My first winter in a chilly Oregon cabin taught me a lot about staying warm. I picked the Country Hearth 2000 Wood Stove because it promised to heat my small home without breaking the bank. Boy, was it a game-changer! That first fire warmed my toes and my heart. This article shares everything I’ve learned about this stove. From what it is to how to use it, I’ll walk you through setup, tips, and tricks. Whether you’re new to wood stoves or a seasoned pro, you’ll find simple steps and fun ideas to make your home cozy.
What Is the Country Hearth 2000 Wood Stove?
The Country Hearth 2000 Wood Stove is a mid-sized, EPA-certified wood stove made by US Stove Company. It heats up to 2,000 square feet with 89,000 BTUs of power.
Why It’s Special
This stove is a champ at keeping homes warm. Its steel body and air-wash glass door make it sturdy and pretty. It fits logs up to 21 inches, so you don’t reload often. Plus, it’s eco-friendly, meeting EPA standards for clean burning. I love how it looks in my living room, like a cozy fireplace.
Who’s It For?
It’s perfect for small to medium homes, cabins, or workshops. If you want affordable heat with a classic vibe, this stove’s for you. But it’s not ideal for huge houses or folks who hate cleaning ash.
Why Choose the Country Hearth 2000 Wood Stove?
This stove is a solid pick for many reasons. It’s budget-friendly, often costing $500–$800 at places like Tractor Supply. It’s also easy to use, even for beginners like I was.
Benefits of the Country Hearth 2000
- Affordable: Costs less than many high-end stoves.
- Efficient: Heats 2,000 sq. ft. with minimal wood.
- Pretty: The arched glass door shows off the fire.
Drawbacks to Know
- Small Firebox: Holds less wood than bigger models.
- Blower Issues: Some users say the fan is weak.
- Maintenance: Needs regular cleaning to stay efficient.
I learned the hard way that seasoned firewood makes a huge difference. My first fire was a smoky flop because I used wet wood!
Setting Up Your Country Hearth 2000 Wood Stove
Installing this stove is no sweat if you follow the rules. Always check local codes and hire a pro if you’re unsure. Here’s how I set mine up.
Tools and Materials Needed
- 6-inch chimney pipe: Matches the stove’s outlet.
- Chimney brush: For cleaning.
- Stove thermometer: To check heat levels.
- Fireproof hearth pad: Protects your floor.
- Seasoned firewood: Dry for at least a year.
Visual Idea: A diagram showing the stove connected to a 6-inch chimney pipe with a labeled hearth pad.
Step-by-Step Installation
- Pick a Spot: Place it on a fireproof pad, 12 inches from walls.
- Connect the Chimney: Use a 6-inch pipe for good draft.
- Check the Seal: Ensure the door gasket is tight.
- Test the Draft: Light a small fire to check airflow.
Safety Tip: Never skip a chimney inspection. A blocked chimney can cause smoke or fires. Learn more at NFPA.org.
Lighting Your First Fire
Lighting the Country Hearth 2000 is a breeze once you get the hang of it. My first try was messy, but now it’s a piece of cake.
Steps to Light a Fire
- Open the Damper: Let air flow freely.
- Stack Kindling: Use small, dry sticks in a crisscross pattern.
- Add Newspaper: Crumple a few sheets under the kindling.
- Light It Up: Keep the door cracked for a minute.
- Add Logs: Once kindling burns, add 2–3 logs.
Visual Idea: A simple sketch of kindling stacked in a firebox with arrows showing airflow.
Tip: Keep stove top temps between 350–700°F for best results. A thermometer helps!
Maintaining Your Country Hearth 2000 Wood Stove
Keeping your stove in tip-top shape is key to warm winters. I clean mine every few weeks, and it runs like a dream.
Cleaning Tips
- Empty Ashes: Remove ashes when cold, every 2–3 days.
- Clean the Glass: Use a damp cloth with ash to wipe the door.
- Check Gaskets: Replace if they’re loose or frayed.
Maintenance Schedule
Here’s a simple table to track upkeep:
| Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Empty ashes | Every 2–3 days | Use a metal bucket. |
| Clean chimney | Yearly | Hire a pro if needed. |
| Check door gasket | Monthly | Look for cracks or wear. |
Caption: Maintenance tasks to keep your Country Hearth 2000 running smoothly.
Visual Idea: A checklist graphic for stove maintenance tasks.
Pro Tip: Buy replacement parts like gaskets from Stove Parts Unlimited to save money.
Comparing Fuel Types for Your Stove
The wood you burn matters. I’ve tried different types, and here’s what works best.
Fuel Comparison Table
| Fuel Type | Burn Time | Heat Output | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oak | Long (6–8 hrs) Hawkins) | High | Moderate |
| Pine | Short (3–4 hrs) | Medium | Low |
| Mixed Hardwood | Medium (4–6 hrs) | High | Moderate |
Caption: Comparing common firewood types for the Country Hearth 2000 Wood Stove.
Tip: Oak burns longer and hotter, but pine is cheaper if you’re on a budget.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve made plenty of goofs with my stove. Here are pitfalls to dodge:
- Wet Wood: Causes smoke and creosote buildup.
- Overfiring: Makes the stove glow red and damages parts.
- Skipping Chimney Cleaning: Blocks draft and risks fires.
Safety Tip: Always use a metal ash bucket. Hot ashes in a plastic bin started a small fire in my garage once!
Alternatives to the Country Hearth 2000
If this stove isn’t right for you, consider these options:
- Pleasant Hearth 1800: Smaller, great for tiny spaces.
- Drolet Myriad: Bigger firebox, longer burns.
- Jotul F602: Pricey but super durable.
Check Hearth.com for user reviews on these models.
My Personal Tips for Cozy Fires
After years with my Country Hearth 2000, I’ve got some tricks up my sleeve.
- Split Wood Small: Smaller logs burn faster and hotter.
- Use a Fan: A room fan boosts heat circulation.
- Store Wood Right: Keep it covered and off the ground.
These tips turned my cabin into a toasty haven!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Country Hearth 2000 Wood Stove?
The Country Hearth 2000 is a mid-sized wood stove that heats up to 2,000 sq. ft. It’s EPA-certified, burns clean, and has a glass door for fire viewing.
How Do I Clean My Country Hearth 2000 Wood Stove?
Empty ashes every few days using a metal bucket. Wipe the glass with a damp cloth and ash. Clean the chimney yearly to keep it safe.
What Wood Works Best in This Stove?
Seasoned oak or mixed hardwoods burn longest and hottest. Avoid wet wood to prevent smoke and creosote buildup in the chimney.
Why Is My Stove Smoking?
Smoking usually means wet wood or a blocked chimney. Check your wood’s dryness and have your chimney cleaned by a professional.
Can I Use It in a Mobile Home?
Yes, it’s approved for mobile homes with an outside air intake kit. Check local codes and follow the manual’s setup guide.
How Long Does a Fire Last?
With dry oak, a fire lasts 4–6 hours. Add 2–3 logs every 4 hours in dampened mode to keep it going overnight.
Where Can I Buy Replacement Parts?
Find gaskets, doors, and blowers at sites like Stove Parts Unlimited or FireplaceBlowersOnline. Check your stove’s model number first.
Conclusion
The Country Hearth 2000 Wood Stove is a cozy, budget-friendly way to heat your home. It’s easy to use, looks great, and keeps you warm with the right wood and care. Try lighting a small fire this weekend to feel that glow! Share your own stove stories or tips in the comments—I’d love to hear them. Let’s keep the fire burning!