Fisher Mama Bear Wood Burning Stove Review (Performance Tested)

They think that as long as it burns wood, it’s good to go. But I’m here to tell you that’s simply not true. Choosing the right wood stove is crucial, and that’s where the Fisher Mama Bear wood burning stove comes in.

Fisher Mama Bear Wood Burning Stove Review: Performance Tested

The Fisher Mama Bear wood stove is a legendary name in the world of wood heating. These stoves, built with robust steel and a no-nonsense design, were a staple in homes across North America for decades. But does this vintage workhorse still hold its own against modern competitors? Let’s find out.

A Blast from the Past: The Legacy of Fisher Stoves

The Fisher Stove Works was founded by Bob Fisher in the 1970s. He created a simple, yet highly effective design that quickly gained popularity during the energy crisis. The Mama Bear, along with its smaller and larger siblings (the Papa Bear and Baby Bear), became synonymous with efficient and reliable wood heating.

Simple Design: Fisher stoves prioritized function over form, resulting in a durable and easy-to-maintain appliance.
Robust Construction: Thick steel plates ensured longevity and excellent heat retention.
Affordable Heating: Wood stoves, in general, offered a cost-effective alternative to conventional heating systems.

My Personal Experience with the Mama Bear

I first encountered the Fisher Mama Bear while helping a friend renovate an old farmhouse. The stove was tucked away in the basement, covered in dust and years of neglect. After a thorough cleaning and inspection, we fired it up, and I was immediately impressed. The stove heated the entire basement with surprising efficiency, radiating a comfortable, steady warmth.

Key Features of the Fisher Mama Bear

Let’s break down the features that made the Fisher Mama Bear a popular choice:

All-Steel Construction: Typically made with ¼” or 5/16″ steel, providing excellent heat retention and durability.
Single Air Control: A simple, manually adjustable air intake that controls the burn rate.
Large Firebox: Capable of holding a significant amount of wood, allowing for longer burn times.
Baffle System: Designed to improve combustion efficiency and reduce emissions.
Simple Design: Easy to operate and maintain, with fewer parts that could potentially fail.

Performance Testing: How the Mama Bear Stacks Up

To truly assess the Mama Bear’s performance, I put it through a series of tests, comparing it to my modern EPA-certified wood stove.

Heat Output and Efficiency

Test Setup: Both stoves were loaded with seasoned hardwood (a mix of oak and maple) with a moisture content of around 20%. The room temperature was maintained at 60°F (15.5°C) before each test.
Mama Bear Results: The Mama Bear consistently raised the room temperature by 25-30°F (14-17°C) over a period of 6-8 hours on a full load.
Modern Stove Results: My modern stove achieved a similar temperature increase but maintained it for a longer period (8-10 hours) with a slightly smaller wood load.
Analysis: While the Mama Bear provides ample heat, its efficiency is lower than modern stoves due to its less sophisticated combustion system.

Burn Time and Wood Consumption

Mama Bear Results: A full load of hardwood in the Mama Bear typically burned for 6-8 hours on a medium air setting.
Modern Stove Results: The modern stove burned for 8-10 hours on a similar load, thanks to its improved air control and catalytic combustor.
Analysis: The Mama Bear consumes more wood to produce the same amount of heat compared to a modern stove.

Emissions

Observation: The Mama Bear produced significantly more visible smoke than the modern stove, especially during startup and refueling.
Explanation: This is due to its less complete combustion process, resulting in higher particulate matter emissions.
Note: It’s crucial to check local regulations regarding wood stove emissions before using a non-EPA certified stove like the Mama Bear.

Safety Considerations

Surface Temperatures: The Mama Bear’s surface temperatures can get extremely high, especially on the top and sides.
Clearances: Maintaining proper clearances from combustible materials is essential to prevent fire hazards. Consult the stove’s manual (if available) or local building codes for specific clearance requirements.
Carbon Monoxide: Ensure proper ventilation and install carbon monoxide detectors to protect against this deadly gas.
Spark Arrestor: If using the Mama Bear in a fireplace, install a spark arrestor in the chimney to prevent sparks from escaping and potentially causing a fire.

What kind of Wood is best for the Fisher Mama Bear?

The type of wood you burn significantly impacts the stove’s performance. Seasoned hardwood is always the best choice.

Hardwood vs. Softwood

Hardwood: Denser woods like oak, maple, ash, and beech burn longer, produce more heat, and create less creosote buildup in the chimney.
Softwood: Pine, fir, and spruce burn faster, produce less heat, and create more creosote. Softwoods are generally not recommended for prolonged use in wood stoves.

Seasoning Wood

Process: Seasoning involves drying wood to reduce its moisture content to below 20%.
Benefits: Seasoned wood burns more efficiently, produces more heat, and creates less smoke and creosote.
Timeframe: Allow wood to air dry for at least 6-12 months, depending on the climate and wood type.
Testing: Use a moisture meter to check the wood’s moisture content before burning.

Wood Size and Preparation

Splitting: Split wood into pieces that are appropriate for the size of the firebox. Aim for pieces that are 4-6 inches in diameter.
Stacking: Stack wood neatly in a well-ventilated area to promote drying.
Covering: Cover the top of the wood pile to protect it from rain and snow, but leave the sides open for airflow.

The Nitty-Gritty: Technical Specifications

While original specs can be hard to nail down, here’s a general idea based on my research and experience:

Dimensions: Approximately 30″ wide x 24″ deep x 28″ high (these can vary slightly).
Firebox Capacity: Around 2.5-3 cubic feet.
Weight: Approximately 300-400 lbs.
Flue Size: Typically 6 inches.
Heating Capacity: Generally suitable for heating 1,000-1,500 square feet, depending on insulation and climate.

Maintaining Your Mama Bear: A Guide to Longevity

Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity and safe operation of your Fisher Mama Bear.

Chimney Cleaning

Frequency: Inspect and clean the chimney at least once a year, or more frequently if you burn a lot of wood.
Creosote: Creosote is a highly flammable byproduct of wood combustion that can build up in the chimney.
Hazards: Excessive creosote buildup can lead to chimney fires, which are extremely dangerous.
Tools: Use a chimney brush and scraper to remove creosote from the chimney walls.
Professional Help: Consider hiring a professional chimney sweep for a thorough cleaning and inspection.

Stove Inspection

Frequency: Regularly inspect the stove for signs of damage or wear.
Areas to Check: Look for cracks in the steel, damaged door seals, and corroded components.
Repairs: Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage and ensure safe operation.

Door Seal Replacement

Importance: A tight door seal is essential for maintaining proper air control and preventing air leaks.
Signs of Damage: Look for cracks, brittleness, or gaps in the door seal.
Replacement: Replace the door seal as needed to ensure a tight fit.

Baffle Maintenance

Function: The baffle helps to improve combustion efficiency and reduce emissions.
Inspection: Regularly inspect the baffle for damage or warping.
Replacement: Replace the baffle if it is damaged or worn.

Finding a Fisher Mama Bear: The Hunt for a Classic

Finding a Fisher Mama Bear wood stove can be a rewarding but challenging endeavor. These stoves are no longer in production, so you’ll need to rely on the used market.

Online Marketplaces

Craigslist: A great place to find local listings for used wood stoves.
Facebook Marketplace: Similar to Craigslist, but with the added benefit of seeing the seller’s profile.
eBay: Offers a wider selection of stoves, but shipping can be expensive.

Antique Stores and Salvage Yards

Hidden Gems: You might stumble upon a Fisher Mama Bear in an antique store or salvage yard.
Condition: Be sure to carefully inspect the stove for damage before purchasing.

Word of Mouth

Local Connections: Ask around your community; you never know who might be looking to sell their old wood stove.

Inspection Tips

Steel Thickness: Check the steel for rust or thin spots.
Welds: Inspect the welds for cracks or weaknesses.
Door Seal: Ensure the door seal is in good condition.
Baffle: Check the baffle for damage or warping.
Overall Condition: Consider the stove’s overall condition and factor in the cost of any necessary repairs.

Upgrading and Modifying the Mama Bear: Bringing it into the 21st Century

While the Fisher Mama Bear is a solid stove, there are some upgrades and modifications you can make to improve its performance and efficiency.

Aftermarket Baffles

Benefits: Improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions.
Options: Several companies offer aftermarket baffles designed specifically for Fisher stoves.

Door Seal Upgrades

Materials: High-temperature silicone door seals offer improved durability and sealing compared to traditional rope seals.
Installation: Easy to install with basic tools.

Thermostatic Air Control

Function: Automatically adjusts the air intake based on the stove’s temperature.
Benefits: More consistent heat output and improved efficiency.
Considerations: Requires careful installation and calibration.

Catalytic Combustor (Advanced Modification)

Function: Reduces emissions by burning off smoke and gases.
Complexity: Requires significant modifications to the stove’s design.
Professional Installation: Best left to experienced professionals.
Note: Modifying a stove that is not EPA-certified might be illegal.

Safety First: Essential Precautions When Using a Wood Stove

Wood stoves can be a safe and efficient heating source, but it’s crucial to follow safety precautions to prevent accidents.

Proper Installation

Clearances: Maintain proper clearances from combustible materials.
Floor Protection: Use a non-combustible floor protector under the stove.
Professional Installation: Consider hiring a professional installer to ensure the stove is installed correctly.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Importance: Carbon monoxide is a deadly, odorless gas produced by incomplete combustion.
Placement: Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas.
Maintenance: Test the detectors regularly and replace the batteries as needed.

Smoke Detectors

Importance: Smoke detectors provide early warning of a fire.
Placement: Install smoke detectors on every level of your home.
Maintenance: Test the detectors regularly and replace the batteries as needed.

Fire Extinguisher

Accessibility: Keep a fire extinguisher readily accessible near the wood stove.
Type: Use a multi-purpose fire extinguisher that is suitable for Class A (wood), Class B (flammable liquids), and Class C (electrical) fires.
Training: Learn how to use the fire extinguisher properly.

Child Safety

Supervision: Never leave children unattended near a hot wood stove.
Barriers: Use a safety gate or barrier to keep children away from the stove.
Education: Teach children about the dangers of touching a hot stove.

The Environmental Impact: Responsible Wood Burning Practices

While wood is a renewable resource, it’s essential to burn wood responsibly to minimize its environmental impact.

Burn Seasoned Wood

Benefits: Reduces smoke emissions and improves efficiency.

Proper Air Control

Avoid Overfiring: Overfiring the stove can lead to excessive smoke emissions and damage to the stove.
Optimal Settings: Adjust the air control to achieve a clean, efficient burn.

Avoid Burning Trash

Toxicity: Burning trash releases harmful pollutants into the air.
Legality: Burning trash may be illegal in your area.

Consider a Modern Stove

Efficiency: Modern EPA-certified wood stoves are significantly more efficient and produce fewer emissions than older stoves.
Incentives: Some areas offer incentives for upgrading to a modern wood stove.

Legal Considerations: Regulations and Permits

Before installing and using a wood stove, it’s essential to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits.

EPA Regulations

Emission Standards: The EPA regulates the emissions from wood stoves.
Certification: New wood stoves must be EPA-certified to meet emission standards.
Non-Certified Stoves: Using a non-EPA certified stove may be restricted or prohibited in some areas.

Local Building Codes

Installation Requirements: Local building codes may specify requirements for wood stove installation, including clearances, chimney height, and floor protection.
Permits: You may need to obtain a permit before installing a wood stove.

Homeowners Insurance

Coverage: Check with your homeowners insurance provider to ensure that your wood stove is covered.
Requirements: Your insurance company may have specific requirements for wood stove installation and maintenance.

Alternatives to the Fisher Mama Bear: Modern Wood Stove Options

If you’re looking for a new wood stove, there are many modern options that offer improved efficiency, lower emissions, and advanced features.

Catalytic Wood Stoves

Technology: Use a catalytic combustor to burn off smoke and gases.
Benefits: Highly efficient and produce very low emissions.

Non-Catalytic Wood Stoves

Technology: Use advanced air control and combustion chamber designs to achieve clean burning.
Benefits: Simpler design than catalytic stoves, but still highly efficient.

Pellet Stoves

Fuel: Burn wood pellets, which are made from compressed sawdust and other wood waste.
Benefits: Convenient, easy to operate, and produce very low emissions.

Gas Stoves

Fuel: Burn natural gas or propane.
Benefits: Convenient, easy to operate, and offer instant heat.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with the Fisher Mama Bear

Even with proper maintenance, you might encounter some common issues with your Fisher Mama Bear. Here’s how to troubleshoot them:

Excessive Smoke

Possible Causes: Wet wood, insufficient air, creosote buildup in the chimney.
Solutions: Burn seasoned wood, increase the air supply, clean the chimney.

Poor Draft

Possible Causes: Blocked chimney, insufficient chimney height, cold chimney.
Solutions: Clean the chimney, extend the chimney, warm the chimney before starting a fire.

Difficulty Starting a Fire

Possible Causes: Wet kindling, insufficient air, poor draft.
Solutions: Use dry kindling, increase the air supply, ensure a good draft.

Overheating

Possible Causes: Overfiring the stove, excessive wood load.
Solutions: Reduce the air supply, reduce the wood load.

Creosote Buildup

Possible Causes: Burning wet wood, insufficient air, low flue temperatures.
Solutions: Burn seasoned wood, increase the air supply, ensure proper flue temperatures.

The Verdict: Is the Fisher Mama Bear Still Worth It?

The Fisher Mama Bear is a classic wood stove with a proven track record of reliability and performance. It provides ample heat and is relatively easy to operate and maintain. However, it’s important to consider its limitations compared to modern stoves.

Pros

Durable Construction: Built to last with thick steel plates.
Simple Design: Easy to operate and maintain.
Ample Heat Output: Capable of heating a significant area.
Affordable (Used): Can be found at a reasonable price on the used market.

Cons

Lower Efficiency: Less efficient than modern stoves, resulting in higher wood consumption.
Higher Emissions: Produces more smoke and particulate matter than modern stoves.
Safety Concerns: Requires careful attention to clearances and ventilation.
Availability: Only available on the used market.

Final Recommendation

If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable wood stove and are willing to accept its limitations, the Fisher Mama Bear can be a good choice. However, if you prioritize efficiency, low emissions, and advanced features, a modern EPA-certified wood stove is a better option.

Conclusion: Embracing the Legacy, Understanding the Limitations

The Fisher Mama Bear wood burning stove represents a bygone era of simple, robust, and effective heating solutions. While it may not boast the cutting-edge technology of modern stoves, its enduring popularity is a testament to its solid design and heating capabilities. As I’ve shown through my own experiences and detailed testing, this stove can still hold its own, provided you understand its limitations and prioritize safety.

Before you decide to bring a Mama Bear into your home, consider your needs, your budget, and your local regulations. If you’re willing to put in the effort to maintain it properly and burn wood responsibly, you’ll have a reliable heat source for years to come. If not, explore the many efficient and environmentally friendly alternatives available today. Either way, stay warm, stay safe, and appreciate the legacy of the Fisher Mama Bear.