Installing an external wood-fired stove for your outdoor bath can be a game-changer, offering a sustainable, relaxing, and rustic way to heat your water. But in order for it to work efficiently and safely, the stove must be connected correctly. Hereโs what you need to know to ensure a proper setup and avoid serious issues down the line.
Understand How the Stove Works
External wood-fired hot tub stoves operate on a natural convection principle. This means they donโt use any pumpsโwater flows through the system due to temperature-driven circulation. Cold water enters the stove, heats up, and then rises into the bath as warm water. This process depends entirely on gravity and heat, so every connection and angle matters.
Know Your Connections
Your stove has two key connections:
- Lower Connection: This is where cold water from the bath enters the stove.
- Upper Connection: This is where hot water exits the stove and flows back into the bath.
The success of this natural flow depends on correct positioning and installation.
Installation Guidelines for Proper Function
To make sure your system functions properly:
1. Position the Stove Close Enough
The stove must be no more than 80 cm away from the bath. Any further, and the convection flow weakens significantly, reducing heating efficiency and potentially putting stress on the system. If a greater distance is required, one must install a water circulation pump.
2. Maintain a Slight Upward Angle
The upper (hot water) connection must rise slightly toward the bath. This incline is essential to support the natural upward flow of hot water. If the pipe runs level or downward, water may stagnate or reverse, stopping circulation.
3. Secure and Seal Connections
Make sure all hoses or pipes are tightly connected and properly sealed to prevent leaks or air from entering the system, which can disrupt the flow.
Why Getting It Right Matters
Failing to follow these guidelines can have serious consequences:
- Obstructed Water Flow: Without the correct slope or distance, water may not circulate.
- Inefficient Heating: The bath will take much longer to warm up, or may not heat at all.
- Increased Pressure on the Stove: Poor flow can trap hot water, leading to pressure buildup. Over time, this stress can damage or even break the stove.
Final Check
Before lighting your stove for the first time, double-check:
- Is the cold water entering from the lower connection?
- Does the hot water return via the upper connection with a slight upward angle?
- Is the distance between the stove and the bath 80 cm or less?
If the answer to all of these is yes, you’re set for a safe, efficient, and enjoyable experience with your wood-fired stove.
