5 Best Affordable Wood Burning Stoves

Wood burning stoves have surged in popularity as an affordable and self-sufficient home heating option. With rising energy costs, many homeowners are turning to wood burning stoves to offset their reliance on gas, oil, or electric heating systems. Beyond just cost savings, wood stoves offer a traditional ambiance and certain rustic charm that appeals to many people.

Heating with wood is about as economical as it gets – if you have access to free or low-cost wood sources like fallen trees, wood stove heating can be extremely inexpensive.

Even purchasing seasoned firewood is typically cheaper than other fuels in most areas. Wood burning stoves also provide reliable heat without being dependent on utility companies or vulnerable to power outages.

The upfront cost of a new wood stove can be higher than some space heaters, but a quality stove is a one-time investment that will last for decades with proper maintenance. Efficient modern stoves can effectively heat an entire home, making them a viable primary heat source.

For those looking to reduce their environmental impact, wood is also a renewable fuel source when harvested responsibly.

Top 5 Affordable Wood Stove Recommendations

1. Englander NC30 EPA Wood Stove

https://www.acmestoveco.com/product/craftsbury-wood-stove

One of the most budget-friendly yet highly efficient options is the Englander NC30. This EPA-certified stove has a steel plate construction with a classic cast iron door and is rated to heat up to 1,800 square feet.

It features a large viewing window, air washed glass system, and an impressive 83% efficiency rating. The NC30 has a maximum burn time of 10 hours and accepts logs up to 18 inches long. At around $600, it’s a great value pick.

2. US Stove 2000 EPA Certified Wood Stove**  

US Stove 2000 EPA Certified Wood Stove

$404.99
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The US Stove 2000 is another top-selling affordable wood stove, typically priced under $700. It’s EPA certified with an efficiency rating of 78% and can heat areas up to 2,000 square feet.

This stove has a durable steel plate body with a large cast iron door and comes with an adjustable spin draft for easy air control. The maximum log length is 18 inches and it has a maximum burn time of 10 hours.

3. Pleasant Hearth Medium Wood Burning Stove

Pleasant Hearth Medium Wood Burning Stove

$1144.99
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Pleasant Hearth’s Medium 2,100 sq. ft. stove is a highly affordable option at around $500. Despite the low price, it’s a heavy-duty stove made of reinforced steel plate with a large cast iron door and brick-patterned side panels.

It accepts logs up to 18 inches, has an efficiency rating of 63%, and can heat spaces up to 2,100 square feet. A great basic, no-frills wood stove.

4. Vogelzang Boxwood EPA Wood Stove

US STOVE 750 SQ FT STOVE, 75% EFFICIENT

$544.99
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The Vogelzang Boxwood is a compact and budget-friendly cast iron stove priced around $600. With an efficiency rating of 63%, it can heat areas up to 1,500 square feet.

This model has a convenient top-loading design, accepts logs up to 18 inches, and features airwash technology to keep the large viewing window clear. Its durable plate steel construction provides excellent heat retention.

5. Drolet High-Efficiency EPA Wood Stove

Drolet High-Efficiency EPA Wood Stove

$1069.99
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For a high efficiency stove under $1,000, consider the Drolet model. It has an impressive 78% efficiency rating and can heat spaces up to 2,400 square feet.

This EPA-certified stove features a durable steel plate body with a large arched door and accepts logs up to 20 inches long. The Drolet includes an automatic combustion air control and has a maximum burn time of 8 hours.

Benefits of Wood Burning Stoves

Wood burning stoves offer several compelling benefits that make them an attractive option for homeowners seeking an affordable and self-sufficient heating source. One of the primary advantages is the low cost of fuel.

Wood is a readily available and renewable resource, and with proper seasoning, it can provide an economical way to heat your home.

Compared to other heating sources like electricity or natural gas, the fuel costs associated with a wood stove are significantly lower, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget.

Another notable benefit of wood burning stoves is their reliability and self-sufficiency. Unlike furnaces or boilers that rely on external power sources or fuel deliveries, a wood stove allows you to be independent and self-reliant.

As long as you have a supply of seasoned firewood, you can heat your home without relying on utility companies or external factors. This level of self-sufficiency can be particularly appealing in areas prone to power outages or during periods of extreme weather conditions.

Beyond their practical advantages, wood burning stoves also offer an aesthetic appeal that can enhance the ambiance and design of your living space.

The warm, flickering flames and the gentle crackle of burning wood create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, adding a touch of rustic charm to any room.

Many modern wood stoves are designed with sleek and stylish exteriors, making them not just functional heating appliances but also visually appealing focal points in your home.

What to Consider When Buying an Affordable Wood Stove

When shopping for an inexpensive wood burning stove, it’s important to look for certain key features to ensure you get an efficient and well-built unit. Here are some critical factors to consider:

Efficiency Ratings

Look for stoves with high efficiency ratings, which indicate how effectively the stove converts wood into usable heat. More efficient stoves waste less fuel and produce less pollution.

The highest efficiency non-catalytic stoves are typically 72-78% efficient, while catalytic models can reach up to 83% efficiency.

Size and Heating Capacity

Sizing a wood stove properly is crucial for effective home heating. An undersized stove won’t produce enough heat, while an oversized one can overheat your space.

Consider the square footage of your home and look for a stove rated to heat a space 20-30% larger to account for heat loss. Most affordable models range from 50,000-90,000 BTUs.

Materials and Construction Quality

While budget stoves use lighter gauge steel plate, look for models made from thicker, reinforced steel that can better withstand high heat over years of use.

The better the materials and construction, the longer your stove will last. Also consider cast iron components, firebrick lining, and airtight door gaskets that boost efficiency.

Installing a Wood Burning Stove

Proper installation is crucial for safe and efficient operation of your new affordable wood stove. One of the most important considerations is venting and chimney setup. Wood stoves require a dedicated chimney or approved stovepipe to vent smoke and gases safely out of your home.

Ensure the chimney meets building code requirements for height, clearances from combustibles, proper flue lining, and sufficient draft. 

Clearances to combustible materials like walls, floors, and ceilings are another essential factor. Most stoves mandate 36 inches or more of clearance on all sides.

Use specified floor protection such as a non-combustible hearth pad that extends well beyond the stove’s footprint. Adhering to clearances prevents fires and overheating.

When first firing up a new wood stove, take the time to break it in properly. Start with several small fires to cure the paint or enamel finish and avoid thermal shock. Allow the stove to cool completely between firings during this break-in period.

Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions for building and controlling the initial break-in fires. This gradual process prepares the stove for regular heating duties.

Maintaining a Wood Burning Stove

Proper maintenance is key to getting the best performance and longevity out of your affordable wood stove. Here are some essential maintenance tips:

Seasoning and Storing Firewood

Using properly seasoned firewood is crucial for efficient and clean burns. Well-seasoned wood has a moisture content of around 20% or less. Cut, split, and stack the wood in a dry, well-ventilated area, elevated off the ground.

Allow it to season for at least 6-12 months before burning. Seasoned wood is lighter in weight, has cracks in the end grain, and makes a hollow sound when two pieces are knocked together.

Regular Cleaning and Ash Removal

Regularly removing ashes from the firebox and ash pan is important for maintaining proper airflow and preventing excessive buildup. Allow the ashes to cool completely before disposal. Use a fireplace shovel and ash bucket to carefully remove the ashes.

The stove’s glass door should also be cleaned frequently to prevent soot buildup and maintain a clear view of the fire. Use a glass cleaner designed specifically for wood stoves or a damp cloth with wood ash to gently wipe away any residue.

Annual Maintenance

At the start of each heating season, perform a thorough inspection and maintenance routine. Check for any cracks or warping in the stove’s body or door gaskets, and replace any damaged components.

Inspect the chimney and flue for creosote buildup, which can be a fire hazard if excessive. Consider hiring a professional chimney sweep to clean and inspect the system if needed.

Additionally, lubricate any moving parts, such as door hinges and air control mechanisms, with a high-temperature lubricant to ensure smooth operation.

Getting Maximum Heating Performance

To get the most heating power and efficiency out of your budget wood stove, there are a few key tips to follow. First, properly sizing the stove for the space you need to heat is crucial.

An undersized stove will struggle to provide enough warmth, while an oversized one can overheat the area. Generally, you’ll want around 20-40 BTUs of heat output per square foot of living space.  

Using properly seasoned firewood is another must for maximum heat output and minimal emissions. Well-seasoned wood has a moisture content below 20% and will burn hotter, cleaner, and more efficiently. Look for wood that has been split and dried for 6-12 months. Avoid green or freshly cut wood.

Lastly, learn the effective firing techniques for your particular stove model. Establishing a robust base of hot coals, adding logs in a top-down burn pattern, and controlling air intake can optimize the burn rate and heat transfer.

An often-overlooked trick is to leave a bed of ashes to insulate the firebox and help ignite new loads quickly. With the right seasoned fuel and firing approach, you’ll get reliable, high-heat performance from even an inexpensive wood burner.

Conclusion

Investing in an affordable wood burning stove can provide reliable, cost-effective heat while adding rustic ambiance to your living space. The top budget-friendly models highlighted – the Englander NC30, US Stove 2000, Pleasant Hearth Medium 2100, Vogelzang Boxwood, and Drolet High-Efficiency EPA stove – offer efficient and durable options for under $1000.

However, it’s crucial to prioritize proper installation following all clearance and venting requirements. Ensuring a safe setup with the right chimney or flue system is non-negotiable. Ongoing maintenance like regularly cleaning the stove and burning only seasoned wood is also essential for optimal performance and longevity.

With some upfront research, mindful purchasing, and committed care, an inexpensive wood stove can be an excellent investment for supplemental heating that pays off through reduced utility bills for years to come. Embrace modern wood heat while staying cozy on a budget.

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