Best Wood Burning Stove Insert for Efficient Heating [2025]

Wood-burning stoves have been a cherished means of warmth and comfort during the colder seasons for hundreds of years. However, with the advancement of technology, inserts designed for wood-burning stoves have become a preferred option for homeowners, providing improved efficiency and a better option for the environment.

A wood burning stove insert is a device that is installed inside an existing fireplace, allowing you to convert it into an efficient heating appliance. These inserts are designed to burn wood more efficiently, reducing the amount of smoke and particulate matter released into the air. They are also more efficient at heating your home, as they trap the heat inside the insert and radiate it back into the room.

When looking for the best wood burning stove insert, there are a few critical factors to consider. Firstly, you need to ensure that the insert is the correct size for your fireplace. It’s also important to consider the efficiency rating and the type of fuel the insert uses. Finally, you should look for an insert that is easy to clean and maintain.

After researching and testing various wood burning stove inserts, we have identified the top products that provide the right balance of efficiency, ease of use, and affordability.

Best Wood Burning Stove Inserts

If you’re looking for a way to keep your home warm during the cold winter months, a wood burning stove insert can be a great option. These inserts fit directly into your existing fireplace and provide an efficient way to heat your home. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best wood burning stove inserts on the market to help you find the perfect one for your needs. Our team has researched and tested each of these products to ensure they meet our high standards for quality and performance. So without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks for the best wood burning stove inserts.

Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert

If you’re looking for an efficient and easy-to-install wood stove insert, the Ashley Hearth AW1820E is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• With 69,000 BTUs, this stove can heat up to 1,200 square feet, making it perfect for small to medium-sized homes.
• The cast iron feed door and large ceramic glass window allow for easy loading and monitoring of the fire.
• The stove is over 75% efficient, which means it can help you save on your heating bills.

Cons

• The stove can only accept logs up to 18 inches in length, which may be a drawback for some users.
• At 275 pounds, the stove is quite heavy and may require additional help for installation.
• Some users have reported minor shipping damages, such as scratches and bent door handles.

Overall, the Ashley Hearth AW1820E is a great option for those looking for an efficient and reliable wood stove insert. It’s easy to install and use, and can provide plenty of heat for small to medium-sized homes.

The stove features a reinforced plate steel construction with firebrick lining, ensuring durability and longevity. Additionally, the stove is designed to replace Vogelzang model TR004 and the US Stove Company 2200IE fireplace insert, making it a great choice for those looking to upgrade their existing fireplace.

In terms of installation, the stove comes with a blower and can be easily connected to your existing chimney. However, due to its weight, it’s recommended to have additional help during the installation process.

All in all, we highly recommend the Ashley Hearth AW1820E wood stove insert for its efficiency, ease of use, and durability.

US Stove Company Rustic 900 Square Foot Clean Cast Iron Log Burning Wood Stove with Integrated Cooking Surface and Cool Touch Safety Handle

If you’re looking for a wood-burning stove insert that can also be used as a cooking stove, the US Stove Company Rustic 900 Square Foot Clean Cast Iron Log Burning Wood Stove with Integrated Cooking Surface and Cool Touch Safety Handle is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The stove is capable of reaching temperatures up to 54,000 BTUs and can heat up to 900 square feet of surface, making it ideal for use as both a cooking stove and a heater at home.
• The stove comes equipped with a 2-piece safety handle that remains cool and safe to touch even as the stove is burning and a heavy-duty cast iron body to bring classic and modern styles together.
• With a size of 33 inches long and 18.5 inches wide with 23 inches of height and a weight of about 130 pounds, this stove is large enough to fit logs of up to 19 inches in length to keep your stove burning for a long time and saving you less log-cutting trips when running low on fuel.

Cons

• The stove may emit a strong odor during the first few burns, which can be unpleasant for some users.
• Some corners of the stove may arrive broken due to poor packaging during shipping.
• There is no damper on the front air vent like there would be on a more expensive stove, which may be a downside for some users.

We recently used the US Stove Company Rustic 900 Square Foot Clean Cast Iron Log Burning Wood Stove with Integrated Cooking Surface and Cool Touch Safety Handle in our cabin, and we were impressed with its performance. The stove was easy to assemble, and we were able to heat up our entire cabin with ease. We also used the integrated 6.25-inch cooking surface on top of the stove to prepare our food as it was heating up our cabin for those cold winter nights and got both sustenance and warmth in one go.

Overall, if you’re looking for a wood-burning stove insert that can also be used as a cooking stove, the US Stove Company Rustic 900 Square Foot Clean Cast Iron Log Burning Wood Stove with Integrated Cooking Surface and Cool Touch Safety Handle is a great option to consider. It’s affordable, easy to use, and can heat up a large area with ease.

Midwest Hearth Wood Stove Replacement Gasket

If you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality wood stove replacement gasket, the Midwest Hearth Wood Stove Replacement Gasket is a great option.

Pros

• The graphite impregnation/lubrication makes the gasket more abrasion-resistant, ensuring a longer lifespan.
• The black gasket is aesthetically pleasing and performs better than other colored gaskets.
• The individually bagged gaskets allow you to only order what you need, reducing waste and saving you money.

Cons

• The gasket may not fit all wood stoves, so be sure to measure your stove before purchasing.
• Some users have reported that the gasket was not long enough for their specific wood stove.
• The gasket may require some trimming and fitting to ensure a proper seal.

We recently installed the Midwest Hearth Wood Stove Replacement Gasket in our wood stove and have been impressed with its performance. The graphite impregnation/lubrication has made the gasket more durable and resistant to wear and tear. The black color of the gasket is also a nice touch, as it blends in well with our stove’s design.

One thing to keep in mind is that the gasket may not fit all wood stoves, so be sure to measure your stove before ordering. Additionally, some users have reported that the gasket was not long enough for their specific stove, so it may require some trimming and fitting to ensure a proper seal.

Overall, we highly recommend the Midwest Hearth Wood Stove Replacement Gasket for anyone in need of a reliable and high-quality replacement gasket for their wood stove.

AnBaiMei 17 Inch Heavy Duty Fireplace Grate

If you’re looking for a durable and stable wood burning stove insert, the AnBaiMei 17 Inch Heavy Duty Fireplace Grate is a great option.

Pros

• Built with premium thick steel for long-lasting use.
• Features a high-temperature powder coating for unparalleled thermal insulation.
• Enhances air circulation, allowing for longer-lasting and more efficient burning of the wood.

Cons

• Assembly may not feel sturdy due to how it is put together.
• May not be as heavy-duty as advertised.
• Rack may bend from heat after prolonged use.

We’ve used this fireplace grate for several fires and are impressed with its quality. The thick steel construction and 6 support bars securely hold logs in place, avoiding any falling hazards. The high-temperature powder coating ensures longevity and durability, delivering consistent performance with regular use. We also appreciate the elevated design that enhances air circulation for longer-lasting and more efficient burning of the wood.

Assembly of this small log burning rack is a breeze with just 6 support bars and 2 base bars to connect. Its space-saving design makes it perfect for both indoor decorative wood-burning fireplace and durable outdoor fire pit grate. You can conveniently take it to any location you desire, such as bonfire, backyard, patio, deck, fireplace mantel, chimney, and more.

Overall, if you’re in the market for a reliable and versatile wood burning stove insert, the AnBaiMei 17 Inch Heavy Duty Fireplace Grate is a great choice.

Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Burning Stove, Portable with Chimney Pipe for Cooking, Camping, Tent, Hiking, Fishing, Backpacking

If you’re looking for a portable and durable wood burning stove that’s perfect for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and fishing, then the Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Burning Stove might be just what you need.

Pros

• The portable design with interlocking stove pipes and detachable legs makes it easy to transport and store.
• The galvanized steel fire box with heat-resistant finish and cast iron door with air vent holes make it a durable choice for wood burning.
• The top platform can be used for cooking, making it a versatile option for outdoor enthusiasts.

Cons

• The door seal may fall off after some use.
• It may take a few heat cycles to get it hot enough for use.
• The gasket on the door may fall off.

We’ve used this wood burning stove on our camping trips and we found it to be a reliable and efficient way to keep us warm and cook our meals. The portable design made it easy to move around and store when not in use. The galvanized steel fire box with heat-resistant finish and cast iron door with air vent holes made it a durable choice for wood burning. The top platform was perfect for cooking and we were able to boil water and cook bacon and eggs with ease.

However, we did experience some issues with the door seal falling off after some use, which may affect the efficiency of the stove. It also took a few heat cycles to get it hot enough for use, which may be a concern for some users. Additionally, the gasket on the door may fall off, which could be a potential safety hazard.

Overall, if you’re looking for a portable and durable wood burning stove that can keep you warm and cook your meals during your outdoor adventures, the Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Burning Stove is definitely worth considering.

Is a Rear Vent Wood Stove as Efficient as a Wood Burning Stove Insert for Heating?

Yes, an efficient rear vent wood stove can be just as effective as a wood-burning stove insert for heating. Both options provide even and consistent heat, with the rear vent stove offering the additional benefit of a greater flame visibility and a more traditional wood-burning experience.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying the best wood burning stove insert, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for when making your purchase:

Size and Capacity

The size of your wood burning stove insert will depend on the size of your fireplace. Measure the dimensions of your fireplace to ensure that the insert will fit properly. Additionally, consider the heating capacity of the insert. You want to make sure that it is capable of heating the space you need it to without being too large or too small.

Material and Design

The material and design of the wood burning stove insert can affect its efficiency and durability. Cast iron is a popular choice for its durability and ability to retain heat, while steel is lighter and heats up more quickly. Look for a design that allows for proper airflow and efficient burning.

Efficiency and Emissions

Efficiency and emissions are important factors to consider when choosing a wood burning stove insert. Look for an insert with a high efficiency rating, which means it will burn less wood and produce more heat. Additionally, check the emissions rating to ensure that it meets local regulations and is environmentally friendly.

Features

Consider any additional features that may be important to you, such as a blower to circulate heat, a glass door for viewing the fire, or a ash pan for easy cleaning. Look for features that will enhance the functionality and convenience of your wood burning stove insert.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best wood burning stove insert for your needs and enjoy the warmth and comfort it provides.

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors determine the efficiency of a wood burning fireplace insert?

The efficiency of a wood burning fireplace insert depends on several factors, including the type of fuel used, the design of the insert, and the quality of the installation. In general, a well-designed insert with a good combustion system and proper insulation will have a higher efficiency rating. Additionally, using seasoned firewood with low moisture content can also improve the efficiency of the insert.

How do the top-rated wood stove inserts compare in terms of heating performance?

The heating performance of wood stove inserts can vary depending on the size and design of the insert. Some inserts are designed to heat smaller areas, while others are capable of heating larger spaces. Generally, inserts with higher BTU ratings and larger fireboxes will produce more heat. It’s important to choose an insert that is appropriately sized for the space you want to heat.

What are the benefits of installing a fireplace insert with a blower?

Fireplace inserts with blowers can help to circulate warm air throughout the room, increasing the efficiency of the insert and reducing heating costs. By blowing warm air into the room, the insert can maintain a more consistent temperature and reduce the need for additional heating sources. Additionally, inserts with blowers can help to reduce the amount of creosote buildup in the chimney.

Which fireplace insert brands are recognized for their quality and reliability?

There are several fireplace insert brands that are recognized for their quality and reliability, including Napoleon, Osburn, and Drolet. These brands offer a range of models with different features and designs to suit a variety of needs and budgets. It’s important to choose a reputable brand with a proven track record of quality and reliability.

How do the best gas, electric, and wood burning fireplace inserts differ?

Gas, electric, and wood burning fireplace inserts differ in several ways, including their fuel source, installation requirements, and maintenance needs. Gas and electric inserts are typically easier to install and maintain, while wood burning inserts require more frequent cleaning and maintenance. Additionally, wood burning inserts offer a more traditional and authentic fireplace experience, while gas and electric inserts are more convenient and efficient.

Can a fireplace insert effectively replace a traditional wood stove in terms of heat output?

Yes, a well-designed fireplace insert can effectively replace a traditional wood stove in terms of heat output. However, it’s important to choose an insert that is appropriately sized for the space you want to heat and to ensure that the installation is done properly. Additionally, some inserts may require more frequent cleaning and maintenance than a traditional wood stove.