Not that i ever discounted firebox size, but i never really realized what the size meant to burn times until i was able to verify it.
I always figured i had a OK sized firebox (about 2.2 cu ft depending on how you want to measure, could be more) , but i was disappointed in my burn times. I also know i have some overdrafting issues as well as an undersized stove for my house. Fireplace size limits, different subject.
All that means during the cold nights i am feeding my stove every 4 hours if i dont want my furnace to rumble, but i am only able to get about 4-5 splits which equates to about 4.5 cords per winter. My stove is setup for an e/w burn, with up to 24" logs. A north south burn is possible with 11" splits. I took a couple 18" splits and cut them in half with my new saw. I am then able to stuff almost 14 half splits in the box. I then got about a 7 hr burn, without touching a thing. Another disclaimer for people without inserts is that inserts by nature have different burn times, usually shorter due to the fact that they are relying on hot air.
Lessons:
I think I am going to keep a supply of half splits on hand for extended burns, overnight and during the day.
People with east west stoves can extend burn times IF they want to.
Take n/s burns into consideration when purchasing a stove.
I always figured i had a OK sized firebox (about 2.2 cu ft depending on how you want to measure, could be more) , but i was disappointed in my burn times. I also know i have some overdrafting issues as well as an undersized stove for my house. Fireplace size limits, different subject.
All that means during the cold nights i am feeding my stove every 4 hours if i dont want my furnace to rumble, but i am only able to get about 4-5 splits which equates to about 4.5 cords per winter. My stove is setup for an e/w burn, with up to 24" logs. A north south burn is possible with 11" splits. I took a couple 18" splits and cut them in half with my new saw. I am then able to stuff almost 14 half splits in the box. I then got about a 7 hr burn, without touching a thing. Another disclaimer for people without inserts is that inserts by nature have different burn times, usually shorter due to the fact that they are relying on hot air.
Lessons:
I think I am going to keep a supply of half splits on hand for extended burns, overnight and during the day.
People with east west stoves can extend burn times IF they want to.
Take n/s burns into consideration when purchasing a stove.