Wood stoves remain a popular choice in British homes for providing heat and warmth, especially in areas where access to other heating sources are limited or where homeowners are looking to add the cosy ambience and atmosphere of a traditional fire.
For those considering investing in a wood stove this year, Christine Matthews, heating appliance expert and marketing manager at leading online retailer gr8fires has answered some of the most commonly asked questions around the topic:
- Is a wood burning stove cheaper than central heating?
A wood-burning stove can be cheaper than central heating, especially if you have access to affordable or free wood. It’s cost-effective for heating specific areas and can reduce reliance on central heating, which lowers overall heating costs. However, the cost efficiency depends on fuel availability, stove efficiency and the size of the area being heated.
- Does a wood stove heat an entire home?
Log burners can effectively warm individual rooms and, with the right layout and ventilation, can contribute to heating the whole house. However, their efficiency in evenly distributing heat throughout a home varies based on the house’s size, design, and insulation. They are best used as a supplementary heat source alongside central heating.
- Can I leave a wood stove on all day?
Yes, but it requires regular maintenance such as refuelling and ash removal. Ensure yours is designed for continuous burning and follow all safety guidelines. Continuous use increases wear, so regular inspections and maintenance are crucial for safe, efficient burning.
- What are the main differences between multifuel stoves and woodburning stoves?
The main difference between multi-fuel stoves and wood-burning stoves is what you can burn on them, just as the names suggest. Wood-burning stoves can only burn logs, while multi-fuel stoves can burn either logs or smokeless fuels.
In terms of design, multi-fuel stoves typically have a raised grate with an ashpan below because smokeless coal burns better with a flow of air below it. Wood-burning stoves often have a flat grate because logs burn best on a shallow bed of ashes.
- How do I know what the best sized wood stove is for my home?
The easiest way to work out what size wood-burning stove you need is to use a stove size calculator. This will estimate the heat output you need from a stove based on the dimensions of your room.
- How has the technology regarding heating appliances for the home advanced over the past few years?
Given the twin concerns of the cost of living crisis and climate change, the biggest technological changes have been towards greater efficiency and cleaner heating.
For wood-burning stoves and multi-fuel stoves, this has meant the emergence of high-efficiency, clean-burning stoves that meet Ecodesign regulations.
