Whether you need a primary stove for heating a room, an insert to boost an existing fireplace, or a smokeless outdoor heater for patios, this guide reviews top wood-burning space heaters and fire pits. Below is a quick comparison of the selected models and their standout features.
| Product | Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Atlas Authentic Wood Pellet Patio Heater | Pellet Patio Heater | Smokeless Flame, Portable with Wheels |
| Ashley Hearth Pedestal Wood Burning Stove | Freestanding Wood Stove | 68,000 BTU, Fires Up To 1,200 Sq. Ft. |
| Cuisinart 24” Cleanburn Fire Pit | Outdoor Fire Pit | Double-Wall Smokeless Design |
| Buck Stove Fireplace Insert Model 21 | Fireplace Insert | Non-Catalytic, 28,901 BTU, Blower Included |
| Rayzi 58 Inch Pellet Stove Patio Heater | Pellet Patio Heater | Triple-Burn Smokeless Technology, Spiral Flame |
Content Navigation
- Atlas Authentic Wood Pellet Patio Heater
- Ashley Hearth Pedestal Wood Burning Stove
- Cuisinart 24” Cleanburn Smokeless Fire Pit
- Buck Stove Fireplace Insert Model 21
- Rayzi 58 Inch Pellet Stove Patio Heater
- Buying Guide: Choosing A Wood Burning Space Heater
- Heat Output And Coverage
- Type Of Unit
- Fuel And Efficiency
- Emissions And Smoke Management
- Installation And Venting
- Materials, Durability, And Maintenance
- Portability And Placement
- Safety Features
- Noise And Air Movement
- Ambiance And Visual Appeal
- Local Regulations And Codes
- Cost Of Ownership
- Comparison Perspectives
Atlas Authentic Wood Pellet Patio Heater
Type: Portable Pellet Patio Heater. This unit uses pellets for fuel and emphasizes a low-smoke flame for outdoor comfort. The design includes built-in wheels for mobility and simple assembly that can be completed in minutes. The product features smokeless flame technology, intended to reduce airborne particulates compared with open wood fires.
Suitable For: Outdoor patios, camping, or garden use where portability and reduced smoke are priorities. Consider local regulations for pellet fire devices and ensure stable placement on level ground.
Ashley Hearth Pedestal Wood Burning Stove
Type: Freestanding Wood Stove. Rated at 68,000 BTUs, this EPA-certified stove is designed to heat up to about 1,200 square feet. The firebrick lining improves combustion efficiency and protects the stove body, while a large ash pan simplifies cleanup. The firebox accepts logs up to 18 inches.
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Suitable For: Primary indoor heating for medium-sized rooms or open-plan areas. Requires proper installation clearance, chimney or venting compatible with pellet/wood appliances, and adherence to local building codes and EPA recommendations.
Cuisinart 24” Cleanburn Smokeless Fire Pit
Type: Portable Outdoor Fire Pit. The double-wall construction creates improved airflow for cleaner combustion and less smoke. Bottom vents and curved walls enhance oxygen flow for fast ignition and efficient burning of wood logs up to 18″. Constructed of stainless steel components with an enamel-coated exterior.
Suitable For: Backyard gatherings and outdoor heating where reduced smoke and easy cleanup are desired. The removable base for ash makes maintenance straightforward; handle portability considerations and ensure placement away from combustible structures.
Buck Stove Fireplace Insert Model 21
Type: Non-Catalytic Fireplace Insert. Produces up to 28,901 BTUs and is designed to heat areas up to approximately 1,800 square feet. Includes a heat-activated blower to circulate warmed air. Offers customizable trim kits to conceal installation gaps and match decor.
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Suitable For: Homeowners looking to upgrade an existing masonry fireplace to an efficient insert. Installation should be performed per manufacturer instructions and local codes; clearances, flue compatibility, and proper venting are critical to safety and performance.
Rayzi 58 Inch Pellet Stove Patio Heater
Type: Pellet Patio Heater With Visual Flame. Features a spiral or tornado-like flame effect visible through extended glass piping and a triple-burn system for cleaner combustion. The hopper capacity and burn system are designed to provide continuous warmth for extended outdoor sessions with minimal smoke.
Suitable For: Outdoor spaces where both ambiance and cleaner-burning performance matter. Pellet fuel availability, hopper capacity, and safe outdoor placement should be considered before use.
Buying Guide: Choosing A Wood Burning Space Heater
This buying guide outlines the most important factors to compare when selecting a wood burning space heater for indoor or outdoor use.
Heat Output And Coverage
BTU Ratings Or Square Foot Coverage: For indoor stoves and inserts, compare BTU output and manufacturer-stated coverage area. Larger BTUs indicate greater heat potential but also require more fuel and adequate ventilation.
Type Of Unit
- Freestanding Wood Stoves: Best for dedicated heating inside homes; require clearances and chimney connections.
- Fireplace Inserts: Upgrade masonry fireplaces for efficiency and reduced heat loss.
- Pellet Patio Heaters & Fire Pits: Designed for outdoor ambiance and warmth; many advertise smokeless or low-smoke combustion for comfort.
Fuel And Efficiency
Wood Vs. Pellets: Firewood is widely available but varies in moisture and heat output. Pellets are uniform, easier to store, and often offer cleaner combustion in pellet-specific units. Look for EPA certification or specific low-smoke technologies if emissions are a concern.
Emissions And Smoke Management
Smokeless Designs And Enhanced Airflow: Double-wall constructions, triple-burn technology, and improved airflow reduce smoke and particulates. For outdoor units, smokeless or low-smoke features increase comfort for groups and neighbors.
Installation And Venting
Chimney Or Flue Requirements: Indoor stoves and inserts require proper venting and professional installation to meet safety codes. Outdoor units need stable, non-combustible placement and sufficient clearance from structures.
Materials, Durability, And Maintenance
Construction Materials: Cast iron, steel with firebrick lining, and stainless steel are common. Consider ash collection systems, removable trays, and ease of cleaning when comparing models.
Portability And Placement
Weight, Wheels, And Handles: Patio heaters and fire pits often prioritize portability with wheels or integrated handles. Indoor units are heavier and typically fixed in place.
Safety Features
- Auto Shut-Off/Tip-Over Protection: Relevant mostly for electric and some pellet units, but always consider protective guards and proper clearances.
- Cool-To-Touch Surfaces: Electric fireplaces and some enclosed inserts offer cooler exterior faces; freestanding wood stoves will radiate high surface temperatures.
Noise And Air Movement
Blowers And Fans: Inserts and some stoves include blowers to distribute heat; consider noise level and maintenance of the blower. Heat-powered fans circulate warm air without electricity but depend on appliance surface temperature.
Ambiance And Visual Appeal
Flame Appearance And Viewing Area: Glass doors, spiral flames, or realistic log effects are aesthetic factors that influence the choice. For outdoor entertaining, flame visuals may be as important as heat output.
Local Regulations And Codes
Permits And Emissions Rules: Check local ordinances for open burning, pellet devices, and indoor wood stove installations. EPA certifications and manufacturer installation manuals provide guidance for compliant setups.
Cost Of Ownership
Fuel Costs, Chimney Service, And Routine Maintenance: Factor in ongoing costs such as wood or pellets, chimney cleaning for creosote removal, and periodic stove service when comparing long-term value.
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
- Prioritize Quality Over Cost
The most critical factor in any HVAC project is the quality of the installation. Don’t compromise on contractor expertise just to save money. - Check for Rebates
Always research current rebates and incentives — they can significantly reduce your overall cost. - Compare Multiple Quotes
Request at least three estimates before making your choice. You can click here to get three free quotes from local professionals. These quotes include available rebates and tax credits and automatically exclude unqualified contractors. - Negotiate Smartly
Once you've chosen a contractor, use the proven strategies from our guide — How Homeowners Can Negotiate with HVAC Dealers — to get the best possible final price.
Comparison Perspectives
- Indoor Heating Efficiency: Freestanding stoves and inserts with EPA certification typically offer the best heat performance for interior spaces.
- Outdoor Comfort: Pellet patio heaters and smokeless fire pits prioritize low smoke and portability for gatherings.
- Installation Complexity: Inserts and freestanding stoves require professional installation; portable fire pits and pellet heaters are often plug-and-play outdoors.
- Environmental Impact: Pellet systems and cleanburn designs reduce particulate emissions compared with open wood fires.