How is wood-burning equipment sized?

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.