The short answer is yes, the Solo Stove Bonfire does give off substantial radiant and conductive heat for its size. As a wood burning portable fire pit, the Solo Stove Bonfire takes advantage of patented airflow technology to create a hot, efficient wood fire that gives off impressive heat while minimizing smoke.
How the Solo Stove Bonfire Creates Heat
The Solo Stove Bonfire is able to generate such impressive heat thanks to its ingenious double-wall stainless steel construction. There is an inner wall and a slightly larger outer wall, with perforations along the bottom and top of the outer wall. This creates a “chimney effect” as the fire burns, drawing air in through the bottom vent holes and feeding oxygen to the fire. The super heated air then exits through the perforations at the top of the stove, allowing for a strong secondary burn of the smoke and volatile organic compounds above the fire. This oxygen-starved environment lets the smoke and VOCs burn off before leaving the stove, greatly reducing smoke output.
This efficient wood gasification allows the Solo Stove to burn fuel at temperatures of over 1100°F. For comparison, an open campfire burns at around 600°F. The ultra-hot fire created by the Solo Stove’s patented design produces far more radiant and conductive heat than a regular campfire. The inner wall absorbs the heat of the fire and radiates it outwards omni-directionally to warm those sitting around the fire pit. Even the outer wall of the stove gets hot to the touch, providing secondary radiant and conductive heat transfer.
Solo Stove Bonfire Specs Related to Heat Output
| Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Weight | 20 lbs |
| Diameter | 19.5 inches |
| Height | 14 inches |
| Materials | 304 Stainless Steel |
| Fuel Capacity | Large logs or wood pieces |
| Firebox Dimensions | 4.25″ H x 19.5″ Diameter |
| Optimal Burn Temp | Over 1100°F |
The Bonfire measures 19.5 inches in diameter and stands 14 inches high. Constructed entirely from 304 stainless steel, it has a 4.25″ tall by 19.5″ diameter firebox that can accommodate large logs and wood pieces. Given its sturdy steel build, vented construction for oxygen flow, and ability to burn wood at over 1100°F, the Solo Stove Bonfire creates a substantial amount of radiant and conductive heat relative to its size. The high temperatures ensure the surrounding air is quickly warmed as well.
Real World Testing Confirms Significant Heat
In addition to the impressive heat output confirmed by the Solo Stove’s specifications and design, there is plenty of anecdotal evidence from owners attesting to the substantial amount of warmth generated by the Bonfire. This real world testing confirms the Bonfire’s capabilities.
One reviewer describes the Bonfire as “a lot of heat in a small package.” They note that just two small logs burned for over an hour and made it uncomfortably hot to sit within 16 feet of the fire pit. Another owner was impressed with the amount of heat radiating several feet from the fire pit even on a cold and windy night when ambient temperatures dropped close to freezing. They were comfortable sitting around the Bonfire in t-shirts. Multiple other owners have commented on the intense heat given off that warms them up even on very cold winter nights.
Overall, owners universally agree that the Solo Stove Bonfire puts out a remarkable amount of radiant and conductive heat relative to its size. The hot fire achieved by the Bonfire’s precision double-wall design throws off heat that can be felt several feet away. This allows groups of 4-6 people to comfortably sit around the fire pit and experience warmth on all sides from the emitted heat.
Tips for Maximizing Heat Output
To get the most heat from the Solo Stove Bonfire, there are some useful tips to keep in mind:
Use Dry, Untreated Wood
The Bonfire will burn most efficiently and produce the most heat when using dry, untreated wood logs no more than 18″ long and under 4″ in diameter. Seasoned hardwoods like oak, hickory, and maple are ideal, but fir, pine, and other softwoods will also work well.
Start With Kindling First
Begin by lighting smaller kindling pieces first. This helps the fire establish and allows it to get hot enough to properly combust larger logs. Slowly add larger logs after the initial kindling has ignited.
Let the Fire Establish Before Sitting Around It
Give the fire 10-15 minutes to really get burning hot after lighting it. This lets the Bonfire reach its peak internal temperature before trying to draw heat from it via radiant/conductive transfer.
Maintain a Full Fire
Add more logs before the fire gets low to keep the firebox full. The more wood that is actively burning, the more heat will be created.
Be Mindful of Seating Distance and Arrangement
Sit 3-5 feet away from the Bonfire to feel the most heat radiating outward. Position seating in a semi-circle around the front/sides which will receive the most heat as opposed to directly behind the back of the fire pit.
Keep an External Wind Block
Have an external wind barrier like a privacy panel or well-placed seating that blocks wind. This prevents airflow from blowing heat away and reduces the amount radiating to those seated around the Bonfire.
By following these tips, you can ensure your Solo Stove Bonfire will burn as hot and efficiently as possible, yielding the highest heat output. Use dry, untreated wood, let the fire establish before sitting near it, keep the firebox full, position seating appropriately, and block external winds.
Conclusion
With its patented double-wall stainless steel construction leveraging advanced airflow dynamics, the Solo Stove Bonfire is able to burn wood extremely hot and efficiently. This results in substantial radiant and conductive heat production that can be felt several feet away from the fire pit. Numerous consumer testimonials confirm the Bonfire’s impressive heat output capabilities.
Following some simple tips like using dry wood, letting the fire get hot before approaching it, maintaining a full firebox, and blocking wind can help maximize heat production. The Solo Stove Bonfire’s smart design produces an incredible amount of heat relative to its portable size, making it a great option for heating during outdoor bonfires and gatherings.