Can a wood-fired cookstove heat water for a small cabin?

Choosing the Right Wood-Fired Cookstove

When selecting a wood-fired cookstove for heating water, consider a model with a cast iron or steel body, which retains heat well. Look for a stove with a water heating capacity of at least 1-2 gallons per hour, depending on the size of your cabin and water needs. A good example is the Jøtul F 100 cookstove, which has a water heating capacity of 2.5 gallons per hour.

Water Heating Techniques

To heat water efficiently with a wood-fired cookstove, use a combination of techniques. First, start by heating a large pot of water on the stovetop before transferring it to a thermos or insulated container to retain the heat. Alternatively, use a heat exchanger or a specialized water heating jacket to preheat the water before transferring it to a storage tank. This can increase the heating rate by 20-30%.

Sizing the Stove and Storage Tank

To determine the size of the stove and storage tank needed, calculate the daily hot water demand of your cabin. Assuming 20 liters (5.3 gallons) of hot water per person per day, a small cabin with 2-3 people would require a stove with a water heating capacity of 5-10 gallons per hour and a storage tank of 20-40 gallons. When sizing the storage tank, consider factors such as the desired temperature of the water, the insulation quality, and the duration of hot water usage.