Small wood burning stoves have become essential for heating tiny houses and other compact living spaces. These miniature powerhouses provide efficient warmth while taking up minimal floor space. The best small wood stoves for tiny homes can generate 8,000 to 20,000 BTUs of heat, enough to warm spaces up to 400 square feet.
Tiny house dwellers and off-grid enthusiasts appreciate wood stoves for their reliability and independence from the electrical grid. Popular models like the Cubic Mini and Dwarf series offer versatile installation options, including top or rear venting. Some are even certified for use in mobile dwellings like RVs and boats.
When choosing a wood stove for a tiny house, important factors to consider include heat output, size, clearance requirements, and venting options. Prices can range from affordable to premium, with various features available to suit different needs and preferences. Proper installation is crucial for safety and efficiency in small spaces.
Understanding Small Wood Burning Stoves
Small wood burning stoves provide efficient heating for tiny homes while taking up minimal space. These compact units offer warmth, ambiance, and potential cooking capabilities tailored for limited square footage.
What Constitutes a Small Wood Stove
Small wood stoves typically range from 7 to 18 inches in width. They are designed to heat spaces up to 400 square feet, making them ideal for tiny homes. These stoves often feature compact fireboxes that can accommodate logs up to 18 inches long.
Key features of small wood stoves include:
• High-efficiency burn technology
• Adjustable air controls
• Compact design
• Durable construction (often cast iron or steel)
• Some models include cooktops
The heat output of small wood stoves varies, usually between 3-12 kW. This range allows tiny homeowners to select a stove that matches their specific heating needs and space constraints.
The Role of a Wood Stove in Tiny Homes
In tiny homes, wood stoves serve as primary heat sources and focal points. They provide warmth during cold months while adding a cozy aesthetic to the living space. Some models offer additional functionality, such as:
• Cooking surfaces for meal preparation
• Water heating capabilities
• Drying racks for clothes or dishes
Wood stoves in tiny homes require careful placement to maximize heat distribution and comply with safety regulations. Proper installation includes heat shields, adequate clearances, and appropriate chimney systems.
These stoves can heat spaces efficiently, often maintaining comfortable temperatures for 6-8 hours on a single load of wood. This makes them particularly useful for off-grid living situations.
Benefits of Wood Stoves in Tiny Living
Wood stoves offer several advantages for tiny home dwellers:
- Energy independence: They provide heat without relying on electricity or gas.
- Cost-effective: Wood can be an affordable fuel source, especially in rural areas.
- Sustainability: When used responsibly, wood is a renewable resource.
- Multi-functionality: Cooking, water heating, and space heating in one unit.
- Ambiance: Creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Small wood stoves are designed for efficient burns, reducing emissions and maximizing heat output. Many models incorporate secondary combustion systems, which reignite smoke particles for cleaner operation.
These stoves also offer flexibility in fuel types. While designed primarily for wood, some can burn biomass pellets or other alternative fuels, providing options based on availability and preference.
Essential Features of Small Wood Stoves
Small wood stoves for tiny houses require specific design elements to maximize efficiency and functionality in limited spaces. Key features focus on compact sizing, heat output control, and versatile usage options.
Firebox Design and Size
The firebox is the heart of any wood stove. In small stoves, it typically ranges from 0.5 to 1.5 cubic feet. Smaller fireboxes heat up quickly but require more frequent refueling. Larger ones burn longer but may overheat tiny spaces.
Insulation is crucial. High-quality firebrick or steel linings improve heat retention and combustion efficiency. Some models feature a baffle system that directs smoke and gases for a longer burn path, extracting more heat before exiting the flue.
Ash Pan and Removal
An integrated ash pan simplifies cleaning and maintenance. It collects fallen ash, allowing for easy removal without shutting down the stove. Look for models with removable ash pans accessible from the front.
Ash capacity varies, but most small stoves can operate for several days before requiring emptying. Some advanced designs incorporate ash reduction technologies, minimizing the frequency of cleanouts.
Cooking Surface Options
Many small wood stoves double as cooking appliances. Flat top surfaces provide a platform for pots and pans. Some models feature removable cooking rings or griddles for direct-to-flame cooking.
Heat-resistant handles on cooking surfaces enhance safety. Foldable or slide-out shelves can expand the cooking area when needed. Stove top thermometers help monitor surface temperatures for precise cooking control.
Riddling Grate and Air Control
A riddling grate allows for easy ash removal and improved airflow. It consists of movable bars that can be agitated to sift ash into the pan below. This feature maintains optimal burning conditions and extends the time between cleanings.
Air control is essential for regulating burn rate and heat output. Primary air inlets supply oxygen to the base of the fire. Secondary air systems introduce preheated air above the fire, promoting cleaner combustion.
Adjustable dampers or air vents let users fine-tune the burn. Some stoves incorporate automatic thermostat controls to maintain consistent temperatures. These features help optimize fuel efficiency and heat output in small spaces.
Selecting the Right Wood Stove
Choosing an appropriate wood stove for a tiny house requires careful consideration of several key factors. These elements will ensure optimal performance, safety, and comfort in your compact living space.
Size and Heating Capacity
The size and heating capacity of a wood stove are crucial for tiny homes. A stove that’s too large will overheat the space, while one that’s too small won’t provide sufficient warmth.
Measure your tiny house’s square footage and choose a stove with a matching heating capacity. For spaces under 200 square feet, consider the Cubic Mini Wood Stove. Homes between 200-400 square feet may benefit from the Cubic Grizzly Mini Wood Stove.
For larger tiny homes up to 1,500 square feet, the Timberwolf 2100 Economizer offers ample heating power. Always factor in insulation quality and climate when selecting heating capacity.
EPA Certification and Efficiency
EPA certification ensures your wood stove meets strict emission standards. This is important for environmental reasons and often required by local regulations.
Look for stoves with high efficiency ratings, typically above 70%. The Dwarf 3kW and 5kW models boast impressive efficiency and EPA certification.
Efficient stoves burn less wood, produce more heat, and create less pollution. This translates to cost savings and a reduced environmental impact over time.
Material and Build Quality
Durability is essential for a wood stove in a tiny house. Cast iron and steel are common materials, each with unique properties.
Cast iron stoves, like some Hearthstone models, retain heat longer and distribute it evenly. Steel stoves heat up quickly but cool faster when the fire dies down.
Look for stoves with thick walls and tight-fitting doors to prevent air leaks. A well-built stove will last longer and perform better in the long run.
Design and Aesthetic Appeal
A wood stove often becomes a focal point in a tiny house. Consider how it will fit with your interior design.
Some stoves, like the Cubic Mini, come in various colors to match your decor. Others, such as the Dwarf series, offer a classic black finish that suits many styles.
Pay attention to viewing windows and decorative details. A cast iron door with a large window can add charm while allowing you to enjoy the fire’s ambiance.
Consider the placement of your stove. It should be visually appealing without compromising safety or functionality in your limited space.
Installation and Safety Considerations
Installing a wood stove in a tiny house requires careful planning and adherence to safety guidelines. Proper space allocation, flue system design, and compliance with regulations are essential for safe and efficient operation.
Space Planning and Clearances
Wood stoves need adequate clearances from combustible materials. Most small stoves require 12-18 inches of clearance on the sides and rear, with 18-36 inches in front. Heat shields can reduce these distances.
Measure your space carefully before selecting a stove. Consider door swings, traffic flow, and furniture placement. A non-combustible hearth pad must extend beyond the stove’s footprint.
Some tiny stoves are designed specifically for small spaces. These may have reduced clearance requirements, making installation easier in tight quarters.
Flue System and Heat Shielding
Proper flue installation is critical for safety and performance. Use double or triple-wall stainless steel pipe rated for high temperatures. The flue must extend at least 3 feet above the roof and 2 feet higher than any part of the building within 10 feet.
Insulated pipe is recommended for the portion passing through walls or the roof. This reduces fire risk and improves draft. A pipe boot or flashing ensures a watertight seal at the roof penetration.
Heat shields protect nearby walls and surfaces. They can be made of sheet metal with a 1-inch air gap. Proper shielding allows for reduced clearances, maximizing usable space.
Local Regulations and UL Listing
Check local building codes before installation. Some areas have specific requirements for wood stoves in mobile or tiny homes. Permits may be necessary.
Choose a UL-listed stove to ensure it meets safety standards. This certification indicates the stove has been tested for safe operation when properly installed.
Insurance companies may have additional requirements. Verify that your policy covers wood stove use in a tiny house. Professional installation is often recommended and may be required for warranty or insurance purposes.
Follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions precisely. These guidelines ensure safe operation and maintain any warranties. Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial for ongoing safety.
Maintenance and Operation
Proper care and operation of small wood stoves in tiny houses ensures optimal performance, safety, and longevity. Regular maintenance and efficient use are essential for maximizing heat output while minimizing fuel consumption.
Routine Ash Removal and Cleaning
Removing ash from a small wood stove is crucial for maintaining airflow and efficiency. Empty the ash pan when it’s about half full, typically every 1-3 days during regular use. Use a metal scoop to transfer cooled ash to a metal container for disposal.
Clean the glass door with a damp cloth and wood stove glass cleaner to remove soot buildup. This improves visibility and heat radiation. Brush or vacuum the firebox interior monthly to remove debris.
Inspect and clean the flue pipe and chimney at least once per year, preferably before the heating season. Use a chimney brush to remove creosote deposits, which can pose a fire hazard if allowed to accumulate.
Operating for Optimal Burn Efficiency
Start fires with dry kindling and small logs to establish a hot coal bed quickly. Add larger logs once the fire is well-established. Maintain a 2-3 inch ash bed in the firebox to insulate and improve combustion.
Control airflow using the stove’s dampers. Open them fully when starting a fire or adding wood, then reduce airflow to sustain a steady burn. Avoid smoldering fires, which produce more smoke and creosote.
Use seasoned hardwoods with moisture content below 20% for the most efficient burns. Softwoods can be used for quick heat but burn faster and produce more ash.
Monitor flue temperature with a stove thermometer. Ideal operating range is typically between 300-400°F (150-200°C). This ensures complete combustion and reduces creosote formation.
Long-term Service and Parts Replacement
Inspect door gaskets annually and replace if worn to maintain an airtight seal. Check for cracks or warping in the firebox, particularly in cast iron stoves. Small cracks can often be repaired with furnace cement.
Replace firebricks if they become cracked or crumbly. These line the firebox and protect the stove’s outer walls from excessive heat. Examine the baffle plate for warping or damage, as it’s crucial for directing heat and improving efficiency.
Lubricate door hinges and latches with high-temperature grease as needed. Replace the door glass if it cracks or becomes permanently clouded. Ensure replacement parts match the stove’s specifications, especially for critical components like flue collars.
Additional Features and Enhancements
Small wood burning stoves for tiny houses can be enhanced with various features to improve functionality and efficiency. These additions optimize space, increase heat output, and offer versatile fuel options.
Wood Storage Solutions
Integrated wood storage compartments are popular additions to compact stoves. Some models feature built-in wood boxes beneath the firebox, maximizing vertical space. Wall-mounted wood racks near the stove provide easy access to fuel while keeping floors clear.
Magnetic drying racks attached to stove sides allow damp wood to dry before burning. Stove-top storage baskets offer a place for kindling and fire-starting materials. Multi-purpose stove tools that combine poker, tongs, and shovel functions help save space.
Heat Retention Innovations
Soapstone panels added to stove exteriors absorb and radiate heat long after the fire dies down. Some manufacturers incorporate heat-retaining bricks or ceramics into stove designs for extended warmth.
Heat shields with air gaps can be installed behind stoves to reflect heat back into living spaces. Fans mounted on stove tops help circulate warm air throughout tiny homes more effectively.
Thermal mass features like brick or stone hearths beneath stoves store heat and release it slowly. This helps maintain consistent temperatures in small spaces.
Multi-fuel and Catalytic Options
Multi-fuel stoves allow burning of wood, coal, and biomass pellets, offering flexibility in fuel choices. This is particularly useful for tiny home dwellers with limited storage or varying fuel availability.
Catalytic stoves use a catalyst to burn smoke particles, increasing efficiency and reducing emissions. These stoves typically have longer burn times and produce more heat from less fuel.
Non-catalytic stoves rely on insulated fireboxes and air injection systems to achieve clean burns. They are often simpler to operate and maintain than catalytic models.
Some advanced stoves incorporate both catalytic and non-catalytic technologies for optimal performance. This hybrid approach maximizes heat output while minimizing emissions across various burning conditions.
Popular Models and Brands
Several manufacturers have developed compact wood stoves specifically designed for tiny homes and small spaces. These stoves offer efficient heating while taking up minimal floor space.
Cubic Mini Wood Stoves
Cubic Mini produces some of the smallest wood stoves on the market. Their Grizzly model is popular for tiny homes between 200-400 square feet. It measures just 13 inches wide by 11 inches deep.
The Cubic Mini Cub is even more compact at 11 inches wide by 12 inches deep. Both models feature a top cooking surface and can burn for 3-5 hours on a single load of wood.
These stoves are made of steel and have a modern, minimalist design. They’re lightweight and easy to install, making them ideal for mobile tiny homes.
Dwarf Tiny Wood Stove Series
The Dwarf series by Tiny Wood Stove offers three size options to suit different space needs. The Dwarf 3kW is their smallest model at 17 inches tall by 10.25 inches wide.
For slightly larger spaces, the Dwarf 4kW and 5kW provide more heating capacity. All models feature a large glass door for fire viewing and precise airflow controls.
Dwarf stoves are known for their efficient combustion and long burn times. The 5kW model can heat up to 500 square feet and burn for up to 8 hours.
Other Notable Small Stove Manufacturers
Several other brands produce quality compact wood stoves. The Jøtul F 602 is a classic Norwegian design that’s been in production for over 80 years. It’s slightly larger than some tiny house stoves but offers excellent heat output and durability.
Dickinson Marine makes the compact Newport stove, popular for boats and very small spaces. It burns diesel or kerosene rather than wood.
For those seeking modern style, the Flame Innovation Pipsqueak is a sleek, cylindrical stove that can rotate 360 degrees. It’s designed specifically for tiny homes and RVs.