Wood Stove Back Vent Options (5 Rear-Exit Models Pros & Cons)

The user intent is to learn about wood stoves with rear vent options, focusing on models with rear exits, their advantages, and disadvantages. The user is likely considering purchasing or installing a wood stove with a rear vent and wants to make an informed decision by understanding the pros and cons of different models.

Wood Stove Back Vent Options (5 Rear-Exit Models Pros & Cons)

The best-kept secret about wood stoves isn’t the brand name or the BTU rating; it’s understanding how the venting system impacts efficiency and ease of use. Many people overlook the importance of vent placement, especially when space is tight or chimney access is unconventional. Today, I’m diving deep into the world of wood stoves with back vent options, specifically focusing on five rear-exit models and weighing their pros and cons. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about maximizing heat output, minimizing creosote buildup, and ensuring safe operation.

Why Consider a Rear Vent Wood Stove?

Before we jump into specific models, let’s address the elephant in the room: why would you even want a rear vent wood stove? For years, top-venting stoves have been the norm, but rear vents offer some compelling advantages, particularly in certain installation scenarios.

Space Savings: This is the big one. In a small cabin, a tiny home, or even a room with limited floor space, a rear vent allows you to push the stove closer to the wall. This can free up valuable square footage.
Existing Chimney Adaptability: If you’re retrofitting an existing fireplace or chimney, a rear vent might align better with the existing flue opening, simplifying the installation process. I’ve personally seen this save hundreds of dollars in chimney modifications.
Aesthetics: Some people simply prefer the cleaner look of a rear vent, as it hides the stovepipe better. It can create a more minimalist aesthetic in your living space.
Reduced Clearance: Rear vent stoves can sometimes offer reduced clearance requirements compared to top-vent models, especially when used with proper heat shields. Always check your local codes and the stove manufacturer’s specifications.

Factors Affecting the Cost of a Wood Stove Installation

Understanding the factors that influence the total cost of installing a wood stove, regardless of venting style, is crucial for accurate budgeting. As someone who has installed multiple wood stoves in different types of homes, I can tell you that no two installations are the same.

Stove Purchase Price: Obviously, the cost of the stove itself is the biggest factor. Prices range from a few hundred dollars for basic models to several thousand for high-efficiency, EPA-certified stoves.
Chimney or Flue System: This can be a significant expense. If you have an existing chimney, it needs to be inspected and possibly relined. If you don’t have a chimney, you’ll need to install a complete Class A chimney system. Expect to pay anywhere from \$500 to \$3,000 or more, depending on the height and complexity of the installation.
Installation Labor: Hiring a professional installer is highly recommended, especially if you’re not comfortable working with gas lines or chimney systems. Labor costs can range from \$500 to \$2,000, depending on the complexity of the job and your location.
Permits and Inspections: Most municipalities require permits for wood stove installations. The cost of permits varies, but typically ranges from \$50 to \$200. Inspections are also required to ensure the installation meets safety codes.
Hearth Pad: A non-combustible hearth pad is required to protect your flooring from sparks and embers. These can range from a few hundred dollars for a simple pad to over \$1,000 for a custom-built hearth.
Accessories: Don’t forget about accessories like stovepipe, connectors, heat shields, and a fire extinguisher. These can add a few hundred dollars to the total cost.
Fuel Costs: While not part of the installation, factor in the cost of firewood. Prices vary widely depending on location, species, and whether you buy seasoned wood or cut your own.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the average price of residential firewood varies significantly by region. For example, in the Northeast, you might pay \$250-\$400 per cord, while in the South, it could be closer to \$150-\$300 per cord. These are just averages, and prices can fluctuate based on local supply and demand.

Five Rear-Exit Wood Stove Models: Pros and Cons

Okay, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. I’ve selected five rear-exit wood stove models that represent a range of sizes, styles, and price points. I’ll break down the pros and cons of each, based on my research and experience.

1. Vogelzang Durango TR004

Description: A compact, EPA-certified stove designed for smaller spaces. It features a durable steel construction and a large viewing window.
BTU Output: 69,000 BTU
Heating Capacity: Up to 1,200 sq ft
Price: Approximately \$800 – \$1,000

Pros:

Affordable: One of the most budget-friendly EPA-certified stoves on the market.
Compact Size: Ideal for small homes, cabins, or workshops.
EPA Certified: Meets current emissions standards, making it legal to install in most areas.
Large Viewing Window: Allows you to enjoy the ambiance of the fire.

Cons:

Smaller Firebox: Requires more frequent refueling compared to larger stoves.
Basic Features: Doesn’t have advanced features like a catalytic combustor or air wash system.
Steel Construction: While durable, steel stoves tend to radiate heat more quickly than cast iron stoves, which can lead to temperature fluctuations. I’ve found this to be especially noticeable in poorly insulated spaces.

My Experience: I’ve recommended this stove to several friends with small cabins, and they’ve been generally happy with its performance. It’s a solid, no-frills option for supplemental heating.

2. Drolet Escape 1500-I

Description: A mid-sized insert designed to fit into an existing fireplace. It features a cast iron door and a refractory-lined firebox for improved heat retention.
BTU Output: 65,000 BTU
Heating Capacity: Up to 1,800 sq ft
Price: Approximately \$1,500 – \$1,800

Pros:

EPA Certified: Meets current emissions standards.
Cast Iron Door: Adds a touch of elegance and durability.
Refractory-Lined Firebox: Improves heat retention and efficiency.
Easy to Install: Designed for relatively simple installation into an existing fireplace.

Cons:

Insert Only: Requires an existing fireplace, which may need modifications.
Limited Viewing Area: The viewing window is smaller than some other models.
Can be Overkill for Small Spaces: May produce too much heat for very small rooms.

My Experience: I once helped a client install this insert in their old brick fireplace. The difference in heat output and efficiency compared to their old open fireplace was remarkable. It really transformed the space.

3. Lopi Evergreen

Description: A high-efficiency, EPA-certified stove with a catalytic combustor for cleaner burning. It features a cast iron construction and a large firebox.
BTU Output: 60,000 BTU
Heating Capacity: Up to 2,000 sq ft
Price: Approximately \$3,000 – \$4,000

Pros:

High Efficiency: Catalytic combustor ensures clean and efficient burning.
Cast Iron Construction: Provides excellent heat retention and durability.
Large Firebox: Allows for longer burn times and fewer refueling trips.
Air Wash System: Keeps the glass clean for optimal viewing.

Cons:

High Price: One of the more expensive options on this list.
Catalytic Combustor Maintenance: Requires periodic cleaning and eventual replacement of the catalytic combustor.
Can be Complicated to Operate: Requires more attention to airflow and fuel loading to maximize efficiency.

My Experience: I’ve always been impressed with Lopi stoves. They are built to last and offer exceptional performance. The catalytic combustor really makes a difference in terms of emissions and efficiency.

4. Jotul F 602 V2

Description: A classic, compact cast iron stove with a timeless design. It’s known for its durability and efficient heating capabilities.
BTU Output: 30,000 BTU
Heating Capacity: Up to 800 sq ft
Price: Approximately \$1,800 – \$2,200

Pros:

Classic Design: A timeless and elegant addition to any room.
Cast Iron Construction: Provides excellent heat retention and durability.
Compact Size: Ideal for small spaces or supplemental heating.
Durable: Jotul stoves are known for their longevity.

Cons:

Smaller Firebox: Requires more frequent refueling.
Lower BTU Output: Not suitable for heating large spaces.
Less Efficient than Newer Models: While durable, it’s not as efficient as some newer EPA-certified stoves.

My Experience: This is a stove that I have always admired. Jotul is known for their quality craftsmanship. Its compact size makes it perfect for smaller spaces, and its classic design adds a touch of elegance to any room.

5. US Stove Company 2000

Description: A large, non-catalytic stove designed for heating larger spaces. It features a durable steel construction and a large firebox.
BTU Output: 94,000 BTU
Heating Capacity: Up to 2,000 sq ft
Price: Approximately \$900 – \$1,200

Pros:

High BTU Output: Capable of heating large spaces.
Large Firebox: Allows for long burn times and less frequent refueling.
Affordable: A relatively inexpensive option for heating a large area.
Durable Steel Construction: Built to withstand heavy use.

Cons:

Not as Efficient as Catalytic Models: Non-catalytic stoves tend to be less efficient and produce more emissions.
Can be Overpowering for Small Spaces: May produce too much heat for smaller rooms.
Basic Features: Doesn’t have advanced features like an air wash system or a catalytic combustor.

My Experience: This stove is a workhorse. I know several people who use it to heat their entire homes in the winter. It’s not the most elegant stove, but it gets the job done. I would recommend it for a cabin or workshop where you need a lot of heat.

Calculating Firewood Needs and Costs

Once you’ve chosen your stove, you need to figure out how much firewood you’ll need. This is where things get a bit more complex, as it depends on several factors. As someone who has spent years cutting and splitting my own firewood, I can tell you that it’s both a science and an art.

Heating Needs: How much heat do you need to supplement your existing heating system? This depends on the size and insulation of your home, the climate you live in, and your personal comfort level.
Stove Efficiency: How efficient is your stove? High-efficiency stoves require less firewood to produce the same amount of heat.
Wood Species: Different wood species have different BTU content. Hardwoods like oak and maple produce more heat than softwoods like pine and fir.
Wood Moisture Content: Dry, seasoned wood burns much more efficiently than green wood.
Burning Habits: How often do you use your stove? Do you burn it continuously, or just occasionally?

Here’s a simple formula to estimate your firewood needs:

Estimate your total heating needs in BTUs per year. This is difficult to do precisely, but you can get a rough estimate by looking at your past heating bills.
Determine the BTU content of your firewood. This varies by species, but a good rule of thumb is that a cord of seasoned hardwood contains about 20-25 million BTUs.
Divide your total heating needs by the BTU content of your firewood. This will give you an estimate of how many cords of firewood you’ll need per year.

Example:

Let’s say you estimate that you need 50 million BTUs of heat per year, and you’re burning seasoned oak, which contains about 24 million BTUs per cord.

50,000,000 BTU / 24,000,000 BTU/cord = 2.08 cords

So, you would need approximately 2 cords of firewood per year.

Cost of Firewood:

The cost of firewood varies widely depending on your location and how you acquire it. You can either buy seasoned firewood, buy green firewood and season it yourself, or cut your own firewood from your property or public lands.

Seasoned Firewood: This is the most convenient option, but also the most expensive. Prices typically range from \$150 to \$400 per cord, depending on the species and your location.
Green Firewood: This is cheaper than seasoned firewood, but you’ll need to store it for 6-12 months to allow it to dry. Prices typically range from \$100 to \$250 per cord.
Cutting Your Own Firewood: This is the most labor-intensive option, but also the cheapest. You’ll need to invest in a chainsaw, splitting axe, and other tools. You may also need to obtain a permit from your local authorities.

Cost Breakdown for Cutting Your Own Firewood:

Chainsaw: \$200 – \$1,000 (depending on the size and quality)
Splitting Axe: \$50 – \$100
Safety Gear (helmet, gloves, chaps): \$100 – \$200
Gas and Oil: \$20 – \$50 per cord
Permit (if required): \$10 – \$50 per cord
Labor: Priceless (but factor in your time!)

According to the National Firewood Association, the average cost of a cord of seasoned firewood in the United States in 2023 was \$280. However, this number can vary significantly depending on location and wood species.

Optimizing Costs and Ensuring Safety

Now that we’ve covered the basics of wood stove selection and firewood costs, let’s talk about how to optimize your costs and ensure safe operation.

Choose the Right Stove for Your Needs: Don’t buy a stove that’s too big or too small for your space. A properly sized stove will be more efficient and safer to operate.
Install Your Stove Properly: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and hire a professional installer if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself.
Maintain Your Stove Regularly: Clean your chimney regularly to prevent creosote buildup, and inspect your stove for any signs of damage or wear.
Burn Seasoned Firewood: Dry, seasoned firewood burns much more efficiently and produces less smoke and creosote.
Store Your Firewood Properly: Store your firewood in a dry, well-ventilated area.
Use a Carbon Monoxide Detector: Install a carbon monoxide detector in your home to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning.
Check Local Regulations: Ensure your installation meets local building codes and regulations.

Cost-Saving Tips for Firewood Preparation

Buy in Bulk: Firewood is often cheaper when purchased in larger quantities.
Season Your Own Firewood: Buying green firewood and seasoning it yourself can save you money.
Cut Your Own Firewood: If you have access to a source of firewood, cutting your own can be the cheapest option.
Use a Wood Splitter: A wood splitter can make the job of splitting firewood much easier and faster. Renting a wood splitter can be a cost-effective solution if you don’t need it regularly. Rental fees typically range from \$50 to \$100 per day.
Consider Alternative Fuels: In some areas, alternative fuels like wood pellets or compressed wood bricks may be cheaper than firewood.

Understanding Wood Moisture Content

The moisture content of your firewood is a critical factor in its burn quality and efficiency. Ideally, firewood should have a moisture content of 20% or less. Burning wet wood leads to several problems:

Reduced Heat Output: A significant portion of the heat generated is used to evaporate the water in the wood, rather than heating your home.
Increased Smoke: Wet wood produces a lot more smoke, which can be a nuisance to your neighbors and can also be harmful to your health.
Creosote Buildup: Wet wood produces more creosote, which can accumulate in your chimney and increase the risk of a chimney fire.

How to Measure Wood Moisture Content:

You can use a wood moisture meter to accurately measure the moisture content of your firewood. These meters are relatively inexpensive and easy to use. Simply insert the probes into a freshly split piece of wood, and the meter will display the moisture content as a percentage.

How to Season Firewood:

Seasoning firewood involves allowing it to dry naturally over a period of several months. Here are some tips for seasoning firewood:

Split the Wood: Splitting the wood increases the surface area exposed to the air, which speeds up the drying process.
Stack the Wood Properly: Stack the wood in a single row, with gaps between the pieces to allow for air circulation.
Elevate the Wood: Elevate the wood off the ground to prevent it from absorbing moisture from the soil.
Cover the Top of the Stack: Cover the top of the stack with a tarp to protect it from rain and snow, but leave the sides open to allow for air circulation.
Allow Plenty of Time: It typically takes 6-12 months for firewood to season properly.

Estimating Drying Time:

The drying time for firewood depends on several factors, including the species of wood, the climate, and the stacking method. As a general rule, hardwoods take longer to dry than softwoods. In a dry climate, firewood may season in as little as 6 months, while in a humid climate, it may take a year or more.

Case Study: Cost Comparison of Heating Options

Let’s look at a real-world example of how wood heat compares to other heating options in terms of cost.

Scenario:

A homeowner in a rural area needs to heat a 1,500 sq ft home. They are considering three options:

Propane Furnace: A propane furnace with an efficiency of 90%.
Electric Resistance Heating: Electric baseboard heaters.
Wood Stove: A high-efficiency wood stove.

Assumptions:

Propane Price: \$3.00 per gallon
Electricity Price: \$0.15 per kWh
Firewood Price: \$250 per cord
Heating Needs: 60 million BTUs per year

Calculations:

Propane:
- BTUs per gallon of propane: 91,500 BTU
- Usable BTUs per gallon (90% efficiency): 82,350 BTU
- Gallons of propane needed: 60,000,000 BTU / 82,350 BTU/gallon = 728 gallons
- Total propane cost: 728 gallons * \$3.00/gallon = \$2,184
Electric Resistance Heating:
- BTUs per kWh: 3,412 BTU
- kWh needed: 60,000,000 BTU / 3,412 BTU/kWh = 17,585 kWh
- Total electricity cost: 17,585 kWh * \$0.15/kWh = \$2,638
Wood Stove:
- Usable BTUs per cord (assuming 70% efficiency): 24,000,000 BTU/cord * 0.70 = 16,800,000 BTU/cord
- Cords of firewood needed: 60,000,000 BTU / 16,800,000 BTU/cord = 3.57 cords
- Total firewood cost: 3.57 cords * \$250/cord = \$892.50

Results:

Propane: \$2,184
Electric Resistance Heating: \$2,638
Wood Stove: \$892.50

Conclusion:

In this scenario, a wood stove is significantly cheaper than propane or electric resistance heating. However, it’s important to note that this analysis doesn’t include the cost of the stove itself, installation, or maintenance. It also doesn’t account for the labor involved in cutting and splitting firewood.

Actionable Takeaways and Next Steps

Choosing the right wood stove and managing firewood costs can seem daunting, but with careful planning and research, you can make informed decisions that save you money and keep your home warm and cozy.

Here are some actionable takeaways:

Assess Your Heating Needs: Determine the size and insulation of your home to choose the right size stove.
Consider Your Venting Options: Evaluate whether a rear vent stove is the best option for your space and existing chimney setup.
Research Different Models: Compare the pros and cons of different stoves, considering factors like efficiency, features, and price.
Budget for Installation: Factor in the cost of the stove, chimney system, installation labor, permits, and accessories.
Plan Your Firewood Supply: Determine how much firewood you’ll need and decide whether to buy seasoned wood, buy green wood and season it yourself, or cut your own firewood.
Prioritize Safety: Follow all safety guidelines and install a carbon monoxide detector.
Explore Cost-Saving Options: Consider buying firewood in bulk, seasoning your own wood, or using a wood splitter.

Next Steps:

Measure Your Space: Accurately measure the area you need to heat.
Research Local Retailers: Visit local wood stove retailers to see different models in person and get expert advice.
Consult with a Chimney Professional: Have your chimney inspected to ensure it’s in good condition and suitable for a wood stove.
Get Quotes: Obtain quotes from different installers to compare prices.
Start Seasoning Firewood: If you plan to season your own firewood, start early to ensure it’s dry and ready to burn when winter arrives.

By following these steps, you can confidently choose the right wood stove and manage your firewood costs effectively. Remember, a well-planned wood heating system can provide reliable, cost-effective warmth for years to come. Good luck, and happy burning!

Wood Stove Back Vent Options (5 Rear-Exit Models Pros & Cons)