Because of the high costs of energy, people are now looking for alternate heating sources. One of the most practical solutions is to build a wood stove.
Required Tools and Materials
Wood
Old electric water heater (30 to 50 gallon capacity)
Welding tools
Drill
Cutting tool
Damper
Stove paint
Wood
Get the electric water heater ready. The gallon capacities mentioned are just suggestions; you can use others if you like. Check the inner tank and be certain it is not corroded or rusty. You have to remove the steel wrapper to see it.
Step 2
Put the heater tank on its side. Get the welding tool and weld the legs. Turn over the stove. Saw off a part of the heater’s top end (one end only). Turn this upside down. Now weld this back into position.
Step 3
To build a wood stove, you have to weld flat steel part on the upside down piece. Weld the vertical portions too. This will produce an air channel and flat cook surface. Make a hole close to the part where the air will go through the channel. This will heat the unit and the area around it.
Step 4
Drill a hole near the stove top’s rear. Create a cover that is joined to a metal rod. You should be able to close and open it. Do not forget to make a damper that you can handle if required.
Step 5
Drill a hole close to the stove’s rear back. This is where the air will go through via a pipe. This way the air won’t pass through the base or windows. This intake has to be managed by a lever.
Step 6
Put a damper on the chimney pipe. This is where the gases will go through. The gas will also go through the chimney pipe at the back.
Step 7
The final step is to paint the wood stove. You can choose any color you like. After you apply a coating, let it dry before you add another one. Painting won’t just make the stove more attractive; it will also prolong the life of the metal.
Tips and Warnings
Make sure you paint in a well ventilated place. If necessary, open the electric fan so there is fresh air. You can wear a mask if you want.
After you build a wood stove, you can start using it. Just make sure that you take all precautions when handling the power tools.
