Wood Stoves Cat vs non cat

When you purchase wood stoves, there are a number of elements to take into consideration: size, BTU, area where the wood stove will be located, venting options, freestanding vs. insert, style, etc., just to name a few. One other important factor which only a few realizes is whether or not to go with Non-catalytic wood stoves or Catalytic wood stoves. There are both unique advantages and disadvantages with either options, but first let us explore the difference between the two.

Non-catalytic wood stoves utilize a secondary combustion air (or air injection) brought out from the top of the stove via a stainless steel tube to burn the gas emitted from the wood. For the most part, these wood stoves achieve a great reduction in terms of emission. However, due to the introduction of the secondary air, the downside of Non-catalytic wood stoves is they do not achieve “overnight burn”.

Catalytic wood stoves also achieve emission reduction via smoke passing through a catalytic converter or combustor. The purpose of the catalyst is to lower the heating temperature so the smoke will not turn into flame which is usually at 1100 degrees. The catalyst lowers the temperature to approximately 500-550 degrees while the smoke passes through a ceramic honeycomb and burn at half the temperature safely. Essentially what this means is Catalytic wood stoves will burn in an air-tight condition allowing longer burn time, achieving almost-ideal overnight burn. Even as the fire slows down and temperature reaches 400-450 degrees, it will still utilize the smoke and retain the heat.

Although most people regard Catalytic wood stoves as less durable or more prone to breakdowns, one just has to keep in mind to maintain longer lifetime for these stoves, proper usage is a must. Essentially only using WOOD as a burning material. The catalyst itself will last for about 6 years to a decade and replacements usually range from $150 to $300 and it usually depends on the size and model. In addition, it is preferable to use dry wood instead of wet wood since wet wood requires longer pre-heating time.

As for Non-catalytic wood stoves, since they are based on air-injection method, burning time will not last as long as Catalytic wood stoves and would probably use up more wood making them somewhat less efficient or convenient. However, since Non-catalytic wood stoves require no other major component, operation is pretty straightforward and seldom has any trouble if used correctly.

Finally, the choice between Non-Catalytic wood stoves or Catalytic wood stoves ultimately depends on the buyer’s preference. There are pros and cons for either one. Research and understanding the difference is the key. Just remember, both Non-Catalytic wood stoves and Catalytic wood stoves will only achieve highest performance with correct operation and regular maintenance including annual professional chimney sweeps.