Outdoor Wood Furnace Owner Manual

The Outdoor Wood Furnace is an efficient heating system designed for residential use, featuring high-efficiency combustion, automatic temperature control, durable steel construction, water jacket heat exchanger, integrated circulation pump, safety pressure relief valve, ash removal system, and weather-resistant housing. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting to Home System 7. Operation 8. Maintenance 9. Safety Features 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Steel combustion chamber, Heat exchanger, Circulation pump, Temperature control, Ash door, Chimney system, Water inlet/outlet ports.

FeatureDescription
Combustion chamberHeavy-duty steel construction for efficient wood burning
Heat exchangerWater jacket design for maximum heat transfer
Circulation pumpMoves heated water to home heating system
Temperature controlAutomatic draft control maintains optimal temperature
Ash doorEasy access for ash removal and cleaning
Chimney systemStainless steel with spark arrestor
Water portsStandard 1-1/4" connections for home system
Pressure relief valveSafety release for overpressure conditions
Weather housingPowder-coated steel for outdoor durability
ThermometerBuilt-in water temperature gauge

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Choose level location with proper clearance.

  1. Site preparation: Level concrete pad minimum 4" thick, 3 feet clearance from combustibles.
  2. Chimney installation: Assemble sections per manual; secure with braces if over 5 feet.
  3. Water connections: Connect to home heating system using insulated pipes.
  4. Electrical connection: Connect to dedicated 120V GFCI outlet.
  5. Fill system: Add water and antifreeze mixture as required.

WARNING! Professional installation recommended. Follow local building codes and obtain permits.

First-Time Setup

Complete installation checks before initial firing.

  1. Water level check: Ensure system is properly filled and bled of air.
  2. Draft control: Set to automatic mode for initial operation.
  3. Initial firing: Use small, dry wood for first burn to cure paint.
  4. Temperature setting: Adjust thermostat to desired home temperature.
  5. Circulation check: Verify pump is operating and water is circulating.

CAUTION! Do not overfire during first use. Allow paint to cure properly.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access controls via front control panel. Draft Control: Automatic/manual settings. Temperature Control: Adjustable thermostat.

Control Panel: POWER switch, TEMPERATURE dial, DRAFT control, PUMP switch, PRESSURE gauge, TEMPERATURE gauge.

Temperature Settings: Adjust from 140°F to 180°F. Draft Control: Automatic maintains optimal burn; manual for specific conditions. Pump Control: Continuous or thermostat-controlled operation. Safety: Pressure relief valve (30 PSI), high-limit switch.

Connecting to Home System

Compatible with forced air furnaces, radiant floor systems, domestic water heaters.

  1. Turn off main power and water supply before connections.
  2. Connect supply and return lines using insulated pipes.
  3. Install isolation valves for maintenance access.
  4. Connect to existing boiler as primary or backup heat source.
  5. Bleed air from system after filling.

Tip: Use heat transfer fluid with antifreeze in cold climates.

Operation

Designed for efficient wood heating with proper fuel and operation.

  1. Loading: Open door, load with seasoned hardwood (moisture < 20%).
  2. Starting: Use kindling and paper; avoid accelerants.
  3. Temperature control: Automatic draft maintains set temperature.
  4. Refueling: Add wood as needed; avoid overfilling.
  5. Ash removal: Remove ashes when 2-3 inches accumulate.
  6. Seasonal operation: Drain system if not used in freezing temperatures.

WARNING! Use only seasoned wood. Never burn garbage or treated wood.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

CAUTION! Allow furnace to cool completely before maintenance. Wear protective gear.

Safety Features

Multiple safety systems protect against hazardous conditions.

FeatureFunction
Pressure relief valveReleases pressure above 30 PSI
High-limit switchShuts down system at 200°F
Door interlockPrevents opening during operation
Spark arrestorPrevents chimney sparks
GroundingElectrical safety ground

Regulatory Information

EPA Phase 2 Certified for emissions. UL listed components. Meets ASTM standards for outdoor heating appliances. Copyright © 2025 Outdoor Heating Systems; all rights reserved. For support, visit www.outdoorwoodfurnace.com or contact 1-800-555-HEAT.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No heat outputAir in system/pump failureBleed air from system; check pump operation and power.
Poor combustionWet wood/draft issuesUse seasoned wood; clean chimney; check draft control.
Water leaksLoose connections/gasket failureTighten connections; replace gaskets; check pressure.
High pressureOverheating/expansion tankCheck temperature setting; verify expansion tank function.
Smoke in fireboxChimney blockageClean chimney; check for obstructions.

Reset: Turn power off/on to reset control system.

Service: 1-800-555-HEAT; www.outdoorwoodfurnace.com

Outdoor Wood Furnace Owner Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025