The Best Wood Stove for 2023

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While many homeowners are content to use electric heating units to keep their homes warm during the winter months, others are looking for a more traditional approach. A wood stove can provide a cozy and warm environment while also saving you money on your energy bill. Whether you’re looking to replace an aging wood stove or heat your home for the first time with wood, it’s important to choose the right model.

That’s why we’ve rounded up the best wood stoves for 2023, based on consumer feedback and expert ratings. From small stoves that can fit in a tight space to larger models that can warm up a whole room, I’ve got you covered. So read on to find the perfect wood stove for your home!

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What to Consider When Selecting the Right Wood Stove

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If you’re considering adding a wood stove to your home, there are several things you’ll need to take into account to ensure you select the best option for your needs. Here are a few factors to keep in mind as you shop for the perfect wood stove.

Size

The size of the wood stove is important both for practical and aesthetic reasons. You’ll need to make sure the stove is the right size for the space you have available, and you’ll also want to consider how it will look in relation to the rest of your room.

Heating capacity

Make sure the wood stove you choose is powerful enough to heat the space you want it to. Otherwise, you’ll be stuck with a stove that’s too small to properly heat your home.

Fuel type

There are two main types of fuel for wood stoves: hardwood and softwood. Hardwood is more expensive but it burns hotter and longer, while softwood is less expensive but doesn’t burn as hot or for as long. Consider which type of fuel will be best for your needs before making a purchase.

Efficiency

The efficiency of a wood stove is measured in terms of how much heat it produces per hour of burning. More efficient stoves will burn less wood to produce the same amount of heat, so they’re more environmentally friendly and can save you money on fuel costs in the long run.

Burn Time

The burn time of a wood stove is the amount of time it takes to completely consume a load of wood. If you plan on using your stove for long periods of time, you’ll want to choose one with a longer burn time.

Construction

The construction of a wood stove can impact its durability, performance, and safety. Make sure to choose a stove that’s made from high-quality materials and that’s built to last.

Safety

Wood stoves can be dangerous if they’re not used properly. Choose a stove with safety features like a built-in ash pan and spark screen to help prevent accidents.

These are just a few of the things you’ll need to keep in mind as you shop for the best wood stove for your home. By taking the time to consider all of your options, you can be sure to find the perfect stove for your needs.

My Top Picks

There are a lot of things to consider when purchasing a wood stove, such as size, type of fuel, and heat output. The list below includes the best wood-burning stove models on the market, based on these considerations.

1# Pleasant Hearth EPA Certified Wood Burning Stove: Best Overall

The Pleasant Hearth EPA Certified Wood Burning Stove is a great addition to any home. It’s EPA certified and produces up to 75,000 BTUs, making it a great choice for those who want to heat their homes efficiently. The Pleasant Hearth EPA Certified Wood Burning Stove also features a blower to help distribute heat evenly, and it has a glass door that allows you to see the fire as it burns.

Overall, the Pleasant Hearth EPA Certified Wood Burning Stove is a great option for those who are looking for an efficient and stylish wood burning stove.

Here’s why I think this model stands out from the rest in its class:

The Pleasant Hearth EPA Certified Wood Burning Stove is a great choice for those looking for an efficient and eco-friendly way to heat their home. This stove is certified by the EPA to meet strict emissions standards, making it one of the cleanest-burning stoves on the market.

It also features an airtight seal that helps to prevent heat loss, meaning that more of the heat produced by the fire is directed into the room. And thanks to its large firebox, this stove can take logs up to 18 inches long, making it a great option for those cold winter nights. Whether you’re looking to save on your heating bills or do your part for the environment, the Pleasant Hearth EPA Certified Wood Burning Stove is a great choice.

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Quantitative measurements about how a product measures up in various categories of performance:

The Pleasant Hearth EPA Certified Wood Burning Stove is a great choice for anyone looking for an efficient and effective way to heat their home. This stove is certified by the EPA to meet strict emissions standards, meaning that it will not contribute to air pollution. It is also designed to burn wood more efficiently, resulting in less smoke and ash.

Additionally, the Pleasant Hearth stove features a large firebox that can hold up to six logs, providing plenty of heat for even the coldest winter nights. With its high performance and easy operation, the Pleasant Hearth EPA Certified Wood Burning Stove is a great option for anyone in the market for a new stove.

pros:
  • Pleasant Hearth EPA Certified Wood Burning Stove is a great value for the price.
  • Pleasant Hearth EPA Certified Wood Burning Stove is easy to use.
  • The stove has a large viewing window that makes it easy to monitor the fire.
  • The stove comes with a blower that helps circulate the heat evenly throughout the room.
  • The stove is certified by the EPA to meet strict emission standards.
cons: 
  • The stove is very heavy and difficult to move around.
  • It takes a long time to heat up the room.
Features and facts:
  • The Pleasant Hearth EPA Certified Wood Burning Stove is a great option for those who are looking for an efficient and environmentally-friendly way to heat their home.
  • This stove features a cast iron firebox that is lined with refractory bricks, which provides excellent heat retention.
  • The throat of the stove is also lined with firebrick, which helps to improve the overall efficiency of the stove.
  • The Pleasant Hearth EPA Certified Wood Burning Stove also features an air-tight door seal that helps to minimize heat loss, and it has a built-in blower that circulates warmth throughout the room.
  • This stove is also certified by the EPA, which means that it meets strict emissions standards.

2# Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert: Best

If you’re like me, you love the smell of a wood fire burning in the fireplace. But if you’re also like me, you’re not a big fan of dealing with the mess and hassle of chopped wood. That’s why I was intrigued by the Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert. This unit is designed to fit into your existing fireplace, and it runs on electricity, so there’s no need for wood. Instead, it uses ceramic logs that look realistically like the real thing. And since the Ashley Hearth insert doesn’t require a vent, it can be used in just about any room in your house.

Best of all, it comes with a remote control, so you can adjust the flame height and heat output from the comfort of your favorite chair. So if you’re looking for an easy way to enjoy the look and smell of a wood fire without all the work, the Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert just might be the perfect solution.

Here’s why I think this model stands out from the rest in its class:

The Ashley Hearth AW1820E is a highly efficient wood stove insert that is specifically designed to fit into an existing fireplace. It features a cast iron firebox that provides superior heat retention, as well as a heavy-duty blower that circulates warm air throughout the room.

The unit also includes an exhaust vent that can be routed through an existing chimney, making it easy to install. With its combination of features and benefits, the Ashley Hearth AW1820E is an ideal choice for anyone looking for an effective way to reduce their heating costs.

Quantitative measurements about how a product measures up in various categories of performance:

The Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert is a great way to upgrade your old, inefficient wood stove. It’s designed to fit into most fireplaces, and it comes with an array of convenient features. For starters, it has a baffle system that helps to improve airflow and provides for more efficient burning.

The firebox is lined with firebrick for added durability, and there’s a built-in blower that circulates heat evenly throughout the room. In terms of performance, the Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert is certified by the EPA to heat up to 1,400 square feet. It has a BTU rating of 60,000, and it can hold up to 21 logs. The bottom line? If you’re looking for a wood stove insert that will provide superior performance, the Ashley Hearth AW1820E is a great option.

pros:
  • Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert is a quality product
  • Installation is easy with clear instructions
  • The stove heats quickly and evenly, providing comfortable warmth to your home
  • It features a blower that circulates the heat for greater efficiency
  • The large viewing window allows you to watch the flames dance and provides an attractive focal point in your room
  • The unit is EPA certified, meaning it meets strict environmental standards for wood burning appliances
cons:
  • Some customers have reported that the blower is noisy
  • The unit is large and may not fit into smaller fireplaces
  • The stove requires regular maintenance, such as cleaning the chimney and ash pan
  • Wood burning appliances can produce smoke and fumes, so proper ventilation is essential
Features and facts:
  • The Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert is a powerful and efficient heating unit that can warm your home quickly and easily.
  • This insert has an impressive 1850 maximum BTU output, making it perfect for homes up to 2500 square feet in size.
  • The Ashley Hearth AW1820E features a traditional design with a black finish that will complement any home décor.
  • This insert also comes with a removable ash pan for easy cleaning.
  • The Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert is EPA certified and has a 78.5% efficiency rating.

3# Woodstock Soapstone Stoves Progress Hybrid Wood Stove: Upgrade Pick

The Progress Hybrid Wood Stove from Woodstock Soapstone is one of the most efficient and clean-burning wood stoves on the market. It’s EPA-certified and features a secondary combustion system that burns up to 30% cleaner than traditional wood stoves. The Progress is also one of the most versatile stoves on the market, with a removable ash pan and cooktop surface that doubles as a place to warmth your home.

And if you’re looking for even more versatility, the Progress can be converted into a gas-burning stove with an optional gas combustion kit. No matter how you use it, the Progress Hybrid Wood Stove from Woodstock Soapstone is sure to keep you warm all winter long.

Here’s why I think this model stands out from the rest in its class:

The Woodstock Soapstone Stove Progress Hybrid is one of the most efficient wood stoves on the market. Not only does it burn wood cleanly and efficiently, but it also captures and stores heat, making it ideal for use in a wide range of climates. The unique design of the Woodstock Soapstone Stove Progress Hybrid allows it to burn both wood and pellets, providing you with the option to use whichever fuel is more readily available.

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Additionally, the stove comes with a built-in water jacket that can be used to heat water or your home. The Water jacket also provides an additional source of radiant heat, making the Woodstock Soapstone Stove Progress Hybrid an outstanding choice for those who are looking for an efficient and versatile wood stove.

Quantitative measurements about how a product measures up in various categories of performance:

The Woodstock Soapstone Stoves Progress Hybrid Wood Stove is one of the most efficient wood stoves on the market today. It uses a unique combination of wood and soapstone to produce heat, and it can achieve an 80% efficiency rating. That means that for every 100 BTUs of heat that are produced, 80% of them are actually delivered into your home. In comparison, traditional wood stoves typically have an efficiency rating of only 60%. The Progress Hybrid Wood Stove also has a very low emissions rate. It produces just 0.32 grams of particulate matter per hour of operation, which is well below the EPA’s limit of 7.5 grams per hour.

As a result, you can burn wood in this stove with confidence, knowing that you’re not causing any harmful air pollution. Finally, the Progress Hybrid Wood Stove is also one of the most durable stoves on the market. The soapstone is extremely resistant to heat damage, and the steel construction can withstand years of heavy use. If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line wood stove, the Woodstock Soapstone Stoves Progress Hybrid Wood Stove is an excellent choice.

pros:
  • This stove doesn’t require a lot of maintenance, and the soapstone construction ensures that it will last for years.
  • The large glass window provides a great view of the fire, and the stove is able to heat a large space quickly.
  • The Progress Hybrid also has a catalytic converter, which helps to reduce emissions.
cons:
  • The stove has a bit of a learning curve, so it may take some time to get used to operating it.
  • The price tag on this stove is quite high, though it is still cheaper than some other models
Features and facts:
  • Woodstock Soapstone Stoves Progress Hybrid Wood Stove is a EPA certified stove
  • The stove has a cast iron door with a high gloss enamel finish and an airtight seal that keeps the heat in
  • The stove has a steel firebox with soapstone insulation that helps keep the heat in, which results in lower fuel bills
  • The Progress Hybrid Wood Stove comes with a blower that helps circulate the warm air throughout the room
  • The stove has a large glass viewing window that allows you to see the fire
  • The unit is also mobile home approved
  • The stove has a limited lifetime warranty

4# Ashley Hearth Products Firewood and Fire Logs Stove: Best Compact

Ashley Hearth Products Firewood and Fire Logs Stove is one great product. I have never seen a log set that looks so real. This product puts out great heat and the best part is that it is Environmentally friendly. By using this product you are doing your part to help the environment.

The Ashley Firewood and Fire Logs Stove is a must have for any home. It will give you the look of a real wood fire without all the hassle. So go out and buy one today, you will be glad you did.

Here’s why I think this model stands out from the rest in its class:

Ashley Hearth Products’ firewood and fire logs stove is a top pick for anyone in the market for an efficient wood-burning stove. It’s key differences include a durable cast iron construction, a large viewing window, and an EPA-certified 4.5-gram hopper that can hold up to 40 pounds of wood. These features combine to make the Ashley Hearth Products stove a top choice for any home.

The cast iron construction ensures long-lasting durability, while the large viewing window allows you to keep an eye on the fire. The EPA-certified hopper means that you can burn wood efficiently and safely, making it a great choice for anyone looking for an efficient and effective wood-burning stove.

Quantitative measurements about how a product measures up in various categories of performance:

Ashley Hearth Products Firewood and Fire Logs Stove have been an excellent addition to my home. I have used it to heat my home in the winter, and it has worked great. The stove is very easy to use, and it heats up quickly.

The stove is also very efficient, and it has saved me money on my heating bill. The stove is made of high-quality materials, and it is very durable. I would recommend this product to anyone who is looking for a good quality, efficient, and durable stove. Thanks Ashley Hearth Products!

pros:
  • Ashley Hearth Products is a top manufacturer of wood stoves and fire logs
  • The company has been in business for over 35 years, providing quality products and service to their customers
  • Ashley Hearth Products offers a wide range of wood stoves, including traditional and contemporary models
  • The company also manufactures fire logs, which are a great way to keep your fire going all night long
  • Ashley Hearth Products’ wood stoves are made from high-quality materials and are designed to last for many years
  • The company offers a wide variety of models to choose from, so you can find the perfect one for your home
  • Ashley Hearth Products also offers a money-back satisfaction guarantee, so you can be sure you’re getting a quality product
cons:
Features and facts:
  • The Pleasant Hearth EPA Certified Wood Burning Stove is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a reliable and efficient stove.
  • This stove features a cast iron firebox that is lined with refractory bricks for added durability.
  • The firebox is also equipped with a heat-activated blower that helps to circulate heat throughout the room.
  • The stove also features an airtight door seal that helps to prevent heat loss.
  • The Pleasant Hearth EPA Certified Wood Burning Stove is equipped with a safety shut-off device that prevents the stove from over-heating.
  • This stove is also backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

5# Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Stove: Best Outdoor

The Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Stove is a great way to heat up your backyard or patio without breaking the bank. This unit uses a 55-gallon drum as its firebox, and it comes with a grate and spark screen to help contain the flames. The stovepipe has a built-in damper to help regulate the airflow, and the legs are adjustable so you can level the unit on uneven ground.

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Assembling the stove is easy, and it’s designed to burn both wood and charcoal. Just load up the firebox, light it up, and enjoy the warmth of a crackling fire. The Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Stove is a great value for the price, and it’s sure to keep you warm all winter long.

Here’s why I think this model stands out from the rest in its class:

The key to any good outdoor wood stove is versatility, and the Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Stove has that in spades. Not only can it be used for cooking and boiling water, but it also features a built-in reflector panel that makes it perfect for drying out wet gear or warming up by the fire. Additionally, the legs are removable, so you can easily store it away when not in use.

But what really sets the Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Stove apart from its competitors is its price point. At under $100, it’s one of the most affordable options on the market, making it a great value for your money. So whether you’re looking for a reliable way to cook meals while camping or simply need a way to dry out your gear after a long day on the trail, the Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Stove is a great option to consider.

Quantitative measurements about how a product measures up in various categories of performance:

The Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Stove is a great way to heat up your home, garage, or workshop without breaking the bank. This stove is durably constructed with powder-coated steel and thick 3/16″ steel plate walls to withstand the elements and heavy use. It’s also one of the most efficient wood stoves on the market, with an EPA-certified 73.6% efficiency rating. That means less fuel is needed to produce the same amount of heat, saving you money on your heating bills.

The stove is also equipped with a blower to help circulate the heat evenly throughout the room. Plus, it features a large ash pan that makes cleanup a breeze. If you’re looking for an affordable and durable wood stove that will keep your space warm all winter long, the Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Stove is a great option.

pros:

  • The Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Stove is a great addition to any outdoor enthusiasts gear.
  • This stove is perfect for cooking or warmth while out in the field.
  • It’s made of durable steel and can hold up to 16in pots making it a perfect option for large meals.
  • Assembly is a breeze and it only weighs 17lbs making it easy to take with you on your next adventure.
cons: 
  • It can be difficult to start a fire in the Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Stove.
  • The Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Stove requires more maintenance than other wood burning stoves on the market.
Features and facts:
  • The Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Stove is a high-quality, durable product that’s built to last.
  • It features a sturdy steel construction with an enamel finish for long-lasting use.
  • This wood stove has an adjustable cooking surface to accommodate various pot and pan sizes.
  • It also has a spark arrestor screen to help keep embers contained.
  • The Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Stove is easy to assemble and use, and it’s backed by a one-year limited warranty.

My Verdict

If you’re in the market for a quality wood stove, the Pleasant Hearth Wood Burning Stove is definitely a model worth considering. It’s made with sturdy materials and has an attractive classic look, and it can heat up to 1,800 square feet. If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly option, the Woodstock Soapstone Progress Hybrid Wood Stove is a great choice; it produces low emissions and can heat a larger home. Whichever model you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the warmth and comfort that a wood stove can provide.

FAQs

What is a wood stove?

A wood stove is a heating appliance that burns wood to produce heat.

How does a wood stove work?

A wood stove works by burning wood to produce heat. The heat is then transferred from the stove to the surrounding air, providing warmth to the room or space in which the stove is located.

What are the benefits of a wood stove?

There are several benefits of owning a wood stove, including:

  • providing a source of heat during power outages
  • being more environmentally friendly than electric or gas heaters
  • being less expensive to operate than electric or gas heaters
  • providing a cozy, warm atmosphere
What are the drawbacks of a wood stove?

There are also some drawbacks to owning a wood stove, including:

  • the need to tend the fire and add wood regularly
  • the need to clean the stove and chimney regularly
  • the risk of fire if the stove is not used properly
How do I choose a wood stove?

There are a few things to consider when choosing a wood stove, including:

  • the size of the space you need to heat
  • the amount of wood you have available
  • your budget
  • your level of experience with using a wood stove
What do I need to use a wood stove?

In addition to the wood stove itself, you’ll also need:

  • firewood
  • a way to ignite the fire (matches, lighter, etc.)
  • an ash bucket
  • a chimney brush
  • a fire extinguisher (just in case!)
How do I care for my wood stove?

Always use dry, seasoned firewood. Wet or green wood will produce more smoke and less heat. Before igniting a fire, open the damper to allow air to flow into the stove. This will help the fire to start more easily and prevent smoke from backing up into the room. When adding wood to the fire, use small pieces of kindling to help ignite the larger pieces of wood. Allow ashes to build up in the firebox. This will help to insulate the fire and improve efficiency. Regularly clean the stove and chimney to prevent soot and creosote buildup. Never leave a fire unattended. Always extinguish the fire completely before going to bed or leaving the house.

Why trust Handyman.Guide?

s written by Itamar Ben-Dor, who has 25 years of experience in renovations, carpentry, locks, creation, landscaping, painting, furniture construction, and furniture renovation, works with concrete, plumbing, door repair, and more.

Itamar Ben-Dor has been in the home improvement business for over 25 years. Itamar Ben-Dor is a jack of all trades. He's worked in the renovation field for years, doing everything from locksmithing to carpentry. He's a small repairs specialist. But his true passion lies in furniture construction and renovation - he loves seeing old pieces come back to life with some new woodwork or a fresh coat of paint.

He has taken courses on many topics in these fields at professional colleges in Israel. Over the years, Itamar has also become quite skilled in gardening, carpentry, and renovations. He's worked on projects of all sizes, from massive renovations to small repairs. No job is too big or too small for him!


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