DA-88-11-3 -- In Situ Wood Heat Monitoring: Evaluation of Measured Heat Output and Field Efficiency PDF

Infrared radiometers were used to measure the heat output of 100 wood stoves during two heating seasons in homes weatherized by the Hood River Conservation Project. Radiometer readings were correlated to stove heat output using shape factor analysis and the results of calorimeter room tests. The monitoring methodology is described, and the measured heat output is compared with energy estimates based upon the reported wood consumption in these houses. The field efficiencies computed for 35 stoves for both heating seasons were surprisingly lower than the efficiencies expected from laboratory measurement, averaging only 32% in the first year and 23% in the second year. Possible causes for this discrepancy are discussed.

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