The literature on wood-burning fireplaces, stoves and inserts will provide lots of information. Included with these details will be the size of the firebox. The size of the firebox in wood-burning equipment is expressed in “cubic feet”. The larger the number, the bigger the firebox. And a larger firebox means longer burn times and more heat. Generally speaking, a small firebox for a fireplace, stove or insert will be 1.7 cu/ft or less. A medium size firebox will 1.8 – 2.5 cu/ft. And most dealers think a larger firebox are those over 2.6 cu/ft.
Manufacturers will also tag an approximate number on square footage. Small fireboxes often will heat up to 1400 sq/ft., medium up to 2000 sq/ft. and large fireboxes over 2000 sq/ft. Obviously, there are many, many variables that will greatly affect the heating requirements of your home. That’s why you will see the words “up to” in the product brochures.
