Month: August 2024

Introducing Charnwood’s New Cranmore Insert Stove

charnwoodstoves
27 Aug 2024

We are excited to introduce the latest addition to our collection – the Cranmore Insert Stove which will be released in Autumn this year. Designed to seamlessly fit into an existing fireplace, the Cranmore Insert is a modern solution for those seeking to elevate the efficiency and elegance of their hearth and home. 

Subtle elegance meets timeless design 

The Cranmore Insert Stove is more than just a heating solution – it’s also something of a design statement. It offers a seamless, integrated look which effortlessly blends with your home’s existing architecture. The Cranmore Insert’s design draws inspiration from the Regency era, with its large single-framed glass door and archetypal detailing, making it a perfect fit for both traditional and contemporary settings. 
 

Its large picture window showcases the mesmerising dance of the flames and creates a warm, inviting and cosy atmosphere. The Cranmore Insert is available in a range of colours, which can be customised to complement your existing décor, making it a versatile and sophisticated addition to your home. 

Superior efficiency and ultra-low emissions 

At Charnwood, we understand the importance of efficiency and environmental responsibility. The Cranmore Insert Stove, like all our stoves, is engineered for exceptional performance. Featuring Charnwood’s advanced clean burn Blu technology, this stove optimises fuel combustion to deliver impressive heat output while significantly reducing emissions. It has earned a clearSkies level 5 rating which means it outperforms Ecodesign standards. It is also DEFRA-exempt, meaning it meets the strictest efficiency and emissions targets for wood burning stoves and can be used in smoke control areas in urban towns and cities. 

With the Cranmore Insert, you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of a wood-burning stove while knowing you are making a responsible choice for the environment. 

Easy operation and maintenance 

Simplicity and convenience are key aspects of the Cranmore Insert’s design. This stove is equipped with a single air control that allows for effortless operation, enabling you to achieve the perfect burn with minimal effort. Additionally, the Cranmore Insert features Charnwood’s renowned ash removal grate to make maintaining this stove an absolute breeze. 

The ideal replacement for open fires 

If you’re looking to upgrade from an open fire, the Cranmore Insert Stove is an ideal choice. Open fires, while undeniably having charm, are notoriously inefficient and they produce significantly more emissions both inside and outside the home. The Cranmore Insert offers a modern, efficient alternative that drastically reduces emissions and significantly improves heating efficiency – saving you money on your fuel bill! Replacing your open fire with a Cranmore Insert, means you’ll enjoy a warmer, more comfortable home while contributing to a cleaner environment. 

All the benefits of wood-burning without the downsides! 

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As we look ahead to Autumn 2024, we invite you to consider the Cranmore Insert Stove as your next home improvement investment. Whether you’re upgrading an existing fireplace or simply looking to enhance your living space, the Cranmore Insert offers a perfect blend of efficiency and elegance. 

Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the Autumn launch! 

 

What is the Future of Wood-Burning Stoves: Exploring Benefits, Regulations, and Innovative Technology

charnwoodstoves
21 Aug 2024

Wood-burning stoves have continued to grow in popularity as they offer a host of benefits that other heating solutions can’t provide. They are a true focal point in a home, encouraging those life affirming moments where friends and family gather together to share quality time. However, where sustainability and emissions targets are now in the forefront of minds, some sections of the media are asking if wood-burning stoves are still a good choice? The simple answer is a resounding yes! Modern wood-burning stoves are ultra-efficient and more sustainable than ever and shouldn’t be confused with other forms of wood-burning such as open fires, bonfires and old stoves.

Read on to find out how modern wood-burning stoves are evolving and why they will play an important role in our home heating future!

So, what are the current wood-burning stove regulations?

Many towns and cities in the UK, have been designated as ‘smoke control areas’ by the government with a number of rules introduced:

1/ You cannot release smoke from a chimney

2/ You must only burn authorised fuel, unless you use an appliance approved by DEFRA (also known as an ‘exempt appliance’ or ‘DEFRA exempt appliance’)

The good news is by choosing a DEFRA-exempt stove, such as a Charnwood stove, you can still enjoy a wood fire and the benefits of wood-burning while adhering to strict emission standards.

Smoke control areas cover most towns and cities in England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and parts of Wales. We recommend checking with your local council to see if these regulations apply to you. If you don’t live in a smoke control area, these restrictions won’t affect you.

DEFRA-exempt stoves

If you live in a smoke control area you have two options:

1/Use a DEFRA-exempt stove: These stoves use the latest wood-burning technology to minimise smoke emissions and allow you to continue to burn dry wood.

2/Burn Smokeless Fuel such as anthracite coal. Here’s a full list of what is permissible.

DEFRA, which stands for the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, uses a special independent testing house that tests and approves stoves for use in smoke control areas. If you’re looking to burn wood in these areas, it’s crucial to have a DEFRA-exempt stove or you could receive a fine.

Fuel types

It’s now illegal to burn coal (with the exception of smokeless coal like anthracite) or wet wood in your home (any wood with a moisture content above 20%). The focus is on encouraging using cleaner fuels that produce less smoke and are better for the environment and your health.

You can burn the following fuels in your stove:

Kiln-dried logs

-Wood dried in a kiln with a moisture content below 20%. Look for the Ready-To Burn Label.

-Your own wood that has been seasoned properly. We recommend using a moisture meter to check it is ready to use (moisture levels below 20%).

Smokeless fuels

As discussed above, these include fuels such as anthracite, semi-anthracite, gas and low volatile steam coal. Check here.

If you live in a smoke control area, remember that you can only burn logs (dry wood with a 20% mositure level or less) if you have a DEFRA-exempt stove.

Leading the way with Ecodesign & Clearskies stoves

The introduction of Ecodesign regulations has marked a new era for wood-burning stoves. Since 2022, all new stoves have had to meet stringent standards for emissions and efficiency (an efficiency rating of at least 75%). Charnwood is at the forefront of this movement, offering stoves that not only comply with but outperform these regulations. Our Clearskies 5 rated stoves are up to 89% efficient – that is an exceptionally cleaner and more efficient burn!

The Skye E700: A glimpse into the future

 

The Skye E700 takes wood-burning to the next level by eliminating one of the most unpredictable factors in stove operation—us humans! Even the most seasoned wood-stove enthusiast can’t achieve the level of efficiency that the Skye E700 delivers. Thanks to Charnwood’s innovative I-Blu combustion intelligence, this stove continuously monitors the fire’s state, making real-time adjustments to optimise efficiency and minimise emissions. Air is introduced in just the right amounts, at the right places, and at exactly the right time, ensuring a cleaner, more efficient burn every time.

That’s good for air quality and the environment, good for saving fuel and good for giving a crystal clear view of the fire. Don’t just take our word for it, the Skye E700 has received a remarkable 89% efficiency rating making it one of the very cleanest, greenest and fuel-efficient on the market.

It is set to revolutionise the way we burn wood. Load the fire, close the door and let the stove do the rest. It’s as simple as that.

All the benefits of wood-burning without the downsides!

Why Choose Charnwood?

For over 50 years, Charnwood has been a leader in crafting high-quality wood-burning stoves. Our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction ensures that we offer products that not only meet but exceed expectations. Whether you’re looking for a traditional stove or the advanced Skye E700, Charnwood has the perfect solution to keep your home warm and welcoming.

For more information or to explore our range of stoves, visit our website or speak to an official Charnwood dealer for guidance on what will best suit your space and other requirements.

Chef Lucy Timm’s Earliest Food Memory & Charnwood Haven Recipe

charnwoodstoves
14 Aug 2024

What’s your earliest food memory?

I think this might have to be a tart I used to have at primary school, it was a butterscotch fudge tart with custard, unreal.

Can you share any experiences of cooking on fire?

 

Two years ago me and my partner had an amazing experience in Norfolk staying in a cabin by Un.yoked. At the cabin they supply all the tools, logs etc to build your own fire and then cook on it. We had steaks with a soy sauce glaze and stir fried vegetables.

Do you think cooking on fire adds any additional flavour to food?

100%, especially to any protein. I don’t know anyone that doesn’t love a good bbq or campfire cooking. I feel there’s a real sense of nostalgia when cooking on fire or when the food catches that charred finish.

Are you able to share a simple recipe that we might make on the Charnwood Haven?

 

Pan-fried cod (also works great with Dover sole), brown butter, crispy capers, chervil, charred hispi cabbage, saffron aioli.

For the Cod:

• 2 cod fillets (about 6-8 oz each) or a 12-16oz Dover sole
• Salt & water for brine
• 2 tablespoons sunflower or rapeseed for cooking
For the Brown Butter and Crispy Capers:
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained and patted dry
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Fresh chervil, for garnish (or substitute with fresh parsley if chervil is not
available)
1. Cod – 2 fillets – skin on
Make a 5% brine (1000ml Water, 1000ml ice water, 100g Salt)
Boil the water, add the salt then wait for it to dissolve, pour the salty solution over
the ice water and wait for it to completely cool before adding the cod. Leave the cod
in the brine in the fridge for 45mins. One out of the brine, pat down dry with a
J-cloth and live skin side up in the fridge till cooking time.
2. Prep the hispi cabbage
Cut length ways into quarters.
3. Saffron aioli
Ingredients:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 small garlic clove, minced 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
A pinch of saffron threads
1 tablespoon hot water Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste

Instructions

Bloom the Saffron -In a small bowl, combine the saffron threads and hot water. Let it steep for about 5 minutes to release the saffron’s flavour and colour.

Mix the Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and the saffron water (including the threads). Mix well. Season, add salt and pepper to taste. Mix again until all ingredients are well combined.

Chill:

Cover and refrigerate the aioli for at least 30 minutes to let the flavours meld together. Preparing the dish.

Char the cabbage:

• Heat a cast iron pan on the Charnwood Haven, add rapeseed or sunflower oil,
Char the cabbage on both cut sides then leave in a warm/hot place on the stove in
a metal bowl.
• Add the cod fillets to the same skillet with a bit more oil, once the oil is hot, skin
side down. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden
brown and cooked through. The fish should flake easily with a fork.
• Drain the oil but keep the pan for the sauce
Make the Brown Butter and Crispy Capers:
• In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter.
• Allow the butter to melt and cook until it turns a golden brown colour and smells
nutty,
about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.
• Add the capers to the skillet and fry them in the brown butter until they are
crispy, about
1-2 minutes.
Add Lemon Juice:
• Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. This will stop the
butter from
cooking further and add a bright, tangy flavour to the sauce.
Assemble the Dish:
• Place the cooked cod fillets & charred cabbage on serving plates.
• Spoon the brown butter and crispy capers over the top of each fillet and hispi
cabbage. • Add a nice dollop of the saffron aioli
• Garnish with fresh chervil (or parsley).

What Are The Most Efficient Wood-Burning Stoves In The UK

charnwoodstoves
13 Aug 2024

Charnwood are the oldest British manufacturer of wood-burning stoves, run by second and third generations of the family, dedicated to providing products of enduring design and of the highest quality. We have been leading the industry with breakthrough technology since 1972. Sustainability and a desire to create the most efficient stoves on the market have always been central to what we do.

Whilst, wood-burning stove technology has improved dramatically over the years, particularly with the introduction of Ecodesign and Clearskies regulations, there has still been some concern recently generated by the media about efficiency and air pollution. Whilst concerns with modern wood-burning stoves are misguided and the result of not accurately interpreting the data, it is still certainly worth using the most efficient stoves on the market to be as sustainable as possible and save money on wood fuel.

This blog will look at some of our most efficient wood-burning stoves, and a very exciting development in technology!

What is wood-burning stove “efficiency”?

Wood-burning stove efficiency refers to how effectively the stove burns wood fuel to heat your home. Typically, this is measured as a percentage, where higher percentages indicate better performance. Used correctly, a more efficient stove will produce more heat with less wood, reducing both fuel costs and emissions. If a stove has 80% efficiency, it means only 20% of the potential heat from the fuel is lost in the combustion process.

How to choose the most efficient and suitable wood-burning stove?

Finding the most suitable and efficient wood-burning stove for your home means considering several factors:

Energy efficiency rating

The easiest way to determine efficiency is to check the stove’s energy efficiency rating. This rating is shown as a percentage and indicates how efficiently the stove converts fuel into heat. It should be clearly marked on the stove and if not, be sure to ask the dealer for more info. We suggest looking for stoves with high energy efficiency ratings as these will offer you the best possible performance.

With the introduction of Ecodesign regulations all stoves must have an efficiency rating of at least 75%. This is significant progress, however here at Charnwood we have worked hard to make sure that all our stoves significantly outperform this efficiency rating. Our Clearskies 5 rated stoves are up to 89% efficient – that is an exceptionally clean and efficient burn!

Heat output

Another key consideration is choosing a stove size that is appropriate for your space. A stove that is too large will waste fuel, while one that is too small may struggle to heat the room enough. It’s important to consider the heat output of your stove, measured in kilowatts (kW) and match it to the size and insulation of your space – you can use our handy Stove Calculator tool to find the level of output you’d need to effectively heat your room or you can speak to your local Charnwood dealer for help.

Customer reviews and recommendations

Researching customer reviews and recommendations can provide valuable insights into the real-life performance and efficiency of different wood-burning stoves.

You can check out Charnwood’s impressive Trustpilot reviews and ratings here

What does Charnwood Stoves recommend?

We recommend choosing a stove that combines high efficiency, eco-friendly credentials and stylish design. Our range of DEFRA-approved stoves, including the popular Aire, Arc and Cove models, offer excellent efficiency ratings and low emissions. With innovative features such as Cleanburn technology and a cool-to-touch handle, Charnwood stoves provide both warmth and peace of mind.

Ultimately we recommend you speak to an official Charnwood dealer for guidance on what will best suit your space and other requirements.

The future of wood-burning

The Skye E700

 

The Skye E700 is a new intelligent micro processor-controlled stove that is set to revolutionise the way we burn wood. Load the fire, close the door and let the stove do the rest. It is as simple as that.

This stove uses Charnwood I-Blu combustion intelligence that continuously monitors the state of the fire and optimises efficiency while reducing emissions through real-time adjustments. Air is introduced in just the right amounts, in the right places, at exactly the right time to ensure a cleaner, highly efficient burn. Good for air quality and the environment, good for saving fuel and good for giving a crystal clear view of the fire. The Skye E700 has a remarkable 89% efficiency rating making it one of the very cleanest, greenest and fuel-efficient on the market.

Why Choose Us?

When it comes to selecting the most efficient wood-burning stove for your home, you can trust Charnwood Stoves to deliver unmatched quality and performance. With decades of experience in the industry, we are committed to sustainability, craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. Experience the warmth and comfort of a Charnwood stove while reducing your carbon footprint and heating costs. Get in touch now to start your journey towards a greener, cosier home.

 

The Problems and Dangers Of Burning Damp Wood And The Easy Solution

charnwoodstoves
13 Aug 2024

Using a wood-burning stove is a very safe, sustainable and cost-effective way to heat your home and create a warm and cosy ambience. It is, however, important to consider the type and condition of the wood you burn as this can significantly impact the positive benefits of your fire. One important aspect to consider is whether the wood is sufficiently dry enough or is it still too damp to burn and does it require more seasoning (drying). 

Why is burning damp wood in your home a problem?

More smoke and condensation can cause residue buildup

When you burn damp or wet wood, it produces much more smoke that condenses onto the cooler sides of the flue or chimney. This can lead to creosote residue build-up which is highly flammable and increases the risk of chimney fires and damage to your stove and flue. 

Damp wood results in poor-quality fires

Damp wood, which is wood with a moisture level of over 20%, doesn’t burn efficiently. The high moisture content prevents the wood from reaching the high temperatures needed for adequate combustion. As a result, the fire will produce far more smoke and significantly less heat which is highly inefficient. The excess smoke and particulates can also contribute to indoor and outdoor air pollution which is something we can all agree we want to minimise. 

The good news: A Charnwood Clearskies 5 rated stove using well-seasoned or kiln-dried wood drastically reduces any emissions and maximises fuel efficiency – ultra-clean burning that saves you money on your fuel bill! 

Explore our best firewood to burn chart UK. 

Increased maintenance of stove glass required

The excessive smoke and soot produced by burning damp wood can lead to an increased accumulation of residue on the stove glass. This can be a real pain to clean and there is also a risk of scratching the glass surface in the process if you’re not careful. As well as stopping you from being able to fully enjoy the aesthetic appeal of your stove, it can also impede your ability to monitor and respond to the fire and ensure it is burning optimally. 

Explore how to clean wood burner glass. 

It is less sustainable and costs you more money

Burning damp wood is much less efficient which means you end up burning more wood for less heat. That means more trees are required and more expensive fuel bills. 

The lower combustion rate of wet wood produces more pollutants than that of dry wood releasing higher levels of particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the atmosphere. 

More good news: By burning dry wood with a modern stove, you can reduce your carbon footprint and significantly minimise the environmental impact of your fires. It is important to remember that burning dry wood on an Ecodesign-compliant stove accounts for less than 0.3% of total UK PM2.5 emissions – so be mindful of what you read in the media! 

Find out more on why burning the right wood saves money & protects the environment 

Is burning wet wood ever worth it?

Beyond an extreme situation where there are no other options, the short answer is no. The safety issues, inefficiency, potential damage to your stove and the environmental impacts far outweigh any potential convenience. It’s always better to allow your wood to season thoroughly before burning or you can purchase kiln-dried wood which is readily available – remember to look for the Ready To Burn logo! 

Properly seasoned wood will have a moisture content of less than 20%, which you can check with a moisture meter. This will ensure a cleaner, hotter and safer fire to enjoy. 

You can learn how to properly season wood here 

Why Charnwood?

Charnwood has been manufacturing the highest quality British made wood-burning stoves since 1972. So, if you have any questions about heating your home with a wood-burning stove, please get in touch and our experienced team will be happy to help. 

Uncovering the Facts: Wood-Burning Stoves Data Highlights They are Safe, Efficient, and Here to Stay

charnwoodstoves
06 Aug 2024

As previously reported, the latest data from the National Atmospheric Emissions Inventory (NAEI), supports the fact that modern wood-burning stoves are safe, environmentally responsible and cost-effective. In the SIA’s recent blog, they look closely at the details to see what more can be learnt. 

The facts about wood-burning stoves and PM2.5 emissions 

One of the main concerns about wood-burning stoves is their impact on air quality, specifically regarding PM2.5 emissions. However, the main cause of concern is that certain media outlets continue to report in a reductive way and lump in the emissions of modern wood-burning stoves with those of old stoves, open fires and bonfires. They add all the emissions together and present an inflated figure which unfortunately misleads people. 

However, when we take the time to examine the detailed NAEI data, we start to see huge differences between the different forms of domestic combustion: 

“there was a huge difference between the PM2.5 emissions produced by an open fire compared to an Ecodesign closed stove in 2022; the former being responsible for 13.3% of total UK PM2.5 emissions, while the latter accounts for just 1.8%.1 

Secondly, we can see that the type of fuel we choose to burn has a significant impact on our emissions. When looking at wood fuel only, open fires account for 9.8% of total UK PM2.5 emissions and Ecodesign stoves a much lower 1.4%.2 

Furthermore, the data also shows the impact that dry wood fuel has on reducing emissions, bringing the figures above down to 1.8% of total UK PM2.5 from open fires and just 0.3% from Ecodesign compliant stove models.3 

It is clear to see that when choosing a modern, Ecodesign stove and only burning dry (at or below 20% moisture content) wood fuel, PM2.5 emissions are minimal.” 
 

For further context, the NAEI data also shows us that: 

-Burning dry wood on an Ecodesign-compliant stove accounts for less than 0.3% of total UK PM2.5 emissions.

-Road transport PM2.5 emissions are 66.7 times higher than those from Ecodesign stoves burning dry wood.

-Cigarette smoking causes 4.7 times more PM2.5 emissions than Ecodesign stoves burning dry wood.

-Bonfire night generates 7.4 times more PM2.5 emissions in a single night than all Ecodesign stoves burning dry wood do in an entire year.

The data is clear, modern wood-burning stoves burning dry wood have a very minimal impact on air quality especially when compared to other common sources of pollution. 

Ecodesign regulations 

Since January 1, 2022, all new solid fuel stoves have had to adhere to Ecodesign Regulations, which ensures higher efficiencies and lower emissions. At Charnwood Stoves, we are proud to offer products that not only meet but often improve upon these standards. Our stoves are designed to burn wood more completely, which means less smoke, significantly fewer particulates, and more heat from less fuel. 

An Ecodesign-compliant stove used correctly will emit up to 90% less emissions than an open fire and up to 80% less than many older stove models. This makes modern wood-burning stoves a very sustainable choice for heating your home. 

The economic and environmental benefits of wood-burning stoves 

In addition to their low emissions, modern wood-burning stoves offer several other benefits: 

Cost-effective heating 

The Nottingham Energy Partnership’s July 2024 data states that the price per kWh of kiln-dried logs is now 10.53p (down from 11.18p), making it significantly cheaper than electricity (28.58p per kWh) and comparable to mains gas (7.01p per kWh). This cost efficiency was particularly notable between November 2022 and June 2023 when kiln-dried wood logs were more affordable than mains gas per kWh. 

Energy independence 

Wood-burning stoves can provide low-carbon heat that is perfect for living off-grid. This is particularly valuable in remote areas where gas and electricity supply may be unreliable or expensive. It also offers protection from the volatile price of mains energy we have witnessed in recent years. 

Sustainability 

Using sustainably sourced wood reduces dependence on fossil fuels and supports local forestry management practices. Look for the Ready to Burn logo to ensure your wood logs have a moisture content at or below 20%, which is crucial for efficient and clean burning. Learn more here  

Well-being 

We conducted a survey of stove users to better understand the significant and unique benefits that wood-burning stoves provide their owners and family’s wellbeing. The response was phenomenal with 1227 users providing deep insight into the wider benefits of owning and using a stove. 
 

93% replied, definitively, that their stove has a positive impact on their wellbeing. Learn more here 

Our top tips to ensure safety and top performance  

To maximise the benefits of your wood-burning stove, proper installation, using the right wood and maintenance are essential. Here are some key recommendations: 

Professional installation 

Ensure your stove is fitted by a qualified professional, such as those registered with HETAS or OFTEC. This guarantees that your stove is installed correctly and safely and will function optimally. 

Use the right fuel 

Ensure you use quality fuel. Look for the Ready to Burn logo to ensure your wood logs are at or below 20% moisture content. Never used chemically treated wood or burn waste on your stove. 

Regular servicing 

Like any heating appliance, wood-burning stoves require regular servicing. The SIA recommends NVQ qualified sweeps for ongoing annual maintenance. Chimney sweeps are also valuable sources of advice for good practice and ensuring your stove operates efficiently and safely. 

Why choose us? 

At Charnwood Stoves, we pride ourselves on delivering top-quality, environmentally friendly heating solutions. With over 50 years of experience, our wood-burning stoves combine exceptional craftsmanship with innovative technology to ensure maximum efficiency and minimal emissions. Our team are committed to sustainability, offering products that are both beautiful and responsible. Our dedicated customer service team is always ready to assist, ensuring you find the perfect stove to fit your needs. Choose Charnwood for reliable, stylish, and eco-conscious heating solutions that stand the test of time. 

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We highly recommend that you read the full SIA article in full for the vital information that is consistently missing from mainstream media.