Which stove for a bath to choose iron or cast iron

The best stainless steel sauna stoves

Thermofor Tunguska

An excellent specimen, which is also not very expensive. This oven very quickly heats up a steam room with a volume of up to 18 m3. The heater available here warms up from all sides - this is the key to efficiency.

Advantages:

• Suitable for a Russian bath of any configuration;
• Gives out finely dispersed steam;
• Very fast heating;
• The volume of the firebox and heater will suit everyone;
• Adequate cost;
• Very easy installation.

Disadvantages:

• Design is not for everybody;
• It cools down very quickly.

The main advantage of this model is its very fast heating. The trouble is that it cools down very quickly. Reviews on Termofor Tunguska indicate that you need to remember to throw firewood into the firebox, otherwise it can quickly cool down.

However, its 60-liter volume allows you to do this not too often. The room is heated by this oven due to the convector casing, which creates a powerful stream of hot air.

Thermofor Geyser 2014

Another worthy stove designed for a Russian bath. For its production, heat-resistant alloy steel was used. Steam generation is two-stage here. This means that heavy steam is generated by the oven, which is dried in the second compartment, after which it goes into the steam room.

Advantages:

• Light and pleasant steam;
• Nice appearance;
• The stove holds 70 kg of stones;
• Combined fuel;
• Optimal price tag;
• Extremely fast heating;
• The case turned out to be very reliable.

Disadvantages:

With intensive firewood burning, a hum is heard in the chimney.

Much more important is the fact that the stove is capable of boasting a long service life - it is possible that it will outlive the bath itself. It is capable of heating a room with a volume of up to 18 m3 - this is quite enough for most owners.

Harvia Legend 240 Duo

The Finnish manufacturer has been working in this field for 60 years and is now showing a very decent result. Harvia Legend 240 Duo is distinguished not only by its attractive appearance, but also by its high-quality device. The large stone compartment holds up to 200 kilograms. This stove is suitable not only for a Russian bath, but also for use in a sauna, because it can produce a high temperature, while leaving the humidity at a low level.

Very often the premises allocated for the steam room are small in area. However, the innovations that were used in the design of the stove allow you not to worry about fire safety when installing it. Items in the steam room can be located depending on the wishes of the developer. The large volume of the stove is also an advantage in comparison with analogues. Firstly, it allows you to get a large amount of quality steam. Secondly, you can lower the temperature without losing the amount of steam. This can help people who are not allowed to take a bath because of the high temperature.

pros

• Large stone compartment.
• Rapid heating of the room.
• A lot of steam.
• High quality material.

Minuses

It is possible to add a tank, but it must be purchased separately.

Vladislav, 56 years old.

I got the stove half a year ago. Very happy with the purchase. When I just installed it, I was surprised that there was a lot of free space in the steam room. I, of course, saw that the stove was compact, but I did not think that it was so compact. However, steam quality and heating time are not affected. About 30-40 minutes is enough for the steam room to warm up to 80 degrees. The steam is light and pleasant. And the design is nice too.

Advantages of a cast iron stove

Cast-iron stove designs designed for heating a bath with wood are always popular. The practical use of electricity or gas cannot be compared with the sound of crackling wood in the stove and the aroma of natural wood, which is traditional for a bath. Despite the slower heating of cast-iron structures in comparison with metal models, they retain heat much longer.

Experts' responses to the question of which furnace design is better, cast iron or steel, are as follows:

• In the manufacture of a stove for a bath, cast iron 1 cm thick is used, the maximum steel thickness for these purposes is 6 mm, more often metal is taken 3-4 mm. This explains the accelerated processes of corrosion, burnout and deformation of a thinner material.
• Despite the better heat dissipation of the steel furnace, the cast iron structure is not susceptible to intergranular corrosion. This property is due to the content of graphite in cast iron. Its presence is expressed by the presence of plaque on the outside of the oven, which can be easily removed with a dry cloth. Steel stove corrosion appears on the inner walls.

Here are the main advantages of a cast iron sauna stove:

1. Thermal conductivity. This indicator is much better than that of stone and brick structures, the masonry of which is deformed as a result of temperature changes. The efficiency of a cast iron stove is 82%, one load of firewood is enough for 7-9 hours of continuous operation. Their weight ranges from 60 to 300 kg in comparison with one and a half ton brickwork, which eliminates the need to equip an additional solid foundation in the bath.
2. Easy care. If you choose a cast-iron stove for a bath, you will save yourself many worries during installation and maintenance. The product does not rust, does not need to be coated with heat-resistant paint. The absence of cladding simplifies the installation of the structure and allows, if necessary, to dismantle the oven for transfer to another room.
3. Design. The abundance of models allows you to choose the most suitable option for the conditions existing in the bath. The installation of a heat-resistant glass door adds sophistication. Compactness provides significant savings in free space in the bath.
4. Operational safety. Compared to brick stoves, cast iron products are less likely to provoke the risk of fire.
5. Long service life, reaching 35 years.

Consumer reviews based on the results of using a cast-iron stove in a bath practically do not contain negative aspects. The only obstacle to choosing an efficient design is the high cost of the product. But paying for quality is a common practice in market relations.

Advantages and disadvantages

The main advantage of stoves made of cast iron is that the walls of such units have a thickness of more than 10 mm, which means that such a bath device will accumulate heat much better, retain and give it away longer than its steel counterparts. A cast-iron stove for a bath will provide a gradual smooth heating of the steam room and will allow you to economically use firewood - an expensive fuel.

High heat resistance and thick walls of the heater also have a positive effect on its durability. Cast iron walls are not subject to deformation under the influence of high temperatures, which means that the unit will serve you for many years, its service life is much longer than that of steel.

The corrosion resistance indicators of cast iron are simply brilliant, unlike steel, it does not rust even in a room with sharp temperature fluctuations and high levels of humidity.

Modern cast-iron appliances for a bath are made by casting, carried out according to the thorn-groove principle, or with the use of sealants.The absence of welded seams also positively affects the quality, since very often, due to non-observance of the technology, it is the joints that become the most vulnerable places of the heater.

Another important point: cast iron is a chemically neutral alloy, which means that during the operation of the furnace, oxygen in the room will not burn out.

Cast iron stove for bath Vesuvius SKIF

In fairness, it should be noted that products made of cast iron still have drawbacks. First of all, this is the high cost of such units and a large specific weight, which means that for the installation of a furnace, an indispensable condition is the need to equip a foundation for it.

Many modern manufacturers in an effort to reduce the cost of their products and make it more competitive offer consumers combined options.

In this case, the furnace part of the unit is made of refractory cast iron, and the outer casing is made of stainless steel. Such specimens have proven themselves well, but those who are accustomed to "broom" steam still remain adherents of brick or cast-iron stoves.

Review of popular models

Positive feedback from users of cast-iron stoves in the bath was received by TM Gefest, ATB and Sudarushka. These models will be discussed further.

Hephaestus PB-03

The compact oven is ideal for rooms up to 25 m3. The convection-type design runs on wood material in the form of firewood or briquettes. The even distribution of heat inside the furnace is facilitated by the flame divider. Fuel is loaded from a room adjacent to the steam room.

The kit contains a forged mesh for laying stones. Cast iron inserts help to increase the length of the furnace tunnel. The delivery of the structure with separate elements allows for installation in a cast-iron stove bath without helpers. A cast iron stove up to 6 cm thick retains heat for 3 hours.

ATB

The Karelian plant has been specializing in the production of cast iron stoves for over 25 years. The main parameters of the ATB-2 heater:

• The power of the cast-iron structure for the bath is 20 kW.
• Without loading stones, the mass of the furnace does not exceed 60 kg.
• The body is made of heat-resistant cast iron, the remote firebox and ash pan are welded elements.
• The volume of the water tank is 60 liters, the tank is located in the steam room, which ensures the required humidity. Consumer reviews contain dissatisfaction with the rapid heating and additional heat in the steam room.
• Allows to heat bath rooms up to 20 m3.
• High heat capacity: the required temperature is reached in 3 hours, the same period lasts for cooling.
• The service life of a cast iron stove, according to the manufacturer, is 20-25 years.
• The weight of the loaded stones is up to 60 kg.

Sudarushka

The most popular model of a cast iron stove with a closed heater. Main design characteristics:

• the oven is designed for rooms with an area of ​​8 to 18 m3;
• the container holds 50 liters of water for heating;
• dimensions of the cast iron stove: 500/400/1350 mm (including the tank);
• weight without stones - 115 kg; furnace unit - 100 kg;

In the absence of cladding, the heating period is insignificant - up to 1 hour. The closed design of the stove ensures the formation of light, finely dispersed steam. The design is sophisticated thanks to the installation of a large glass door.

If a high cost is an obstacle to buying a cast-iron stove, you should choose an economy class option. Such models are produced by factories located in Chelyabinsk and Udmurtia, but the operation of the structure in a bath is possible after independent modernization.

The best firms of electric ovens for a bath

Electric sauna stoves undoubtedly have several major advantages: they are environmentally friendly, easy to operate, fireproof and, most importantly, do not require the use of additional constructive measures to remove combustion products.Therefore, despite the fact that a wood-burning stove is considered a traditional option for a Russian bath, electrical devices in the steam room are becoming more and more popular. Their compact size, wall mounting and other pleasant options attract not only owners of small saunas, but also owners of full-size steam rooms in a country house.

Although most of the major manufacturers of sauna heaters usually have several electric heaters in their assortment, the most popular electric sauna stoves on the market are manufactured by specialized firms. This is due to the fact that the design principles of heating devices using the principle of combustion of fuel are radically different from the approaches to the development of electrical devices.

Strengths and weaknesses of cast iron sauna stoves

The sauna stove is a source of fire hazard. This should be borne in mind when installing and operating it. It is advisable to trim the place around the structure with a non-combustible material. It is important to keep an eye on the ash box, to clean it in time with the remains of firewood. During operation, do not allow cold water to enter the hot cast iron, this can lead to cracks.

Some owners brick their cast iron stoves. The procedure allows you to increase the cooling period of the structure. The cladding has its drawbacks - it will take more time and fuel to warm up the room.

Often the generally accepted rectangular shape of the unit is considered. The oval design is much less common. As optional equipment. included in the complete set of the furnace, are used: a casing and a remote tank, a chimney and a water heater. The collapsible design of the heating unit is equipped with locking grooves, which make it easy to assemble its parts together.

A design consisting of a stove and an elongated firebox is considered quite popular. In the case of installing such a unit, it is allowed to place the combustion part and the body in different rooms. Thus, due to the work of the furnace, the steam room will warm up, and in the room adjacent to it, vacationers will be able to observe the tongues of flame through the heat-resistant screen of the furnace.

Peat briquettes or firewood are ideal for kindling a cast-iron sauna stove. Coal that has a combustion temperature that is too high can lead to cracks in the structural material.

To give a more sophisticated look and increase the heat transfer characteristics, as well as protect the unit from external factors, the device can be lined with stone. Thus, the stone cladding will protect the furnace body from moisture ingress. The chimney can be installed both on top of the heating unit and on its back. At the same time, it is convenient to equip it through the use of a sandwich pipe.

How to properly install such chimneys through the wall, read in this article. There is also an option for installation through the roof.

We offer you to familiarize yourself with Do-it-yourself ventilation in the bathhouse dressing room

Characteristic positive aspects of cast iron structures are the following qualities:

1. small size and weight. In relation to those laid out of stone or brick, the cast iron unit is much lighter and more compact. At the same time, this does not prevent the device from coping with its main function - fast heating of even a large steam room;
2. efficiency. The cast iron furnace is characterized by a high efficiency (82%), which is due to the use of a material that perfectly conducts heat. For stone and brick, this indicator is less important. When it cools down after heating to an acceptable temperature level, cast iron gradually releases heat into the surrounding space. This time is quite enough for a good rest in the steam room;
3. possibility of transportation. A cast-iron stove for a Russian bath is a device that, when installed, does not require laying a foundation.In addition, such a unit has a relatively small size and weight. If necessary, for example, in the case of repairing a bathhouse, it can be moved to any convenient place, be it an adjacent room or another building;
4. fire safety. Due to the tightness of the combustion chambers, which excludes the release of sparks into the environment, cast iron stoves are among the safest heating devices. In saunas, heating of which is provided by brick structures, fire situations often arise. This happens mainly in those buildings where the seams of the brickwork crack from the long-term operation of the unit. As a result, the flame is thrown through the cracks formed in the walls to the objects surrounding the furnace;
5. relatively low cost. The amount that you pay for the purchase and installation of a cast iron stove is significantly lower than that which will be used to pay for the construction of a brick structure. If you think about revealing a cast iron device with a stone, then you will need to additionally spend money on facing material and the services of a highly qualified bricklayer;
6. ecological component. When arranging baths, this characteristic of the material taken for the production of the stove must also be taken into account. The cast iron unit is an environmentally friendly and reliable heat source. For its heating, natural or pressed wood is used, the combustion of which does not form substances harmful to human health. On the contrary, a pleasant aroma emanating from aspen, birch or alder wood creates an atmosphere favorable for a good rest.

Against the background of such a list of advantages of the cast iron structure, there is only one drawback - cast iron is characterized by low corrosion resistance. Nevertheless, ordinary consumers do not encounter this cast iron defect, since even at the production stage, the unit body is covered with a special enamel.

What do such ovens look like? Most often, the aggregates have a generally accepted rectangular shape. But, oval-shaped models are often found. This is a visiting card of Vesuvius Legend stoves, because almost all modifications are round in shape, with an open stove. Oh yes, about the cast iron stove, it can be of two types: closed and open.

The standard set of cast-iron stoves for a bath does not differ much from the usual ones. It includes:

1. Fireplace, elongated or regular, with a cast iron or glass door. There is a grate inside the firebox, and an ash pan under it.
2. Stove, open or closed. Stones are placed in it, which give off heat and produce steam.
3. A flue system and chimney through which heat moves upward, heating stones.
4. Some cast-iron models have a convector casing, thanks to which heat does not penetrate into the walls, but is directed upwards.
5. Mandatory are the ducts from which air enters and leaves the oven.
6. Additionally, a water tank and a dispenser can be installed or mounted.

As you can see, there is nothing complicated. Cast iron wood stoves with an elongated firebox are becoming especially popular. Why? Because such a structure can be installed in different rooms. The firebox will be located in the dressing room, and the heater and body in the adjacent steam room. It is convenient and practical. In addition, if the model has glass in the door, such as the cast-iron wood-burning stoves for the Vesuvius Legend 12 standard bath (260), then while resting from the procedure in the dressing room, you can watch the wood burning process.

Note! To light cast iron stoves, you can use wood or peat briquettes. We do not recommend using coal, as it produces a very high temperature at which cracks can form in the cast iron.

To give the stove sophistication, protect it and increase heat transfer, and, accordingly, efficiency, the unit is lined with brick, stone or a steel screen. As for the chimney, it can be mounted both on top of the stove and on the back.

The best firms of steel stoves for a bath

If cast iron is the material from which only wood-burning stoves are made almost exclusively, then stainless and structural steel is a universal option for all types of bathing units - electric, gas and solid fuel. Although steel furnaces are less durable than cast iron, modern metal processing technologies make it possible to produce quite high-quality furnaces with excellent characteristics, while differing in budget price and relatively low weight. Most of the well-known Russian manufacturers of steel bath stoves offer the consumer a wide range of models and the ability to choose the type of fuel: wood, coal or gas.

TMF Geyser 2014

Quality products. The stove is ideal for a Russian bath. The walls are not as thin as in the previous model, due to which the term of high-quality work increases. To obtain light, high-quality steam, a two-level system is used. A similar tool is used in the Hangar. The heavy vapor first passes into the first compartment, then moves to the next, where it receives the necessary lightness. The unique design will not leave anyone indifferent either.

High quality steel ensures a long service life. There is a funnel for water supply. A limiter is installed on it, with the help of which it will be possible to avoid excessive ingress of water on the stones. True, for a large room, you will need another oven. This model is designed for heating 8-18 cubic meters. According to customer reviews, we can conclude that the oven requires attention.

pros

• Fast heating.
• Light steam.
• High quality steel.
• Perfect design.
• Large stone compartment.

Minuses

• Not suitable for large rooms.
• There is noise in the chimney when a large amount of firewood is burned.

Dmitry, 40 years old.

I am satisfied with the purchase. First of all, I would like to evaluate the quality of the steam. When I bought, the seller said that the steam would be light, but I could not even imagine how much. In general, the steam is excellent. The heater is also comfortable. I used to use a different model. When I bought stones, I bought them out of habit, there was not enough, I had to buy more. However, this number of stones is only a plus. The steam room heats up quickly, literally 30-40 minutes, although the volume is not very large. It looks nice too. I have not noticed any minuses yet.

Hephaestus PB-03

Our rating of the best stoves is completed by Hephaestus PB-03. This oven is radically different from the previous one in its heating capabilities. It can bring a room with a volume of up to 45 cubic meters to the desired temperature. Thick cast-iron walls give the stove massiveness and volume. Due to this thickness, the service life is automatically increased, since it is very difficult to damage or burn them out.

Lovers of high temperatures will love it. Great oven. The efficiency is 90%. This is much higher than other models. The room heats up quickly. Steam quality is also excellent. It turns out to be very light and not dry. Keeps warm for a long time. So you can take a steam bath for your own pleasure, without worrying about throwing firewood for a long time. The only thing that can affect the choice of this oven is weight. With basic contents, the weight is 350 kilograms, so the floor in the bath must be strong and preferably reinforced. The furnace will show the best result if it is lined with refractory bricks, which will also affect the heating time.

pros

• Reliable construction.
• High efficiency.
• The heat is retained for a long time.
• Suitable for heating large rooms.

Minuses

• Impressive weight.
• High price.

Vladimir, 56 years old.

Best sauna stove I've ever seen. When buying, I tried on for a long time, the price frightened off.However, he did not regret the costs. The steam room warms up very quickly and is pleasant to steam. True, I had to reinforce the floor in the bath, as I did not count on such a giant.

Installation

First of all, the owners are worried about the installation of equipment in a newly built bathhouse. In this case, the installation of a metal oven will be much easier. Stainless alloy steels are used as the material for the furnaces. This material is not afraid of high humidity in the bath, does not rust upon prolonged contact with water, and thanks to alloying, manufacturers achieve the necessary strength and performance characteristics.
The light metal from which the stove is made allows it to be installed on the floor of the bath. This significantly saves labor costs during construction.

With cast iron heating devices, the situation is somewhat more complicated. This material is heat-consuming and at the same time very heavy. If you install a cast iron stove on the floors of the first floor of a house or a bath, then the structure will not have sufficient strength, therefore, when designing, it is necessary to think in advance about the location of the steam room and provide for an additional foundation cushion for the cast iron stove.

Most of the effort will have to be spent on installing a stone structure. It definitely requires its own foundation. It is no different from a conventional foundation for load-bearing walls. The mass of the stone kiln is about four tons including the pipe. Not a single overlap can withstand such a large weight.

1. In many areas, clay soils lie, when they freeze, they increase in volume due to the moisture contained inside, this property is called radiant. to combat the unpleasant properties of clays and loams, builders install a sand and gravel cushion under the foundation. It allows you to evenly distribute the load and create an artificial base with very good properties.
2. The area of ​​a conventional sauna stove is usually 1 - 2 square meters. The first slab to be installed under the foundation must exceed this value several times. The pillow is installed below the depth of soil freezing. This value is calculated depending on the average temperature of the coldest five days. For each region, this value is known and entered into the reference values.
3. After that, you can mount the rest of the foundation. In summer cottages, it will be easiest to make a monolithic foundation. For this, reinforcement is placed in the pit and poured with a strong concrete mixture.
4. After pouring, the foundation will harden in a few days, and it will gain strength within 28 days. For the foundation to solidify properly, high air humidity is required; work carried out in too dry conditions will be performed poorly.

Thus, we can say that the simplest to install metal stoves for a bath, and if the owners are going to put heating equipment in an already built bath, then the metal becomes the most rational option.

The best cast iron stoves for a Russian bath

Cast iron stoves have many adherents. Although they heat up longer, they retain heat better. Here are the best representatives of this category.

Hephaestus PB-04 M

True connoisseurs of Russian baths prefer cast iron stoves. Model Gefest PB-04 M is made of a special grade of cast iron with a chromium content. Thanks to the remote portal, the firebox can be located in one room, and the heat-resistant door in another. Since the oven is delivered disassembled, there will be no problems with transportation and unloading

Experts pay attention to the innovative design of the firebox. It has a system of afterburning gases, a flame arrester and turbulent fins.

As a result, even when the combustion chamber is heated to 750 ° C, the exhaust gases enter the chimney after being cooled down to 300 ° C. The furnace efficiency reaches 87%.

The model becomes the winner of our rating for the record wall thickness (6 cm), so the heat stays in the oven for a long time.The artistic frame of the door complements the picture.

• long service life;
• high efficiency;
• unique design of the firebox;
• artistic framing of the door.

disadvantages

not detected.

Vesuvius LEGEND FORGING 28 Fireplace (205)

Worthy competition to the leader of the rating is created by the Vesuvius cast iron stove LEGEND FORWARD 28 Fireplace (205). It can work in a steam bath with a volume of up to 30 cubic meters. m. Externally, the model looks elegant, there are no problems with transportation and installation. The cast iron firebox is divided into 3 parts; the manufacturer used a ceramic cord for sealing. The safety and reliability of the structure is ensured by the bolted connection of units and parts. A special grade of cast iron withstands strong temperature changes, it does not burst when a large volume of water hits it.

The stove ranks second in the ranking due to the higher price and the thinner walls of the firebox (1.2 cm). In addition, the structure has a greater weight (178 kg) and dimensions.

disadvantages

• heavy weight;
• high price.

Attention! This rating is subjective and is not an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Consultation with a specialist is required before buying.

Vesuvius SKIF STANDARD

This oven also has no sharp corners. This appearance allows for a more even distribution of the generated heat. There are 2 models from the manufacturer: with an open and closed heater. If you need a Russian bath with high air humidity, it is better to limit yourself to a closed type. However, if you want to look at the stones live and splash water on them, you will have to install additional tools to increase the humidity of the air and give the steam lightness.

All stoves from this manufacturer have specific shapes that will definitely be remembered by visitors to the bath. There are a large number of types of "Scythians", so it will not be difficult to choose the necessary stove for the volume of the room.

Also, special attention is drawn to the firewood door, which can be made in both classic and glass styles. Connection of a tank for water heating is possible

However, it should be borne in mind that the standard configuration does not imply this add-on, so you will have to purchase it separately. Fortunately, several types can be found from the same manufacturer.

pros

• Quality material.
• Original design.
• It is possible to add a tank for heating water.

Valery is 32 years old.

I purchased this oven 2 years ago. At first I was happy with everything, but after about six months I began to notice the disadvantages. Firstly, the chimney gets dirty quickly, which is why you have to clean it very often. I cannot find out the reason. Carefully took care of the cleanliness of the chimney, regularly cleaned it. Secondly, after prolonged use, it becomes more and more difficult to clean the glass on the door to the firebox. Again, I used special cleaning products, but they no longer help. In general, the first six months is a pleasure to use it for a year, but then problems arise.

Review of the most popular brands

It should be warned that there are many more steel products on the market, and few are engaged in cast iron.

Vesuvius

PR is it or the natural love of the people - our rating will show, for now we just state that most inquiries about furnaces made of this metal are associated with this manufacturer. I would like to see in the comments the reviews of those who happened to become the owners of Vesuvius products - share your experience with everyone else!

In the Vesuvius catalog you will find only four cast iron sauna stoves with power modifications for different volumes of steam rooms. It:

• "Legend";
• "Sensation";
• "Hurricane";
• "Premium".

In this review of cast-iron stoves for a bath, we will pay attention only to the "Legend" and "Hurricane". "Premium" is lined with soapstone, "Sensation" is an ordinary stove with an open heater.

"Legend"

Furnace with fashionable mesh for stones, which from all sides, except for the bottom, surround the firebox. It looks attractive, but free convection of air between openly laid stones leads to rapid heating of the steam room. The furnace is portable.

It has many variations in the volume of the steam room (from 6 to 30 cubic meters), in the type of doors - from deaf to fireplace portals with large glass. but they are all suitable only for dry air baths, that is, saunas... Stoves with nets for stones are not suitable for a Russian bath. It is obligatory here with a closed heater.

"Legend Standard"

The mesh is made of strips and rods, without any design frills. Therefore, the "standard".

"Legend Cast Iron Forging"

It differs from the "Standard" only in that strips of forged metal are used in the design.

"Hurricane"

Fellow "Legend", but taller and holds more stones... The minimum volume of the steam room is 8 cubic meters, the maximum is 30. The differences are the same as in the "Legend" - on the doors, on the design of the grid, on the power of the stove.

Reviews on ovens

We found a video report of the user of the cast-iron "Legend", in which he shows how he uses the stove, simultaneously measures the temperature and humidity in the steam room, the temperature in the stove, talks about all the problems he faced from the moment of purchase and everything he was satisfied with. Check out his review for yourself:

"Hephaestus"

On the official website of the manufacturer you will find over a hundred modifications cast-iron stove "Hephaestus" - in stone lining and without, with various doors. The search for closed heaters was unsuccessful.

Of all the models that are presented on the site, we have chosen the most popular among buyers - GEFEST PB-04 M.

This is how it looks. With a rather modest size: it is about half a meter in height, about 40 cm in width and about 70 in length, it is capable of heating a steam room with a volume of up to 15 cubic meters. The small stove weighs 125 kg and, according to the manufacturer, has Efficiency 87%... As for the grade of cast iron, the manufacturer does not bend his soul: everything except the firebox is made of ordinary gray, but chrome-alloyed, heat-resistant metal is used in the firebox.

Such a furnace is taken in order to further brick it and improve its thermal characteristics, bringing them closer to the parameters of a brick furnace.

Reviews for the products of "Hephaestus"

From those reviews on the Hephaestus sauna stoves on the forums, we realized that basically the stoves suit buyers, although they face with the need for some improvements (for example, starting chimney). However, the rest of the parts fit together, which makes buyers assume that Hephaestus pre-assembles its products, and undermines casting errors, but this is a common practice not only for this

Having started trading in other people's ovens, Magnum quickly came to the conclusion that its own production is more profitable. Taking into account the shortcomings of competitors, the company has developed its own design - ChT-1, which stands for "cast iron furnace". It became the basis for many stoves, but the firebox itself can be bought separately, under brick cover, for example. The company bought equipment for working with stone and began to produce stoves in enclosures of soapstone and other stones.

Cast iron firebox ChT-1

With a power of 15 kW, it can heat a room up to 35 cubic meters in volume. The furnace tunnel allows you to heat the stove from an adjacent room. The structure is equipped with a door with heat-resistant glass and a self-cleaning system. There is open heater, holding up to 80 kg of stones. The weight of the oven itself is 190 kg.

ChT-1 is used as a base for ovens from the same manufacturer. Including for those who have closed heater.

Magnum makes a special stake on the fact that in the production process it complies with all technological requirements for annealing and tempering of metal, and also mentions that it uses only high-temperature cast iron.

As far as we know, Magnum products are really in demand and are in great demand.

Keddy

The Swedish manufacturer really offers the consumer high-quality Keddi stoves made of cast iron, that's just none of his catalogs could find equipment for baths... There are excellent fireplace stoves for home, there are light, masonry, tiled stoves, there are even fireplace inserts, but there is not a single sauna stove.

Therefore, the only option for those who would like to see the products of this company in their bathhouse is put something from the Swedish catalog as an additional heat source... Indeed, for a large bath, one stove is usually not enough.

"Sudarushka"

produces not only "Sudarushka", but also other families of cast-iron stoves. In particular, this "Kalita" and "Enchantress".

"Sudarushki" are very diverse in execution - they are in stone, there is a grid for stones, with an open and closed stove, with a water tank included in the kit ... There is plenty to choose from.

Here you can find out some subtleties about stoves with a water tank.

"Svarozhich"

offers many stoves in stone cladding with a cast iron firebox. However, the buyer is given the opportunity to purchase and uncoated oven, which can be overlaid with both stone and brick. The power of such a unit is 15 kW, the manufacturer promises that it will be enough to heat 35 cubic meters of a steam room, but in real life, with a cover, no more than 20. The stove is about 80 cm in height, with a remote firebox. If desired, you can put a fireplace portal. The own weight of the oven is 270 kg.

Feringer

does not produce cast iron stoves. However, its products are suitable for Russian baths - they are top-burning, top-burning, closed-stove, which do a good job of generating light, finely dispersed steam.

"Olympus"

Trading went the way of "Magnum" and released its own stove from cast iron. Those who are familiar with the design of other companies engaged in similar production will understand that FireCom decided not to develop its own ideas, simply by pulling the likes from competitors.

But what is really funny is the pathos with which the company's website says that the material of their stoves is the SCH-20 brand. It must be understood that this is the most common, much cheaper than alloyed, type of cast iron, which is quietly or openly used by most furnace manufacturers.

"Tornado"

produces furnaces "Tornado" with cast iron firebox... The catalog contains models for independent brick or stone cladding, models with a grid (many), as well as models with steel housing-casing. Prices are two times lower than those of competitors. Confused only by the not too large weight at rather large (compared to some competitors) sizes, which indicates a small thickness of the metal.

The manufacturer claims to use heat-resistant cast iron, but does not name the brand. Among the models there are those that have at the same time open and closed heater. Also, the products are completed with glass doors. Heat exchangers are available as an option. (Nuances about the use of heat exchangers here).

"Karelia" ATB

You cannot ignore the products of PetrozavodskMash. The Finnish Aito stoves once became the prototype for these round stoves. The manufacturer claims that its stoves will work not less than 30 years old and accompanies their sale with a certificate with the self-explanatory name "Eternal Guarantee". It would be worth asking those who own such a stove - how are your impressions?

The price of Karelian units is moderate, and they will suit those bath owners who have to solve the problem with hot water - all stoves are sharpened for the installation of a water tank, however, it will have to be purchased as an add-on, judging by the characteristics.

Which stove for a bath is better steel or cast iron

Furnace selection criteria

With an external firebox, firewood can be laid from the next room

Before buying a cast iron sauna stove, it is necessary to study the criteria for choosing a heating structure:

• Estimated heating area - performance indicates the performance of the product. The parameter depends on the dimensions of the stove.
• Furnace type - standard or remote. The place of laying firewood depends on its design.
• Heat retention period - the characteristic shows how many hours a preheated oven will hold a high temperature.
• The heater is open or closed. This choice depends on the personal preferences of the future owner. There is no fundamental difference, both designs work perfectly.
• Firebox door type - the design can be dull and with a heat-resistant glass screen.
• Wall thickness - a standard indicator from 10 mm. The thicker the walls, the more durable the product.
• Type of fuel - the most popular is the wood-burning cast-iron stove for the bath, but there are models for gas or combined.

Additional characteristics include the possibility of installing a water tank.

Cast iron, like steel, is an alloy consisting of several components; only the mass fractions of the input differ, and the result is a material with different properties. For the manufacture of furnaces, special, heat-resistant, gray or alloyed cast iron is used, with improved strength and durability.

Alexey Belyaev Representative of Vesuvius, a manufacturer of furnace and related equipment

Cast iron is not subject to intergranular corrosion. In addition, due to the special composition of the alloy, it can withstand large temperature differences. When it gets on the surface of water, it does not burst and does not lose its properties, so the service life of a cast-iron sauna stove can exceed 30 years.

Nevertheless, cast iron is a brittle metal, due to which parts from it are either cast entirely, or assembled from several cast elements on a thorn-groove or bolts, and the seams are sealed with special, heat-resistant sealants. This ensures the strength of the structures, since the welded joints are less durable and may fail during overloads.

Cast iron has an increased ability to transfer heat, ten times greater than that of brick or stone. Therefore, the bulk of the heat generated by the fuel will be instantly given to the steam room, and not evaporated into the chimney. Therefore, the units have high efficiency against the background of economical use of firewood.

Due to the increased heat transfer in cast iron furnaces, a sufficiently high coefficient of performance (COP) is more than 80%, which makes it possible to achieve a given mode in a shorter period of time and with minimal fuel consumption. A stove of the corresponding power is capable of heating a steam room with a volume of 12 m3 in a couple of hours at minus indicators outside. At the same time, one bookmark is enough for at least an hour of work.

In the baths, cast-iron stoves are installed - the design consists of a firebox with a grate, a stove (heat accumulator-steam generator) and an ash pan. Some models can be equipped with built-in water tanks, but more often stoves are designed to connect removable heat exchangers. Cast iron stoves are of two types:

• Open: around the firebox - a ventilated convector (mesh) made of a rod, strips or forging or a metal casing for stones, it can be rough, designed for subsequent cladding, or decorative - metal, stone cladding (talcomagnesite).
• Closed: closed heater (closed metal casing that can accommodate a large mass of stones that heat up to 500 degrees).

Cast-iron stoves are produced in two modifications according to the firebox method - with a furnace tunnel for a furnace from an adjacent room, and without a furnace tunnel - for a furnace from a steam room.When you don't want to mess around with wood in the steam room and open / close the door once again, a stove with an external firebox will do. On sale - models with tunnels of different lengths, you can choose for your wall thickness.

Cast iron and steel are the main materials for the manufacture of sauna stoves

Metal sauna stoves are made of cast iron or steel. They are produced in several types, depending on the material:

• cast iron stoves;
• steel from black heat-resistant steel;
• steel from alloyed stainless steel.

These materials are iron-carbon alloys. They differ in different carbon content. The strength and ductility of steel, which contains at least 45% iron, is due to the carbon content of up to 2%. Cast iron has more than 2% carbon. Therefore, it is heat-resistant, but less durable. Which stove is better for a bath: cast iron or steel? Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages.

"Weaknesses" of cast iron products

Cast iron is a reliable, but still not ideal material. With all the advantages, there are significant disadvantages. If you splash hot water on a highly heated material, it can crack, therefore experts recommend revealing the stoves. You can leave the structure without cladding if you are firmly convinced that no unpleasant situations can occur. Another negative property of the material is that it corrodes. The process is slow, therefore cast iron products are much more durable than steel ones and do not need to be coated with special compounds that, when heated, can release harmful substances into the air.

Cast iron sauna stoves - advantages and disadvantages

Stove-heater Slavyanka Premium Lux

What are the lovers of the steam room guided by when they buy cast-iron bath stoves?

1. Compared to a stone or brick stove, a cast iron stove is noticeably lighter; a foundation is not required for it.
2. The time required to heat the cast iron is several times less than to bring a brick stove to condition.
3. But at the same time, it will cool down much faster than a brick or stone. A large bathhouse with a brick stove is an attribute of village life, when the next day, after washing a large family, the housewives went to the bathhouse to wash, only a brick stove is able to keep the heat in the room until the next day and keep the water temperature in the tank sufficient for washing.
4. Cast iron, unlike steel, "does not lead", i.e. the furnace box does not lose its geometric dimensions, and it does not rust from the inside, like steel, but it can burst from a sharp temperature drop.
5. The installation of a finished metal stove will take much less time than brick laying, in addition, it can be put into operation almost immediately, while a brick stove will have to dry out after laying, it cannot be used at full capacity within a week or two.

Magnum ovens

Kamenka Russian steam with cladding

The company began its work with the sale of stoves from the Inzhkomtsentr VVD plant, but in 2009 a cast-iron stove for the Magnum bath called Russian steam was launched on the market. In fact, it was the Kalita furnace, which is produced by the Inzhkomtsentr VVD, in a stone cladding. The next Magnum combined stove was called President and was assembled from a stone cladding and a Castor cast iron stove. In 2010 Magnum LLC began its own production of Kalita furnaces entirely from cast iron, since the Inzhkomcentr furnaces had a tunnel and a stainless steel door. In 2011, the company switches to the production of its own ChT-1 cast iron stove, which, in fact, is a modernized Kalita. Since that time, Magnum LLC has been producing and selling several types of sauna stoves - these are the already named ChT-1, Russian steam and President, as well as Magnum, Jack Magnum, Huntsman, Taiga, Gaudi and Vityaz. All stoves, except for ChT-1, are prefabricated from a cast-iron furnace and stone cladding.

Furnaces of the Svarozhich company

Kamenka Firebird Classic

The company specializes in the production of cast iron stoves for baths and saunas, the products are trademarks: Heat - bird and Slavyanka, which is produced with a closed heater. LLC "Svarozhich" produces its furnaces from gray cast iron grade SCH-15, according to the company, they are the only ones who use this grade, all other manufacturers work with grade SCH-10, which has a lower short-term strength limit. For the Firebird, it is possible to replace the grate through the combustion door, as well as right or left opening of the combustion door at the customer's choice. Both Slavyanka and Firebird are available in four versions: Economy, Standard, Classic and Lux. For Economists, fireclay brick lining is not provided, Standards are completely ready for installation, Classic has in addition a stone lining of soapstone or a coil (for the Firebird), which does not allow the stove to cool down quickly, protects it from cold water ingress and allows you to gently distribute heat on the steam room. The Firebird Lux ​​allows you to connect a steam cannon, and Slavyanka Lux has convection holes in the top cover. In addition, for all models, you can order artistic forging on the door, a cast-iron door for the Slavyanka stove, combined facing for the Firebird, etc.

PetrozavodskMash furnaces

Kamenka ATB4-1-ChV-20-75

The Karelian plant PetrozavodskMash specializes in the production of stoves for various purposes, in particular, heating and cooking-heating stoves, garden and camping stoves are produced. The ATB cast iron sauna stove has 10 modifications and is designed for steam rooms, both separate and combined with a sink. The volume of the room for different models is 20-30 m³, so they can be used in individual and public baths. All models have a stainless steel water tank and a body made of gray cast iron, the wall thickness of which is from 10 to 20 mm, this design allows you to give a guarantee on the stove for 15 years or more. Modifications ATB2 have been created for the operating mode of the Russian bath, all other models are designed for operation in the Finnish sauna mode. The ATB2-CHV-20-60 (75) Uk stove has an elongated firebox, which allows you to install the stove in such a way that it can be heated from the dressing room or the rest room, other models can be heated only directly in the steam room or use additional wall passages that are ordered from the manufacturer. ATB2-CHV-20-60K1, unlike other models, has a steel chimney and is installed in baths with a combined washing and steam room.

Furnaces of the company Inzhkomtsentr VVD

Stove in the bath Sudarushka M

LLC "Inzhkomtsentr VVD" has existed on the stove market since 1999, the plant produces three different designs of stoves for baths: the already mentioned Kalita, Sudarushka and Charodeyka, the first two are made of cast iron, the last one is made of steel. Kalita currently has four modifications:

1. Kalita made of GJL200 cast iron, with soapstone cladding, which allows the accumulation and retention of heat.
2. Arched Kalita, which is named so because of the upper arch of the stove above the stove.
3. Prince Kalita, which the manufacturer positions as professional, i.e. suitable for operation in the mode of public baths.
4. Kalita Extreme, designed for a steam room of 40 m³ and equipped with a heater for 200 kg of stones.

Three modifications of stoves are produced under the Sudarushka brand, designed for operation in more chamber rooms than Kalita - up to 18 m³. Sudarushka K has a stone cladding, like Kalita, Sudarushka MK is distinguished by an original external and internal filling of the heater, and Sudarushka M has a large furnace, the last two models are clad in steel. Comparison of ChT-1 furnaces from Magnum and Kalita furnaces can be viewed in the video:

Advantages and disadvantages of a black heat-resistant steel furnace

Steel is a more durable, ductile material in comparison with cast iron. Freely cut, stamped, welded. Its heat transfer is higher than that of cast iron. Steel furnaces are constructed from different types of steel - from black steel or stainless steel. Features of the ferrous metal stove:

• It has low heat transfer, it takes a lot of time and fuel to heat up, it cools down quickly. It tolerates high bath temperatures well.
• Short-lived. Under the influence of elevated temperature in low-carbon steels, the oxidation process is activated, the metal "burns out". Experts determine the service life of such a furnace for 2-3 years.
• The structural frame of the furnace expands strongly at high temperatures, so that sometimes the process of bursting welds can be observed.
• Requires additional processing with heat-resistant materials.
• The cost of a furnace made of such a metal is low.

Advantages and disadvantages of a furnace made of cast iron

The cast iron stove attracts buyers, first of all, with its good thermal conductivity and durability, it is considered the best offer for a bath. It has a sufficient number of advantages:

• Cast iron can hold temperature for a long time due to its loose structure. Furnace efficiency 82%. It is better than steel and brick structures. Due to the weight, thick walls (up to 10 mm), the temperature regime in the room is maintained for a long time. One portion of wood in the stove will be enough for 6-7 hours of the heating process.
• Cast iron stoves are heat-resistant, withstand high temperatures more easily, and their coefficient of linear expansion is much lower than that of steel ones, that is, they hardly deform during heating. Such ovens do not burn out, as they do not oxidize.
• A cast iron product does not rust, and therefore does not need special care - anti-corrosion coatings, heat-resistant painting, tiling, bricks. Although at the request of the consumer, all this is done, but more with a design purpose.
• The appearance of a cast iron stove can be particularly sophisticated, which also attracts buyers. Carved or glass doors, various shapes - all this is available to equipment owners.
• The fire safety of a cast iron furnace is higher than that of a steel one. The stove structure easily tolerates high temperatures without the formation of small cracks through which sparks can fly into the space of the living room.
• The durability of the stove, made of high-quality gray cast iron with a wall thickness of 10 mm or more, is beyond doubt. Such equipment will serve the owners for up to 35 years.

As for the disadvantages of an expensive product, the main one is the fragility of the structure due to the increased carbon content. A stove made of low-quality sheet cast iron does not withstand temperature changes well, and can break or burst upon impact. Imagine a bath in which cold water gets onto the stove during the hottest time. An instantaneous temperature drop will occur, the furnace will burst and it will be impossible to repair it, since the parts must be cast. Bath equipment made of high-quality gray cast iron (models Hephaestus, Svarozhich for a bath with a volume of 25-45 m³ and Ermak for a steam room, up to 12 m³) invariably delight customers.