9 Things To Know About Your Wood Burning Stove

1. The different styles of wood burning stoves.

Any fire will create a focal point in a room, but the many different styles now on the market enable you to find a stove that not only looks good but provides you with the warmth and beauty of a real log fire. Firstly, there is the traditional black cast iron box with legs which looks great in both period homes and contemporary spaces.

You do not need to stick to black as enamelled stoves are available in a variety of colours to enhance your interior décor.

If you prefer a sleek look then a stove that is inset into the wall could be a good idea.

Pedestal style stoves have become very popular because they do not need to be installed with a traditional brick or stone chimney.

2. How much heat the stove will produce.

Wood burning stoves are usually purchased as a stand-alone heating appliance in addition to a central heating system. Stoves come in different kW output sizes and this will depend on the space that needs to be heated. Our qualified stove fitters at Simon Turner Showrooms are able to calculate the size for you by calculating the space in the room in cubic metres. To maximise the heat flow around your room you can buy heat activated fans that move the heat around the room.

3. How efficient are wood burning stoves?

Compared with an open fire which wastes about 90% of the heat up the chimney, a wood burning stove is much more efficient because they will burn wood at 70% to 85% efficiency.

4. Considering the installation of wood burning stoves.

A wood burning stove must be installed by a qualified engineer and it has to conform to building regulations. At Simon Turner Showrooms we have engineers that are experienced in fitting stoves and the chimney liners and/or flues. The flue is an important aspect of having your stove fitted and this can be run up your chimney, through the ceiling and roof, or up an outside wall. If your chimney needs to be relined this will cost around £900-£1,100. Once the stove has been fitted our engineers will show you how to work it and give advice about the best wood to burn and what not to burn.

5. The best woods to burn in your wood burning stove.

We often get asked by our customers what type of fuel they should burn in their stoves – particularly what type of wood. As such we’ve put together a blog post to help anyone else who wants to know how to choose best firewood to burn in a wood stove!

6. How Should I Store Wood for my Wood Burning Stove?

If the wood has not been dried you will waste a lot of energy as the moisture in the wood heats up and turns to steam and also creating lots of smoke and a build-up of creosote in your chimney.

Fresh wood has a water content of between 65-90% so it is recommended that wood is seasoned for at least a year before burning. Oak is best seasoned for two years.

7. How Should I Maintain my Wood Burning Stove?

Basic maintenance should include removing ashes and cleaning any residues from the glass and other surfaces. With this regular maintenance you will spot any wear and tear damage and be able to rectify it before further damage is done. In addition, it is recommended that you have your stove serviced each year and the chimney swept.

8. What is the Cost of Installing a Wood Burning Stove?

A stove for a small room will cost from about £250. However, it will need to be installed by an experienced stove fitting engineer and you may need a new flue or the chimney lined, so the cost will be from about £1,500. Depending on the style of fire fitted and where it is sited, you may need to install a hearth and back hearth. There may also be re-plastering and the building of a new brick chamber. Other extras you may desire are beams, fire surrounds, heat fans, wood stores and companion sets.

9. Using Your Wood Burning Stove Safely.

• Only use enough paper to start a fire.
• Use protective gloves when opening your fire.
• Ensure the floor around the fire is protected from heat.
• Maintain your fire by having an annual service.
• Get your flue/chimney cleaned and swept annually.
• Fit a smoke alarm.
• Fit a carbon monoxide alarm.