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Just how green are wood burners, are they good for the environment?

Just how green are wood burners, are they good for the environment? We are living in a vastly different world than we were only 15 or 20 years ago. The general public has become a lot more aware of environmental concerns and carbon footprints, and we have seen an increase in trends associated with a sustainable and ecological way of life.

Wood burning stoves have captured the interest of many homeowners. The combination of cheap heating and a cosy focal point within the property is an appealing idea. As a result, there are currently an estimated 1.5 million households in the UK with a wood burning stove. Additionally around 200,000 more stoves being sold every year.

Many people believe a wood burning stove to be a significant step towards lowering their environmental impact. Relying on a sustainable resource to heat their properties rather than purchasing energy from the central grid – much of which is generated by the burning of carbon-heavy fossil fuels. But how accurate is this idea? Finally are wood burners actually good for the environment? Read more

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Very important safety precautions

Here at Kent Stoves we have a wide range of environmentally friendly stoves available with a selection of distinctive styles to suit any taste and home.

Most importantly is to select the correct stove for the area you are looking to heat, we have fully qualified HETAS advisers waiting to assist you. One very common error once you have had your stove installed is not to understand it’s benefits and how to use it safely. Below are a few tips to make your new stove safe and heat efficient now and in the future.

Store your wood correctly for efficiency

By using the correct wood, and storing it in a dry place, you can maximise the heat efficiency and reduce the harmful fumes that may be released. Wood should be dried for at least 18 months but preferably 24 months. For more information about choosing the correct fuel for your stove speak to our consultant. Read more

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Quality heating and far more comfortable

The biggest advantage homeowners have with a wood burning stove is the quality of heat the burner will give off. Wood stoves operate on the principal of radiant heat, which warms an area faster and more efficiently than warm air being blown through a home’s vent system. The powerful heat from a wood stove radiates from all sides of the unit as well as the top, sending warmth in all directions. Fitted in a central position in your home you will be amazed how the rest of your house suddenly gets a whole lot warmer.

Pointers to look out for when selecting your new heat machine

A stove that is too small for the room will not be powerful enough to heat the room adequately, on the other hand, if you have a stove that is too large it will need constant attention to keep the temperature down. A result of this is the combustion within the stove will not be complete and you will quickly have a build-up of soot not just on the glass, but up the chimney as well. Read more

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It is very important to select the correct wood stove for your home

To be sure a stove meets your homes requirements, choose a HETAS approved one, which comes from an experienced manufacturer. Apart from the safety element, wood stoves have improved so much of late it is vital to select the correct one for your home.

If you choose professional help the fitter will consider your lifestyle and the type of property you reside in. An open-plan, well insulated home for example can use a stove to cut down fuel bills, the fitter will explain all the advantages and savings that can be made.

HETAS registered fitter is very advisable

Poorly installed stoves do pose very real risks from carbon monoxide poisoning to house fires and smoke inhalation, all of which can have devastating and fatal consequences. Read more

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Wood stoves gaining ground on an annual basis

The market for wood burning stoves is increasing annually and over the last ten years we have seen huge strides towards solving environmental issues. Usually at this time of year interest increases due to colder weather but last year saw no let-up in activity throughout the year.

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

Wood burning stoves are a real alternative, these days they really do offer an impressive range of options to meet your home’s needs. Long gone are the days when wood burners were seen as an ugly and dirty heating source. 

Advantages of a wood burning stove. Read more

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Wood burner sales are booming yet again

In total, over 260,000 wood-burners were installed last year, according to the Stove Industry Alliance. This is up from 214,000 in 2021.

Wood-burning stoves are generally installed for a reason, such as a secondary heating supply or to save money. There is a percentage who have them installed because they are fashionable and these days this combination is normal.

Fuel costs as we all know are increasing rapidly with electricity and gas prices leading the way.

Why are they so popular?

Wood-burners have become a sought-after design statement during the past decade.

They can provide a sense of charm and ambience to a property. Modern wood-burning stoves give your home that warm heart as you sit around with friends and family 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. Read more

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Wood stove fitting

An increased awareness of environmental issues, together with rocketing fuel prices, has led to a dramatic uptake in demand for wood burning domestic heating systems.

More than one million UK homes are already using wood burning stoves, and this could be set to rise as the Stove Industry Alliance estimates that wood burning stoves could account for 10% of the UK Government’s carbon reduction targets by 2025.

The installation of wood burning and multi-fuel stoves is “monitored” under the Building Regulations, as is the relining or installation of flues and chimneys associated with such heat producing appliances.

It is highly recommended that stove installation work is carried out by a HETAS registered installer, the reality is that many stoves get put in unprofessionally. Incorrectly installed stoves can be dangerous both to health and a can be fire hazards. Read more

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Wood stove fitting

An increased awareness of environmental issues, together with rocketing fuel prices, has led to a dramatic uptake in demand for wood burning domestic heating systems.

More than one million UK homes are already using wood burning stoves, and this could be set to rise as the Stove Industry Alliance estimates that wood burning stoves could account for 10% of the UK Government’s carbon reduction targets by 2025.

The installation of wood burning and multi-fuel stoves is “monitored” under the Building Regulations, as is the relining or installation of flues and chimneys associated with such heat producing appliances.

It is highly recommended that stove installation work is carried out by a HETAS registered installer, the reality is that many stoves get put in unprofessionally. Incorrectly installed stoves can be dangerous both to health and a can be fire hazards.

Only use a certified wood stove

To be sure a stove meets your needs, choose a HETAS approved one, which comes from an experienced manufacturer. Apart from the safety element, wood stoves have improved so much of late it’s vital to select the correct one for your home.

If you choose professional help the fitter will consider your lifestyle and the type of property you reside in. An open-plan, well insulated home for example can use a stove to cut down fuel bills, the fitter will explain all the advantages and savings that can be made. Read more

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Shrewd move installing a wood burner!

The appeal of a natural fire is far more than just aesthetic. It can also prove a shrewd investment. A fireplace and professionally fitted wood stove can add as much as 5% to the value of your home, thanks to its wow factor.

It can also save you money. While energy firms have been hiking up the price of gas and electricity by 10% or more this year, the cost of a wood stove has remained constant.

Even though the cost of wood has risen slightly in the last 12 months, if you can get your logs for free just imagine the saving you can make.

Research shows that an average family are spending over £150 per month just heating a 3-bedroomed house, just imagine this increasing by 40% and how that will affect your family budget.

A wood burning stove could be the answer to reducing these potential rises, stove sales are at the highest we have ever seen for this time of year as homeowners prepare for the future.

A wood burning stove is a highly efficient source of heat delivering over 80% economy in many cases.

The new generation of stoves are clean and extremely easy to use making them a must for the majority of homes. A wood burner can be up to 75% cheaper to run than an electric heater and 35% cheaper than a gas effect fire.

Installing a stove can obviously save you money and is something to consider for the future. Make sure you do your homework before deciding as selecting the wrong model for your home could have a detrimental effect.

Can we help?

If you are thinking of installing a new wood burner please do make contact and one of our qualified fitters (HETAS registered) will be happy to assist.

 

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Siting your new stove is very important 

Always get expert advice before buying or installing it could save you 1000’s

The type of wood burner you choose can impact where you can safely place the stove in your home. Steel stoves often feature double-wall construction, which means they can be placed closer to a wall than other types of stoves. The double-wall construction helps to prevent heat from spreading, which protects surrounding surfaces from damage or fire. Cast iron stoves, on the other hand, require more clearance space for safety, and should not be placed near a wall or other furnishings.

As you can see there are plenty of important decisions to make when selecting your new stove. If you would like assistance please do contact us and one of our (HETAS registered) advisers will be happy to help. 

Steel or cast iron, again seek advice to its suitability for your home?

Wood burning stoves bring the rich scent of burning wood and the cosy crackle of a warm fire to indoor living spaces. When shopping for a wood burning stove, you can choose from just a few common materials, including traditional cast iron and more modern steel units.

Consider factors such as maintenance, appearance, construction and operation when comparing these materials to narrow your selection and find the right model for your home.

It is highly recommended to speak to a qualified fitter who can explain all the pros and cons of each metal.

Can we help?

If you are thinking of installing a wood burning stove please contact us and one of our fully qualified (HETAS Registered) advisers will be happy to assist.