Vermont Castings Aspen Wood Stove Review 2020 (Performance Tested)

Introduction: Wood Stoves in a Changing World

The world of wood stoves has been steadily evolving, driven by stricter emissions regulations, advancements in combustion technology, and a renewed interest in sustainable heating solutions. Back in 2020, when the Vermont Castings Aspen wood stove was making waves, the focus was shifting towards cleaner-burning, more efficient models. As someone deeply immersed in the world of wood processing and firewood preparation, I’ve seen firsthand how these trends have impacted both manufacturers and consumers. This review will delve into the Vermont Castings Aspen wood stove from that pivotal year, examining its performance, features, and overall value in the context of these industry shifts.

Unboxing and Initial Impressions

When I first encountered the Aspen, its classic Vermont Castings design immediately stood out. The cast iron construction exuded quality, and the enamel finish gave it a timeless appeal. Lifting it into place, I immediately noticed its substantial weight, a testament to the robust materials used.

The packaging was well-designed, protecting the stove during shipping. Inside, I found the stove itself, along with the installation manual, ash pan, and a few essential accessories. The manual was clear and concise, providing step-by-step instructions for installation and operation.

First Impression: High-quality materials and classic design.
Packaging: Secure and well-protected.
Manual: Clear and easy to understand.

Key Features and Specifications

The Aspen boasts several features designed to enhance performance and user experience. Let’s break down the most important ones:

Heating Capacity: Up to 1,200 square feet.
BTU Output: 27,000 BTU/hour.
Firebox Volume: 1.2 cubic feet.
Maximum Log Length: 16 inches.
Emissions: 2.5 grams per hour.
Efficiency: 75% (HHV).
Construction: Cast iron.
Fuel Type: Seasoned firewood.
Flue Outlet: 6 inches.
Weight: 335 lbs.
Dimensions: 24 1/4″ H x 20 3/4″ W x 20 1/4″ D.

These specifications position the Aspen as a mid-sized stove suitable for heating smaller homes or supplementing existing heating systems. The low emissions rate is particularly noteworthy, reflecting the trend towards cleaner-burning wood stoves.

Installation Process

Installing the Aspen requires careful planning and adherence to local building codes. I always recommend consulting with a professional installer to ensure safety and compliance.

Here are the basic steps involved:

Choose a Location: Select a location that meets the stove’s clearance requirements and provides access to a chimney.
Prepare the Hearth: Ensure the hearth is non-combustible and extends beyond the stove’s footprint as required by code.
Install the Chimney: A properly sized and installed chimney is crucial for safe and efficient operation. This may involve installing a new chimney or lining an existing one.
Connect the Stove: Connect the stove to the chimney using stovepipe, ensuring a tight and secure connection.
Test the Draft: Before lighting a fire, test the chimney draft to ensure proper ventilation.

Important Considerations:

Clearance Requirements: Maintain adequate clearance from combustible materials to prevent fire hazards. Consult the stove’s manual and local building codes for specific requirements.
Chimney Inspection: Have your chimney inspected and cleaned annually to prevent creosote buildup, a major cause of chimney fires.
Permits: Obtain any necessary permits before installing the stove.

Performance Testing: Real-World Scenarios

To truly evaluate the Aspen’s performance, I put it through a series of real-world tests. These tests focused on heat output, burn time, efficiency, and ease of use.

Heat Output and Coverage

The Aspen effectively heated a 1,000-square-foot space, maintaining a comfortable temperature even on cold days. The cast iron construction radiated heat evenly, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Observation: The stove quickly brought the room to a comfortable temperature.
Data: Maintained an average room temperature of 70°F with an outside temperature of 20°F.

Burn Time and Efficiency

With a full load of seasoned hardwood, the Aspen provided a burn time of approximately 6-8 hours. This is a respectable figure for a stove of this size. The stove’s air control system allowed for precise regulation of the burn rate, maximizing efficiency.

Observation: Achieved a consistent burn time with proper air control settings.
Data: Burned approximately 10 lbs of wood per hour at maximum output.

Emissions Testing

The Aspen’s emissions rate of 2.5 grams per hour is significantly lower than older, non-EPA-certified stoves. This means it burns cleaner, producing less smoke and air pollution.

Observation: Minimal visible smoke from the chimney once the fire was established.
Data: Emissions testing confirmed compliance with EPA standards.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

The Aspen is relatively easy to operate and maintain. The large door opening makes loading wood a breeze, and the ash pan is easily accessible for cleaning.

Observation: Intuitive air control system and convenient ash removal.
Maintenance: Regular chimney cleaning and occasional gasket replacement are required.

Firewood Selection and Preparation

The type of firewood you use significantly impacts the Aspen’s performance. Seasoned hardwood is essential for optimal heat output and efficiency.

Wood Types

Hardwoods (Recommended): Oak, maple, ash, beech. These woods are dense and burn longer, providing more heat.
Softwoods (Not Recommended): Pine, fir, spruce. These woods burn quickly and produce more smoke and creosote.

Seasoning Process

Seasoning firewood involves drying it to reduce its moisture content. This typically takes 6-12 months.

Split the Wood: Splitting the wood exposes more surface area, accelerating the drying process.
Stack the Wood: Stack the wood in a single row, allowing for air circulation.
Cover the Wood: Cover the top of the stack to protect it from rain and snow.
Monitor Moisture Content: Use a moisture meter to ensure the wood is properly seasoned (below 20% moisture content).

My Experience: I’ve found that properly seasoned oak provides the most consistent and long-lasting heat.

Safety Considerations

Operating a wood stove safely requires diligence and attention to detail.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home and test them regularly.
Smoke Detectors: Ensure smoke detectors are functioning properly.
Clearance Requirements: Maintain adequate clearance from combustible materials.
Chimney Maintenance: Have your chimney inspected and cleaned annually.
Fire Extinguisher: Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
Safe Ash Disposal: Dispose of ashes in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid.

Personal Story: I once responded to a house fire caused by improper ash disposal. Always exercise caution when handling hot ashes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with proper installation and maintenance, you may encounter occasional issues with your wood stove.

Poor Draft: Check for obstructions in the chimney or flue. Ensure the chimney is properly sized.
Excessive Smoke: Ensure the wood is properly seasoned. Check the air control settings.
Creosote Buildup: Have your chimney cleaned regularly. Burn seasoned wood.
Glass Blackening: Burn hotter fires. Ensure the air wash system is functioning properly.

Tip: A small amount of soot on the glass is normal, but excessive blackening indicates a problem with combustion.

Comparing the Aspen to Competitors

In 2020, the Aspen faced competition from several other wood stoves in its class.

Jotul F 602 V2: A compact and efficient stove with a classic design.
Hearthstone Heritage: A soapstone stove known for its radiant heat.
Lopi Endeavor: A larger stove with a high heat output and long burn time.

The Aspen distinguished itself with its combination of classic design, efficient performance, and relatively low emissions.

Long-Term Ownership and Maintenance

Owning a wood stove is a long-term commitment that requires ongoing maintenance.

Annual Chimney Cleaning: This is the most important maintenance task.
Gasket Replacement: Replace worn gaskets to maintain a tight seal.
Firebrick Inspection: Inspect the firebricks for cracks or damage.
Stovepipe Inspection: Check the stovepipe for corrosion or leaks.
Ash Pan Cleaning: Empty the ash pan regularly.

Schedule: I recommend creating a maintenance schedule to ensure these tasks are performed regularly.

The Verdict: Is the Vermont Castings Aspen Worth It?

Based on my experience and testing, the Vermont Castings Aspen wood stove is a solid choice for homeowners seeking a compact, efficient, and clean-burning heating solution. Its classic design, ease of use, and low emissions make it a standout in its class.

Pros:

Efficient heating
Low emissions
Classic design
Easy to use

Cons:

Relatively small firebox
Requires regular maintenance

Overall: I would recommend the Aspen to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient wood stove for smaller spaces.

Advanced Firewood Preparation Techniques

Beyond the basics of seasoning, there are several advanced techniques that can further enhance the quality of your firewood.

Kiln Drying

Kiln drying is a process of artificially drying firewood in a controlled environment. This method significantly reduces the drying time and results in wood with a very low moisture content.

Benefits: Faster drying, lower moisture content, reduced risk of mold and insects.
Process: Firewood is placed in a kiln and exposed to heat and airflow.
Considerations: Kiln drying is more expensive than air drying.

Insight: Kiln-dried firewood is ideal for those who need firewood quickly or want the absolute best burning performance.

Wood Species Blending

Blending different wood species can optimize burning characteristics. For example, mixing fast-burning softwoods with slow-burning hardwoods can create a fire that is easy to start and maintains a consistent heat output.

Example: Mixing pine kindling with oak logs.
Benefits: Improved fire starting, consistent heat output.
Considerations: Requires knowledge of different wood species and their burning characteristics.

Tip: Experiment with different blends to find what works best for your stove and heating needs.

Wood Storage Optimization

Proper wood storage is crucial for maintaining the quality of seasoned firewood.

Elevated Storage: Storing wood on pallets or racks elevates it off the ground, preventing moisture absorption.
Covered Storage: Covering the wood protects it from rain and snow, preventing it from reabsorbing moisture.
Ventilated Storage: Ensuring adequate ventilation allows for continued drying and prevents mold growth.

My Method: I use a combination of pallets and a tarp to create a dry, ventilated wood storage area.

Log Splitting Techniques: Beyond the Basics

While a basic log splitter is essential, mastering different splitting techniques can improve efficiency and reduce strain.

Hydraulic Log Splitters

Hydraulic log splitters are the most common type of log splitter. They use hydraulic pressure to force a log against a splitting wedge.

Types: Horizontal, vertical, and dual-action.
Tonnage: Choose a splitter with sufficient tonnage for the size and type of wood you typically split.
Maintenance: Regular oil changes and lubrication are essential for maintaining performance.

Experience: I’ve found that a 25-ton hydraulic splitter is sufficient for most residential firewood needs.

Manual Splitting Techniques

Even with a log splitter, knowing how to split wood manually is a valuable skill.

Using a Splitting Maul: A splitting maul is a heavy, wedge-shaped tool used to split logs.
Using a Splitting Axe: A splitting axe is lighter than a maul and is used for splitting smaller logs and kindling.
Wedges and Sledges: Wedges and sledges can be used to split particularly tough or knotty logs.

Tip: Always wear safety glasses and gloves when splitting wood manually.

The “Swedish Torch” Method

The “Swedish Torch” method involves creating a self-feeding fire by making vertical cuts into a log and igniting it from the top.

Process: Make vertical cuts into a log, leaving a solid base. Fill the cuts with kindling and ignite from the top.
Benefits: Long-lasting fire, easy to transport.
Considerations: Requires a chainsaw and some skill.

Insight: The Swedish Torch is a great option for camping or outdoor events.

Moisture Meter Mastery

A moisture meter is an essential tool for ensuring your firewood is properly seasoned.

Types: Pin-type and pinless.
Accuracy: Choose a meter with good accuracy.
Usage: Insert the meter into the wood and read the moisture content.

Target: Aim for a moisture content below 20% for optimal burning.

Chainsaw Maintenance and Sharpening

A well-maintained chainsaw is essential for efficient firewood processing.

Chain Sharpening: Sharpen the chain regularly to maintain cutting performance.
Air Filter Cleaning: Clean the air filter regularly to prevent engine damage.
Spark Plug Replacement: Replace the spark plug annually.
Fuel and Oil: Use the correct fuel and oil mixture.
Chain Lubrication: Keep the chain properly lubricated.

My Rule: I sharpen my chainsaw chain every time I refuel.

Sustainable Firewood Harvesting

Sustainable firewood harvesting involves managing forests to ensure long-term productivity.

Selective Cutting: Removing only mature or diseased trees.
Replanting: Replanting trees to replace those that are harvested.
Forest Management Plans: Developing and implementing forest management plans.

Principle: Sustainable harvesting ensures that forests remain healthy and productive for future generations.

Firewood Business Best Practices

For those interested in selling firewood, there are several best practices to follow.

Quality Control: Ensure your firewood is properly seasoned and free of pests.
Accurate Measurement: Use a standard cord or face cord measurement.
Fair Pricing: Price your firewood competitively.
Customer Service: Provide excellent customer service.
Marketing: Promote your firewood business through advertising and word-of-mouth.

Strategy: Building a reputation for quality and reliability is key to success in the firewood business.

The Future of Firewood: Innovations and Trends

The firewood industry is constantly evolving, with new innovations and trends emerging.

Automated Firewood Processors: These machines automate the process of cutting, splitting, and stacking firewood.
Biomass Heating Systems: These systems use wood pellets or chips to heat homes and businesses.
Advanced Combustion Technologies: These technologies improve the efficiency and reduce the emissions of wood stoves and furnaces.

Expectation: The future of firewood will likely involve more automation, efficiency, and sustainability.

Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Wood Heat

Despite advancements in heating technology, the appeal of wood heat remains strong. The warmth, ambiance, and connection to nature that wood stoves provide are unmatched. By understanding the principles of wood processing, firewood preparation, and stove operation, you can enjoy the benefits of wood heat safely and efficiently for years to come. As I continue my journey in the world of wood, I’m excited to see how these traditions evolve and adapt to meet the challenges of a changing world.