
It’s A Wrap!
Hopefully, you find this post on how to choose a wood stove. Use this as a guide if you are planning to get one for your house. By doing so, you can ensure that you can get what you need. Read how to build a wood stove and how to install a wood stove in a garage.