Rear Venting Wood Stoves (5 Must-Know Brands for Easy Setup)

Winter is coming, and your family is depending on you for warmth. Don’t get caught in the cold!

The crunch of boots on snow, the crisp air biting at exposed skin, the satisfying thud of a well-split log – these are the sensory reminders that winter is on its way. And for many of us, that means firing up the wood stove. But what if your stove setup is a headache? What if you’re dreading the installation process more than the snow itself?

I’ve been there. I remember the frustration of wrestling with a side-venting stove, trying to navigate tight spaces and awkward angles. It felt like I was spending more time installing the thing than actually enjoying the warmth it promised. That’s why I became so interested in rear-venting wood stoves. They offer a streamlined installation process, especially in situations where space is limited.

In this guide, I’m going to share my knowledge and experience with rear-venting wood stoves. I’ll walk you through the key benefits, the crucial considerations, and, most importantly, introduce you to five brands that consistently deliver on performance and ease of setup. By the end, you’ll have the information you need to make an informed decision and get your wood stove installed quickly and efficiently, so you can focus on what really matters: staying warm and cozy all winter long.

Rear Venting Wood Stoves: 5 Must-Know Brands for Easy Setup

Rear-venting wood stoves are a game-changer for anyone looking for a simpler, more adaptable installation process. Instead of the flue exiting from the top or side, it connects at the back, often allowing for a closer placement to walls and a more streamlined connection to your chimney system. This can be particularly advantageous in smaller homes, cabins, or spaces with pre-existing chimney setups that are better suited for a rear connection.

Why Choose a Rear-Venting Wood Stove?

Let’s dive into the specific advantages of rear venting:

• Space Saving: In tight spaces, every inch counts. Rear venting allows the stove to sit closer to the wall, freeing up valuable floor space. This is a huge benefit in smaller homes, cabins, or even workshops.
• Easier Installation: Connecting to an existing chimney system is often simpler with a rear vent. The straight run from the stove to the chimney connector minimizes bends and offsets, reducing the complexity of the installation.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Some people prefer the cleaner look of a rear-venting stove. With the flue pipe tucked away behind the stove, the focus remains on the stove’s design.
• Reduced Clearance Requirements: In some cases, rear-venting stoves may have reduced clearance requirements compared to top-venting models. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications and local building codes, but this can be another space-saving advantage.

Important Considerations Before You Buy

Before you jump in and purchase a rear-venting wood stove, here are a few crucial factors to consider:

• Chimney Height and Location: The height and location of your chimney are critical. A chimney that’s too short or improperly located can lead to poor draft and inefficient burning. Consult with a qualified chimney professional to ensure your chimney is suitable for a wood stove.
• Clearance Requirements: Despite the potential for reduced clearances, it’s essential to adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended clearances to combustible materials. This is paramount for safety.
• Local Building Codes: Always check your local building codes and regulations before installing a wood stove. Permits may be required, and there may be specific requirements for installation and venting.
• Wood Species: The type of wood you burn significantly impacts stove performance and creosote buildup. Hardwoods like oak, maple, and ash burn hotter and cleaner than softwoods like pine and fir. Using properly seasoned wood (ideally below 20% moisture content) is also crucial. I learned this the hard way years ago when I tried to burn some freshly cut pine. The stove smoked like crazy, and I spent the next day cleaning creosote from the chimney!
• Stove Size and BTU Output: Choosing the right size stove for your space is essential. An oversized stove will produce too much heat, while an undersized stove won’t be able to keep up. Calculate the square footage of the area you want to heat and choose a stove with the appropriate BTU output.
• Efficiency Ratings: Look for stoves with high efficiency ratings. This means they convert more of the wood’s energy into heat, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. EPA-certified stoves are generally more efficient and cleaner-burning.
• Installation Expertise: If you’re not comfortable with the installation process, hire a qualified professional. Improper installation can be dangerous and could void your warranty.

5 Must-Know Brands for Easy Setup

Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: the brands that consistently deliver on performance, reliability, and ease of setup. These are brands that I’ve either used myself, researched extensively, or heard positive feedback about from other wood stove enthusiasts.

1. Blaze King

Blaze King is renowned for its ultra-long burn times and exceptional efficiency. Their stoves are designed to burn slowly and steadily, providing consistent heat for extended periods.

• Key Features: Catalytic combustion technology, thermostatic control, long burn times (up to 40 hours on some models), and EPA-certified.
• Why They’re Great for Easy Setup: While Blaze King stoves are known for their advanced technology, their rear-venting options are designed for relatively straightforward installation. The clear instructions and readily available support make the process manageable.
• Model Recommendation: The Blaze King Princess 32 is a popular choice for medium-sized homes. It offers a good balance of heat output, burn time, and ease of installation.
• Personal Story: I’ve spoken with several Blaze King owners who rave about the stove’s ability to maintain a consistent temperature overnight. They wake up to a warm house, even on the coldest nights. This is a testament to the stove’s exceptional efficiency and burn time.

2. Lopi

Lopi stoves are known for their quality craftsmanship, durable construction, and stylish designs. They offer a wide range of models to suit different heating needs and aesthetic preferences.

• Key Features: Heavy-duty steel construction, large fire viewing areas, air wash system to keep the glass clean, and EPA-certified.
• Why They’re Great for Easy Setup: Lopi stoves are designed with the installer in mind. Their rear-venting options often feature adjustable flue collars, making it easier to connect to existing chimney systems.
• Model Recommendation: The Lopi Evergreen is a popular choice for its combination of classic design, efficient heating, and easy installation.
• Data Point: Lopi stoves consistently receive high ratings for customer satisfaction, with many owners praising their durability and ease of use.

3. Pacific Energy

Pacific Energy stoves are known for their simple, reliable designs and excellent value. They offer a range of models that are both efficient and affordable.

• Key Features: High-efficiency combustion system, durable steel construction, air wash system, and EPA-certified.
• Why They’re Great for Easy Setup: Pacific Energy stoves are designed for straightforward installation. Their rear-venting options are typically less complex than those of some other brands, making them a good choice for DIYers.
• Model Recommendation: The Pacific Energy Super 27 is a popular choice for its efficient heating, simple design, and affordable price.
• Case Study: A friend of mine installed a Pacific Energy Super 27 in his cabin. He was impressed with how easy it was to set up, even with limited experience. He also noted that the stove heated his cabin efficiently and evenly.

4. Jotul

Jotul is a Norwegian company with a long history of producing high-quality wood stoves. Their stoves are known for their classic designs, durable construction, and efficient heating.

• Key Features: Cast iron construction, intricate detailing, air wash system, and EPA-certified.
• Why They’re Great for Easy Setup: While Jotul stoves are known for their traditional designs, their rear-venting options are designed for relatively easy installation. The clear instructions and readily available support make the process manageable.
• Model Recommendation: The Jotul F 500 Oslo is a popular choice for its classic design, efficient heating, and durable construction.
• Unique Insight: Jotul stoves are often considered heirloom pieces, with many owners passing them down through generations. This is a testament to their quality and durability.

5. England Stove Works

England Stove Works is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on essential features. They offer a range of stoves that are both affordable and efficient.

• Key Features: Durable steel construction, large firebox, air wash system, and EPA-certified.
• Why They’re Great for Easy Setup: England Stove Works stoves are designed for easy installation, with clear instructions and readily available support. Their rear-venting options are typically less complex than those of some other brands, making them a good choice for DIYers on a budget.
• Model Recommendation: The England Stove Works 50-SHW12 is a popular choice for its affordability, efficient heating, and easy installation.
• Real Example: I once helped a neighbor install an England Stove Works stove in his workshop. He was on a tight budget but needed a reliable heat source. The stove was easy to set up, and he was impressed with its performance.

Wood Processing and Firewood Preparation: The Foundation of Efficient Burning

Choosing the right stove is only half the battle. The quality of your firewood is just as important for efficient burning and minimizing creosote buildup.

• Wood Species: As I mentioned earlier, hardwoods like oak, maple, and ash are the best choice for firewood. They burn hotter and longer than softwoods like pine and fir.
• Seasoning: Seasoning is the process of drying wood to reduce its moisture content. Properly seasoned wood burns more efficiently and produces less smoke and creosote. Aim for a moisture content of 20% or less.
• Splitting: Splitting wood increases its surface area, allowing it to dry faster and burn more easily.
• Storage: Store your firewood in a dry, well-ventilated area. This will help prevent rot and keep the wood dry.

Here are some of the tools I find indispensable for firewood preparation:

• Chainsaw: A chainsaw is essential for cutting logs into manageable lengths. I prefer a Stihl or Husqvarna chainsaw, but there are many other good brands available.
• Splitting Axe: A splitting axe is used to split logs. A good splitting axe should be heavy enough to generate force but not so heavy that it’s difficult to swing.
• Maul: A maul is a heavier version of a splitting axe, used for splitting larger logs.
• Wedges: Wedges are used to split particularly tough logs.
• Wood Moisture Meter: A wood moisture meter is used to measure the moisture content of wood. This is essential for ensuring that your wood is properly seasoned.

Safety First: Protecting Yourself and Your Home

Safety should always be your top priority when working with wood stoves and firewood.

• Wear appropriate safety gear: When cutting and splitting wood, wear safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection.
• Install a smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector: These devices can save your life in the event of a fire or carbon monoxide leak.
• Have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly: A dirty chimney can be a fire hazard.
• Keep combustible materials away from the stove: Maintain the manufacturer’s recommended clearances to combustible materials.
• Never leave a burning stove unattended: Always supervise a burning stove.
• Develop a fire safety plan: Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do in the event of a fire.

Troubleshooting Common Wood Stove Problems

Even with the best stove and properly prepared firewood, you may encounter some common problems. Here are a few troubleshooting tips:

• Poor Draft: A poor draft can be caused by a number of factors, including a cold chimney, obstructions in the chimney, or a poorly sealed stove.
• Excessive Smoke: Excessive smoke can be caused by burning unseasoned wood, a dirty chimney, or a poorly sealed stove.
• Creosote Buildup: Creosote is a flammable substance that can build up in your chimney. It’s important to have your chimney cleaned regularly to prevent creosote buildup.
• Inefficient Burning: Inefficient burning can be caused by a number of factors, including burning the wrong type of wood, a poorly sealed stove, or a dirty chimney.

Making the Right Choice for Your Needs

Choosing the right rear-venting wood stove involves careful consideration of your heating needs, space constraints, budget, and installation capabilities. By understanding the advantages of rear venting, considering the important factors outlined above, and exploring the five brands I’ve highlighted, you can make an informed decision and find a stove that will provide years of reliable warmth and comfort.

Don’t let the winter blues get you down. With the right rear-venting wood stove and a little preparation, you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a wood fire all season long. And remember, a little planning and research can save you a lot of headaches (and cold nights!) down the road. Now, go forth and conquer that winter chill!

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