An outdoor wood furnace is a device that is used to heat a building. The word furnace is derived from a Latin word, fornax, meaning oven. There are many types of furnaces, but they all have the same basic function, to heat an area. Some of the most popular types of furnace are located indoors. An outdoor wood furnace is used instead of an indoor furnace. Outdoor furnaces do not need electricity or gas power to work properly. They operate with the assistance of great design, wood and fire.
While an outdoor furnace does not need electricity or gas power in order to function properly, electricity and gas power can be used in conjunction with the heat that is produced from the burning of the wood in the furnace. Heating systems that used multiple types of power sources usually have more than one function. Besides heating a building, an outdoor wood furnace may also heat water for use.
However, an additional energy source is not needed in order to heat both air and water. Outdoor wood furnaces that have both of these functions are called hydronic wood heating systems. Hydronic wood furnaces heat water to a certain temperature level, piping it to a location in the building.
Outdoor wood furnaces are a great choice for locations where firewood is in an endless supply. They are also popular in cold climates. This is as a result of the pure burning power of wood. Wood furnaces will burn hot, and that is essential for warming any building that is located in an area that is known for frosty temperatures.
Outdoor wood furnaces are most commonly found in residential locations. They are an economical heating source, and use of such a furnace has show to reduce overall home energy expenses. As a high demand furnace, exterior wood furnaces are a large financial investment. Even the outdoor wood furnace models that offer no extra features can put an initial strain on any household’s budget.
Like any furnace, outdoor wood furnaces are made up of a few distinct parts that have specific functions. Basic exterior wood burning furnaces are made up of a sealed firebox, a blower and doors. The doors allow access to the furnace for fire maintenance and furnace cleaning. The blower distributes the hot air, and the firebox holds the fire and wood. A large outdoor wood furnace may have additional parts and functions.