Building your own outdoor wood burning furnace is an ambitious but rewarding project for those looking to heat their homes sustainably and economically. In this guide, we will provide precise technical details and clear instructions to help both technical and non-technical enthusiasts construct their outdoor wood furnace safely and effectively.
Disclaimer: Before embarking on this project, please check local regulations, obtain necessary permits, and ensure that you have the required skills and safety precautions in place.
Materials and Tools You’ll Need:
Steel Barrel: A discarded steel drum or barrel will serve as the main body of your furnace. Ensure it’s not galvanized, as this can release toxic fumes when heated.
Firebrick or Refractory Cement: You’ll need refractory material to line the inside of the furnace to protect the steel from extreme heat.
Insulation: Ceramic fiber insulation or vermiculite can be used to insulate the barrel to retain heat.
Steel Pipes: These will be used for the air intake and exhaust. You’ll need an inlet pipe to supply air to the fire and an exhaust pipe to release gases.
Door: A steel door with a gasket to seal it tightly is essential for controlling combustion.
Grate: A grate will hold the wood above the ash pan, allowing air to circulate underneath for efficient combustion.
Construction Steps:
Cut the Barrel: Cut the barrel horizontally, leaving about a foot from the top for the firebox and the remainder for the main body of the furnace.
Build the Firebox: Inside the top portion, line it with firebrick or refractory cement. This is where the actual burning of wood will occur.
Create the Air Inlet: Drill a hole for the air inlet pipe at the bottom of the firebox, ensuring it’s directed upwards for efficient combustion.
Insulate the Main Body: Surround the bottom portion with insulation material, leaving only the top open. This helps retain heat within the furnace.
Install the Door: Attach the steel door to the firebox and make sure it can be tightly sealed to control the airflow and combustion.
Add the Grate: Place the grate inside the firebox to hold the wood above the ash pan.
Exhaust Pipe: Attach an exhaust pipe to the top of the barrel, directing it away from your home to release combustion gases safely.
Ash Pan: At the bottom of the furnace, create an ash pan to collect the ashes for easy disposal.
Chimney: Install a chimney on the exhaust pipe to ensure that smoke is carried away from the furnace.
Operation and Maintenance:
- Use dry, seasoned wood for efficient burning and minimal emissions.
- Monitor the air intake and adjust it to control the combustion temperature.
- Regularly clean out ashes from the ash pan to maintain efficient burning.
- Periodically inspect and replace the refractory lining if it becomes damaged.
- Ensure that the exhaust pipe and chimney are clear of obstructions for safe operation.
Conclusion:
Building your own outdoor wood burning furnace can be a gratifying project, providing an eco-friendly and cost-effective heating solution for your home. With the right materials, tools, and careful attention to safety, you can construct and maintain a functional wood furnace that will keep you warm during the colder months while minimizing your environmental impact. Be sure to adhere to local regulations and safety guidelines to ensure a safe and efficient wood-burning experience.