In the second part of our two-part series on how to purchase the right outdoor wood furnace for your home, we’ll discuss some of the finer details on how to get the most out of wood-fueled warmth. Here are some of the more technical aspects you should consider when choosing between any number of residential furnaces.
Ash Removal
Taking care of the ash buildup is part of regular maintenance for any outdoor wood furnace. However, some models make this chore easier than others. Look for designs with an ash auger tool and a large firebox door opening to make ash removal and cleaning easier and far more convenient.
Safety Features
One of the most important safety features on any outdoor furnace is insulation to prevent any accidental burns. As an added bonus, this will also prevent the structure from warping and maximize the efficiency of the wood burning. In addition, look for lockable doors, a high-limit switch, and safety latches, as well as safety certification standards from a third party agency such as the Canadian Standards Association.
Draft Control
All outdoor wood furnaces require draft control, which can be handled manually, electrically, or through forced air combustion. Forced air drafts are by far the most efficient, typically achieving 40% more heat efficiency per square foot than manual drafts.
Creosote
Creosote is a byproduct of burning damp wood that can lead to problems with your outdoor wood furnace. It develops into a sticky, tar-like substance that can coat the components of your furnace or impede smoke flow through the chimney. To control creosote buildup, look for a furnace made with firebrick that will help wood stay dry and burn at a higher temperature.
There are already around 200,000 outdoor wood furnaces being used to heat residential and commercial buildings around the U.S., but many more people are still thinking about making the switch. Besides the cost and efficiency benefits of using wood to warm your home, an outdoor wood furnace is easy to take care of, so long as you know what you’re getting yourself into.
If you have more questions on what type of furnace would be right for your home, contact us today to learn more about Heatmor outdoor furnace models.