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The Spruce / Sabrina Jiang
There are plenty of advantages to using a wood stove as your heat source. Most models have a high-efficiency rating and are typically more cost-effective than oil, natural gas, or electricity. Perhaps the biggest advantage–if you're able to cut your own wood–is that you can heat your home for free.
We researched the best wood stoves available online and evaluated them based on their burn rate, user friendly features, coverage area, and design.
Here are the best wood stoves on the market.
Best Overall
Ashley Hearth Products AW2520E-P 2,500 Sq. Ft. Wood Burning Stove, EPA Certified
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The Home Depot
Accepts logs up to 21 inches long
Mobile home approved
Meets all 2020 EPA guidelines
Firebrick lined
Blower sold separately
Ash pan and door handles may become hot
The Ashley Hearth Products 2,500 Sq. Ft. Wood Burning Stove is our best overall choice because it not only meets all 2020 EPA guidelines for burning cordwood, but it also has a classic design that's also well made and efficient. This wood stove can hold logs up to 21 inches long, which is larger than most wood stoves. It also has a large ash pan, so you don't have to make as many trips to clean it between uses.
As mentioned, this wood stove is EPA-certified and meets all of the 2020 guidelines for Step 2 of requirements for wood stoves and pellet stoves, which means it emits only 2.5 grams of particulate matter per hour, when burning cordwood (firewood). This wood stove is a single burn-rate wood stove, so it cannot be adjusted; however, the maximum log size and firebrick-lined interior help to reduce how often you have to fill the stove.
We also appreciate that this wood stove can be used in mobile homes as an alternative heat source. Keep in mind that you do have to purchase the blower separately. We recommend opening the door or removing the ash pan with gloves on, as nickel is a strong conductor of heat.
Price at time of publish: $1,499
Dimensions: 31.4 x 27 x 25.6 inches | Weight: 350 pounds | Area Heated: 2,500 square feet | Heat Output: 112,800 BTUs | Material: Steel
Best Electric
Duraflame 3D Infrared Electric Fireplace Stove
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Amazon
Flame-only setting
Compact size
Evenly distributes heat
Top is too warm to display items
Remote is confusing to use
The Duraflame Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove provides the cozy aesthetic of a glowing fire, but it’s actually an electric heater designed to resemble a wood stove. No wood is required; you simply plug it into a standard wall outlet. We tested this electric stove in both a lab and real-world setting to assess not only its technical performance but also its realistic endurance. Our testers noted the three-dimensional flame effect is surprisingly realistic, but keep in mind that the small size does make it harder to pass as a fireplace—if aesthetics are a major concern. "While the Duraflame unit shouldn’t be used as a primary heating method in a home, it did a remarkable job warming up smaller cold rooms in our Rocky Mountain home and added a nice ambiance for visitors in our guest room," our at-home tester said.
Equipped with a 5,200 BTU heater, this electric wood stove can warm rooms up to 1,000 square feet in area. Its lower heat capacity and compact design make it great for smaller spaces, plus it has a flame-only option, so you can enjoy it year-round. This stove also has an adjustable thermostat, five flame levels, a timer, and a remote control. Our tester found the remote slightly confusing to operate, especially given the directions offered little operation guidance. The stove's plug has a built-in thermometer, so the unit will shut off automatically if it overheats—a great safety feature for added peace of mind. However, our tester noted that the upper part of the unit and the front grill get quite hot, so you shouldn't set things on top of it.
This stove is also very quiet while its turned on, which could be a positive or negative factor, depending on the experience you're looking for. Our tester really appreciated this stove's size, noting that it'd be great on a screened-in porch or in a smaller room that maybe doesn't receive as much heat from your home's HVAC system.
Price at time of publish: $300
Dimensions: 24 x 23.4 x 13 inches | Weight: 28.6 pounds | Area Heated: 1,000 square feet | Heat Output: 5,200 BTUs | Material: Metal
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The Spruce
Best Insert
Vogelzang VG1820-D Plate Steel Wood Burning Insert with Blower
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WoodInserts.com
Blower included
Glass air wash feature
Lifetime limited warranty
Affordable
Does not have adjustable heat setting
If you're looking for a stylish—but effective—fireplace insert, the Vogelzang VG1820-D Plate Steel Wood Burning Insert is an affordable option. We love this insert's overall design with a matte black steel faceplate and wooden-handled glass door. The wood handle should stay cool to the touch as well, compared to metal handled doors. The glass door is also air-washed, meaning it's cleaned as the wood stove burns, so you have a clear picture of the crackling flames.
A blower is included with this wood stove and it has an adjustable speed that can spread warm air throughout 1,800 square feet at a rate of 100 cubic feet per minute. We do wish this wood stove had adjustable heat settings, which are now a popular feature on most models, but the firebrick lined burn box should offer an efficient combustion. This wood stove can hold logs up to 18 inches long, which is slightly smaller than some of the other options in this roundup, but we don't consider this a drawback, as it has to fit within an existing fireplace hole.
Price at time of publish: $1,000
Dimensions: 22.3 x 27.53 x 21 inches | Weight: 305 pounds | Area Heated: 1,800 square feet | Heat Output: 69,000 BTUs | Material: Steel
Best Soapstone
Hearthstone Heritage
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Hearthstone
Highly efficient
Provides long-lasting radiant heat
Three levels of combustion
Extremely heavy
If you’re willing to splurge on an upscale model, you can’t go wrong with the Hearthstone Heritage Soapstone Wood Stove. Although it comes with a hefty price tag, it has some advantages over other products. The cast iron construction and soapstone lining will provide radiant heat—long after the fire has gone out. Because radiant heat directly heats objects and people in a room, this stove maintains a consistent, comfortable temperature.
This stove is EPA-certified, and it's one of the cleanest wood-burning stoves on the market. It not only has a primary and secondary combustion source but also features a tertiary combustion and a catalyst to take care of any unburned smoke particles and gases. Keep in mind that the Hearthstone Heritage may have a higher upfront cost, but it uses less wood and heats more efficiently, which saves you money in the long run.
Price at time of publish: $4,299
Dimensions: 28.13 x 21.63 x 31.88 inches | Weight: 535 pounds | Area Heated: 2,000 square feet | Heat Output: 60,000 BTUs | Material: Iron, soapstone
Best Pellet Stove
ComfortBilt HP50 Grey Pellet Stove 2,200 Sq. Ft. EPA Certified
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The Home Depot
Blower included
Air wash cleans glass door automatically
Safe for mobile homes
Not an attractive design
The ComfortBilt HP50 Gray Pellet Stove is compact with a European design, but don't let its size fool you—this stove can heat up to 2,200 square feet quickly and efficiently. A one-touch ignition lights the pellets immediately, and you can easily adjust the feed rate and blower speed on the LED control panel. We appreciate that the blow circulates heated air a 142 cubic feet per minute, so you can quickly warm up your living space.
This pellet stove is safe to use in mobile homes, which is a huge plus, especially if you're looking for an affordable way to heat your mobile home. This stove also claims to be low-ash producing, so you should only have to empty the ash tray every three weeks, but this could vary based on how often you use it. The igniter and blower motors can be plugged into a standard 110-volt house current, plus the burn pot and exhaust design allow for EPA certified 81 percent burn efficiency. Although we don't love the overall aesthetic of this wood stove, its compact design and overall effectiveness make it a great option, especially if you don't want to burn wood.
Price at time of publish: $1,787
Dimensions: 34 x 20.5 x 23.5 inches | Weight: 237 pounds | Area Heated: 2,200 square feet | Heat Output: 44,000 BTUs | Material: Stainless steel
Best for Large Rooms
Drolet HT-3000 Wood Stove DB07300
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Admired Selection
Highly efficient
Extremely durable
Comes with a lifetime warranty
Accessories cost extra
With an impressive heat output of 110,000 BTU, the Drolet HT-3000 can warm up to 2,700 square feet of space. Its large firebox can also accommodate logs up to 22 inches long. Fully loaded, this stove can burn for up to 10 hours. This model is also EPA-certified and safe for mobile homes and alcove installation, making it a versatile option. Made of heavy-duty steel and featuring an insulated top panel, you can feel good investing in this wood stove, as its sure to last you many years.
However, the Drolet HT-3000 is backed by a lifetime warranty to ensure customer satisfaction. Extra accessories such as a fresh air intake kit, firescreen, blower, and thermodisc are also available for this stove, but at an additional cost.
Price at time of publish: $2,199
Dimensions: 31.25 x 28.1 x 36.3 inches | Weight: 520 pounds | Area Heated: 2,700 square feet | Heat Output: 110,000 BTUs | Material: Steel
Best for Camping
Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Stove
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Amazon
Easy to set up and store
Large cooktop
Very affordable
Heavy
Lacks a handle
With both heating and cooking capability, the Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Stove is perfect for camping trips. Its rugged steel construction and high-temperature finish will stand up to your toughest outdoor adventures. This wood-burning stove is one of the smallest units on the market, but don't underestimate its heating capabilities. The top surface doubles a cooking grate and can be used to keep coffee and saucepans hot, or you can use it to fry eggs and cook bacon. The legs detach, and the pipes nest inside the stove itself for easy transport and storage. However, we wish it came with a handle to easily carry it.
Keep in mind that this stove is not recommended for indoor use. If you plan to use it in a garage or workshop, the unit must be properly ventilated. It's also pretty heavy, despite its petite size, so you may need to have an additional person nearby to help carry it to your desired location.
Price at time of publish: $150
Dimensions: 20 x 11 x 13 inches | Weight: 42.4 pounds | Area Heated: 400 square feet | Heat Output: Not listed | Material: Steel
Our best overall pick is the Ashley Hearth Products AW2520E-P 2,500 Sq. Ft. Wood Burning Stove, which is packed with user-friendly features and has plenty of heating power, making it an ideal choice for medium to larger spaces. If you're looking for an electric option, we recommend the Duraflame Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove. It combines the convenience of an electric heater with the ambiance of a wood-burning fireplace for a cozy look and feel.
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The Spruce
What to Look for in a Wood Stove
Size
If your home has proper insulation and an existing primary heat source, a larger unit might be overkill. However, if your home is poorly insulated, or if you live in a cold climate, a larger stove might be necessary. Wood stoves come in a wide range of sizes and can be used to heat everything from workshops and mobile homes to sprawling living spaces.
In order for a stove to provide adequate heat in your home, the heat output and coverage area must also be taken into consideration. If you are heating 1,500 square feet or less, a wood stove with a firebox between 1.5 and 2 cubic square should be sufficient. Larger spaces (up to 2,500 square feet) typically require a wood stove with a firebox measuring 2.5 cubic feet.
Fuel Type
With the exception of the Duraflame, which is an electric model, all of the stoves included in this roundup burn wood or pellets. Burning firewood is usually more cost-effective than heating with gas or electricity. However, the cost of fuel will vary by region. Pellet stoves and wood-burning models with an integrated blower usually require an electrical supply to operate.
With an open fireplace, the majority of heat is lost up the chimney. Wood-burning stoves, particularly newer models that meet EPA standards, can operate at up to 80 percent efficiency. Since they provide low-carbon and low-emission heating, a wood stove might also appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. For a wood-burning stove to run efficiently, firewood should be properly seasoned. Logs should be cut to an appropriate length for your stove—about three inches shorter than the firebox.
Wood Heat vs. Pellet Heat
A pellet stove is an eco-friendly alternative to a traditional wood-burning stove. Instead of logs, they burn pellets—compact pieces made from recycled wood waste. Because pellets are denser and contain less moisture than wood, they burn more efficiently and create less smoke and ash. Pellet stoves are also a great option for consumers who don't want to fuss with chopping firewood or feeding a stove throughout the day.
All wood-burning stoves must meet stringent EPA requirements that were set in 2015. Wood stoves that have adjustable heat outputs are allowed to emit 2.0 grams of particulate matter per hour, while wood stoves with non-adjustable heat output can emit 2.5 grams of particulate matter per hour. These standards were set in 2015 to be met by 2020, and there are requirements that apply to pellet stoves.
Heat Output
An important thing to consider before buying a wood stove is the amount of heat it produces. A stove’s heating power is measured in British Thermal Units (BTU). For example: A stove rated at 60,000 BTU can heat a 2,000 square-foot home, while a unit with 42,000 BTU can warm about 1,300 square feet of space. Generally, a higher BTU rating means that the stove is capable of effectively heating a larger space.
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How do you install a wood burning stove?
All wood-burning stoves require a proper ventilation system. The installation process varies by model—some are more complicated to set up than others. Most freestanding stoves can be installed in front of an open fireplace and vented through the existing chimney. More than likely, the chimney will need to be fitted with a stainless steel liner. Pellet stoves, on the other hand, are vented through an exterior wall or roof. We recommend setting up expert installation, unless you are very familiar with fireplaces and wood stove installation.
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How do you clean a wood stove?
Various components of a wood stove–the interior, exterior, flue and the glass door–will require different cleaning techniques. When cleaning the interior of the stove, wait for the fire to cool completely before you empty out the ash. Ash should be collected in a metal container and stored and disposed of outdoors. Many modern wood burners come equipped with an ash pan, allowing for easy removal. The exterior of most wood stoves can be cleaned with your standard household vacuum. Use brush attachments to remove any stubborn dust or ash. You can also wipe down the exterior with a dry cloth. Never use a wet cloth, because it can cause rust.
Cleaning your flue, stove pipe, or chimney is a more complicated job. During the winter, experts recommend burning your stove on high for at least 30 minutes per day. Not only will this help clear the flue, it should also burn off any residue that has collected on the glass. You can use a wire brush to remove build-up on the inside of the flue. The most popular way to clean a chimney is from the top down using a brush and rod–but you will have to climb up onto the roof. You also need to seal off the fireplace or wood stove beforehand.
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Are wood stoves safe?
A wood stove is only safe to use if it's properly installed and ventilated–in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and local building codes. The stove must be placed a safe distance away from any combustible materials. If you don’t have heat-and flame-resistant walls or flooring, you’ll likely need to install protective noncombustible surface coverings. Unless you’re an experienced do-it-yourselfer, it might be best to leave the job to a professional.
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Can you leave a wood burning stove on overnight?
Yes, you can leave a wood-burning stove on overnight, however, you must do so with caution. To begin, you will need to start your fire a few hours before nighttime. Pack uniform pieces of wood closely together and shut off your wood stove's air vents to ensure a slow and steady burn that will last overnight. Make sure that any exhaust is still being directed and flowing out of your chimney and that your room is well ventilated by slightly opening your windows to help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Then reduce your flames as much as possible before you go to sleep to reduce the risk of a fire breaking out.
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Can you get carbon monoxide poisoning from a wood stove?
In short, yes. A wood stove that isn't ventilated properly can cause a build-up of carbon monoxide in your space. To avoid that, it's important to make sure your wood stove is installed correctly and that you maintain the proper maintenance to keep it clean and functioning normally. You can also install carbon monoxide alarms, if you don't have any installed already, to help detect a leak.
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Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Sage McHugh, a freelance writer who covers home appliances for The Spruce. A native of New England and no stranger to cold weather, she’s thoroughly researched space heaters, heated blankets, and more in the home heating sector. For this roundup, she considered dozens of wood stoves, evaluating each model’s heat output, functionality, and features. To find the highest-rated products on the market, she consulted user reviews, third-party reviews, and tester feedback.
Emma Phelps, an updates writer for The Spruce, also assisted in adjusting this roundup to reflect the latest models of wood stoves available. Additional lab testing was also conducted for our best electric pick, the Duraflame Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove, so she also updated that product's description to reflect our latest first-hand experience. While researching additional picks in this roundup, Phelps considered not only popular brands of wood stoves, but also look at each model's heat output and certifications to ensure that this roundup was inclusive to all types of homes. Her parents have had a Vogelzang fireplace insert in their home for over five years now, and it still performs well at warming their living room every winter.
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