Things to Consider When Buying a Wood Burning Stove
With autumn just around the corner and the phone buzzing with wood burner enquiries and chimney sweep bookings we thought it was the ideal time to take a look at what you should consider if you are looking to buy a wood burner this year.
We are HETAS approved and registered so it goes without say that before you start installing or removing anything you should speak to an expert. Getting it wrong can cost you money but also, at the risk of sounding dramatic, cost lives too.
Choosing the best wood-burning stove for you.
The best approach is to think about your stove as a piece of furniture; after all it is a key part of your room and should represent your style and what you like. Be careful not to choose something that will date though as it’s quite an investment so consider choosing a classic style. Size is also important as it needs to heat your room so make sure you get a kW output that can deliver what you need.
Maintenance
You should also consider maintenance as it’s important to have your chimney swept twice a year if you’re regularly burning wood, the first sweep should be before you light your fire for the first time after the summer. This can be reduced to once a year if you are using a multi-fuel stove to burn fuels other than wood. It is also important to have your stove serviced by a qualified installer like us, to ensure you get the best performance from your appliance.
What to Burn
Wood that’s used for an open fire or wood burner needs to be stored correctly and of good quality, we always recommend Certainly Wood as their kiln dried logs are ready for immediate burning with a moisture content on average of below 20% and importantly they are ‘Woodsure Ready to Burn’
Wood burners
When looking for a stove make sure you pick one that is Eco Design 2022 DEFRA approved, you can find out more about why here. Our current favourite wood burner is the Tinderbox or Flickr Flame from MiFlues they tick all the boxes but also perform well and we think are stylish but won’t date.
Charnwood also offer some great options and have a range that is Eco Design ready. There are so many options out there and this recent article in the Independent highlighted a few options that are available (just remember to make sure they are compliant before you buy)
Accessories
Don’t forget your accessories too, there are so many out there and you can spend a little or a lot of money on fancy matches, companion sets and log baskets.
Top of our current wish list is the Log Loop - A stylish and contemporary log holder. Herefordshire willow grown and weaved by Jenny Crisp onto blacksmith hand forged double loops. Finished with Oak leaves and a Hereford Bull skin nameplate. Perfect for wood burning stoves and smaller fires.
We also love this Couple’s Personalised Matchbox, which we think would make a perfect, gift this Christmas.
If you are interested in purchasing a wood burner we can help with advice and guidance and offer a supply and installation service so please get in touch if you fancy a chat.
