Can You Adjust the Temperature on a Wood-Fired Water Heater?

Adjusting the Draft and Air Flow

Most wood-fired water heaters use a chimney or flue to vent combustion gases, and a draft inducer or blower to enhance airflow. By adjusting the draft and air flow, you can control the temperature of the water. A higher draft and airflow typically produce a hotter fire, while a lower draft and airflow result in a cooler fire. For example, on some models, you can adjust the draft by opening or closing a damper in the chimney or flue.

Monitoring and Controlling the Fire Size

To adjust the temperature on a wood-fired water heater, you need to control the fire size. This can be achieved by adjusting the amount of wood being burned, the type of wood being used, and the air flow to the fire. A larger fire typically produces hotter water, while a smaller fire results in cooler water. For example, burning dry, well-seasoned hardwoods like oak or maple can produce hotter temperatures than burning green or softwoods.

Using a Temperature Gauge

Using a temperature gauge is essential to monitor the water temperature and make adjustments to the draft, air flow, and fire size. A temperature gauge typically measures the water temperature in degrees Fahrenheit or Celsius. For example, a typical water heater temperature range might be between 120°F (49°C) and 140°F (60°C). By monitoring the temperature gauge, you can make adjustments to the draft, air flow, and fire size to achieve the desired water temperature.