Since most garages have exposure to the outer climate, they bring in cold air to the rest of the house. Many people have adopted a DIY lifestyle and spend a lot of time in garages.
For this reason, it has become rather necessary for people to install heating systems in garages. One efficient and long-term heating solution is using the best wood stoves for garages.
This article reviews some of the most impressive products available that might fit your needs. Keep reading to find out more!
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Wood Stoves For Garages
- OUR TOP PICK: Pleasant Hearth LWS-127201
- RUNNER-UP: CB-1008 CUB Cubic Mini Wood Stove
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Ashley Hearth Products AW2020E-P
Comparison of the Best Wood Stoves For Garage
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
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OUR TOP PICK  |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
Runner-Up  |
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BEST BUDGET OPTION  |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
What Size of Wood Stove Is Best for a Garage?
Since garage sizes are not universal, we recommend you measure the size of your garage in square feet. Do this by measuring the height, width, and length of the room/garage and multiply these in cubic squares only. You can then match this measurement of your room with the stove’s rating that will be provided by the seller or labeled on the package.
Generally, a 3000 BTU stove can heat a garage of 100 square feet.
How to Choose a Wood Stove for a Garage
Wood stoves, like any other heating equipment, are very technical. They have lots of specifications that need consideration. However, we have listed down some important features and factors you must look for to choose the ideal unit for yourself.
Energy Efficiency
These units are meant to burn fuel. However, they do this very differently, as some models burn too much fuel while others burn less but create the same amount of heat. Therefore, in the longer run, too much fuel consumption can lead to higher fuel costs. So, when choosing a wood stove, inquire about its energy efficiency and fuel requirements.
Type of Wood Stove
You will be surprised at the variety of wood stoves and their kinds available on the market. Some common types include catalytic combustion and non-catalytic combustion models. The former is likely to be pricier, yet more efficient as it burns wood logs for longer and provides consistent temperature.
Meanwhile, the latter is cheaper and does not require you to maintain or replace the combustion elements frequently.
Portability
In off-seasons or when you need to heat another room, you might need to carry and move the wood stove around. However, heavier units will cause hindrance.
Therefore, we always recommend going to more portable units. This can be guaranteed by checking if the unit has a carry handle and taking note of its weight and size. The size of the unit will also impact the ease of storage.
Review of the Best Wood Stoves for Garage
Let’s move on to some in-depth reviews of our favorite wood stoves that can be used in garages. These reviews include pros and cons, along with detailed discussions about their unique features and qualities.
Best Overall
Pleasant Hearth LWS-127201
Specifications
Heat Output (BTU/h): 65,000
Heating Capacity (sq ft): 1,800
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What Recent Buyers Report
Some of the buyers of this product were first-time buyers and those who were new to using wood stoves. They report that the unit was rather easy to install, thanks to the instructional DVD. Other reports tell us that the unit has good fuel efficiency and is appropriate for medium-sized rooms and garages.
Why it Stands Out to Us
After looking at the wide range of products on the market, we find this unit truly impressive due to several reasons. The unit features a sturdy build, along with a high 65,000 BTU/Hr rating that heats a garage of up to 1800 sq. ft.
Other features of this model, such as its sleek black finish and the ceramic glass window, make it blend in well with modern interiors. It also has a mess-free design that makes maintenance a piece of cake. We strongly recommend this all-in-one product to users that need a fuel-efficient but powerful heating unit in their garage.
Bottom Line
Summing it up, we think that this Pleasant Hearth model is ideal in all terms. It is fuel-efficient, has a good appearance, is easy to install, and also comes with a warranty. All these features make it a good investment.
Pros
Good fuel efficiency
Can heat up to 1800 sq. ft.
Backed by a five-year warranty
Easy cleanup enabled by the ash drawer
Detailed instructional DVD provided for ease of installation
Cons
No variable heat; it will not heat the room evenly
Runner-up
CB-1008 CUB Cubic Mini Wood Stove
Specifications
Heat Output (BTU/h): 14,000
Heating Capacity (sq ft): N/A
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What Recent Buyers Report
Other than garages, some buyers of this unit also used it in small cabins and rooms. They reported that the unit worked really effectively, with a good cooking space that can accommodate a medium-sized kettle too. All buyers loved the portability of this unit.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Since most houses have small to medium-sized garages, this wood stove is ideal for all those customers. It is small and compact and features essential qualities, such as an eco-friendly system that has a minimal effect on the environment.
The exterior of this unit is also commendable. It is available in a variety of two color options: black and gold. The sleek-looking stove also has a good cooking space where you can either heat your food or make hot beverages.
Due to this unit’s compact design, it is suitable for garages in places with cold winters and hot summers. So, in summer seasons, you can easily store the unit without much hassle.
Bottom Line
Overall, this is one of the best wood stoves on the market that have a safe and secure design, and it is appropriate for small garages with low-height ceilings. The glass doors and easy-access design make it a mess-free, user-friendly stove.
Pros
Impressive black and gold exterior
Incredible for small spaces of up to 200 sq. ft.
Minimizes humidity in the unit and surrounding
Secondary combustion system makes it eco-friendly
Cons
Might give off a bad odor in the initial uses
Best for the Money
Ashley Hearth Products AW2020E-P
Specifications
Heat Output (BTU/h): 89,000
Heating Capacity (sq ft): 2,000
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What Recent Buyers Report
According to reports, people used this unit in spaces like garages and shops as well, where cold air enters really easily. They report the unit to perform really well and efficiently. Buyers also stated that ash removal is quite easy, and people find the overall design user-friendly.
Why it Stands Out to Us
With its all-black metallic exterior, this unit is exceptionally impressive, with its 89,000 BTU rating. This affordable yet heavy-duty model can heat rooms of up to 2000 sq. ft. We also really like the two cubic feet firebox since it makes refueling, cleaning, and maintenance a piece of cake.
Other features such as the glass door with a nickel handle give this model a really good appearance. In terms of safety and reliability, the unit complies with all EPA standards and requirements of 2020. It also comes backed by a limited warranty that covers replacement and repair of certain parts of the unit.
Bottom Line
To conclude, we find this Ashley Hearth model really good, particularly since it promises good performance and doesn’t cost much. All top-notch features such as durable construction and glass doors are offered at an affordable price.
Pros
Plate steel with sleek metallic black finish
EPA-certified unit to ensure safety and security
Combustion efficiency guaranteed by firebrick lining
Ashpan is larger than usual, allowing a mess-free usage
Two cubic feet firebox that accommodates large wood logs to provide more heat
Cons
Does not have a cooktop
Editor’s Pick
Drolet Wood Stove DB03102
Specifications
Heat Output (BTU/h): 75,000
Heating Capacity (sq ft): 2,100
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What Recent Buyers Report
Lots of beginners bought this stove and reported it to be really easy to install and manage. People used it on chilly evenings and mild winters, and they were really satisfied with the results. Some people also used this stove inside their large, 1000 square feet homes and reported no performance issues.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This model is one of the best stoves on the market, primarily for its advanced and intelligent design. The brick-lined firebox guarantees that the heat remains in the room and in the box for longer. As a result, the unit will prove to be a lot more efficient.
In addition to this, the stove is certified and fully reliable and complies with state laws, particularly Californian standards. It is safe to be used indoors and is also rated as one of the most energy-efficient units. It is also well-constructed. The stainless steel build will ensure that there are minimal corrosion and rust.
Bottom Line
Overall, the sleek all-black exterior and easy-to-use pedestals make this unit stand out. It is packed with features such as a cast-iron door, energy efficiency, and brick-lined firebox that make it one of the best.
Pros
Door is made with cast-iron
Ideal for large, two-car or more garages
Stainless steel construction ensures longevity
Qualifies and approved by several nation-wide standards
Brick lined design ensures consistent and longer-lasting heat in the firebox
Cons
No cooking area
Only available in one size
Safety Considerations for Using a Wood Stove in a Garage
Since a lot of technicalities, as well as fire and heat, are involved with a wood stove, safety is of utmost importance. Garages are packed with equipment that can catch fire, so extra care must be taken. Therefore, to ensure safety, make sure to look out for the following:
Certifications
One way to guarantee that your chosen wood stove is safe to use is by looking for certifications. Some reliable certifications you should look for are HVAC EPA and NFI standards. EPA’s wood heater and stove certifications are acknowledged internationally. These imply that the appliance is compliant with international standards of quality and safety. So, you will have a lot of peace of mind by investing in such units.
Secure Placement
Wood stoves are likely to have hot exteriors. They can be harmful to touch if too hot, and can also cause objects close to them to catch fire or cause any hazards. Plastic objects and clothes touching such hot units can be dangerous. Moreover, if there is any spillage of oil or petrol in the garage, the fire in the stove can dramatically spread and cause damage.
It is vital that you place the unit in the safest and most practical position. Wall mounting is a good option. Keeping it isolated from other objects in the room is crucial.
Use a Chimney
Wood stoves create lots of smoke and CO2. You need to get rid of these chemicals and gases as efficiently as possible. Therefore, we recommend that you use a chimney with a wood stove.
Pellet Stove vs. Wood Stove for a Garage – Comparison Overview
Heating any closed space like a garage or a study room can be done in multiple ways. However, traditional fireplaces have been replaced by pellet and wood stoves. These appliances are great for heating your home as an alternative to central air conditioning. Here’s a comparison between the two:
Similarities
Some key similarities between the two types are:
- Most of the latest pellet and wood stoves have very similar designs and styles. They come in either an insert or a free-standing style, and it’s difficult to tell them apart.
- Even though they work differently, their purpose is the same; to provide heat to a certain size of an area.
Differences
Here are some significant differences between the two kinds of units.
- The fuel source required by both is different. As apparent by the name, wood stoves use wood logs, while pellet stoves use small-sized wood chips to generate heat.
- Pellet stoves require electrical power to work. Meanwhile, wood models are like conventional fireplaces that only need you to light up the wood to generate heat.
- Both units produce different amounts of smoke and CO2. Therefore, their eco-friendliness is different. Pellet stoves produce little to no smoke, while wood units produce a significantly higher amount.
How to Install a Wood Stove in a Garage
If you are using these stoves for the first time, proper installation is crucial for your safety and the unit’s performance. Before following the steps given below, make sure to go through the installation guide that comes with the unit to know all the parts involved.
Here’s what you have to do:
Prepare the Location
Once you have bought the unit and decided where it will be installed, make sure to clean up the location. Old residue, pieces of fabric, or paper, or any other debris or dirt should be moved out of the way. This is to make sure the location is safe and spacious. Take accurate dimensions, and only then install the unit.
Check That Your Chimney’s Working
Since you will be installing the stove in the old fireplace’s position, check if your chimney is connected and fully working. This will keep all harmful gases out of your garage. Clean the chimney before the installation. If you don’t have an existing chimney, drill a hole in a good and safe spot and install it first.
Place the Exhaust
The stove’s exhaust pipe should be placed in a solid, tight, and tall place of your home. This will ensure that all spaces are evenly heated.
Floor Padding
If you are keeping the wood stove on the floor, use a non-combustible mat or a pad beneath the unit. This will protect the flooring from the unit’s heat.
Clean the Area
Once you have installed all pipes, including the exhaust and the chimney, make sure to clean up the mess. There will be lots of debris due to the hole drillings. Before placing the stove in the place, make sure the area is tidy.
Set the Stove
Now, connect the end of the chimney pipe that is inside the fireplace with the stove’s opening on the top. Fitting this is fairly easy, as there are either guides or markings made on the stove’s top, so just follow the markings and fit it into place.
Once the pipes and stoves are connected, your stove is ready to be used.
Conclusion
After reviewing some outstanding wood stoves for garages, you can now choose the one that best matches your needs and budget. Before going ahead with the purchase, remember to make sure to choose a unit that is safe to use and also certified by international standards.
All products reviewed in our article stand out from one another due to special features. You should use the buying guide to further understand what kind of product suits you the best and enjoy a warm, cozy house this winter!
People Also Ask
This section will cater to multiple queries and confusion you might have regarding wood stoves. These questions are frequently asked by buyers, particularly first-time users and customers. You can also go through them if there are still some ambiguities:
Yes, you can. However, proper and secure installation is necessary. Also, make sure there aren’t any flammable materials like clothes and petrol kept near the stove.
The best, most suitable way to circulate heat from a wood stove is to use a pedestal or a ceiling fan at low speed. This helps push and force the air around the whole area rather than concentrating it in one place.
Using a larger number of wood logs in the wood stove can help you heat the area faster. Other methods include insulating the walls so that less cold air comes in, and your wood stove works faster and better.
Wood stoves are inexpensive alternatives to infrared or electrically-powered heaters. Garages can be heated up efficiently by a wood stove depending on some factors, including insulation of the area and placement of the stove.
A wood stove with a 35,000 BTU rating will work really well in a one-car garage. Therefore, check for these factors to ensure that the stove works well in your garage.
An important regulation of using and installing a wood stove in your garage is to inform your local authorities about installing it so that they can inspect it and confirm it is safe. This is also known as the CSA Installation Standards B365-10.
