Wood as an energy source is carbon-neutral. Rather than installing a system where you’ll be using propane, gas, or oil, utilizing wood is good for the environment.
But if your concerns are environmental, you will need to ensure that the wood is grown in a sustainable forest. This means after harvesting trees, saplings must take their place.
A significant benefit of using a wood boiler is that you won’t receive a monthly bill from a large faceless heating company. Installing the best outdoor wood boiler on the market is a simple method of employing the pay-as-you-go system.
And for those fortunate enough to harvest wood sustainability on their land – congratulations – you’ve tapped into a free energy source for heating.
Purchasing an outdoor wood-burning furnace has men from all walks of life in agreement that excellent outdoor wood boilers are a great energy source and can save money.
Many will say that installing an outdoor wood boiler takes time and effort and will involve stoking in frigid conditions – we’re here to say they’re wrong.
By selecting the best outdoor wood boiler, these won’t be issues at all. But how did we decide which were the best?
Table of Contents
Best Outdoor Wood Boilers This Year: Our Criteria and Results
We reviewed the general public’s feedback when using and selecting the best outdoor wood boiler. And we couldn’t have compiled this review without, you’ve guessed it, the chatty reviewers of the internet.
Keep up the excellent work; someone is reading your in-depth opinion.
Also, we scanned every one of the outdoor boiler brochures with a keen eye for detail.
So, generally speaking, we understand that the criteria that your outdoor furnace needs to meet are:
- Build quality
Any product’s final worth is defined by the materials utilized in its fabrication. An outdoor wood boiler must be made from strong, rigid materials that can handle significant temperature fluctuations.
If not, it will warp and bend over time, making it useless.
- The physical size of the unit
The size of your outdoor wood boiler will determine where it can be positioned. The size can affect the heating efficiency, but this isn’t always the case nowadays, due to significant developments in the industry.
- What British thermal unit (BTU) does it produce?
You will see many manufacturers refer to BTU readings when searching for any furnace. It is a measurement of heat which is actually measured by the units of energy, or how much heat is required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
- The versatility of the unit
When determining the versatility of an outdoor wood boiler, we’re referring to the fuel sources it can utilize and whether or not it is compatible with multiple heating systems within the home.
- Ease of maintenance and repairs
Most outdoor wood boilers will be homesteaders located far from metropolitan areas. Being able to maintain and even do repairs, might be left up to the owner. Thus, it is essential to be able to work on the furnace.
- And the general usability of the furnace
Any product that is difficult to use will quickly be replaced or considered a chore to use. Either of these negative responses will automatically lead to buyer’s remorse. Functionality is critical to all products.
Our top selections are as follows:
| Brand | Model | Pros | Cons | Link To Purchase | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HeatMasters |  | MF eSeries | EPA certified Good warranty | No water level checker | Click to check price |
| Crown Royal Stoves |  | Pristine Model 7200E | Efficient Savings for clients of around 50% – 100% on annual heating costs | Warranty not as extensive as competitors Combustion power is lower than competitors of a similar size | Click to check price |
| Central Boiler |  | Classic Edge Titanium HD Series 360HDX | Has connectivity options Available in four finishes Widely available | The model at this price point is not very efficient when compared to the competition Not as powerful as the competition | Click to check price |
| Polar Furnace |  | Outdoor Wood Furnace G2 | Offers Vor-Tech combustion chamber UV Resistant Powder Coating | Short warranty The design might be considered an eyesore | Click to check price |
| Heatmor |  | X Series | Sturdy Very simple to work on | Does not meet EPA rating It does not allow for gasification | Click to check price |
| Hyprotherm |  | Top Loading | Top loading New technology | New and untested in a market situation Very basic | Click to check price |
| Portage & Main |  | Ultimizer Wood Series | Tried and tested Cheap | Not EPA approved Very old school | Click to check price |
| Garn |  | Junior | It can be set up in a sequence Can use electricity if needs be | Cannot be installed outdoors Emissions certified by an independent lab It needs modification to plug into a pressurized system | Click to check price |
| Earth |  | Bear Cub 305 | Made to last | Forced air is an optional extra Warranty is fairly limited | Click to check price |
| Acme |  | Furnace Model 235 | Made to last Available in multiple color options | Forced air is an optional extra Warranty is fairly limited | Click to check price |
| Econoburn |  | EBW 200 – 170W | Two-stage gasification Double-welded | Forced air is an optional extra Warranty is fairly limited | Click to check price |
| Maine Energy |  | MESys AutoPellet Wood Pellet Boiler | Fully automated It uses eco-friendly wood pellets | Fuel source needs to be brought in Repairs will require a specialist | Click to check price |
Best Outdoor Wood Furnaces for 2023
Now that you’ve heard about how we found the best units, let’s break down our top 12 choices for your unique requirements.
HeatMasterss MF eSeries: Best Overall
Compatible with most existing heating systems, the HeatMasterss MF eSeries is proclaimed to be the industry leader in efficiency, build materials, and performance.
Pros:
- EPA certified
- Good warranty
Cons:
- No water level checker
The furnace can utilize coal and wood and is designed to be incredibly easy to use. It is straightforward to operate with cast iron stainless steel shaker grates with a removable stainless steel ash pan.
It also has a forced air fan, an insulated hinged rear door, and a deep oval firebox. HeatMasterss is fabricated from 409 Titanium Enhanced Stainless Steel. This material is corrosion resistant, can withstand high heat, can transfer more heat, and has a low thermal expansion rate.
This unit is perfect for homeowners who want to warm their property efficiently and have a unit certified by the EPA. It is easy for a maintenance specialist to work on and uses two fuel sources.
HeatMasterss MF eSeries Statistics
Approximate Heating Space: 3,000sq feet
Maximum BTUs: 150,000 per hour
Water Capacity: 60 gallons
Dimensions (L x W x H): 52 x 36 x 78 inches
For those interested in an outdoor wood boiler that generally ticks all the boxes, the HeatMasterss MF eSeries is exactly what you need.
Check out the price for this unit – here.
But what if you’re looking for an outdoor wood boiler that’s highly efficient?
Crown Royal Stoves Pristine Model 7200E: The Efficient One
The Crown Royal Stoves’ Pristine Model range claims to burn up to 60% less wood and has a 99% combustion efficiency. It is also fabricated from 409 Titanium Enhanced Stainless Steel.
Pros:
- Efficient
- Savings for clients of around 50% – 100% on annual heating costs
Cons:
- Warranty not as extensive as competitors
- Combustion power is lower than competitors of a similar size
The Crown Royal Stoves Pristine Model offers easy maintenance, ease of use, and multiple clean-out doors. But it’s the convenience factor of having a water gauge, illuminated control panel, and extra outside light that makes it a winner for loading it in the middle of the night.
Another benefit of the Crown Royal Stoves is their gasification process.
Crown Royal Stoves Pristine Model 7200E Statistics
Approximate Heating Space: 2,000 – 3,000sq feet
Approximate BTUs: 125,000
Water Capacity: 180 gallons
Dimensions (L x W x H): 70 x 47 x 71 1/2 inches
If you’re sold on lower energy costs the Crown Royal Stoves Pristine Model is the outdoor furnace for you.
You can contact Crown Royal Stoves for a quote – here.
But for those who want an outdoor boiler with an APP – you’ve guessed it – there is one.
Central Boiler Classic Edge Titanium HD Series 360HDX: It Has An App
Since 1984 Central Boilers have been fabricating and designing new outdoor boilers. They claim to be the country’s largest outdoor wood furnace manufacturer due to the improvements the company has made over the years. But look anywhere on the internet, and you will see the Central Boiler logo.
Pros:
- Has connectivity options
- Available in four finishes
- Widely available
Cons:
- The model at this price point is not very efficient when compared to the competition
- Not as powerful as the competition
The entire Classic Edge HDX range comes with integrated Wi-Fi connectivity. This allows the owner to remotely control features that can: relight old wood in the unit, monitor time, clean reload (eliminates smoke before opening the door), and give you notifications when you need to add wood.
This range also has several innovative designs and features to ensure your home remains cosy.
Classic Edge Titanium HD Series 360HDX Statistics
Approximate Heating Space: 2,000 – 3,000sq feet
Approximate BTUs: 150,000
Water Capacity: 150 gallons
For those ready to connect their outdoor wood boiler to their device, the Classic Edge is the unit for you.
If you’re sold on the furnace, you can find pricing here.
But what if your outdoor wood boiler needs to withstand the harsh wilderness conditions?
Polar Furnace Outdoor Wood Furnace G2: Best At Being Outdoor
The company has been involved in developing base-burning outdoor furnace designs since 2002. Polar Furnace’s outdoor G-Class range is user-friendly, reliable, and easy to install and maintain.
Pros:
- Offers Vor-Tech combustion chamber
- UV Resistant Powder Coating
Cons:
- Short warranty
- The design might be considered an eyesore
The G-Class offers the Vor-Tech combustion chamber, which works by combining preheated air with a mixture of unburned smoke and gases in the first chamber and channeling these gases into the Vor-Tech chamber, which is cylindrical.
This mixture results in a vortex that is around 1700 to 2000°F and ensures that every BTU is released from the wood fuel.
Polar Furnace Outdoor Wood Furnace G2 Statistics
Approximate Heating Space: 2,000 – 3,000sq feet
Approximate BTUs: 160,000 per hour
Water Capacity: 160 gallons
Dimensions (L x W x H): 63.5 x 36.5 x 72 inches
If you are expecting to subject your outdoor wood boiler to harsh conditions, the Polar Furnace is what you need.
You can contact your closest dealer here.
For those looking for a long term commitment, what outdoor wood boiler should they invest in? The next one.
Heatmor 200X Series: The Lifelong Buddy
One of the more robust products on this list, Heatmor backs its range with a lifetime warranty with some TCs. However, it doesn’t allow gasification, so it doesn’t meet specific EPA emissions standards.
Pros:
- Sturdy
- Very simple to work on
Cons:
- Does not meet EPA rating
- It does not allow for gasification
As a standard product, there’s no confusion and no learning curve on how best to use the unit.
Heatmor 200X Series Statistics
Approximate Heating Space: 2,500 – 5,000sq feet
Approximate BTUs: 200,000 per hour
Water Capacity: 310 gallons
Dimensions (L x W x H): 95 x 46.5 (footprint) x 82.5 inches
For those looking at installing a long term solution, the Heatmor outdoor wood boiler is the unit for you.
If you’re interested, you can check out the pricing here.
But what if you’re looking for a different loading solution?
HyproTherm Furnace Top Loading Residential Forced Air Something a Little Different
A new concept from the company, this unit is based on the Chest Loading Series, which allows the user to drop in fuel. Don’t worry. The loading door is gas spring assisted.
Pros
- Top loading
- New
Cons
- New and untested in a market situation
- Very basic
The word innovation is thrown around a lot, and sometimes, it’s not worth reinventing the entire wheel, which is what Hyptotherm Furnace has managed nicely. Also, allowing for top loading means you can enjoy the fire you’ve made.
HyptoTherm Furnace Top Loading Residential Forced Air Statistics
Approximate Heating Space: 1,500 sq feet
Approximate BTUs: 138,900
Dimensions (L x W x H): 74 x 72 inches
For those sold on the idea of loading fuel via a top loader, the HyptoTherm Furnace is for you.
You can get a quote on this unit – here.
But for those with a budget restriction, the next outdoor wood boiler is for you!
Portage & Main Ultimizer Wood Series BL 25 34: It’s Cheaper
The Ultimizer has been in production and continuous development for over 40 years. It is a simple unit without the EPA required additional boiler, so you can save some cash.
Pros:
- Tried and tested
- Cheap
Cons:
- Not EPA approved
- Very old school
As a simple unit, you get what it “says on the tin” – an outdoor wood boiler. It is the parent company of Polar Furnaces, so if you’re keen on a Canadian boiler, both companies will be ready to help you.
Portage & Main Ultimizer Wood Series BL 25 34 Statistics
Approximate Heating Space: up to 2,500 sq feet
Approximate BTUs: 125,000 per hour
Water Capacity: 60 gallons
Dimensions (L x W x H): 34 x 25 x 34 inches
For the budget conscious this is the exact unit you’ll need.
If you’re interested in the price, you can check out the pricing here.
But what if you’re looking for something brand new?
Garn Junior WHS-1000: A New Design
While the Garn Junior wood boiler will require a weatherproof structure to live in outside, it is an off-grid person’s dream unit. It is clean, producing only 3.81 grams of emissions per hour, and can be hooked up to an electrical or solar system to produce heat.
Also, as all the aforementioned systems require some power for control panels, the owner can set it only to use power in a specific timeframe when it is affordable.
Pros:
- It can be set up in a sequence
- Can use electricity if needs be
Cons:
- Cannot be installed outdoors
- Emissions certified by an independent lab
- It needs modification to plug into a pressurized system
Garn Wood Heating Systems is a different approach to wood boilers and has a track record of 30 years. Features unique to this range include air cooled door, hot water return dispersion, and double weld construction.
While it doesn’t tick the requirement of being able to live completely outdoors, you can place it into a disused shed.
Garn Junior WHS-1000 Statistics
Approximate Heating Space: up to 5,000 sq feet
Approximate BTUs: 160,000 per hour
For those always searching for something unique, this is a great outdoor wood boiler.
If you’re interested, you can check out its pricing here.
If your home is relatively small, you will only be interested in a unit that’s a bit smaller, like the next furnace.
Earth Bear Cub 305: Perfect for Small Homes
Designed for smaller spaces such as modular and mobile homes and even shops, Earth Bear Cub 305 is a forced-air furnace which is tough and made to stand the test of time – like the other products in the range.
Pros:
- Made to last
Cons:
- Forced air is an optional extra
- Warranty is fairly limited
Earth prides itself on delivering a product that is made to last. It is also safe and reliable. It can be used for multiple buildings (when upsized), hot tubs, pools, and heating water in the home.
Earth Bear Cub 305 Statistics
Approximate BTUs: 140,000 per hour
Water Capacity: 120 gallons
Dimensions (L x W x H): 48 x 40,5 x 75,5 inches
For those looking for an outdoor wood boiler that will turn any tiny abode into a cosy hideaway, the Earth Bear Cub is precisely what you need.
If you’re interested, you can check out the pricing here.
But what if you want a wood furnace that is old school?
Acme Furnace Model 235: Colorful Old School
Tapping into the nostalgia of a bygone era, Acme Furnaces make units that are built to last but also to reduce heating costs and much more.
Pros:
- Made to last
- Available in multiple color options
Cons:
- Forced air is an optional extra
- Warranty is fairly limited
Acme Furnace Model 235 is available in 40 primary colors for the paneling and 40 trim colors for edging. This means you can order an outdoor wood boiler that’s genuinely unique to your property.
While this is the smallest unit on sale from Acme, it is larger when compared to other brands’ entry-level products.
Acme Furnace Model 235 Statistics
Approximate Heating Space: up to 5,500 sq feet
Approximate BTUs: 235,000 per hour
Water Capacity: 235 gallons
For homesteaders who are keen on keeping their property old school, the Acme Furnace range is the way to go.
If you’re interested, you can check out the pricing here.
But for those looking for the best of “both worlds”, there’s the next option.
Econoburn EBW 200 – 170W: Combination of Two Good Units
The Econoburn EBW 200 – 170W wood boiler meets the latest drafted EPA Boiler Emission standards set by the New York State Energy Research and Development. This model is a replacement for two other products combined into the company’s newest offering.
Pros:
- Two-stage gasification
- Double-welded
Cons:
- Forced air is an optional extra
- Warranty is fairly limited
With its advanced two-stage gasification process at the heart of this boiler, you should be able to squeeze as much heat out of every log loaded into it. Also, due to its industrial strength and build quality, this boiler is bound to be heating your home for decades to come.
Econoburn EBW 200 – 170W Statistics
Approximate Heating Space: up to 5,500 sq feet
Approximate BTUs: 170,000 per hour
Water Capacity: 42 gallons
Dimensions (L x W x H): 58 x 48 x 84 inches
For those wanting to ensure that their outdoor wood boiler is compliant with all state regulations, the Econoburn is a great safe option.
If you’re interested, you can check out the pricing here.
While the next option doesn’t use wood, it does utilize pellets. It’s honestly worth a mention.
Maine Energy, MESys AutoPellet Wood Pellet Boiler: Worth a Mention
This is not an outdoor boiler, and it uses wooden pellets. Yes, this doesn’t tick any box, but the technology is exciting and could indicate what is to come for the small sector of the wooden boiler world.
It is fully automated, disposes of ashes in bricks, utilizes state-of-the-art technology, and is made in the USA while still offering Austrian standards.
Pros:
- Fully automated
- It uses eco-friendly wood pellets
Cons:
- Fuel source needs to be brought in
- Repairs will require a specialist
With its futuristic design, ease of use, and more, opting for a wood pellet boiler could be for you. While you need to spend more money to get a system that equals the BTUs produced by competitors, it is worth investigating.
As stated, you can simply install this in a barn on your property.
MESys AutoPellet Wood Pellet Boiler Statistics
Approximate BTUs: 68,300 per hour
Water Capacity: 15 gallons
Dimensions (L x W x H): 32 x 44 x 43 inches
While this is pretty different from the other options mentioned on this list, it is an exciting option that will appeal for many.
If you’re interested in the price, you can check out the pricing here.
Now that we’ve gone through our top 12 choices let’s make some final decisions.
Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Outdoor Wood Boilers
As a product that is a part of the heating, ventilation, and refrigeration or the HVAC sector, this is a niché sub-section. Not to mention that in the outdoor wood furnace world, many of the products have had to develop incredibly quickly to meet EPA standards.
But in our opinion, if you had to invest your cold hard cash into an outdoor wood boiler to keep you warm all winter, our top pick would be:
| Model | Model | Pros | Cons | Link To Purchase | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central Boiler | | Classic Edge Titanium HD Series 360HDX | Has connectivity options Available in four finishes Widely available | The model at this price point is not very efficient when compared to the competition Not as powerful as the competition | Click to check price |
| Garn | | Junior | It can be set up in a sequence Can use electricity if needs be | Cannot be installed outdoors Emissions certified by an independent lab It needs modification to plug into a pressurized system | Click to check price |
| HeatMasters | | MF eSeries | EPA certified Good warranty | No water level checker | Click to check price |
People Also Asked
We’re sure many of you will have questions about outdoor wood boilers. So, let’s start by providing some answers.
Are Outdoor Wood Boilers Worth It?
Yes, some brands claim that outdoor wood boilers can save users up to 100% of their utility bill regarding heating. This applies to those who can source wood from their own land sustainably.
But if you are buying wood, according to Wood Heating Solutions, if you choose to heat your water for a year, you could save up to $600 a year.
Can You Still Buy Outdoor Wood Boilers?
Most northern states will have a local outdoor wood boiler supplier.
But many of the boilers we’ve mentioned have a national reach, such as Crown Royal Stove, HeatMasterss and Central Boilers.
Which Wood Boiler is Most Efficient?
On the market, at the moment, it would be the Central Boiler Classic Edge Titanium HD Series 960HDX, capable of squeezing out 92% energy from its fuel. The 960HDX is the largest outdoor wood boiler in the Central Boiler Classic Edge Titanium HD range.
How Long Does An Outdoor Wood Boiler Last?
Most manufacturers state that their products will last 10 to 25 years of use. But we’d strongly recommend looking at the conditions it is living through and the frequency of use.
A boiler used daily and full blast will break sooner than a unit not in continuous use. But keeping a strict maintenance schedule will keep it working for years.
What is The Biggest Drawback to Heating With Wood?
Wood as fuel takes up a lot of space and might not be usable when wet. This means when budgeting to purchase an outdoor boiler, you must make a plan for storing the wood.
How Far Does The Outdoor Wood Boiler Need to be From House?
The distance you can install an outdoor wood boiler depends on the unit you have purchased and the state you live in.
But as a general rule, 100 feet from your house will do. Also, your chimney must be higher than your home’s roof line.
Make sure to ask the salesperson for more information relating to your specific area.
Can You Burn Pine In An Outdoor Wood Boiler?
You can burn dried-out pine in outdoor wood boilers. As a soft wood, it will burn very quickly and hot. Make sure to open your furnace carefully after burning pine, as it can cause creosote buildup in air ducts and chimneys.
Why Did The EPA Ban Outdoor Wood Boilers?
Before the need for innovation, the sector was used to producing outdoor wood boilers that burnt dirty fuel inefficiently. Efficiencies and carbon dioxide were not a concern for markets in the past.
How Deep Should Outdoor Wood Boiler Lines Be Buried?
Using the correct piping for your outdoor wood boiler will be provided by an authorized person who will ensure your pipes are 18 to 24 inches deep.
How Hot is Too Hot For An Outdoor Wood Boiler?
Maximum temperatures an outdoor wood boiler can reach will vary from product to product. Make sure to consult your manual for your outdoor wood boiler.
And with all outdoor wood boilers, read through the entire brochure before using.
Recap of our top three best outdoor wood boilers are:
| Model | Model | Pros | Cons | Link To Purchase | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central Boiler | | Classic Edge Titanium HD Series 360HDX | Has connectivity options Available in four finishes Widely available | The model at this price point is not very efficient when compared to the competition Not as powerful as the competition | Click to check price |
| Garn | | Junior | It can be set up in a sequence Can use electricity if needs be | Cannot be installed outdoors Emissions certified by an independent lab It needs modification to plug into a pressurized system | Click to check price |
| HeatMasters | | MF eSeries | EPA certified Good warranty | No water level checker | Click to check price |
