Wood burning stoves are not only an excellent source of heat but can also be a sustainable and cost-effective way to warm your home. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of a unique and popular choice among DIY enthusiasts and homesteaders: the 55-gallon drum wood burning stove. We’ll provide you with accurate, clear, and concise information to help both technical and non-technical readers understand its construction, operation, and safety considerations.
- Selecting the Right Drum
The foundation of your 55-gallon drum wood stove is, of course, the drum itself. When choosing a drum, look for one that has previously contained non-toxic materials like food or chemicals. Ensure it is made of steel and in good condition, free from rust and major dents. Cleaning the drum thoroughly is essential before starting any work.
- Construction
To turn your 55-gallon drum into a wood stove, you’ll need to perform several key modifications:
a. Cutting Openings: Using a plasma cutter or angle grinder, cut openings for the door, the exhaust pipe, and the air intake. The door should be on the front, while the exhaust and air intake should be on the top and bottom, respectively.
b. Door and Hinges: Weld or bolt a sturdy door to the front opening. Ensure it seals tightly to control the airflow. Attach heavy-duty hinges to enable easy access for loading wood and cleaning.
c. Exhaust Pipe: Weld a pipe to the exhaust opening on the top of the drum. The pipe should extend upwards and connect to a chimney or flue for proper venting. Ensure the pipe is well-secured and correctly angled to facilitate the expulsion of smoke.
d. Air Intake: On the bottom of the drum, create an adjustable air intake vent to regulate the oxygen supply for combustion. You can use a simple sliding plate or damper mechanism.
- Operation
Operating a 55-gallon drum wood stove requires some fundamental knowledge:
a. Loading Wood: Open the door and place seasoned firewood inside. Ensure proper airflow by not overloading the stove. Hardwood like oak, maple, or hickory burns well and provides more heat.
b. Lighting the Stove: Use kindling to start the fire. As the fire gets going, gradually add larger pieces of wood. Close the door but leave the air intake vent partially open to maintain airflow and control the burn rate.
c. Adjusting Temperature: You can control the stove’s heat output by regulating the air intake. Opening it wider increases the combustion rate and heat output, while closing it slows the burn and reduces heat.
d. Cleaning and Maintenance: Regularly clean the stove, especially the exhaust pipe and chimney, to prevent creosote buildup, which can be a fire hazard. Empty ash from the bottom of the drum as needed.
- Safety Considerations
Safety is paramount when using a wood burning stove. Here are some critical safety tips:
a. Clearances: Maintain the recommended clearances to combustible materials, typically 18 inches or more from walls and furniture.
b. Chimney Inspection: Regularly inspect and clean the chimney to prevent blockages and creosote buildup.
c. Carbon Monoxide Detector: Install a carbon monoxide detector in the room to ensure early detection of any leaks.
d. Fire Extinguisher: Keep a fire extinguisher nearby, and know how to use it.
e. Children and Pets: Keep children and pets at a safe distance from the stove to prevent burns or accidents.
Conclusion
A 55-gallon drum wood burning stove can be a cost-effective and efficient way to heat your space. Proper construction, operation, and safety precautions are vital to ensure a safe and effective heating experience. By following the guidelines in this article, both technical and non-technical enthusiasts can enjoy the warmth and comfort provided by this DIY heating solution.