Quick Answer
A well-designed wood heater can produce 3-5 gallons of hot water per hour, depending on the heater's size and the temperature difference between the wood heat source and the water.
Designing a Wood Heater for Hot Water Production
When designing a wood heater for hot water production, it’s essential to consider the heater’s size, insulation, and heat exchanger. A larger heater with a high-temperature heat exchanger can produce more hot water per hour. For example, a 3-foot tall by 2-foot wide wood stove with a high-temperature heat exchanger can produce 4-5 gallons of hot water per hour when burning 5-6 pounds of dry wood per hour.
Calculating Hot Water Production
To calculate the hot water production of a wood heater, you need to know the temperature difference between the wood heat source and the water, as well as the size and efficiency of the heat exchanger. As a general rule, a 1,000 Btu/h output from the wood heater can produce 0.2-0.5 gallons of hot water per hour at a 20°F temperature difference. For example, if the wood heater produces 10,000 Btu/h and the temperature difference is 30°F, it can produce 3-5 gallons of hot water per hour.
Wood Heater Efficiency and Maintenance
A well-designed and well-maintained wood heater is crucial for efficient hot water production. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the heat exchanger, chimney, and other components can ensure optimal performance. Additionally, using dry and seasoned wood can help to increase the heater’s efficiency and hot water production. By following these guidelines and choosing the right wood heater for your needs, you can enjoy reliable and efficient hot water production using wood heat.
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