How to Install a Wood Burning Stove? A Comprehensive Guide
Installing a wood burning stove is a significant undertaking that, when done correctly, can provide efficient and reliable heating for your home. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the process, emphasizing safety and adherence to local regulations, and ultimately empowers you to make informed decisions – even if you choose to hire a professional installer.
Understanding the Requirements Before You Begin
Properly installing a wood burning stove involves more than just connecting the stove to a chimney. It requires careful planning, adherence to building codes and manufacturer’s instructions, and a thorough understanding of safety precautions. Rushing the process can lead to dangerous situations, including house fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Building Codes and Permits
Before you even think about purchasing a stove, research your local building codes and permit requirements. Most municipalities require permits for wood burning stove installations. Applying for a permit ensures that your installation meets the required safety standards. Failing to obtain the necessary permits can result in fines and potentially force you to remove the stove entirely. Contact your local building department for specific regulations in your area. They will likely require inspections at various stages of the installation.
Chimney Assessment and Preparation
The chimney is the heart of your wood burning stove system. It’s responsible for venting smoke and gases safely away from your home. An existing chimney must be thoroughly inspected by a qualified professional to ensure it is in good condition and suitable for use with a wood burning stove. Cracks, deterioration, or improper lining can lead to leaks and potentially a chimney fire.
If your existing chimney is not suitable, you may need to install a chimney liner. A stainless steel chimney liner is a common and recommended solution. The liner should be sized appropriately for your stove and installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you don’t have an existing chimney, a Class A factory-built chimney will need to be installed. This involves significantly more construction and should almost always be done by a professional.
Stove Selection and Placement
Choosing the right wood burning stove is crucial. Consider the size of the area you need to heat, the stove’s BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating, and its efficiency. An oversized stove can overheat your home, while an undersized stove may not provide enough heat. Carefully review the manufacturer’s specifications and consult with a professional to determine the appropriate stove for your needs.
Placement is equally important. The stove must be located on a non-combustible hearth that extends beyond the stove on all sides, meeting the minimum clearances specified by the manufacturer and local building codes. These clearances are designed to prevent the stove’s heat from igniting nearby combustible materials like walls and furniture.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
While a professional installation is always recommended, understanding the process can empower you to oversee the project or even tackle it yourself with the proper precautions and expertise.
Preparing the Hearth
The hearth must be constructed of non-combustible materials such as brick, stone, tile, or concrete. The size and thickness of the hearth are determined by the stove’s manufacturer and local building codes. Ensure the hearth is level and properly supports the weight of the stove.
Installing the Chimney Liner (if applicable)
If installing a chimney liner, carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, this involves lowering the liner down the chimney and connecting it to the stove’s flue collar. Proper sealing is crucial to prevent leaks.
Connecting the Stove to the Chimney
Use stove pipe to connect the stove to the chimney liner (or directly to the chimney if no liner is needed). The stove pipe should be of the correct diameter and material as specified by the stove’s manufacturer. Securely fasten the stove pipe sections together using sheet metal screws and apply high-temperature sealant to all joints to prevent leaks. Maintain a slight upward slope from the stove to the chimney.
Ensuring Proper Ventilation
Adequate ventilation is essential for the safe and efficient operation of a wood burning stove. Ensure the room has sufficient air supply to support combustion. In some cases, you may need to install an external air kit, which draws air directly from the outside, particularly in tightly sealed homes.
Final Inspection and Testing
Once the installation is complete, schedule an inspection with your local building department. The inspector will verify that the installation meets all applicable codes and safety standards. After the inspection, conduct a test burn to ensure the stove is operating correctly and that the chimney is drawing properly. Monitor the stove and chimney closely during the test burn and address any issues immediately.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring Building Codes: Failing to obtain permits and adhering to building codes is a major mistake that can have serious consequences.
- Improper Chimney Installation: A poorly installed or maintained chimney is a fire hazard.
- Insufficient Clearances: Not maintaining the required clearances between the stove and combustible materials can lead to fires.
- Using the Wrong Type of Wood: Burning wet or unseasoned wood produces more smoke and creosote, increasing the risk of chimney fires.
- Neglecting Maintenance: Regular cleaning and inspection are essential for the safe and efficient operation of a wood burning stove.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 12 frequently asked questions about wood burning stove installation to further clarify the process:
FAQ 1: How much does it cost to install a wood burning stove?
The cost varies greatly depending on factors such as the type of stove, the condition of your existing chimney, and whether you hire a professional installer. Expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 to $8,000 or more, including the cost of the stove, chimney liner (if needed), hearth, installation, and permits.
FAQ 2: Can I install a wood burning stove myself?
Yes, you can install a wood burning stove yourself, but it’s strongly recommended to hire a qualified professional. DIY installation requires a thorough understanding of building codes, safety regulations, and proper installation techniques. Incorrect installation can be dangerous.
FAQ 3: What are the clearance requirements for a wood burning stove?
Clearance requirements vary depending on the stove’s manufacturer and local building codes. Generally, you’ll need to maintain a minimum distance between the stove and combustible materials, typically ranging from 12 to 36 inches. Consult the stove’s manual and your local building department for specific requirements.
FAQ 4: How do I choose the right size wood burning stove for my home?
Consider the size of the area you need to heat and the stove’s BTU rating. A general rule of thumb is to choose a stove with a BTU rating that can heat the square footage of your home. Consult with a professional for personalized recommendations.
FAQ 5: What type of wood should I burn in my stove?
Burn only seasoned hardwood, such as oak, maple, and birch. Seasoned wood has a moisture content of 20% or less and burns cleaner and more efficiently. Avoid burning softwoods, treated wood, and trash.
FAQ 6: How often should I clean my chimney?
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that chimneys be inspected at least once a year and cleaned as needed. If you burn wood frequently, you may need to clean your chimney more often.
FAQ 7: What is creosote, and why is it dangerous?
Creosote is a flammable byproduct of wood burning that accumulates in the chimney. It is highly combustible and can lead to chimney fires. Regular chimney cleaning removes creosote buildup.
FAQ 8: What is a chimney liner, and why is it important?
A chimney liner is a pipe that runs inside the chimney to protect the chimney walls from heat and corrosion. It also provides a smooth, consistent flue for efficient venting. A damaged or missing liner can lead to leaks and chimney fires.
FAQ 9: Do I need a permit to install a wood burning stove?
Yes, in most municipalities, you need a permit to install a wood burning stove. Contact your local building department for specific requirements.
FAQ 10: What is a hearth, and why is it necessary?
A hearth is a non-combustible surface that extends beyond the wood burning stove to protect the floor from heat and sparks. It is required by building codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
FAQ 11: How do I properly dispose of ashes?
Allow ashes to cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. Store the container outside away from combustible materials. Ashes can be used as fertilizer in your garden, but only after they have completely cooled.
FAQ 12: What safety precautions should I take when operating a wood burning stove?
Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home, keep flammable materials away from the stove, never leave the stove unattended while it’s burning, and have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for operating the stove safely.