Winters can become a nightmare if you don’t have an effective heating appliance at your place. Here’s where a lot of us think of a heater but the costs associated with it often hold us back.
There’s a cheaper alternative to this problem and it comes in the form of small wood stoves. It’s a small appliance that can produce heat to regular temperature in a small room. All you need to do is feed it with wood and light it up.
The small wood stove on the market will help you keep a tiny cabin, boat, RV or house warm and comfortable. You can also use these stoves to make tea on a teapot or cook food as they offer good cooking space. They are better than propane heaters in terms of cost and effectiveness.
However, picking the best small wood stove can be difficult due to the huge number of options out there.
This guide will tell you all that you need to consider when picking a wood stove. Plus, we have also covered some of the best products out there.
So without much ado, let’s have a look at the top small wood stoves:
1. Pleasant Hearth LWS
- Dual fuel technology allows the unit to be operated with Propane...
- Up to 30,000 BTU's/hr heats up to 1,000 sq. ft.
- No electricity required allows for reliable back-up heating...
- Dual burner system provides two rows of flames for a more full...
- 6 handpainted concrete logs inspired by nature
This Pleasant Hearth burner can heat up a large area and also serve as an aesthetic centerpiece for a room. This EPA approved wood burning stove is highly efficient with a rating of 82%.
Features:
- Heating radius of 1800 sq. ft.
- Heat Output: 65,000 BTU
- Quiet operation.
- Speed blower for power heat distribution.
- Big glass window that allows you to see through.
- EPA certified.
There aren’t many wood stoves that can cover the kind of ground area like this one does. It spreads heat across 1800 sq. ft. by producing 4.4 grams of heat emissions per hour. All you need to do is connect it to a standard 6 inches chimney.
It incorporates a brick lined firebox along with a ceramic glass window that lets you tend to the firewood. Plus, it’s also quite safe. You will have no trouble in adding and removing wood logs. It also has an air vent on the front that helps light a fire.
There’s also an air inlet at the backside that pushes air into three various tubes above the burning wood. This mechanism is subtle and will ensure that the unit consumes little fuel and keeps the wood burning for a long time.
This is a big wood stove that can accommodate 18 inches of wood logs that can create a lot of heat. The emission production is clean thanks to it being an EPA certified stove. You will only feel the heat and no discomfort.
There’s a speed blower in this unit that offers powerful heat distribution and warms up the surroundings in a jiffy.
The engineers have put in a lot of effort in making this stove strong and durable. It is constructed with high-end plate steel, nickel trim, and charcoal finish that contributes to its strength and looks. The door on the unit is made up of cast iron and there’s a ceramic glass window to view and access firewood.
There’s a push/pull draft that allows you to control heat dissipation, burn time and output. It’s fairly easy to use and maintain as well as the ash door is removable. You can easily reach the inside of the stove and clean it.
Pros:
Cons:
Bottomline:
Pleasant Hearth LWS is one of the best small wood stoves out there. It offers high heat output over a large area and works quite fast as well. Plus, it has an appealing ceramic glass window that allows you to see inside and enjoy the fire view.
2. Dickinson Marine 00-NEWSF Newport Solid Fuel Heater
The Dickinson Marine 00-NEWSF Newport Solid Fuel Heater is one of the best products out there. It’s quite light in weight and offers more heat output than most wood stoves. Moreover, it’s made of high-quality materials and is quite durable.
Note: You will need a 4-6 feet chimney to use with this stove.
Features:
- Constructed with non-rust stainless steel.
- Offers heat output of 3000 to 8000 BTUs.
- Lightweight (only 12.65 pounds).
- Burns coal, wood, charcoal briquettes, presto logs, etc.
This beauty measures 10 x 7.9 x 15.6 inches and weighs 12.65 pounds, making it ideal for RV’s, small cabins, and yachts. It can fit any space measuring 20-25 feet. Thanks to these dimensions and weight, you can mount it on a wall.
The heater is made of non-rust stainless steel, so it should last for a good number of years. Moreover, there is no risk of moisture as it generates dry heat to dry the moisture inside the vessel.
This wood stove supports a variety of burning materials such as presto logs, 1 inch thick wood, coal, and charcoal briquettes as well. The good thing is that all materials work well, however the output largely depends on the material you use for burning.
Plus, the unit is quite easy to clean thanks to a dismountable ash drawer and damper control. You will also have no trouble in managing or handling the unit.
The latch door makes it easier to place the burning material and to clean the stove from the inside.
For safety purposes, it is recommended to use it in a place that has good ventilation.
Pros:
Cons:
Bottomline:
Dickinson Marine 00-NEWSF Newport Solid Fuel Heater is a great pick for users looking to get a wood stove that can be wall-mounted.
3. Drolet High-Efficiency Wood Stove
- Included: pedestal with ash drawer, ceramic glass, ash lip, air...
- EPA 2020 approved - Average particulate emissions rate 1.32 g/h -...
- Maximum log length 22" - Heating area 1,000 - 2,700 Ft2 - Maximum...
- Steel thickness : body 3/16" / top 5/16" - Certified for mobile...
- Proudly made in Canada - Limited lifetime warranty
This wood stove is designed to warm a home quickly by accommodating a lot of wood logs in the fire compartment. With an efficiency rating of 78% and a durable body made up of thick steel plate, this stove is a force to be reckoned with.
Features:
- 5/16 inch steel plate.
- Covers 2400 sq. ft. of area.
- Can accommodate wood logs up to 22 inches long.
- Equipped with a thermostat to assist fire control.
The best thing about this wood stove is the runtime. With an adequate amount of wood logs in the compartment, this stove will keep providing warmth for up to 12 hours.
This has a top side venting design that can circulate and burn smoke which makes it an efficient wood stove. In addition to this, it incorporates a thermostat that helps regulate fire.
You will face no problems using this stove for years because it is made up of strong and durable materials. The door is manufactured using heavy duty cast iron that prevents rust and there’s also an air control level on top that provides with further control.
Fully fill up the compartment with wood to get a pleasant sleep during long winter nights. It will run for 12 hours at a stretch, providing you with a comfortable sleep.
It’s a bit bulky and extremely heavy due to which you will need to have 19 inches of clearance on the back and sides. Moreover, you will need help to move it as it weighs more than 500 pounds.
Pros:
Cons:
Bottomline:
Drolet High-Efficiency Wood Stove can be a good pick for users looking for a unit suitable for big spaces. It is safe to use and also runs for extended hours.
4. Cubic CB-1008 CUB Mini Wood Stove
If you travel a lot and are looking for a compact heating appliance that can keep you warm in your cabin, boat or RV then Cubic CB-1008 can be a good option. It looks good and is quite reliable as well.
Features:
- Constructed with laser cut steel plate and ceramic insulation for excellent durability.
- Offers 6000 to 14000 BTU heat output.
- Contains a thick flue pipe (3-inch in diameter).
- Offers cooking area of 5”.
This stove can help warm the place in no time. Plus, it’s known to work in the entire area and not a specific corner. The rule of thumb is to shut the doors and windows, and light the stove using woods. It can provide heat across 100-200 sq ft. of area.
It is constructed using a fine laser-cut steel plate that has a thickness of ⅛” to 3/16”. Moreover, it contains ceramic and glass insulation which contribute to the overall durability.
This environment friendly small wood stove doesn’t emit smoke despite producing 6000 to 14000 BTU with its secondary combustion system.
Using the appliance is a breeze. Find ¾” of long wood and place it in the stove for the unit to burn the wood. This leaves you with two option:
Keep the place warm by burning wood
Remove the rail and cook food on it thanks to the 5” of the cooking area it offers.
This stove is easy to carry as it weighs only 27 pounds and has compact dimensions of 11 x 12 x 10.5 inches. Hence, you can fit it up in any corner of a room. Plus, it can even fit well in your RV.
Note: While positioning the heater, make sure to leave at least 20” of clearance in every direction. This will help spread the warm cozy heat quickly and properly. Plus, it’s also important for the unit as being close to other objects may cause harm.
Pros:
Cons:
Bottomline:
Cubic CB-1008 CUB Mini Wood Stove is among the best small wood stoves. It’s designed to handle smaller tasks and can also be used to prepare food.
5. Hi Flame Wood Burning Stove HF905U
Hi Flame Wood Burning Stove is all about low emission and better combustion. It has a secondary pre-heated airflow that offers efficient output.
This non-catalytic wood burner can heat up an area of 800-900 sq. ft. without any trouble. Plus, you will have no trouble in keeping it as it can fit most places without difficulty.
Features:
The highlight of the Hi Flame HF905U is the high-tech firebox that keeps the air clean while the wood is burning inside. Moreover, the air washed door also stays clean, giving you a good view of the fire.
Users who are concerned with the safety of a wood stove should know that it is Washington, EPA and Omni certified for safety. It gives off very little smoke and poses no threats.
This wood heater can easily fit on a 6 inch stove pipe and top or rear flue outlet too. It comes with a coupler which makes it a piece of cake to connect the stove with the chimney.
It can accommodate wood logs of 12 inches easily. Plus, there is a tertiary air system that causes little to no residue buildup. Thus, you will find no residue on the fire-chamber lining.
Pros:
Cons:
Bottomline:
Hi Flame Wood Burning Stove HF905U offers good heat and keeps the glass clean at all times. Plus, it also has a long warranty.
6. Vogelzang Defender
The Vogelzang Defender is one of the best wood burning stoves on the market as it is compact and offers a good heating radius. Keeping the stove in the home will improve the overall ambiance and uplift the look of your home.
Features:
The Defender is a highly durable wood stove thanks to the cast iron feed door that makes it easy to add and remove logs of wood or coal. The body is made up of top end plate steel that prevents rusting and also has an airtight finish that looks aesthetically pleasing.
There’s a 14.5” x 8” ceramic glass viewing window on the door that not only allows you to see the view inside but also offers easy access.
It works in an innovative way by producing a considerable amount of heat in less time. This is possible due to the air vent on the front side that lights the fire and the air inlet at the back that pushes the air through three various tubes present above the burning wood. Thus, the fuel cost is reduced and efficiency is increased.
This wood stove is EPA approved which means that operating it on its fullest, which is 68,000 BTU, is not a problem at all. It will dissipate heat in a proper manner across 1200 sq. ft. of space.
Fitting this stove in any part of the room is possible thanks to its adjustable legs.
You can set it up in a way that suits you the best.
Pros:
Cons:
Bottomline:
Vogelzang Defender might be heavy but it can cover a considerable amount of area. The tool offers excellent heat output and even looks good.
7. Summers Heat Timber Ridge
Summers Heat wood stove works on the latest XBT technology and even looks visually appealing with its European-inspired appearance. It is also EPA and WA certified, hence safe to use.
Features:
Summers Heat is a reliable wood stove that is suitable for rooms as big as 1200 sq. ft. It comes equipped with top-notch insulation and has a durable hinge cast door that displays a larger fireview window.
It is capable of producing up to 40,000 BTUs which is enough to cover a small-medium house. Moreover, this one is safe to use and has an efficiency rating of 75%.
Other than this, it has compact dimensions. Plus, it is also quite light in weight and hence easy to handle. In fact, it is quite mobile and you will have no difficulty in moving it around.
This is a great plus. You can move it from one place to another if you ever need to.
While it doesn’t come with a blower, you can get it separately with the unit for an additional $100. The good part is that this stove has unique convection channels that allow maximum heat transfer when you use a blower.
The fire compartment in the stove can accept 16 inches of wood logs and offers easy handling and storage. Apart from that, it is also quite easy to install thanks to the 6 inches top vent design that can fit into a standard stove pipe.
Another highlight of this wood stove is the appearance. It incorporates a European style design and has a hinge cast door.
Pros:
Cons:
Bottomline:
Summers Heat Timber Ridge is suitable for small to medium sized homes. It has a damper that controls oxygen and offers a good runtime of about 8 hours. In addition to that, it even looks good.
8. Drolet 60,000 BTU EPA-Certified Escape Fireplace Wood Insert
Yet another Drolet wood stove makes it to our list because of the characteristics it possesses. This one works for a 1600 sq. ft. of area and provides 60,000 BTUs of heat.
The best part is that it comes with a blower and offers a runtime of 5-8 hours.
Features:
This wood stove can run up to 5-8 hours on a full compartment. It comes with a blower that works on 130 CFM and helps regulate the heat at various speeds.
It is easily attached to a standard stove pipe and is also EPA certified for safety. The heavy duty door latch on the front is super strong and gives easy access. Moreover, it also has a ceramic made glass that offers a clear fireview.
Drolet 60,000 has a metallic finish on its body that makes it look premium and attractive.
Pros:
Cons:
Bottomline:
Drolet 60,000 BTU EPA-Certified Escape Fireplace Wood Insert is suitable for people who want to warm a medium sized home. It provides quick results and is also quite durable.
Best Small Wood Stove Buying Guide
Before you purchase a small wood burning stove for small spaces, there are a few things that you must consider such as how much heat output you need, how much area it should cover.
Let’s have a look at the factors that matter:
1. Coverage Area: One of the most important things that you need to look into is the ground area a stove can cover. This refers to how far can a unit exert heat and keep the room warm.
If you own a small house then a stove that covers 800-1000 sq. ft. of area is enough. For a medium sized home, go for one that can cover up to 2500 sq. ft. like Pleasant Hearth LWS. Similarly, in the case of a large home, choose a stove that covers more than 2500 sq. ft. of area.
2. Heat Output: The heat produced by a stove is measured in BTUs. It is short for British Thermal Unit that gives the heat output on an hourly basis. The higher the BTU value, the more heat a stove will produce.
A stove that offers 3000 BTUs would be enough for regions that are not very cold. It will keep the home mildly warm. However, if you live in very cold regions then you will need a stove that has a higher BTU value.
Some stoves can go up to 70,000 BTUs per hour and more. They are designed to cater to larger homes in extreme cold.
Our best pick in this regard would be Drolet High-Efficiency Wood Stove. It produces 95,000 BTUs of heat and is quite commendable.
3. Safety: Wood stoves can be dangerous to use if they do not come from a popular brand. This is because top end manufacturers make sure that the stove has perfect fittings and can easily fit into a standard stove pipe (6-inches).
Apart from that, a stove that is EPA and WA certified indicates that it has been tried and tested for use and is completely safe. Therefore, try to pick a stove that is certified.
Our top pick would be Hi Flame Wood Burning Stove HF905U. It is Washington, EPA and Omni certified for safety.
4. Mobility: This is important so that you have no problem in moving the unit. Weight can be the difference maker here.
Our top pick would be Summers Heat Timber Ridge. It weighs 4 ounces and is also durable.
5. Durability: Stoves made up of cast iron body and have steel inch plates on them are super durable and rust protective. Our top pick would be Vogelzang Defender. It is pretty reliable as well.
Best Small Wood Stove FAQs
How to keep the stove well maintained?
This requires you to check the stove regularly and see that it operates properly and efficiently.
Keep checking the chimney from time to time because when the wood burns, it produces creosote vapors that build around the chimney and pose a fire threat.
Look for these vapor build up every two months and keep your chimney clean
Check for joints and gaps in the fitting. There should be no cracks in the pipes or else it would leak and pose a threat. If you smell trouble, call a technician and have it checked.
The glass of the unit should not have any sort of crack on it or else it would cause trouble and fill your home with smoke.
Conclusion
These were some of the best small wood stoves out there. Make sure to pick one keeping your requirements in mind and enjoy a comfortable atmosphere no matter where you are.
