Woodstock Soapstone Progress Hybrid Wood Stove Review

In the realm of home heating, the Progress Hybrid Wood Stove stands out as a groundbreaking innovation. Introduced in 2011, this EPA 2020 Certified stove has revolutionized the industry by combining both a catalytic combustor and a secondary combustion system. This hybrid approach offers homeowners the best of both worlds, ensuring complete combustion, high efficiency, and ultra-low emissions.

Unmatched Efficiency and Performance

The Progress Hybrid Wood Stove truly sets the bar high in terms of efficiency and performance. With an outstanding efficiency rating of 78.5% HHV and 84.4% LHV, it stands as one of the most efficient wood stoves available today. Its prowess in heating large homes, capable of comfortably warming spaces up to 2200 square feet, is a testament to its superior design and engineering.

One of the most remarkable features of the Progress Hybrid Wood Stove is its ultra-low emission rate, measuring at just 0.63 gm/hr. This low emission rate is not only a boon for the environment, reducing the carbon footprint of home heating, but it also speaks volumes about the advanced technology employed in this stove. By minimizing the release of particulates, the stove ensures a cleaner, healthier air quality around your home.

Moreover, the stove’s long burn time, ranging from 10 to 14 hours, underscores its efficiency and practicality. This extended burn time means less frequent reloading of wood, offering convenience and uninterrupted warmth. This is especially beneficial during colder nights or in regions with harsh winters, as it guarantees a consistent and reliable source of heat.

Innovative Hybrid Technology

At the heart of the Progress Hybrid Wood Stove’s exceptional performance is its innovative hybrid technology, a pioneering advancement in the realm of wood-burning stoves. This stove distinguishes itself by integrating two distinct combustion systems – a catalytic combustor and a secondary combustion system – in a single unit.

The catalytic combustor is a critical component of this hybrid system. It activates at relatively low internal temperatures, around 500 degrees Fahrenheit. This early activation allows the stove to start the combustion process at lower temperatures, making it more efficient in the initial phase of burning. The combustor works by breaking down the compounds in wood smoke, facilitating complete combustion, thereby reducing emissions and increasing heat output.

In contrast, the secondary combustion system comes into play at higher temperatures, approximately 1000 degrees Fahrenheit. This system is designed to handle the exhaust gases and unburnt particles from the primary combustion phase. By reigniting these elements, the secondary system maximizes the energy extracted from the wood, ensuring that every last BTU is utilized effectively.

The synergy between the catalytic combustor and the secondary combustion system results in a clean and highly efficient burn. This dual approach is effective across a broad range of burn rates, from low to high, ensuring optimal performance regardless of the intensity of the fire. By harnessing the strengths of both systems, the Progress Hybrid Wood Stove achieves a level of efficiency and environmental friendliness that sets it apart in the market.

Versatile and Practical Features

Multi-Functional Cooktop

This cooktop is ingeniously integrated into the stove’s design at no additional cost to the user. The top surface is made of soapstone, renowned for its heat retention and distribution properties. Hidden beneath this soapstone layer is a 3-burner cast iron cooktop. This feature is particularly useful during power outages, as it allows for cooking and heating, ensuring that the comfort and functionality of your home are maintained even in the absence of electricity.

Customizable Design and Installation

Installation flexibility is another key aspect of the Progress Hybrid Wood Stove. It comes with options for both standard 10″ legs and shorter legs, the latter being ideal for fireplace installations. This adaptability ensures that the stove can be fitted seamlessly into various home settings and styles.

Moreover, the stove offers a range of options for door orientation, venting, and leg styles, allowing users to customize the stove according to their specific needs and aesthetic preferences. Whether it’s a matter of practical installation requirements or personal taste in design, the Progress Hybrid Wood Stove can be tailored to suit individual requirements.

Stunning Fire Display and Construction

The Progress Hybrid Wood Stove is not just about efficiency; it’s a visual treat too. The fire display is mesmerizing, with flames dancing around the firebox, visible through a large viewing window. The stove is constructed with two layers of soapstone (1.125” thick inside and 0.75” exterior panels), enclosed in a 7 gauge welded steel body box, and finished with a decorative cast iron frame. This sturdy construction is complemented by five color options: matte black, charcoal, metallic blue, brown, and gray.

Pros and Cons

Pros

1. Efficient Heating: With efficiency ratings of 78.5% HHV and 84.4% LHV, it’s one of the most efficient wood stoves available, ensuring more heat output with less wood.
2. Eco-Friendly: The ultra-low emission rate of 0.63 gm/hr makes it environmentally friendly, adhering to EPA 2020 standards.
3. Large Heating Capacity: Capable of heating up to 2,200 square feet, it’s suitable for large homes and spaces.
4. Long Burn Time: Offers a significant burn time of 10-14 hours, reducing the need for frequent wood reloading.
5. Hybrid Combustion Technology: Combines a catalytic combustor and secondary air combustion for a cleaner, more efficient burn.
6. Durable Construction: Made with soapstone and cast iron, it’s built for longevity and consistent performance.
7. Versatile Cooking Option: Features a 3-burner cast iron cooktop under the soapstone top, useful for cooking, especially during power outages.
8. Customizable Design: Offers options in color, door orientation, and leg styles to fit various interior designs.
9. Easy to Use: Despite its advanced features, it’s user-friendly, even for those new to wood stoves.

Cons

1. Weight and Size: Weighing approximately 700 lbs, it can be challenging to install and may not be suitable for all floor types.
2. Initial Odor and Condensation: The initial fires produce a curing odor and glass condensation, which might be inconvenient for some users.
3. Cost: High-efficiency stoves like this can be more expensive upfront compared to standard wood stoves.
4. Regular Maintenance: Although low, it does require regular maintenance like ash removal, glass cleaning, and flue checking.
5. Learning Curve: Understanding the hybrid combustion system and optimal operation may take some time for new users.
6. Space Requirements: Given its size and clearance requirements, it might not be suitable for smaller rooms or compact spaces.
7. Catalytic Combustor Maintenance: The catalytic combustor will eventually need replacement, which is an additional maintenance cost.

Customizable Options

The Progress Hybrid Wood Stove goes beyond standard features to offer a suite of customizable options that enhance its convenience and adaptability to various home settings. These options are designed to cater to the specific needs and preferences of different users, adding an extra layer of functionality to this already versatile stove.

Rear Heat Shield

The rear heat shield is a vital option for those with space constraints or specific installation requirements. It significantly reduces the rear clearance of the stove to just 7 inches, allowing for closer placement to walls or other surfaces. This feature is particularly useful in smaller spaces or when seeking to optimize room layout without compromising on safety.

Pipe Shield

Additionally, the Progress Hybrid Wood Stove offers a pipe shield option, designed to reduce single-wall stove pipe clearance requirements. This option is essential for safe and compliant installation, especially in homes with specific architectural constraints or where space optimization is crucial.

Ideal Uses for the Progress Hybrid Wood Stove

The Progress Hybrid Wood Stove, with its advanced features and customizable options, is well-suited for a variety of applications. Its design and capabilities make it an ideal heating solution for several settings and scenarios:

• Residential Homes: This stove is perfect for residential settings, particularly effective in heating large homes to 2200 square feet. It provides a consistent and efficient source of heat, making it ideal for areas with cold winters or for homes where sustainable and cost-effective heating is a priority.
• Off-Grid Living: The stove’s ability to function independently of electricity makes it an excellent choice for off-grid homes or cabins. The built-in cooktop adds an extra layer of utility, allowing for cooking and heating even during power outages.
• Eco-Friendly Heating: For those conscious of their environmental footprint, the Progress Hybrid Wood Stove offers a greener heating solution. Its low emission rate and high efficiency make it a responsible choice for eco-friendly living.
• Historic or Traditional Homes: The stove’s aesthetic, enhanced by its soapstone and cast iron construction, fits beautifully in historic or traditionally styled homes. It can add both warmth and a touch of classic elegance to such settings.
• Rural or Remote Locations: In areas where access to conventional heating fuels might be limited, the wood stove serves as a reliable heat source. Its long burn time and efficient use of wood make it practical for rural or remote living.
• Supplementary Heating: In larger homes, the stove can be used as a supplementary heat source, effectively reducing reliance on central heating systems and lowering energy costs.
• Cooking and Baking: The multi-functional cooktop is not just for emergency use; it can be a charming way to cook or bake, adding a rustic touch to the culinary experience.
• Workshops or Studios: For spaces like workshops or art studios, where consistent warmth is needed but traditional heating might be inadequate or costly, this stove provides a practical and ambient solution.
• Renovation Projects: For those renovating older homes or converting spaces like barns or warehouses into livable areas, the stove offers an efficient and aesthetically pleasing heating option.
• Emergency Preparedness: In regions prone to power outages due to extreme weather or other emergencies, the stove is a reliable alternative, providing both heat and a means to cook without electricity.

Seasoning Your Progress Hybrid Wood Stove: A Step-by-Step Guide

Initial Fires

1. Start with Small Fires: Initially, light small to moderate fires. The soapstone in the stove will absorb and radiate heat from even these small fires effectively.
2. First Fire Observations:
   • The odor from Paint Curing: During the initial use, you may notice a hot, acrid smell. This is the paint on the cast iron curing and is perfectly normal. It’s advisable to have good ventilation in the room during these initial fires. This odor is non-toxic and will dissipate after a few uses.
   • Condensation on Glass: You might also see some condensation on the glass. This is due to moisture in the furnace cement and is a temporary occurrence that will resolve after a couple of fires.
3. Appearance Changes: The stone’s texture and color might slightly change, becoming more pronounced and deepening in shade after these initial fires.

Establishing a Proper Fire

1. Open the Catalytic Bypass: Before lighting the fire, ensure that the catalytic bypass is fully open. This facilitates the start of the fire and initial airflow.
2. Open the Combustion Air Damper: Fully open the combustion air damper to allow maximum air into the firebox.
3. Ensure Good Draft: It’s important to confirm that there’s an adequate draft in the stove before lighting the fire. Light a match or a piece of newspaper at the top of the firebox to check if the flame is drawn towards the flue. If there’s no proper draft, use a hair dryer or heat gun to establish it and recheck with the match.
4. Building the Fire: Begin the fire with crumpled newspaper and dry kindling. Place these directly on the firebox floor. Once the kindling is burning well, add small splits of firewood to establish a bed of hot coals.
5. Adding Firewood and Adjusting Air Flow: After the kindling has ignited, add small to medium wood splits. Wait for about 10 minutes and then adjust the air damper to partially close it.
6. Closing the Bypass: When the stove reaches the optimal temperature (250°F for the stovetop or 300-350°F for the pipe), close the bypass. This directs the smoke through the catalytic combustor, which will then generate more heat.
7. Adjusting the Burn Rate: Finally, adjust the air control damper to lower the burn rate as needed. This will depend on the desired heat output, wood condition, and draft through the chimney.

Conclusion

The Progress Hybrid Wood Stove from Woodstock Soapstone represents a significant leap forward in wood stove technology. Its combination of efficiency, low emissions, and stunning design makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to heat their home in an environmentally friendly and cost-effective manner. With its range of customizable features and robust construction, the Progress Hybrid Wood Stove is more than just a heating appliance; it’s a centerpiece for any home.

FAQs

1. Can the Woodstock Soapstone Progress Hybrid be used for both heating and cooking?
   Absolutely! The stove features a versatile 3-burner cast iron cooktop hidden beneath the soapstone top, making it ideal for heating your home and cooking, especially during power outages.
2. How does the hybrid combustion system affect fuel efficiency and emissions?
   The hybrid system combines a catalytic combustor and secondary air combustion, significantly enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. This means you’ll use less wood while also contributing to a cleaner environment.
3. Is the Progress Hybrid suitable for large homes or open-plan spaces?
   Yes, it is designed to heat large areas up to 2,200 square feet, making it perfect for spacious homes or open-plan living areas.
4. What makes the soapstone in the Progress Hybrid unique compared to other materials?
   Soapstone is renowned for its heat retention and distribution qualities. It absorbs heat slowly and releases it steadily, providing long-lasting warmth even after the fire subsides.
5. How does the Progress Hybrid Wood Stove cater to different aesthetic preferences?
   The stove offers several customizable options, including door orientation and a choice of five standard color options. This allows it to blend seamlessly with a variety of interior designs.
6. Can the Progress Hybrid be installed in non-traditional settings like workshops or cabins?
   Yes, due to its robust construction and adaptable design, the stove is well-suited for a variety of settings, including cabins, workshops, and even some off-grid locations.
7. What is the significance of the stove’s dual-layer soapstone design?
   The dual-layer design enhances the stove’s heat storage and emission capabilities. The thick soapstone bricks store heat, while the exterior panels radiate it into the room, ensuring efficient heating.
8. How does the Progress Hybrid manage to maintain air quality while burning wood?
   Thanks to its advanced hybrid combustion system, the stove burns wood more completely, significantly reducing particulate emissions and thereby maintaining better air quality.
9. What maintenance does the Progress Hybrid require to keep it functioning optimally?
   Regular maintenance includes cleaning the glass, emptying the ash pan if used, and occasionally checking and cleaning the flue. The durable build of the stove ensures low maintenance overall.
10. How user-friendly is the stove for first-time wood stove owners?
    The Progress Hybrid is designed with ease of use in mind. Features like easy-to-use air controls and clear instructions for operating the catalytic combustor make it suitable even for those new to wood stoves.