I finally got started on my OWB. Actually a friend and I are building 2, one for each of us. The firebox is 1/2 of a 500 gallon propane tank cut down and additional 9" for more water volume. The water jacket is 1/2 of a 1000 gallon anhydrous ammonia tank. I wanted to keep things pretty simple and basic.
We are running the flue pipe horizontal out the end and then vertical once outside of the housing. I figure I will be close to 300 gallon water volume. This will have a fan forced draft incorporated into the door.
I'm heating about an 1800sf home and will eventually want to heat part of my pole barn with in floor heating.
I'm kind of learning as I go and understand the basics but when it comes down to the actual details I don't have everything figured out yet.
Here are a few of the questions I can think of right now.
Should I run a pipe 3-5 feet into the water jacket for either the feed or return line so that I get better circulation in the tank.
How do I figure out what pump or pumps I need.
Should the pump be installed on the return side or the feed side.
Is an aquastat better than a thermostat from an electric water heater.
What is the best insulation to use around the water jacket.
The water jacket is about 3/8" thick. Can I safely drill and tap for fittings for the water level sight glass, and the thermostat or should I weld in a bulkhead fitting.
For fittings or pipe that I weld on should I use galvanized or black iron pipe.
Fire box being welded to front plate
Flue pipe coming out of firebox
Laying out flue pipe exit from water jacket
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welding water jacket to front plate, flue pipe coming out of end at top of tank
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Thoughts, answers and commentary appreciated, Thanks