How Does a Wood Burning Stove Work?
A wood burning stove is an indoor heating appliance capable mainly of burning wood powder and wood-based biomass fuel, including saw dust from a fireplace. Generally the appliance includes one or more internal air controls, and a sturdy metal enclosed firebox. The wood burning stove is available in many designs with respect to its size and shape.
There are basically two types of wood burning stove: those that have permanent chimneys that open inwards, and those that have adjustable vents. Both types of chimney-stopping stoves can efficiently heat and radiate the required outdoor heat to the living space. However, the former types of stoves tend to be more energy efficient than the latter ones, particularly those with fixed vents.
In case of permanent wood burning stoves, one can include a glass front door, to allow the wood to be drawn inside for storing for later use. However, there are times when one would need to ventilate the house from time to time, due to any number of reasons. For instance, during winter, the outside air may be cold and damp, while the indoor air may be hot and humid, forcing one to burn wood to keep both warm and dry. Likewise, during summer, the indoor air may be too hot and moist for burning wood, while the outdoor air may be too dry and drafty for the same purpose.
In case of adjustable wood burning stoves, one can adjust the height of the ash pan, which is placed directly beneath the flue opening. Thus, one can control the quantity of ash that flows out of the firebox. There are even electric versions that can be adjusted to open and close automatically based on the level of heat. One can choose from either a manually operated or an electric controlled firebox. In manual models, one needs to place the hand above the flue opening, while in electric models, the firebox is situated conveniently near the floor of the house. Manual fireboxes may also be opened from the top of the chimney.
Depending on the location of the chimney, the wood burning stove can either be built directly into or installed onto the existing roof. Of course, the latter choice would be more cost effective, but there are also certain disadvantages, namely the amount of work required in terms of erection, chimney cleaning and chimney mortar or liner installation. Moreover, if the existing roof is inclined at a high angle, then installing the wood stove might prove problematic, as the wood needs to be pitched at an angle of 45 degrees. On the other hand, installing the wood stove on an elevated surface, such as a raised panel, would require less work, but the final product would look much like a brick chimney.
One could also opt for gas-powered wood burning stoves. These types of stoves are very convenient as they consume less fuel than firewood. For instance, a two burner firewood stove burns thirty liters of wood in approximately ten minutes. Gas powered stoves can be placed almost anywhere, including near doors, walls, garages, porches and any other place where wood is needed.
How does a wood burning stove works? A furnace which converts wood into heat output is installed inside the unit. The air flow, heat output and combustion are monitored by thermostats installed in the chimney. In case of over-heating, the furnace is switched off automatically, the air filtered and the flame adjusted according to the desired heat output.
Installing wood burning stoves requires detailed planning, especially if it is to be located outdoors. If there are underground molds or creosote deposits to be cleared, professionals should be hired. It is important to find a reliable contractor who has years of experience in installing the equipment. Since the wood burning stove runs on natural gas or propane, it is necessary to have an appropriate ventilation system installed. The best solution is to buy a portable, adjustable unit that can be moved from one location to another whenever required.
