Is Wood A Renewable Energy ?

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Do you have an open fireplace in your home?

Is the chimney in good order?

If this applies to you, installing a new woodstove in the fireplace can enhance your heating efficiency and help lower your energy costs.

But please remember firstly and most importantly ….

Wood with a moisture level below 20% produces approximately twice the heat output compared to freshly felled timber and can also help reduce tar accumulation in chimneys and environmental impact. To reach this moisture level, wood should be seasoned or matured for about two years.

Ideally, it should be stored outdoors and stacked to allow air circulation around the timber, enabling natural drying.

Burning wood is increasingly being considered as an alternative energy source. When burned efficiently, wood releases a comparable amount of CO2 into the atmosphere as it would if the tree were allowed to decompose naturally at the end of its lifecycle.

What is more, harvested trees are replaced with new trees, which in turn absorb CO2 in the process of photosynthesis as they grow.

Wood burning stoves are an effective alternative to central heating—simply light the stove instead of raising the thermostat to stay warm during cold weather.

If your home is well insulated and draught free you could even leave doors open, the log burner will heat assist all-round the house.

So, as you can see there are many benefits of installing a log burner not to mention the fact that a professionally fitted one could increase the value of your property.

Can we help?

If you are considering installing a wood burning stove it is particularly important to select the correct one for your home. We have fully qualified fitters (HETAS registered) who will be able to advise you on the best stove to meet your needs so please do make contact.

 

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Do I Need A Stove ?

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Do I Need A Stove ? Wood burning stove questions answered!

The first question you might ask is “Why would I want to install and use a stove in the first place?”

Using a wood stove for home heating has several potential advantages. Wood is considered a renewable resource and burning it may produce less particulate matter compared to some gas-powered options.

Another primary advantage is cost efficiency, as wood may be less expensive than electricity or gas, particularly if you obtain wood at minimal cost. Additionally, a professionally installed stove can increase a property’s value, which is often considered a selling point by estate agents.

Heating a home with a wood-fuelled stove offers several supplementary advantages. Wood burning stoves may serve as additional cooking surfaces, which can be utilised for preparing beverages or food during colder months. Additionally, their use has the potential to reduce expenditures on other utilities, such as electricity.

There’s a certain appeal to a wood stove as well, a timeless charm that brings back special memories. Nothing is cosier than to come home to after a long day spent outside in the cold.

Heat output

One of the most desirable features and benefits of a wood burner is the heat output it produces. A wood burning stove provides a powerful heat source for your home, meaning that the room or rooms get warm very quickly and effectively.

Installing a stove

When installing a stove, it is recommended to have it fitted by a company registered with HETAS. A qualified installer can advise on the appropriate burner size needed to heat the room efficiently.

Need help?

If you need help with maintenance or selecting a new stove, please do contact us. And one of our (HETAS registered) fitters will be happy to assist.

How Do I Choose Which Stove To Buy ?

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How Do I Choose Which Stove To Buy ? Pointers to look out for when selecting your new wood stove!

A stove that is undersized for a room may not be able to provide sufficient heat. While an oversized stove may require regular adjustments to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Considering this, it is advisable to calculate a slightly higher required output (not exceeding 1.5kW). Therefore to accommodate increased demand for heating during winter months.

Where possible, installation should be in a central location within the property.

As you are making a large investment within your home installing a new stove it really will pay to get expert help (HETAS registered) when selecting the stove to meet your needs.

Wood stoves are cleaner and more efficient than you think.

Open fireplaces are only about 20% energy efficient. Whilst wood burning stoves reach around 80%, offering a real fire and saving more money.

Why install a wood burning burner?

In the UK, most people spend their time in the living room, so heating costs are concentrated there. Using a cheaper heating option, like a wood burner, can significantly reduce these expenses.

The cost of wood logs varies by location and source—some even get free wood locally, allowing for nearly free home heating once the stove is installed.

Only burn mature logs – Vital information for heat and efficiency.

Wood is a far more environmentally friendly fuel than oil, gas and electricity. And subject to far less price rises. Freshly cut wood contains a lot of water, so you should dry it out before you can burn it. This can take as long as 18-24 months.

It is very unwise to burn wet or unseasoned wood as this will cause a soot build up in your chimney and make your burner very dirty.

Can we help?

If you would like assistance selecting and installing a new log burner, please get in touch. One of our HETAS qualified fitters will be happy to help.

log burner are stove installations cheaper in summer

How Much Does A Stove Cost To Install ?

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How Much Does A Stove Cost To Install ? Wood burner costs and savings you could make this coming winter

The amount a stove can reduce your energy bill depends on several factors, such as usage frequency, usage habits, and the level of home insulation. As such installation costs for a stove typically range from £2000 to £3,000.

Many factors can determine the installation price.

Building a new chimney or relining an existing one incurs additional costs.  And after installing your stove, savings begin. Just ensure you use high-quality hard wood matured for at least two years.

Most important:

Dried, fully seasoned chopped wood logs with a moisture content below 20% are typically used. Suppliers can provide information about when the wood was cut and its drying duration, which is generally at least 1.5–2 years.

Well-seasoned wood often produces a ‘clack’ sound when knocked together and may be lighter than unseasoned logs. Additional signs of seasoning include bark that peels away and visible cracks and splits on the outer surface. Logs are commonly stacked off the ground with spaces between them to promote air circulation and covered at the top to protect against rain and snow.

Using damp wood will…

  • Be very hard and very slow to start.
  • Be difficult to keep going or to keep burning well.
  • Produce a very low heat output.
  • Make the glass and firebricks dirty.
  • Create excessive and rapid creosote build-up in the flue system and chimney.

Always use a registered installer

Proper installation of a wood stove is necessary for optimal performance. The installation must comply with building regulations. Thus one recommended method is to use a qualified fitter who is (HETAS) registered.

HETAS-registered installers deal with wood, solid-fuel and biomass domestic heating appliances and can self-certify that their work complies with building regulations, so it’s safe and legal.

Help with fitting and servicing.

If you would like assistance choosing a new stove for your home, please do make contact and one of our HETAS qualified fitters will be happy to help.

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Do Stoves Save you Money On Heating ?

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Do Stoves Save you Money On Heating ? A very elegant and money saving heating solution for your home

Modern wood heating appliances offer both aesthetic appeal and cost efficiency.

A wood stove or fireplace insert can serve as a room’s focal point, with options available to fit any style or budget. Today, it’s rare to find unattractive stoves, whether modern or traditional, and many models are now more affordable.

With lower costs and attractive designs, wood stoves provide an effective long-term heating solution.

If you live near a forest or public woodland, consider asking your local council about collecting burnable wood for free—it could lead to significant savings. Wood stoves are valued for their radiant heat, which warms spaces more quickly and efficiently than conventional vent systems.

Environmentally friendly as well!

Compared to fossil fuels like natural gas, propane, or coal, wood is more eco-friendly because it’s considered carbon neutral.

As trees, wood absorbs carbon dioxide, and when burned, it releases only what it had previously taken in, maintaining a balance.

High efficiency levels

Not only are wood stoves more eco-friendly, but they’re also becoming more efficient. This means that more heat is used to heat your home rather than being expelled up the chimney.

Many modern stoves are over 80% efficient, losing only 20% of heat through the chimney and using the rest to warm your home.

Older stoves will also have a lower efficiency rating, so if you want to ensure you’re getting more heat into your home, then a new stove would be a wise move.

Like to have a chat about your options?

If you would like to know more about heating with a wood burner, please make contact. One of our fully qualified fitters (HETAS) registered will be happy to help.

 

How Do Air Controls On Stove’s Work ?

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How Do Air Controls On Stove’s Work ? Control the air to your stove correctly for efficiency

After starting the fire and closing the door, adjust the air vents on the wood stove to control airflow. If the vents are completely or partially closed, oxygen supply may be insufficient, which could cause the fire to extinguish.

The vents should remain open unless intentionally putting out the fire. Opening the vents fully increases airflow and causes the wood to burn at a faster rate.

Once the fire is established, the primary or bottom vents are typically closed without extinguishing the fire. The secondary or top vents can then regulate oxygen flow; these may be gradually reduced as the fire burns to optimize heat output while conserving wood.

Closing down the air vents too soon into the fire can cause the fire to go out.

The adjustment of stove vents varies according to the specific model in use; typically, the bottom vents can be closed while the top vents are utilized to regulate the combustion rate of the wood.

It is important to note that closing these vents prematurely during a fire may extinguish it. As each wood burning stove operates differently, it requires careful observation and experience to master effective vent management.

Expert Advice

For safety and efficiency, have a HETAS-registered professional install your wood or pellet stove. Certified fitters assess your chimney, floor protection, and help you choose the most efficient stove for your home.

Can we assist?

If you’re considering buying a new stove for your home, please do make contact. One of our HETAS qualified fitters will be happy to assist.

Why Are Wood Burners Becoming So Popular?

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Why Are Wood Burners Becoming So Popular?

Wood-burners have increased in popularity as a design feature over the past decade. They are often installed to add visual interest to a property. Modern wood-burning stoves distribute heat to living spaces and can be used for gatherings on winter evenings.

A professionally installed burner can increase the value of your home, estate agents will tell you that a home with a log burner is very sought after these days.

 The right stove for your home

 With winter approaching, it is an appropriate time to conduct necessary inspections.

Stove Maintenance and Safety

Selecting the appropriate stove for your home should be a straightforward process. However, there are essential measures to ensure its continued efficiency and safety.

To maintain optimal performance, the Stove Industry advises having your chimney swept at both the beginning and end of winter. This practice prevents soot accumulation, which can damage the chimney and stove during periods of non-use.

From a safety point of view, blocked chimneys can also cause deadly carbon monoxide. One sweep should cost no more than £75 and this will be money very well spent.

Safety measures

Carbon monoxide detectors only cost around £15-20 and monitor whether any carbon monoxide, which is tasteless and odourless and highly poisonous, is being expelled. It’s also worth installing a smoke alarm in the room where the stove will be fitted.

Burn the correct wood

Wet or green logs create more soot and require more frequent cleaning, so use seasoned (at least two years dried) or kiln-dried wood to reduce maintenance.

Talk to an expert?

If you require assistance with a new stove or want your existing one serviced, please make contact. One of our fully qualified fitters (HETAS) registered will be pleased to help.

 

 

new stove tinderbox small logbox at kent stoves

Will A New Stove Save Me Money ?

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Will A New Stove Save Me Money ?

Using a wood burner regularly can reduce fuel bills by about one-third.  And with estimated annual savings between £500 and £700. Wood-burning stoves are available in a wide price range. From £400 to over £2,000. An important factor when selecting a stove is its heat output.

Environmental standards for particle emissions will take effect in 2022, intended to improve air quality. Stove manufacturers have begun producing burners with the Stove Industry Alliance Eco Design-ready approval. These are designed to lower particle emissions by 90% compared to open fires and by 80% compared to older stoves.

Investing in a new stove for your home is a significant decision; therefore, it is advisable to seek guidance from a qualified professional (HETAS registered) to ensure the chosen appliance meets your specific requirements.

Pointers to look out for when selecting your new stove

A stove that is undersized for a room may not provide sufficient heat. While a stove that is oversized can require frequent adjustments to prevent overheating. This can lead to incomplete combustion and the accumulation of soot on both the glass and within the chimney.

Therefore, when determining the necessary stove output, it is advisable to consider a slightly higher capacity (by no more than 1.5kW). Thus to accommodate increased heating demands during colder months.

What should you burn on My Wood Stove?

Wood is considered a more environmentally sustainable fuel compared to oil, gas, and electricity, and its pricing tends to be more stable.

Freshly cut wood has a high moisture content and should be properly dried (seasoned) before use. As such a process which may take up to two years. Seasoned wood can be purchased or prepared personally by storing logs in a well-ventilated log store to ensure adequate air circulation.

Burning wet or unseasoned wood is strongly discouraged, as it can lead to significant soot accumulation in the chimney and reduce the efficiency and cleanliness of the burner.

Can we help?

If you are thinking of adding a wood burning stove to your home, please do make contact. One of our fully qualified (HETAS registered) fitters will be happy to assist.

Are Stoves Eco Friendly ?

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Are Stoves Eco Friendly ? Style, elegance and superb heat!

Wood burning stoves provide efficient heat for cold months and serve as an attractive focal point in any room. With styles from classic to modern and a variety of sizes and energy outputs, it’s easy to find a wood burner that fits your home’s décor and heating needs.

The experts will tell you that….

Adding a fireplace or wood stove can boost your home’s value by up to 5%.

It also helps save money, as wood stove costs have stayed steady despite rising gas and electricity prices.

Wood-burning stove sales are set to hit record highs this year, with strong prospects ahead.

Efficiency is vital, especially nowadays with heating costs being at a premium

Open fires are inefficient, providing only about 20% energy output. Wood burning stoves offer 70-90% efficiency, delivering a real fire’s warmth with less wasted energy.

Expert advice

Always hire a qualified professional to install your wood or pellet stove for safety.

At Kent Stoves (HETAS registered) we will evaluate everything for you to ensure your safety and maximise efficiency.

Wood burning stoves, important information!

A professionally fitted wood stove will also reduce your home’s carbon footprint by at least 21% as burning wood is environmentally neutral and renewable energy. Just make sure you only burn the correct wood as recommended by your supplier.

Can we help?

If you require assistance, please do make contact and one of our fully qualified fitters will be happy to help.

 

Are Stoves Environmentally Friendly ?

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Are Stoves Environmentally Friendly ? Wood stoves gaining ground every day

The wood burning stove market is growing each year, with significant progress made on environmental challenges. Interest typically rises in colder months, but last year demand remained steady all year. So are stoves environmentally friendly ?

Due to rising fuel bills homeowners are seeking alternative cost-effective heating options.

Wood burning stoves now offer a variety of options and are an attractive, practical alternative for home heating.

Advantages of a wood burning stove.

  • The net fuel cost is cheaper than heating oil, natural gas, and electricity.
  • Wood sourced locally can be free
  • Fuel in the form of logs, wood chips, brush clippings is renewable, and sustainable.
  • Wood supply prices are relatively stable and have been for years.
  • Professionally installed stove will add value to your property

If you combine these advantages with the elegance a wood burner brings to your home its worth considering without a doubt.

Seasoning your wood is essential for efficiency.

For best results, dry wood should be stacked in a sunny, breezy spot under cover. Storage in sheds, garages, or shady areas slows seasoning. Pre-seasoned wood can be kept in any dry location.

Can we help?

For new wood stove installations, seek expert advice to ensure correct fitting and prevent extra costs. Contact us for support from a qualified HETAS-registered fitter.