World's most efficient stove!!!! Made of DIRT!!!

Merch store here: suburbanbiology.creator-sprin...
THE BOOK I USED: "The Rocket Mass Heater Builder's Guide: Complete Step-by-Step Construction, Maintenance and Troubleshooting". By Erica Wisner (Author), Ernie Wisner
Amazon Affiliate link is here: amzn.to/493YrsO
As an Amzon Affiliate I am eligible for financial incentives if you buy the above book.
I built this Rocket Mass Heater on my back porch. It is one of the most efficient wood burning heaters known to humans.
Timelapse version of this project here: • Rocket Mass Heater. 6 ...
If you have read this far it means you are intrigued. THAT means you should click the "subscribe" button to my channel so that youtube will be more likely to alert you of the crazy projects I build in the future..... or the crazy ones I've already built.
Or if you REALLY want to help promote my projects/philosophy and content like this; consider supporting me on Patreon. I am brand new at it but I wouldn't turn away help: patreon.com/suburbanbiology
I am standing on the shoulders of giants. If you want to learn more about these types of stoves you can talk to the giants at: permies.com/forums
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Building Materials (A modified list contained in the book; The Rocket Mass Heater Builder's Guide). Buy their book if you plan to build this stove. I get no money to say that. I want people to be safe though and that book is a fairly comprehensive guide to a safe build in my opinion.
Masonry:
• Firebrick (9" by 4.5" by 2.5") and half-firebrick (9" by 4.5" by 1.25") • Rubble (broken concrete, local field-stone, or brick, for footings and face)
• Mortars: Clay slip (or thin-set refractory mortar)*
Earthen Masonry:
• Clay (recycled pottery clay, raw fireclay, or local clay soils) • Aggregates: masonry sand or traction sand, plus small gravel (%"-minus/pit run) . Road base was used for my project.
• Straw and fiber for outer casings
• Insulation: Perlite base, DuraBlanket (ceramic fiber/rock wool rated for over 2000°F)
Metal :
•55 gallon drums: two matched steel drums in good condition, clean of paint and debris
• Matching steel barrel lids and band-clamps (food-grade barrels often come with clamp-on lids)
• 8" ID stovepipe (or ducting) for channels in the following shapes:
- 4 elbows. I used more than the book calls for because I used HVAC duct as the chimney also. This is not an ideal setup so you should probably spend the money on actual chimney tube ESPECIALLY if your stove is indoors.
- 3 capped Ts for cleanouts (eachT needs one matching closure cap - preferably uncrimped stovepipe caps that fit over the pipe, not into it)
-2 straight 5' pieces and 3 straight 2' pieces (or approx. 16 feet total straight pieces)
• 8" ID chimney (measured to fit the structure - dimensions will vary from project to project):
- stovepipe/manufactured chimney long enough to reach from bench to ceiling
- insulated class A chimney sections from ceiling through roof
- matching through-roof fittings including screened chimney cap
Bits and Pieces:
• Braided wood-stove gasket - approx. 7 feet for each joint (14 feet to make both lid and whole barrel removable for maintenance access)
• Foil tape and/or sheet metal screws for duct joints
• Masking tape and masking materials to mark levels and protect nearby walls/floors
• Framing materials (scrap lumber, screws and driver, saw) for floor and roof work
==========================================================================
I recommend anyone watching this video or reading this description perform significant research on their own prior to attempting to build any stoves. Please seek that advice of experts as what is in this video is NOT formal advice. As I said in the video, there is risk of death or injury when working with fire or stoves. Several comments have asked me if creosote accumulates inside the stove and I cannot with any certainty answer any questions related to this as I have only had this particular stove for several months and as I understand; creosote takes time to accumulate. Please know that if you embark on building a stove that you are doing so at your own risk. I cannot be held liable as I am NOT recommending you repeat what I have done.
The information provided in this video does not, and is not intended to, constitute construction advice for any stove (wood-burning or otherwise). The information, content, and materials available in this video are for general informational purposes only. Information in this video may not constitute the most up-to-date information in regards to building codes, or laws. This description and some comments in the comments section refer to other third-party websites and books. Any such links or references are only for the convenience of the viewer/reader. I do not recommend or endorse the content of any third party sites or references.

[@paulwheaton]

Very nice! FYI - building codes allow for outside rocket mass heaters (like yours) all over the US except san francisco.

[@suburbanbiology]

I am ever more humbled! When I referred to standing on the shoulders of giants in my inital comment on this video.... He was one of the giants I was referring to. I am honored Mr. Wheaton!!! I didn't know that code would smile on an outdoor RM heater but that makes sense (not that codes always do). Thank you for sharing!! Anyone interested in learning more detail about these stove please, please check out the permies forums I have already mentioned in the comments section. Mr. Wheaton and friends are the folks that I first got my early youtube education from on these stoves staring over a decade ago. They are the godfathers and mothers of this stuff. This has been an INCREDIBLE experience seeing comments from my long-time, online mentors and Gurus. I wonder if Ernie and/or Erica Wisner will pop up (the authors of the book I used to build this stove; link in description).......? I hear that they have worked with Mr. Wheaton on teaching workshops for constructing these stoves and I think they might even sell instructional DVDs on the Permies forums.

[@paulwheaton]

@@suburbanbiology outdoor use and codes: I have heard a couple of people mentioning having marshmallow or hotdogs nearby - just in case somebody from the department of making you sad is really being a stickler. But mostly the outdoor rmh falls into the space of a bbq.

[@suburbanbiology]

@@paulwheaton I hear you loud and clear. I'll make sure to keep my freezer on the porch stocked with frozen pizzas ;). Thank you sir!

[@DiabloOutdoors]

Mr. Wheaton, I was potentially interested in buying your videos. But it won't happen! you charge 65$usd for the video, which is OK with me. HOWEVER, you're charging 50% for Canadians. Sorry, but shipping a few DVDs to Canada doesn't cost that much. Canadians are nice, but not dumb.

[@paulwheaton]

@@DiabloOutdoors Our money fondling system sees US shipping and everybody else. So canadians get to pay what it costs to ship to australia. Glad to set up with somebody that will sell the dvds cheap outside the us so I don't have to deal with all that. In the meantime, my focus is on building things rather than trying to figure out how amazon does this so cheap.

[@percy9406]

I'm 70 year old retired HVAC installer. Well done and I love the out of the box critical thinking with great teachings skills. Young man I'm dieing of cancer and YOU have just made my day. Thank you so much!

[@suburbanbiology]

Im honored to have brought some joy to your day sir. God bless. And thank you for watching 🙏🏼

[@Kara-jd8ef]

Bless you. I'll pray for you. Please let me ask you a very serious question. Are you absolutely certain that you are going to heaven? I'm asking because I am and I know how you can too. I'm 69 and I promise you that I know.

[@percy9406]

@@Kara-jd8ef Yes, 💯 because I have given my whole mind body and soul to Jesus Christ and it is through faith and belief in in Christ he bestowed apon me his free grace. I don't get in through works but through the grace of Jesus Christ who died on the cross for my sins. Ephesians chapter 2, 8+9 I think pretty well covers it.

[@dannelson9741]

Percy Very nice. 😁🇺🇲👍

[@lyraecafe]

Try going on a completely juicing diet my friend .. ONLY FRUIT RUN THROUGH A FRUIT JUICER 🍓🍉🍋🫐🍇🍊 .. I have heard SO many stories of people being healed and cancer remissions .. takes weeks and months to detox but it is worth it 🙏🏻🙏🏻✨

[@MarkusDBurner]

the crazy thing is - he answers ALL the questions in the video. I was left with no questions at all. One of the best building videos i've ever seen :D

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank your saying. I’m very glad you enjoyed it. Thanks!

[@lazerblade2]

One thing he doesn't address in the video is why he refuses to use kindling. At the end of the video he uses a Vaseline and dryer lint fire starter, and then just puts some 1x4s in there and lights them with a blowtorch like a psychopath. Were sticks too hard to come by or something? They grow on trees. jk. Great video. Thanks.

[@crestfallensunbro6001]

this was most exemplified in the "i know someone is gonna ask about me poking the holes in the cob" moment,i had been thnking that exact thing and was blown away when he mentioned it

[@Merrsharr]

I have a question How do you clean the ash out?

[@crestfallensunbro6001]

@@Merrsharr stick an ash tolerant vacuum into where the fuel goes would be my guess

[@thebeardedone1225]

In my 65 years, I've built many of these. I've got to say, yours is one of the best tutorials on the net, for someone first starting out on this adventure. Well done young man. I know your family will get many years of enjoyment out of your project.

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you for your very kind words. They honor me given your extensive experience. My aim was to try to get this concept spread around more. Thank you for being a pioneer in making these stoves popular enough so that I was able to hear about them in the first place. And thanks for subscribing!

[@stibbs11]

This assumes he will stay in this house as it can not be moved, my suggestion would be build in a steel structure for moving the heater, else fine job sir.

[@emmanuelquinones9156]

What are the barrels for in them is a chimney I thought that was where you fill it with lots wood and it would burn little by little

[@thebeardedone1225]

@@emmanuelquinones9156 Its not the burn chamber. Its where the heated exhaust gasses travel, heating up the barrel, to throw off usable warmth. As it travels on out, the chimney pipes heat up the mass of earth. When mass is heated, it stays longer and radiates throughout the room it is in. If built correctly, the final exhaust coming out the end of the pipe is just barely warm. Which is the whole idea. No heat is wasted by going out of the pipe. All the heat is transferred to the barrel and mass of earth. Even modern high efficiency furnaces main objective is to transfer 80 to 90 percent of the heat inside the house, which is why the high efficiency furnaces exhaust flues are made of pvc plastic.

[@awakentruth1116]

​@@emmanuelquinones9156 Tell us you didn't watch the video without telling us that you didn't watch the video. The answer to your question was answered in the first 10 minutes of the video 🤦

[@Sashasdoc2]

You have the perfect blend of in-real-time video and time lapse combined with unobtrusive background music and just the right amount of exposition to cover the details of what you're doing, just when it's needed. You cover so much ground--and time--without it being overwhelming or boring. You definitely set the standard for this kind of content.

[@suburbanbiology]

Wow, thank you!

[@TheQwuilleran]

​@@suburbanbiologyalso the unobtrusive yet informative hand gestures/cursor

[@bobmephitis8206]

I have seen 10-15 videos of this type for the J-Type RMH w/ bench over the years, and they all left me with more questions than answers. Not yours! Absolutely thorough in your explanations and I feel that with the literature I have acquired, I am ready to make my first attempt this late summer or fall. Thank you, sir! I don't know if you are an educator by trade, but you have a gift for it.

[@suburbanbiology]

Good luck on your project. I hope this video helped make it easier for you!

[@nadinefoster5559]

Amazing! Thank you so very much!

[@joshmdmd]

explanation is wrong.

[@trazcotraz2798]

@@joshmdmd what is wrong? When you Point something is wrong, you better say also why!!!

[@joshmdmd]

@@trazcotraz2798 it's not worth the time tbh. That tube is a poor man's heat exchanger and at the draw of any decent fire would have you'd expect losses. He doesn't explain what pulls the air properly. He just does hand motions lol.

[@wendy2cc]

I don't think I have ever watched an hour plus video straight through before. This was fascinating. Your methodical, detailed approach was very educational. You have a right to feel so proud and accomplished over this project.

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you. I am honored to have been able to make something worthy of your attention. Thanks!

[@AgelessArt]

We felt the same way, thinking we would switch out or fast forward, but this was great, so well done!

[@user-uk1eb7hh6u]

Man how much your channel has grown! In this video you were hoping to reach 1,000 subscribers, now you have 149,000 subscribers! It's no wonder! Your videos are so detailed and thoughtful, and you sir have an amazing vibe and humble attitude. I am glad I found your channel. I pray God richly blesses you and your family.

[@michaelterronez5857]

You asked viewers to subscribe in order to gain the minimum 1k that KZbin requires before they'll monetize your channel, today 9 months later I can see that you have over 120k subscribers, congratulations, your growth is definitely a result of the detailed fine work and video you've shown on your channel and yes you've saved me both time and money, your very well deserving of you achievements, keep em coming!.

[@suburbanbiology]

It has been an incredible ride so far. I am happy that this video could help so many people on their journey and with their projects. I hope that it helps you on yours. Thank you so much for your support and for subscribing!

[@radicalgastronomy]

Great build, and video. Nice to see a RMH that doesn't look like someone's cat coughed it up. Keep offering such quality content and you'll hit 1,000/4,000 in no time.

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you for saying! I certainly hope so. Working on a giant rain capture video as we speak. Thanks for your support!

[@xanatax1844]

I’ll be back for the rain-capture! 🥰👍 Congrats on having over 60k subs now! 🥳🎉

[@braindecay9477]

It's already at half a million, so theres way more potential than 1000/4000 (which he passed already :) )

[@pascale516]

Subscribed, liked and shared - you are definitely not crazy for doing this. I’m a 58 years old mother of 3 adult sons, 2 grandsons. And hapilly married to a 64 years old very DIY husband. Watching your video from The Netherlands on 25 Jan. 2024. The knowledge and know-how you share is priceless. Thank you for your generosity. Amicalement, Pascale ❤

[@suburbanbiology]

I am honored that you found this video interesting and helpful. I hope that it helps spread the knowledge and make this project easier for other people. Thank you for your support and for subscribing!

[@ArmageddonAfterparty]

If there were prizes to be given out, this video would win the one for the best way of explaining a build category imo. Excellent.

[@suburbanbiology]

That’s high praise. Thank you very much for your comment. And thank you for subscribing!

[@Zogg1281]

My Grandad spent a large part of his life living in Zimbabwe and he built the family home from cob bricks that he made as himself. It had an estimated life span of 20 years...... 60 odd years later, the house is still standing and can be found on Google Earth!! I hope your bench serves you well 😊👍👍👍👍

[@suburbanbiology]

That’s incredible. Earthen building techniques are definitely underrated. Thanks for your support!

[@omarsoulay4764]

@@suburbanbiology an "earthouse" would tremendously benefit from this. An earth-sheltered home is less susceptible to the impact of extreme outdoor air temperatures than a conventional house. Earth-sheltered houses also require less outside maintenance, and the earth surrounding the house provides soundproofing. Ive always watched those "teletubbie houses" with total amazement.

[@kathyhirsch379]

My grandparents leaved in Hungary there house was built with mud bricks same as yours my grandmother died when she was 90 that was about 50 years ego don't know exactly when they built it but as you see it's more than 100 years ego.... what a small world those that's there was no youtube amassing 😊😊

[@imari2305]

One of the most detailed, beautiful rocket stove builds I've seen in a long time on youtube. Thanks so much for taking the time to share with us.

[@suburbanbiology]

Thanks for saying so and thanks for your support.

[@IVIaskerade]

This is probably the best video on rocket mass heaters I've ever seen. It's clear, informative, concise, and shows absolutely everything you'd need to know in a step by step format which is so useful.

[@greenwood4020]

The dimensions of the Rocket Stove and the sizing of the ducting and the specific materials used, have been researched by many around the world for decades This build is a result of all that accumulated research. Basically the riser of fire brick and the insulation wrapped around it ensure that the unburnt gases from the burn tunnel and excess air (drawn in by the exact sizing of everything) make sure ALL the gases are burnt, so there is no creosote at all (well perhaps in the first minutes until up to temp). The fire brick in the burn tunnel also helps with keeping it HOT and the 90deg bend to riser further helps with mixing. Its called a rocket stove because of the noise it makes as the air and wood gases mix and burn completely. Most users find no unburnt coals, minimum ash and very little to clean out and the riser is normally a grey ashen colour indicating complete combustion. What you saw when he lifted the barrel early on in the build was black soot from the small "drying fires", this changes when it gets a full burn going as after 5minutes there is NO smoke just a heat haze coming out of chimney. The reason fire brick is used is because of the high temperatures generated in the riser that can destroy steel and even stainless steel in a few burns (many have tried and failed with steel in these RS's). Temperatures over 1000degC 1800degF are generated at peak burn. Rocket stoves are burnt clean with an excess of air, at high temperatures = total combustion for short periods of time and the massive amount of heat is absorbed in the cob bench which then releases it over the next 6-12 hours. Cob has a heat penetration rate of about 1inch per hour so the bench takes time for heat to reach surface but then stays hot for a long time. Many just have ONE 1/2hr burn 1 or 2 burns PER 24 hours for ALL DAY & NIGHT HEATING = very comfortable house. Because of the efficiency of these fires most users report using 1/3 to 1/10th of the wood previously used in a steel box stove,. Decades of research by many around the world in open forums. This build is a result of all that accumulated research and knowledge. The cob lets this stored heat out all night as the heat is stored in the cob and the fire is out and the flue close so it doesn't draught warm air to outside. So no fire at night = maximum safety Most steel box stoves are filled to max and flue turned to minimum in an attempt get heat from full night burn. This is what creates the creosote AND an unattended fire at night plus creosote is NOT AS SAFE AS NO FIRE I would imagine he will wall in that area in the future and have a lovely cosy place in winter Manifold/bell when the extremely hot fully burnt gases from the riser hit the bell they spread out in all directions and hit the side walls. In doing so the loose some heat, now being cooler they are more dense so start dropping down sides where they loose more heat etc etc until they get to the bottom they then flow into the flue that runs through the bench giving up even more heat until they are pushed out of the chimney as "relatively" cool waste gas. Mainly Co2 and water as we have complete combustion due to excess air and extremely high temps. These high temperatures in the insulated Riser, mean the gas has expanded hugely causing high velocities (rocket stove noise) this momentum drives the system as the gas cools and therefore shrinks the rest of the journey. The shrinking gas also means the friction with walls becomes less and less as the gas is pushed along. An important part of the design is to not make the bench too long a take out too much heat or the water vapour will condense so exit temps of 50-100deg C are part of the design. There are tables of design parameters in the Rocket stove Forums for Rocket stoves from 1kw output at 3" or75mm to 17kw 250mm or 10" Riser/flue diameter Manifold/bell when the extremely hot fully burnt gases from the riser hit the bell they spread out in all directions and hit the side walls. In doing so the loose some heat, now being cooler they are more dense so start dropping down sides where they loose more heat etc etc until they get to the bottom they then flow into the flue that runs through the bench giving up even more heat until they are pushed out of the chimney as "relatively" cool waste gas. Mainly Co2 and water as we have complete combustion due to excess air and extremely high temps. These high temperatures in the insulated Riser, mean the gas has expanded hugely causing high velocities (rocket stove noise) this momentum drives the system as the gas cools and therefore shrinks the rest of the journey. The shrinking gas also means the friction with walls becomes less and less as the gas is pushed along. An important part of the design is to not make the bench too long a take out too much heat or the water vapour will condense so exit temps of 50-100deg C are part of the design. There are tables of design parameters in the Rocket stove Forums for Rocket stoves from 1kw output at 3" or75mm to 17kw monsters of 250mm or 10" Riser/flue diameter

[@suburbanbiology]

Very informative! Thanks for commenting

[@lamonthudson76]

Thank you...very informative

[@ronrobinson7062]

I've done everything you asked me to do in your viedio. As retired mutli industrial tradesman in Michigan, I admire not only your ability of workmanship but also your ability to teach. Keep on doing what you're doing. God bless you and your family.

[@dianeladico1769]

Outstanding. Son, I've watched a lot of Rocket Mass Heater videos, including those from the 'experts' and this was by far the most thorough, easy to follow, enjoyable and approachable video I've seen. If you're half as careful and thoughtful in the rest of your endeavors, all who know you are lucky indeed.

[@suburbanbiology]

That’s very kind of you to say. Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed it!

[@bygraceonly182]

Thank you for not half heartedly doing this. Your passion shows through in both the heater and the video! I’m so grateful for the detail. God bless you and your family.

[@greenwood4020]

I agree, even with the "experts" there was always some detail that they were so familiar with they left out the explanation and left me wanting more. This is such a a good video and explanation that Paul Wheaton (one of the Experts and long time researcher) has put a link to this video on his permies web site and sent a mass Email to his subscribers, he was so impressed with the thoroughness and quality. That is high praise. Plus his views jumped massively as a result

[@FruitKck]

What a gift to your family. Thank you for conveying all the education you went through to do this, to us. ❤

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you for appreciating it and for subscribing!

[@ogi22]

@@suburbanbiology Your build is amazing. I love the precision and what you show here - even if you carefully think things through, you can always get into a little snag. If you do something for the first time, be ready to f...up - it's a learning process. I'm half way through however and i have a little question. All heaters i know of, have some nice doors to clean out the ashes from the burn chamber. OK, maybe it will be answered later :) Sorry, i'm a service guy and it's my work deviation - accessibility and servicability of tools.

[@jf3518]

Looks awesome. These kind of stoves are very popular in Finland. Tulikivi is one producer. I have one too. The big advantage is, that heat is emitted via infrared radiation, which feels nice and is mkre efficient for heating than convective heating of a metal stove with few mass. I also have a chimney with air intake. So the exhaust gas preheats the incoming outdoor air. Making the burn more efficient by not pulling out the indoor air. Also it is more safe as the air intake acts as an insulator for the exhaust pipe.

[@ptchjamie]

I'm 2:45 into the video, and I can already confidently say that this is the best-explained rocket mass heater build I've ever seen. Thanks for the work you've done explaining this-- I might have one of these in my living room next winter thanks to your help.

[@suburbanbiology]

I genuinely hope it helps you get your project done. Thanks for watching!

[@brianwhite9555]

This is one of the best videos I've ever watched as far as quality goes. Clear, concise, and thorough instructions without a lot of extraneous talking. All camera angles were perfectly matched to each step or feature of construction. I'm wondering if you're going to enclose that patio in the future? If not, I could still imagine sitting on that warm bench on a still & quiet winter evening with snow on the ground, sipping a hot drink. :) Thumbs up and subbed!

[@suburbanbiology]

I do indeed plan on enclosing the porch and even adding a greenhouse extended off the end of it. Thanks for your support!

[@katiekane5247]

​@@suburbanbiologyexcellent use of resources. I wonder if using a common wall of say, Adobe, wouldn't heat a small building without the dangers of combustion inside?

[@umarjilani4997]

Excellent Enjoyed watching yr video & learned a lot. Thank you for sharing this video with US ALL ❤

[@ThomasKacMarek]

How do you take out of the stove berner I really don't see the convenience of the wood stove

[@seidl8481]

Fabulous. So detailed anyone could follow and be successful. While managing an organic farm, we built a rocket mass heater in a high tunnel so we could start 32,000 hot pepper plants. It was not as pretty as yours. Great job with each step and filming.

[@suburbanbiology]

Thanks for commenting and for subscribing! Glad to hear it works well for greenhouses. That’s my long term plan. Thanks!

[@DankDankPancake]

Literally, the nicest pile of dirt I have ever seen

[@lkhfun6575]

This is the best step by step of building a RMH that I have seen - free and paid for. Looking forward to viewing your other work. Subscribed. 🙂

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you for subscribing. I’m glad you’ve found it informative!

[@karenramnath9993]

I like how you explain things as you go along, and the camera is showing things long enough to actually see what is going on. The slow-motion trowel made me laugh 😂 And the wind chimes are nice ☺️

[@suburbanbiology]

I was wondering if the trowel silliness would be well received :) Thanks for the feedback. It helps me know what the audience is into. Thanks for your support!

[@66Grudge]

Impressive! I'm 57 yrs old. Served in the U.S. Navy, then served in the Tennessee National guard. Did many various types of work throughout this Nation. Yet after watching this video, I feel as if I have never put that much effort into anything. Or for that matter, all of my life combined lol. That certainly was a job man. You are a beast.

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you for your service and for your kind comments. I appreciate your support!

[@z0OZ00OOO]

At first I thought I would skip to the end of the video, but the whole build was very entertaining/ educational. Thank you for your great explanations. Subscribed

[@suburbanbiology]

I’m honored that you stuck around 🙏🏼 thanks for your support!

[@chevtruck1000]

Well done. Not many are willing to put out that much effort into a project. I hope it serves you well.

[@nancylucia5147]

Of all the how to videos I have watched, this one was by far the best detailed production I have ever seen! I feel like I could just go out there and do it myself. Bravo sir. 1

[@suburbanbiology]

That makes me very happy to hear. That was goal. To build confidence in others so that they are empowered to build their own. Good luck!

[@chandradeepkumar7750]

As a Mechanical Engineer, I found this video incredibly insightful and practical. Watching the entire 1 hour and 14 minutes was absolutely worth it. The way you demonstrated each step of the construction process was thorough and clear, making it easy to understand. It was fascinating to see the principles I studied in books come to life in such a practical and hands-on project. I loved the part where you put cob, while there was fire in stove to prevent cracks in future. It's such a simple thing when you know about it, but just as easy to neglect when you don't know. All in all a great video. Thank you for making it.

[@suburbanbiology]

I’m honored that you found it informative. Thank you for way watching a mind commenting. And for subscribing!

[@kgbear3662]

I just found this channel this weekend in the wake of all the chaos. I’m so thankful for all your work and sharing. I hit all the buttons and subscribed. You are an absolute blessing. Thank you. Ecclesiastes 11:9 Proverbs chapter 3.

[@jonas3333]

I definitely appreciate how you showed the entire cobbing process on making the seat. It illustrates the patience required for making this project instead of a "and tada!" moment.

[@suburbanbiology]

I wanted to show the realistic amount of work it takes without making it absolutely boring and painful. I’m glad you appreciated it!

[@B30pt87]

This was without doubt the highest quality video I've seen on rocket mass heater construction. And cob. Well worth my subscription and all the other things. Now I'm looking forward to watching your other videos. Great camera work, clear speech, good instructions, beautiful aesthetics... you even answered my question about the holes before I could ask. Really outstanding work!

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you for your kind comments. I’m glad that you found it helpful!

[@goten2831]

You said, "hit subscribe!" in the absolute politest and most well mannered way to where I was actually happy to do so. Thanks for your video's, they're amazing.

[@flattail]

Not only did you clearly explain and show each step of the process, but I appreciate that you also show how long the process takes and what tools are required if you are just working in your spare time. I know I eventually want to build a rocket-mass heater inside, and I think this is probably the pace I would go, so I too should plan for about 6 months. Thanks for all the helpful tips and insights!

[@suburbanbiology]

I am glad that you found this video helpful. I probably could’ve gone a little bit faster, but I was juggling a few other projects. Those videos will be coming soon. One of them is a giant rain water tank. Good luck with your project and be safe. I would definitely recommend buying the book that I link to in the description. If I could go back and change, one thing, I might have something then other than HVAC pipe for the full chimney. But I suppose on the porch I think that is sufficient. Maybe just not for an indoor version though. Thanks for subscribing!

[@davidcardona2724]

I really enjoyed watching you build this stove. The fact that you did all this in your spare time is amazing. Your passion shows through in all that you do. The building, the video production, your explanation as you go through the process, your attention to detail, your patience with your daughter, all of these things are a testimony to your abilities as a man, a husband and father. I am an Anglican priest and a psychotherapist. I deal with people on several different levels and with issues both spiritual and psychological and I want to tell you that you are a blessing to more people in more ways than I hope you can imagine. May God bless and keep you and yours.

[@suburbanbiology]

Very kind words sir. I sincerely thank you and I hope to live up to them. Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@Terrancerees-tj5dl]

Thank you✌️😁 now how the🤔 do I sign up ??

[@buggarden6813]

And then we all discover it's one of those cakes/pastries that resembles stuff. Bravo! Definitely one of the best construct videos. Award winning dialogue in itself. This is how the Tartarians must have done it. Imagine on a LARGER scale. I mean, you did mention giants.

[@suburbanbiology]

Thanks for your support!

[@SteveRiddel-iz3cy]

Thank your wife and daughter on our behalf for your efforts to show us this !!! Excellent!!

[@suburbanbiology]

Our pleasure! Thanks for your comment and for subscribing!

[@bigonprivacy2708]

Dude, this is one of the best "tutorial" videos on anything I've ever seen. Thorough, concise, but very important and necessary depth. Thank you!

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you for your support and for subscribing! I’m glad you enjoyed it!

[@daniblue9927]

Just beautiful! Everything is perfectly done. I would ad two things to this awesome build: - opening under/side the wood entering pit for easy access in order to clean the ashes - iron or clay or rock plate on the very top of the barrel in order to keep stuff hot ( food, tea, coffee or something different) Everything else just motivates me to do the similar stove! Thank you so much for this great job !!! 👏

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you for your comments. I have heard the cleanout advised from a few folks now. In truth I was just nervous it would lead to cracks since this was my first attempt. Shop vac into the feed tube is supposed to be very effective. I will know more after I try it this winter. I like your stone idea. I was planning on making a basket to hold big rocks so I could use them for a sauna but maybe I could just install handles into a big stone slab. I’ll add whatever I come up into the future video on the full porch Rennovation. Thanks for the ideas and for subscribing!

[@matthewgoings]

I have watched and read many instructions on the build process, but yours is the most detailed and great to watch.

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you. I’m glad you found it helpful.

[@scottbillups4576]

I have seen a dozen or so RMH construction videos, and your video is the clearest, most straightforward video I've seen yet. Thank you for this. This is my new 'gold standard' how-to video. Well done.

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you for your very thoughtful comments. I hope to make update videos on when and how it fails etc. I appreciate your ideas all the same. I’ll try to keep the world updated. Thanks for your support!

[@allianceagainsttheislamicd5041]

You're not crazy you're a genius.

[@archibaldtuttle8481]

I have *some* experience with woodstoves, fireplaces, chimneys, flues, weathercaps, masonry, plastering, and various applications of mortar & cement . . . What I admire most is the well rounded perspective offered to anyone who knows essentially nothing about such a project and the guidance provided to increase the likely hood of such a person's success. Combustion exhaust completeness is an issue in many municipalities -- I suggest that some reading on catalytic devices to reduce unburned byproducts is advisable.

[@darrelljacobjr2120]

Combustion exhaust completeness...A common misconception among people used to working with low-temperature 'regular' wood stoves. A properly designed and constructed rocket mass heater gets up to 1500-2000*F in the burn tunnel and heat riser. This combusts Everything, even the carbon monoxide, leaving a clean, smoke-free exhaust of CO2, nitrogen and a bit of water vapor. Zero creosote production, and the exhaust gas temps are so low the 'chimney' won't even burn your hand.

[@lotharschiese8559]

@@darrelljacobjr2120 You have this concept of combustion dialed in! We require a paradigm shift of how we burn fuels!

[@GavinBisesi]

You are great at explaining this. It's very clear at every single step. Awesome video!

[@suburbanbiology]

Thanks!

[@forestMog]

Excellent explanation of how and why. As Mr Honda said in Japan, “God is in the details”. You are a true artist sir.

[@loriraz3947]

“There is no such thing as a new idea. It is impossible. We simply take a lot of old ideas and put them into a sort of mental kaleidoscope. We give them a turn and they make new and curious combinations. We keep on turning and making new combinations indefinitely; but they are the same old pieces of colored glass that have been in use through all the ages.” Mark Twain Brilliant job explaining and making this rocket stove.

[@suburbanbiology]

Man that’s a great quote! I’m saving that one. Thanks for commenting with such a gem and thanks for subscribing!

[@loriraz3947]

@@suburbanbiology I remembered it from a class I took in High School….way back in the day. I found it profound myself and never forgot it. Who doesn’t love Samuel Clemens? His way with words was brilliant. Thank you for sharing your story on the rocket stove. It’s one of the finest KZbins I’ve seen on it.

[@soaronwingslikeeagles7982]

Best video i have ever seen on Rocket Mass Heater. Thank you. Greetings from South Africa 🇿🇦

[@suburbanbiology]

Cool. South Africa! Welcome and thanks for watching and subscribing!!!

[@LittleAussieRockets]

A lot of work, well done. I really enjoyed your video and the final stove looks great.

[@suburbanbiology]

Thanks man!!! I have to say I’m a bit start struck and honored to have you comment. I’ve watched your videos for years and the demo unit that I labeled at the start of the video was actually inspired by watching some of your work. Thank you for all your hard work through the years and for inspiring me to even try to make videos like this in the first place! I am honored.

[@xanatax1844]

aww! This is so cute! 😍 also, I will take this recommendation, and give @Little Aussie Rockets an insta-follow. 💜👍

[@gradyweeden4292]

Awesome build. Very good explanation of the entire process. Something to be proud of. Cheers I look forward to seeing more adventures.

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you. Glad you found it enjoyable!

[@HylanderSB]

Just got here from a KZbin suggestion and threw you a like and subscription. I'm a Permie and have admired Erica and Ernie's work for many years.

[@suburbanbiology]

Very cool. Thank you for your support! I am humbled to have to opportunity to spread an idea that was truly pioneered by others. Thanks for being a part of that!!!! And thanks for your support!

[@JG-ly2ij]

Shout out from natural builder/teacher in Australia. The comments say it all. Clear, well paced complete instructions. No ego. Great music. The Finland comment below immediately drew my mind to the traditional clay mass heater bed used in traditional Korea and norther China called Ondal (and Kang) (spell check wanted to go Kangaroo)! Basically have a fire for cooking, and bonus the heat to warm a sleeping platform. Very cool. Thank you for sharing your passion. As we’d say here in Oz ‘beaudy bonza rippa mate’ 👍

[@suburbanbiology]

Thanks for commenting. I’ve never heard that expression but it sounds cool to bough to be high praise. I appreciate any props from a natural builder. Thanks for your support and for subscribing!

[@verygoodvibes]

no doubt this is the best home made earthern rocket furnace build on youtube.. thank you. liked and subscribed!

[@charlesnewkirk7031]

I like it all!!!

[@suburbanbiology]

Glad you appreciate 🙏🏼

[@Amy-zm4il]

Stumbled upon ur channel watching homesteading video. Ur calm voice and informative videos r awesome. Love the content.

[@cuoplegrand]

Your transparency and explanations on this has just been high quality! Just you sharing this knowledge and sharing consciousness on this topic im sure the world will slowly start to become a better place. A million times thank you!

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you. Don’t know why but those words really touched me. Just trying to help if I can. Glad you see that.

[@paulrosebush9137]

Why can't all DIY videos be this well produced? Fantastic work and unlike many videos I've seen on this subject, you've answered every question and in an easy to understand way. Thank you! Subscribed and 👍

[@suburbanbiology]

I’m glad you found it informative. Thanks!

[@TBizzell68]

This was a fantastic video, I enjoyed every second. Just to clarify, your daughter wasn’t playing with the straw, she was doing QC to make sure it was the right consistency 😂. Nice touch with the etching of the clean out caps!

[@TatyanaValdaBelindaHill]

I've wanted to make (and benefit from!) one of these for 15 years! This is the clearest explanation of the process I've seen - even clearer than the how-to books I have. You should be a teacher. 😇xx

[@suburbanbiology]

I’m glad you found it informative and helpful. Thank you for your kind words. I hope this helps you on your journey with your project. Thanks for commenting and for subscribing!

[@TatyanaValdaBelindaHill]

@@suburbanbiology 😘

[@CanadianPermacultureLegacy]

How did I not know about this video until now. Great video, you got a sub from me. I will also use this video as my #1 video to point to when someone on my channel asks a question about rocket mass heaters. This is the best build video I've seen on them yet. A TON of work, but all questions were answered in the video. Small details like how to angle a trowel in putting on plaster. Even a little humour in there. A great video. Well done!

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you for your support! My aim for this video was to make something that would be fairly turnkey to really help spread the message of how this can be done. I appreciate that you appreciate it. I will check out your channel sometime in the near future. Thanks for supporting my work and even more for supporting the cause!!

[@dallascumming8750]

By far the best video that I've ever seen of building a rocket mass heater and I've been watching these types of videos for over a decade. Well done lad!

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you for saying. I’m glad you enjoyed. And thanks for watching!

[@donparkinson9561]

Nice to see you attained more than a thousand subscribers. Congratulations! It is lovely when your family pitches in and helps. I thought that was a sweet gesture to leave in that clip. I often thought of making a bed like that but I never got around to it, because I never had my own place. The insert was a clever invention, too.

[@suburbanbiology]

Thanks all around. I am pretty stunned how quickly the views and subs have jumped. I’m honored by everyone following! Thanks

[@edo4294]

'To close for missiles, switching to guns'... lol nice. Wow... this is the best DIY video I have seen on KZbin. Very informative without being boring & slow, shows and explains all the details in concise commentary and footage. Very very well done sir.... thank you!

[@ckl5822]

I like the way you ‘perforated’ each course of cob to adhere to the following layer. Nicely done.

[@quaruke9489]

Considering you released this video 3 weeks ago and now have 14k subs, if you keep making content of this quality, you will go viral. 3-5 years for a million subs easy. Just make sure you keep that family ballance going. Best of luck to you :)

[@sachamuller4624]

Damn i'm a pretty young dude but that build and all the details you shared with us really passionated me. Thank you for all that crazy work keep it up man !

[@melvinmckinley6269]

This is fantastic, wish I had seen this 30 yrs ago when I could have made this, too old now. Dude you are great.

[@MrHadrian71]

By far one of the best videos/projects on the internet! Thank you very much for sharing!

[@ericpayne3253]

I’ve watched a lot of rocket stove, build videos over the years and this is by far the best. Appreciate your time. Documenting the details. Great looking stove.

[@suburbanbiology]

Thanks for saying. I appreciate your support!!

[@RiversJ]

I did not expect to spend my Saturdays last hours watching a man build an earthen mass rocket stove but i don't regret one minute of it, great quality and you have a wonderful personality ans glad to see you've rocketed your subsribers well past the limit, doing the same still 👍

[@kjdp8519]

I live in a hot and humid area, a tropical country really, so I'm not even sure why I'm here or why I finished watching the whole thing but I enjoyed learning things I might not ever build.

[@shellyg9977]

Best cob video I’VE EVER SEEN! And I have watched a few! ! Thank you

[@wanderborn.]

Thank you for your time, filming and for sharing. You've done some absolutely incredible project

[@NB-uw9qq]

You have impeccable craftsmanship, and I appreciate your editing style too. Really great work!

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you for you compliments and thank you for watching!

[@Tavorath]

1 million views and barely 50k subs, I wish you luck. Thanks for the video.

[@wojohowitz5432]

of course I appreciate the detail and instruction on this build video. It is high quality and of tremendous value. However, I just noticed the absolute BEST feature of this video (only because too many videos are ruined by this). It is the BACKGROUND music. WOW! Soothing, calm, a respectable volume and does not distract or take away from the impact you are working hard to present. WELL DONE.

[@suburbanbiology]

I’m glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for commenting and for subscribing!

[@penelope_skye]

I have no idea why this popped up in my feed probably related to alternative living, but I can safely say that this is so well made and really educational! I watched all of it and I don't normally watch hour plus videos. You have easily passed that 1k goal you set in the video and I have subbed to stay connected with you as just wow!!! I love the layers of the clay before you put the finishing layer on!!! This bench is honestly so impressive. Also I love the cob it just looks so lovely!! Here in England Cobb isn't really used as it's just a faff and isn't very waterproof being England lol

[@suburbanbiology]

I’m glad you like it and honored that you spent your valuable time watching the whole video. Now if anyone ever asks if you know what a rocket mass heater is you can say “yes!”. Thank you!

[@TonyTapay]

Hard to convey how unheard of it is for me to watch an hour and fifteen minute video of anything and I just did it of some dude building a rocket stove. Much thanks and props to you for not just a cool project but also of a well done video. Nice music choice as well! So often decent videos are ruined with bad music and this was not the case here. Subtle and well-chosen.

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you for your comments and support. The vote for the soundtrack is now 6 for it and 2 against it. “For” is winning. Thank you!

[@stevemartin9200]

I have been watching builds for these stoves for over 30 years. This is by far the best I have seen.

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you for saying. I am honored that you found it high-quality. Thanks for subscribing!

[@vigorousoutlaw2357]

This man needs compensated KZbin!! Awesome video!! What a neat project!! 👌

[@suburbanbiology]

I appreciate that!

[@stevenfrazier8939]

You sir are an artist, thank you for teaching us how to do it the right way.

[@suburbanbiology]

Why thank you! I would think “dabbler” is more accurate but I appreciate your compliment. Thanks for being a part of this process!

[@johnduman4679]

A beautiful, masterful job! As the other commenters have said you have made a truly educational video of the process. This is one of the projects on my bucket list. Thank you!

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you. I hope this video helps you get your project underway. Good luck!

[@laural122]

This is the most explanatory video I saw until now, not even a book I have did not explain so well. Thank you a lot, I will be watching you further. I plan building a rocket stove with water pipes inside the bench mass to use it for underfloor heating.

[@suburbanbiology]

You're very welcome! I’m glad you found it helpful. Thanks for subscribing!

[@mikeconnery4652]

Nice work, great explinations, good camera placement, nice editing. Overall excellent production. 👌

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you 🙏🏼 glad you enjoyed it

[@joshku9161]

I remember being fascinated learning about heated Korean floors, and spending days thinking about how one would implement different, more efficient versions of it in fictional and real-life settings, using rocket engine concepts, etc. I found this video today and was absolutely mesmerized by the concept, explanation, and execution. I think this is the closest I’ve ever gotten to literally dreaming about something and actually finding out it could be reality. I hope I get the chance to implement this one day. Thank you for all the time, effort, and love you put into this. congrats on the 11k subs as well. I’m glad to be one of them! (how’s the ash disposal on this btw? perhaps its not that big of a hassle just scooping it out? would a liftable bucket of sorts be a viable quality of life addition?)

[@suburbanbiology]

If you liked this you should check out the books and forums. Some folks have gotten real fancy with them. Shop vac into the brick opening gets most of the ash. The cleanout closest to the bell gets access to any fly ash that makes it up the heat riser.

[@arlen1630]

Checkout Russian giant mass masonry stoves.... supposedly one burn will heat your house for 24 hours😮

[@arlen1630]

​@@suburbanbiology have you ever seen a Russian giant masonry stove, supposedly one burn in the morning will heat the whole house for one day

[@BigHenFor]

​@@arlen1630 There's videos of those stoves, that are the size of a double bed, and the bed mattress is placed on it. They combine a hob, an oven, and the burn chamber. Light it at the beginning of the day, and cooking on it will build up the radiant heat that lasts throughout the day and night. Rinse and repeat. And some of the decoration is beautiful.

[@handrake21]

Yeah, same here. This video instantly reminded me of Korean ‘on-dol’ which has been adopted by Frank Loyd Wright into modern floor heating concept, after seeing a replica in his visit to Japan, using heated water instead of smoke as transfer medium. I have always been wondering about vertical flutes/chimneys in domestic wood burning heaters, and how inefficient they are. It was interesting to stumble upon this video. Thanks for sharing your experience 👍

[@happyinharned9583]

Great job! Looks ĝood too. I saw one built about 20 years ago and found it interesting. The family sat and laid on theirs all the time. Your explanations were right on.

[@RoSario-vb8ge]

Shared this with a bunch of people. One is a potter and they bought their second old house, spending their time off renovating and hopefully they can use this enhancing their energy balance. Enjoyed it a lot.

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you for sharing it. I hope it helps your friend reach their goals!

[@morning...morning]

Excellent video! As others have noted, I've watched a lot of RMH vids over the years and this one really brings together the science and practical aspects in a very clear and understandable way. Def. one to bookmark and refer to later.

[@burakozdamar]

This is by far the best RMH tutorial I have ever seen on yt. I watched the whole process without even skipping one second. Definitely saving the video for future reference. Great work.

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you for saying and thank you for watching!

[@donkirouac25]

Well done young man! Very meticulous with great attention to detail. No need to apologize for chasing your passion, you've done yourself and your beautiful family proud. Kudos. Be well.

[@suburbanbiology]

Much appreciated! Thank you for your kind words and support. I appreciate both!

[@maddogmusicstudio1139]

This is the best tutorial for building a RMH i have seen, and i have watched a few, great explanations and very impressed with how tidy you work, one question; is there a maximum length that the bench can be,

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you. I’m going off memory here but I’m pretty sure 20 feet (of total duct) is approaching the max. I’ve read that if you want to increase the length of duct in the bench you have to either reduce the number of right angle bends (since turns add resistance to flow) or increase the height of the heat riser (to increase the driving force) or both. The final chimney height (that comes out of your roof) also helps pull air. The shorter the outdoor chimney the worse it is for flow. I added one extra layer (or course) of fire bricks partially for this reason as well. I was forced to have a short outdoor chimney so I wanted to compensate by “pushing” the exhaust gas harder with an extra tall heat riser. Hope that helps. Anyone reading this if you add your questions in the comments maybe I can do a follow up Q&A video some day… 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@robertsnyder8159]

Great job! The heater looks wonderful and your video production is very informative and entertaining to watch. I look forward to seeing more projects

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it

[@2200chuck]

I had to smile when you talked about needing 1,000 subscribers to be monitized. This video was uploaded just 6 months ago and you already have 32,800+ subscribers (including me). Your channel has grown quickly! Good for you.

[@Zekerose]

I have no idea who u are, but where have u been. Lol. Most informative video ever. I hope you’re a teacher or professor because you’ve got the brains, attitude and demeanor to make learning interesting!! Take care my friend

[@suburbanbiology]

That’s very kind of you to say and thank you! I do my part to teach where I can. Thank you for subscribing!!!

[@pigseye2]

Amazing build! Your execution on the fire tube was brilliant. you've earned a new subscriber. Thank you!!!

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you for subscribing! I’m glad you enjoyed it.

[@hassovier]

That's basically how a lot of traditional ovens work in cold countries. In Germany, Austria and Switzerland you have the kachelofen- in Sweden, Norway and Russia you have the same concept but built through your whole house (even bigger heat sink) very fascinating topic! My friend has a very special oven which when closed builds up a low pressure zone but it needs very little fuel and heats a long time- just don't open the door to the fuel chamber it will implode😂

[@suburbanbiology]

The comments on this video have taught me that this thermal mass concept is more ancient and multicultural than I had ever realized. Thanks for commenting!

[@PaulSmithm]

One of the most complete descriptions I've ever seen on how to build something. It's like backstage at This Old House, awesome! I learned a ton from you, love what you are doing and how well explained it all is. And your music is kickass on the time lapse scenes!

[@suburbanbiology]

Thank you for saying so. I appreciate your support. And thanks for subscribing!

[@hakunamatata887]

Would love to see you cook food for your lovely family with this great work ❤

[@videobob]

Three thumbs up

[@suburbanbiology]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@reneebrown2968]

The good thing about putting the dimples in it is that it will help the drying process as well. And you should be happy that you didn't do the entire bench at one go because it would take forever for the inside to dry. You are better to do it in 6 inch layers with time to dry between.

[@suburbanbiology]

Good to know. That’s about the depth each layer worked out to be. Thanks for your support!