Author: charnwoodstoves

The Truth About Wood Burning Stoves. The REAL facts

charnwoodstoves
27 Jun 2023

The modern wood burning stoves of today ensure low emission and low carbon heating for our homes. However there have been a number of misleading reports circulating in the news recently suggesting stoves are responsible for contributing far more particulate emissions than they actually do.

It is important to say that some of the air pollution statistics that are quoted are not only incorrect but they lump modern, clean burning stoves together with all sorts of domestic fuels, older appliances and open fires.

The Stove Industry Alliance (SIA) have produced this short film to help dispel these reported myths around wood burning stoves with the real facts and address three of the major misconceptions that are being mis-quoted by the media.

1)‘Wood burning stoves are the biggest contributor in the UK of small particulate matter’.

This is not true. At the root of this myth is a statement from Defra’s Clean Air Strategy claiming that domestic combustion accounts for 38% of fine particulate matter. This number was based on a survey carried out by the government in 2015  which wrongly over-estimated the amount of wood being burnt in the UK on stoves and fireplaces. (1)

A much bigger survey carried out in 2019 by the SIA (2) showed the actual figure was less than a third of what the government quoted, making the percentage of PM.2.5 that could be attributed to domestic combustion closer to 13% and NOT 38%.

Subsequent figures recently published by Defra (3) corollate with the SIA’s findings and if their new wood fuel volume figures were combined with the correct emission factors, the real percentage of PM2.5 attributable to domestic wood burning would be less than 10%.

In addition to this the 38% figure was based on emissions from older stoves and open fires. It is proven that modern Ecodesign compliant wood burning stoves (which the majority of our Charnwood models conform to) produce 66% LESS emissions than these outdated appliances. Other sources of PM2.5 were also included in its overall estimation, including wildfires, bonfires, and incinerators which are unregulated sources of particulate matter and certainly not insignificant.

Find out how to clean a wood-burning stove correctly.

 

2) ‘Wood burning stoves create the same emissions as 18 diesel cars’.

This comes from test results interpreted by the Air Quality Expert Group (AQEG) but their comparison is extremely misleading and, as the SIA film points out, it is like comparing apples with oranges.

Firstly the comparison is between the appliances running at significantly different efficiency levels, by measuring a car exhaust emissions at an efficient run rate of 21mph and comparing them to all of the emissions at a full run rate for a stove. This completely ignores all the small particle emissions from the car’s brakes and tyres, when frequently the emissions from a car’s brakes and tyres are actually greater than the emissions from the exhaust pipe!

Finally the difference in the dispersal point of particulate matter from wood burning stoves to cars is ignored completely. A car outputs its emissions at face level for a child and therefore there is very little dispersal before it is breathed in, whereas a woodburning stove sends its emissions out of the top of the chimney and there is considerable dispersal of emissions before they even reach human height.

Find out what you can burn in a wood-burning stove.

 

3) ‘Wood burning stoves and fireplaces are harmful’.

Chair of the Stove Industry Alliance, Morley Sage, explains why this is one of the more concerning misconceptions:

“This view fails to take into account the huge advances that have been made by the woodburning stove industry in recent years. Many critics of woodburning stoves base their assumptions on data linked to open fires, older stoves and poor-quality wood fuel. The SIA would be one of the first organisations to point out that burning wet wood on an open fire, a practice that is still very common today, is one of the least efficient and most highly polluting ways to heat your home. By stark contrast, a modern wood burning stove emits up to 90% less emissions than an open fire and up to 80% less than a stove that is 10 or more years old.”

Members of the SIA (including us at Charnwood) were among the first manufacturers to develop ultra clean burn technology within our appliances to achieve the forthcoming 2022 Ecodesign Regulations (SIA Ecodesign Ready). More recently the SIA has supported and initiated the launch of clearSkies, an independent emissions and energy performance certification scheme for solid fuel stoves and fireplaces. Appliances that are certified under clearSkies will not only meet the performance levels set out under Ecodesign, but also many go a significant way beyond. The majority of our Charnwood stoves achieve highest clearSkies certification: Level 5.

Far from being the problem, modern wood burning stoves are actually the solution to a low carbon, sustainable future domestic heating strategy.

The REAL facts about modern woodburning stoves are that they are a future proof, highly efficient, very low carbon and sustainable way of heating our homes and keeping our families warm, and that is something to be truly proud of.

For further information visit www.stoveindustryalliance.com

 

1) The BEIS Domestic Wood Survey using a sample size of 1,206

2) SIA independently verified research carried out in 2019 using sample size of 10,620 using same questions as BEIS survey

3) The Emission of Air Pollutants in the UK 1970 to 2019 and Defra Research Burning in UK Homes & Gardens Report  

 

Why Choose Us?

At Charnwood Stoves, we pride ourselves on being your trusted partner in wood-burning stoves. With years of experience and a commitment to quality, we offer the finest selection of stoves that combine timeless design with eco-friendly technology.

Our team of experts is dedicated to providing you with honest and reliable information, ensuring you have all the facts you need to make an informed decision. Choose Charnwood Stoves for a reliable, efficient, and sustainable heating solution that will transform your home while minimising your impact on the environment.

Contact us today.

 

How to clean wood burner glass

charnwoodstoves
25 Jun 2023

With the sudden drop in temperature and an autumn chill in the air, nothing beats a cosy evening nestled by your wood burning stove.

But as we head towards the winter months, your wood burner could need some TLC before its ready to be used more regularly.

To help keep your wood burner well maintained in readiness for those long winter nights, we’ve compiled our tips on how to clean wood burner glass alongside other upkeep advice.

 

How to keep wood burner glass clean

Your wood burner is not only a source of warmth, it is also a focal point within your home. Many modern generally feature clean-burn air wash which naturally keep the glass clean. However when used regularly, soot may build up on the glass door, which can drastically reduce the view of the fire. The most common cause of this is when wood with a moisture content higher than 20% is burnt or if a burning log is touching the glass.

Here are some do’s and don’ts on how to keep wood burner glass clean.

Do…

• Use a damp crumpled paper towel or newspaper, dip it in fine wood ash and use this to rub the stove glass clean.

• If there is substantial build up on the glass, burn a high temperature fire in the wood burning stove before you try to clean the glass. Ensure you have plenty of well-seasoned wood in your wood burner to create a fire of a high temperature.

• Make sure you use a wood stove glass cleaner, or a ceramic stove top cleaner.

• Ensure you wait until the wood burner glass is cool before you attempt to clean it.

• Clean your wood burner glass on a regular basis to prevent a build-up of soot.

Don’t…

• Never attempt to clean your wood burner glass when there is a fire burning inside the stove or the surface is hot.

• Avoid spraying water on hot wood burner glass – this could cause the glass to crack or shatter.

• Never use sharp objects or abrasive cleaners to clean your wood burner glass – these could damage and scratch the surface of the glass.

 

How to clean a wood burner

When it comes to cleaning your wood burner, there are many interior and exterior elements to consider.

Ensure exterior surfaces are cleaned with a soft brush, damp cloth or a vacuum cleaner. These will effectively remove any soot and dirt when the stove is cool.

Take the time to empty out the ash pan and firebox completely when your wood burner is not being used. Inspect the rope seals on the doors and flue, as it is not uncommon for these to become damaged through everyday wear and tear.

Find out more wood burning stove cleaning tips and tricks in our blog: How to clean your wood burning stove.

 

Why is my wood burner smoking?

If your wood burner is smoking, there could be several reasons, including:

• A blocked chimney

• The wrong fuel is being used

• An issue with the air pressure in the room

• A problem with the draw of your chimney

• A cold weather snap

To stop your wood burner from smoking, you need to ensure you have the correct air pressure, no chimney blockages and are burning the correct fuel. If you have any further questions about your smoking wood burner, contact us today.

Find out everything you need to know about having your wood burner in your house.

 

Why does my wood burner smell?

If your wood burner is emitting an unpleasant smell, it is unlikely that this is coming from the wood burner or stove itself. The smell is more likely being caused by other factors, including:

• The stove is new and requires a ‘break in’ period

• The fire is releasing too much smoke

• Burning damp wood which contains too much moisture

• Burning polluted wood

• The fire isn’t hot enough

• Blocked chimney or flue

• Insufficient chimney size which cannot easily remove waste smoke and gases

• Wet weather

• If the weather is much lower than usual and smoke and gases cannot leave the home properly

• Reduced airflow

 

Find out how to light a wood burner.

 

Why is my wood burner not getting hot?

If your wood burner is not getting hot, this could be due to a variety of reasons:

• The draft on the stove is poor – draft on the stove is needed to suck air from the stove out of your home. If the waste gas is unable to escape, fresh air won’t be getting to the fire and this will prevent the stove from heating. Test the draft by lighting a piece of paper on one end and placing it under the flue outlet inside your stove. If the smoke disappears, the draft should work effectively when the fire starts.

• The air vents need opening – if the air vents aren’t open enough, it will prevent oxygen getting to the fire. Open up the air vents and create a larger supply of oxygen to enable to the fire to burn through the wood more quickly.

• The air vents are open too much – if the air vents are opened too much, the stove may not get hot. While the air vents should be opened fully when the fire is being lit to maximise oxygen levels, these can be gradually closed down as the fire gets hotter to ensure too much air isn’t getting to the fire.

• Lack of secondary combustion – this process involves maximising heat from burning wood by burning off waste gases from the fire. Secondary combustion will only occur when a higher temperature is reached.

• Fire incorrectly lit/built – if a fire is built and lit incorrectly, it will prevent the stove from getting hot. Lay crumpled pieces of paper on the bed of the stove to help encourage the fire to spread to the wood. Softwood kindling can then be placed on top of the newspaper, followed by smaller logs once the fire has caught.

• Wet wood – if your wood is too wet, the excess moisture will prevent your wood burner from getting hot. We recommend a 20 per cent or lower moisture content threshold for firewood. If your wood contains more moisture than this, it will need to be dried out for a further season before if can be used.

Find out more in our blog: How to use a wood burning stove.

How often should I sweep my wood burner chimney?

We recommend that wood burner chimneys are cleaned at least once a year. This should take place when the temperature drops in the cooler months before the wood burner is used more regularly.

 

Contact Charnwood today

To find out more about keeping your wood burner well maintained, contact Charnwood today. Our friendly, expert team are on hand and more than happy to answer any queries you may have.

 

Why Choose Us?

At Charnwood Stoves, we understand the importance of keeping your wood burner glass clean and clear for optimal enjoyment. With our extensive experience in the industry, we offer a range of high-quality cleaning products specifically designed for wood burners.

Our innovative solutions effectively remove soot, tar, and residue, restoring the beauty of your stove. Trust us to provide you with reliable and eco-friendly products that make maintenance effortless, allowing you to focus on cozy moments by the fire. Choose Charnwood for superior glass cleaning solutions tailored to your needs.

Contact our team today.

What can you burn in a wood burning stove?

charnwoodstoves
19 Jun 2023

When it comes to choosing fuel for your wood burning stove, it’s important that you burn the right wood. This will not only ensure that your stove burns stronger and for longer, but it will also help reduce your fuel costs as a result.

Burning the wrong type of wood can increase fuel costs and damage the internal parts of your stove. In some cases, it can even cause irreparable damage to the stove body or flue system, so it’s important you understand what type of wood will work with your appliance.

Here’s a closer look at what you should burn in your wood burning stove.

Hardwood firewood

Hardwood is a great fuel for wood burning stoves. With a variety of different types available, including ash, birch, maple and oak, as well as the wood from the vast majority of fruit trees, hardwood firewood is renowned for burning for longer periods, while generating lots of heat.

Another advantage of hardwoods is that they are generally cleaner to handle, making them a great option for your stove.

Softwood firewood

A lot cheaper than hardwood, softwood can also be used in your wood burning stove. Fir is the most popular choice, although there are plenty of other options, including balsam, pine, spruce, cedar, alder, tamarack and poplar.

Find out what other types of firewood we offer.

How do softwoods burn compared to hardwood?

Softwoods tend to burn faster than hardwood and leave a finer ash behind. They can also be messy to handle and are renowned for causing a build-up of tar in your chimney. Spruce, pine and balsam can be particularly difficult to handle.

Find out how to clean your wood burning stove.

What’s the best firewood for generating heat energy?

There are lots of different types of firewood and many of them can be categorised based on their performance. For example, the following types of firewood typically generate the best amount of heat energy:

• Apple
• Birch (Yellow)
• Red oak
• White ash
• Maple (Sugar)
• White oak
• Beech (American)
• Hickory (Shagbark)
• Ironwood

Whether you opt for hardwood or softwood, always make sure that it is totally dry before you use it. Never attempt to burn green wood as it will produce less heat and a lot more smoke.

Make sure your wood is dried, seasoned and stored correctly so you can enjoy optimum heat with low fuel costs. Your wood should always be stacked in a cool dry place with efficient air circulation and covered on the top only. If you can, rotate your wood as much as possible and always burn older, dryer wood first.

As a general rule of thumb, hardwood and softwood should have a moisture content of less than 20 percent if it’s being used for burning.

Find out how to install a wood-burning stove correctly.

If you have any questions about your Charnwood wood burning stove, please get in touch.

 

Why Choose Us?

At Charnwood Stoves, we provide the finest wood-burning stoves for your home. With our extensive expertise and commitment to quality, we offer unrivaled performance, efficiency, and style. Our stoves are designed to maximize heat output while minimising environmental impact.

Choose Charnwood Stoves for an eco-friendly and aesthetically pleasing heating solution that will transform your space. Trust in our heritage of craftsmanship and innovation to bring warmth and charm to your home, all while enjoying the natural beauty and comforting ambiance of a wood-burning stove.

Get in touch with our team today.

 

How Wood is a Sustainable and Renewable Fuel – Everything You Need to Know

charnwoodstoves
02 Jun 2023

Wood has long been used as a source of fuel, providing heat and energy for centuries. However, concerns about air pollution and sustainability have cast a shadow on its use as a viable energy option. By managing and choosing wood correctly, we can address these concerns and reclaim the case for burning wood as a sustainable and renewable fuel.

Air Pollution

Concerns about air pollution have cast a shadow on the use of burning wood as a viable energy option. This is an important environmental issue and it is necessary to understand its relationship with burning wood.

When wood with high moisture content is burned, it produces more smoke and harmful emissions, including particulate matter and volatile organic compounds which can have adverse effects on human health and the environment.

However, burning dry, seasoned wood with less than 20% moisture content significantly reduces these emissions, making wood-burning cleaner and more environmentally friendly. Wood that has been properly seasoned produces significantly less smoke and carbon monoxide; it also has less creosote build-up and prevents the growth of mould on the logs. The seasoning process, by removing these toxins, makes the wood much cleaner to burn.

Learn about the wood seasoning process.

 

Renewability and Sustainability

Wood is a renewable fuel source because the trees it comes from can be replanted and regrown. Trees are a part of the natural carbon cycle, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as they grow. When burned, wood releases this stored carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere. However, as long as new trees are planted to replace the harvested ones, the carbon dioxide emitted during wood burning is effectively reabsorbed by the growing trees, resulting in a closed carbon loop.

By using sustainably managed woodlands where trees are harvested and replaced in a responsible manner, we can ensure a continuous supply of renewable wood fuel. It is crucial to support and promote sustainable forestry practices to maintain healthy forests, preserve biodiversity, and mitigate climate change.

Explore alternative sources of wood fuel, such as wood pellets or briquettes made from wood waste or by-products. These can provide a more efficient and consistent fuel source while reducing waste and promoting circular economy principles.

Explore the best firewood to burn chart in the UK here.

 

Responsible woodland management

If you have access to woodland, implement responsible management practices. This may include planting new trees, managing invasive species, and ensuring proper harvesting techniques to maintain the health and biodiversity of the forest ecosystem.

For those that don’t have access to woodland, it’s important to seek out wood that carries certification from recognised forestry programs, such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI). These certifications ensure responsible forest management practices and contribute to the overall sustainability of wood fuel.

Properly managed woodlands are vital to our ecosystem and our wildlife. As well as being home to many plant and animal species, they also play a vital role in water resource management – minimising flood impact and regulating water availability. Forests also play a massive role in climate regulation through carbon dioxide absorption.

 

Local Communities

Buying wood locally is a key part of responsible wood burning as it reduces the transportation emissions associated with long-distance shipping. Supporting local communities also helps boost the regional economy and encourages sustainable forest management practices.

Choosing local wood suppliers provides an opportunity to establish direct connections with producers, ensuring transparency and accountability in the sourcing process. It allows consumers to enquire about the origin of the wood, ensuring it comes from sustainably managed forests and promoting ethical practices within the industry.

 

Five Steps to Choosing Wood Correctly

To maximise the sustainability and efficiency of wood burning, here are five steps to help you choose and manage wood correctly.

1/ Source locally.

2/ Opt for seasoned wood.

3/ Look for certification.

4/ Consider alternatives, such as wood pellets or briquettes.

5/ Practice responsible woodland management.

Wood is a sustainable and renewable fuel option when managed and chosen correctly. By burning dry, seasoned wood with low moisture content, purchasing locally sourced wood, supporting sustainable forestry, and following responsible woodland management practices, we can harness the benefits of wood fuel while minimising its environmental impact.

 

Why Choose Us?

Charnwood has been committed to providing quality wood burning stoves since 1972 and we know all there is to know about wood burners and responsibly using wood as a fuel source. If you have any questions about heating your home with a wood burning stove, please get in touch.

 

How to Use Vents on Multi-fuel Stoves

charnwoodstoves
02 Jun 2023

Multi-fuel stoves offer the flexibility to burn a variety of fuels, including wood, smokeless fuels and briquettes, and are popular heating appliances thanks to their versatility and efficiency. To optimise their performance and ensure clean combustion, multi-fuel stoves use air vents that regulate the air supply.

 

What are Stove Air Vents?

Stove air vents, also known as air inlets or dampers, are openings built into the structure of a multi-fuel stove that allows controlled amounts of air into the combustion chamber. These vents facilitate the incineration process by regulating the oxygen supply, ensuring an efficient and controlled burn.

At Charnwood we have incorporated a single air control on all our multi-fuel stoves that simplify the burning process so you don’t need be concerned about adjusting numerous controls. Just pull out to burn harder or push in to slow the burn down.

 

How Do Stove Air Vents Work?

As you know, a fire needs three things to survive: fuel, heat and oxygen; this is often referred to as the “fire triangle”. Stove air vents control how much air (and subsequently, oxygen) gets to the fire. When starting a fire, you want as much oxygen as possible so the fire can light. Once the fire is self-sustaining, you want to reduce the amount of oxygen for a steady and more efficient burn.

 

Air Supplies in Stoves

The air supplies in stoves are categorised into three main types: primary, secondary, and tertiary air supplies. On a Charnwood stove all three vents are incorporated into an air box that is fitted to the base of the stove and controlled by one slider.

 

Primary Air Supply

The primary air supply is the main source of oxygen for initial combustion and it is typically regulated by a primary air vent at the stove’s base or front. Controlling the primary air supply allows users to ignite and establish a fire. Adjusting this vent allows users to increase or reduce the amount of oxygen available to the fire, influencing the burn rate and heat output.

 

Secondary Air Supply

Once the fire is established, secondary air becomes essential for complete combustion. The secondary air vents are strategically placed in the upper part or sides of the stove to introduce fresh, pre-heated air into the combustion chamber above the fuel bed. This additional oxygen helps burn off any unburned gases, reducing emissions and promoting a cleaner, more efficient burn.

 

Tertiary Air Supply

The tertiary air supply is an advanced feature found in all our multi-fuel stoves; it introduces a controlled amount of air into the flue gases. The tertiary air vents are once again incorporated into the airbox  and are designed to inject air into the path of the exhaust gases. This additional oxygen promotes the secondary combustion of any remaining gases, increasing efficiency and reducing particulate emissions.

 

How to Use Stove Air Vents

Step 1: Preparing your stove

Before starting a fire in your stove, it is essential to check that your air control is pulled out fully – this allows for a sufficient supply of oxygen to ignite and establish the fire.

 

Step 2: Starting your fire

Once you have added kindling and are ready to light the fire, ignite the kindling as you would normally. It is important to leave the control fully open during this stage. The unrestricted flow of oxygen will facilitate the ignition and rapid development of the fire. Allow the kindling to burn until it has taken hold and is burning steadily.

 

Step 3: Closing your vents

As the fire takes hold of the kindling and starts burning steadily, it is time to add some larger wood and start adjusting the control. Begin by gradually closing the primary air vent by pushing in the button. By reducing the primary air supply, you control the amount of oxygen reaching the fire, regulating the burn rate and heat output. Monitor the fire closely and make incremental adjustments to the control until you achieve a desired balance between heat production and fuel consumption.

 

Step 4: Adjusting your vents

As the fire spreads beyond the initial kindling and begins burning the wood, you can fine-tune the heat output by adjusting the single control further. Increasing the secondary air supply promotes combustion, reducing emissions and increasing efficiency. Adjust the control to find the optimal balance that provides sufficient oxygen for clean burning while maintaining the desired heat output.

Explore our types of firewood here.

 

Why Choose Us?

Charnwood has been committed to providing quality wood-burning stoves since 1972 and we know all there is to know about wood burners, and how to get the most out of the wood you burn. If you have any questions about heating your home with a wood-burning stove, please get in touch.

 

New Welding Investment; increased capacity, performance & capabilities

charnwoodstoves
29 May 2023

A.J Wells fabricates a wide range of products from a variety of high-quality materials across our businesses. Our fantastic team are skilled in a range of processes utilising state-of-the-art technology to achieve our exceptionally high standards. With demand for our market-leading Charnwood Stoves growing year on year, we have recently invested almost a million pounds in expanding and improving our welding capacity.

Read on to learn about our upgraded welding bays as well as our state-of-the-art robot welding arms.

Welding Bays

 

While redesigning the factory the Charnwood production manager and team leaders came together to develop a new design aiming to create the ‘perfect’ welding bay for the space. A modular, flat-pack approach was agreed upon with individual bays being standardised and optimised for comfort and efficiency.

One of the main improvements involved putting a roof canopy on each bay with extraction from the top. This stops welding fumes leaking out and massively improves the whole factory environment.

In the bay, the placement of all elements were optimised including tools such as grinders, our existing lifting tables, shelfs for clamps and even the radio etc. This was all with a view to maximise comfort for our great team of welders who work long hours in the bays.

Once ideas had been gathered, a prototype was built and the welders tested it out and provided feedback and suggested any changes they’d like made.

Some of the feedback included increasing the height, changing the air inlets, and improving the temperature and the lighting. A significant depth of detail was considered, even analysing shadows being cast and adjusting things accordingly.

The aim was to standardise the bays so that all workers would be familiar with any bay they worked in.

Space for another 5 welding bays to be installed in the near future has been allocated.

Upgraded Equipment

 

Here are some of the standout features that convinced the team to choose the Lincoln welders supplied by our friends at Rapid Welding:

– They enable our team to achieve high-quality welding finishes

– They are energy saving

– Have helpful preset settings

– Are easy to teach employees

– Lincoln are a high-quality, reliable, brand

What the upgrades provide

These welding bays and new equipment have significantly improved the working environment of the whole factory. Improving the comfort of our hard-working welders and also providing some significant efficiency benefits.

Some quotes from our team of welders now the bays are up and running:

“Nice and bright, the light is a lot better than the old welding bays.“

“Nice and compact for what we produce – everything is close to hand.”

“Easy access to bring in your work and remove a complete stove from the lifting table using a sack truck. A lot better than the old welding bays.”

“The extraction helps so much. It keeps the fumes away from people in the rest of the fabrication shop.”

New Robot Arms

 

In addition to our upgraded welding bays we have invested in two more cutting-edge robot welding arms.

This has doubled our robot welder capacity from 2 to 4 robot arms and is allowing us to produce stoves at a much more efficient rate. Our skilled robot operators have been working intensively, learning to program new models and learning how these machines work to maximise their output.

These robots produce less spatter with pulse welding, removing the need to spray the stoves with anti-spatter products. This has decreased the amount of processing needed post-weld significantly, which is an incredible boost to productivity, cutting energy consumption, and making it an improved place to work.

_______________

A.J Wells continues to look for new ways to improve the business for our wonderful customers, our fantastic team of hard-working employees and the environment. Our latest investment manages to positively impact all these areas and the size of the investment is testament to the significant growth of the business for which we are truly grateful. Watch this space for the next steps in A.J Wells’ journey!

You can get in touch here to discuss your project.

Enhance your fireplace with a wood stove heat shield

charnwoodstoves
26 May 2023

A primary consideration when getting a wood-burning stove will be making sure it is installed and situated safely. If you have limited room, a heat shield can play an important role in protecting your surrounding space. Furthermore, a wood stove heat shield offers a great opportunity to elevate the visual appeal of your fireplace to even greater heights.

 

The importance of a wood stove heat shield

Without adequate clearance from your stove, a combustible wall or object can overheat, dry out and present a fire hazard. The Fire Protection Association recommends that in general the common radiant-type stove maintain 900mm of space from a combustible surface. When this is not possible a heat shield is your only option. Situated between your stove and the exposed surface, a heat shield can reduce the required distance for safety. For more information on the minimum standards for heat shields and their installation, HETAS provides a comprehensive guide.

Additionally, to learn about our 8 tips wood stove users should do during the holiday season, view here.

 

VLAZE Heat Shields

 

3-images-of-wood-stove-heat-shields
3 stunning heat shield options from VLAZE

VLAZE, our sister company, fabricate heat shields from vitreous enamel, a superior material known for its many outstanding properties. It is heat-resistant up to 650°C, which allows you to reduce the distance between your stove and another surface to 95mm. For Charnwood stoves that reduces even further, to just 75mm – a vast improvement on HETAS regulations. This allows you to maximise space, providing greater flexibility when configuring your room layout. VLAZE’s heat shields are easy to install and available in 3 sizes and 30 luxurious glazes – ample options to match your fireplace dimensions and your style.

 

Design

The images above show the potential of heat shields to add a splash of colour, texture, and designer flair to your fireplace surround. VLAZE have developed a wide range of styles drawing on both historical and contemporary references.

Heat shields are available in a wide range of flat colours, subtle textures or with screen-printed graphics. Once fired in the furnace, the surface is colour-fast, meaning the colours and artwork will never fade. Working alongside several designers, they have created many beautiful options catering for both modern and classic tastes. From statement patterns to minimalist hues, there are plenty of options available to accent or blend with your existing colour scheme.

To also find out about how to get heat from a wood-burning stove to other rooms, view here.

_____________________

A wood-burning stove, whether alight or not, is something that draws the eyes of whoever is in the room. With such a beautiful piece of craftsmanship providing the focal point of your home, it makes sense to give equal consideration to the other elements that will complement it.

For more information on VLAZE Heat Shields click here. To keep up to date with the latest news follow us @charwoodstoves.

Can I have a wood burner in my house?

charnwoodstoves
24 May 2023

Nothing quite compares to the roaring flames of a small indoor wood stove in the comfort of your own home.

A house wood burner not only creates the perfect ambience on a cold winter’s day but is also a superb focal point in the home.

However, before making this long-term investment and enjoying its many benefits, there are several factors to explore which will determine whether a wood burner in house is suitable for your home. From installation to size and fitting, we’ve compiled our top tips.

 

Can you install a wood burner if you have no chimney?

It is possible to have a wood burner installed in your home without a chimney. To achieve this, the wood burner must have a twin skin insulated flue system installed.

Before buying your wood burner, we would recommend a visit from an HETAS qualified heating engineer. They will visit your home and inspect the area where you would like your wood burner installed. They will offer expert advice on many elements, including building regulations, required flue systems, insulation and wood stove heat shields.

 

Can I install a wood burner myself?

The installation of a house wood burner is a highly specialised job and should be carried out by a trained professional. It is by no means a project to take on yourself, as if it is done incorrectly, it could be very dangerous.

If the stove and flue are not connected properly, or if the flue isn’t installed correctly, it can lead to harmful fumes entering the room, which can pose a significant safety risk to yourself and your family.

We recommend a visit from an HETAS qualified installer, who will be able to safely install a log burner and its flue system. By using a registered installer, you have the confidence that you are receiving expert, trustworthy advice and your flue will be installed properly. A correctly installed wood burner will be safe, efficient and long-lasting.

Here at Charnwood, we work with a network of specialist installers, so you can be safe in the knowledge that your wood burner installation will not only be fitted correctly but will be installed to last long-term.

To also find out how to clean a wood burner glass, view here.

 

How to line a chimney for a wood burner

A chimney liner is a stainless-steel tube that connects the top of the pipe that protrudes from a wood burner to the chimney pot. While there are several ways to line a chimney, fitting a chimney liner is the most common and cost-effective.

Lining a chimney for a wood burner is a two-person job, involving working at height and several steps:

• Before fitting the liner, ensure you first sweep the chimney.

• Remove the chimney pot.

• Go to the roof and take a length of rope measuring five metres longer than your chimney height with a weight on the end and carefully drop this down your chimney.

• A substantial amount of dust may fall down the chimney at this point, so ensure a dust mask, goggles and protective clothing are worn.

• Once the rope is down the chimney, tie off the rope to prevent losing it down the chimney.

• Bring the chimney liner to the roof and check the arrows to ensure it is the right way up.

• Take care when holding the chimney liner and cover the ends of the liner with gaffer tape for added protection.

• Attach the flex adapter, then fix three sets of wires to the liner adapter which enable you to attach the length of rope.

• Put the closing plate over the top end of the liner and clamp the top fixing clamp.

• Gently feed the liner into the chimney and straighten it to avoid any curls inside the flue.

• Once the liner is in place, move the fixing clamp down the liner until it is resting on top of the chimney and supports the weight of the liner at the necessary height.

• Cut any excess liner using a hacksaw so that around half the height of the chimney pot remains.

• Make the area waterproof by making a mix of sand, cement and integral waterproofer.

• Wet down the chimney, chimney pot, closing plate and end of the liner, before applying the cement mixture.

• Wipe down and add a cowl to the chimney.

• Connect the stove to the chimney liner adaptor with some rigid flue and allow 24 hours before lighting your stove.

Alternatively, a local registered installer will be able to fit the chimney liner for you. Contact us for further information.

 

How much should I pay for a wood burner to be fitted?

While each wood burner and its requirements are unique, you can expect to pay from £700 upwards for your wood burner to be fitted.

 

What size wood burner should I get?

It is essential that you measure the size of the room where you’d like your wood burner ahead of making a purchase. This will ensure that you buy the correct sized stove with the right amount of heat for the room where it will be installed.

If the wood burner gives off too much heat for the room, the space will become unpleasantly hot and the plaster around the stove may crack. Too low and you will not get the desired warmth needed within your chosen space.

As a rough guide, we recommend 1kW of heat output will heat 14 cubic metres.

To explore how to light a wood burner, view here.

 

How close can my TV be to my wood burner?

If you are considering placing your TV on the wall above your wood burner, we would strongly recommend contacting your TV manufacturer to determine how much heat your TV is able to withstand. You may also want to consult the operating manual for further information.

 

Contact Charnwood today

To find out more about your next wood burner and for advice around suitability for your home, contact Charnwood today. Our friendly, expert team are on hand and more than happy to answer any queries you may have.

Best Firewood to burn chart UK

charnwoodstoves
23 May 2023

When it comes to choosing wood for burning, many people are searching for something that is best in terms of sustainability. Wood is a viable energy source that is virtually carbon neutral and also a cost-effective heat source for many homes. To help you find the best firewood for your needs, we’ve put together this handy chart to show you the different types of firewood available and the benefits they each offer.

Which firewood should I choose?

When choosing your firewood, we would recommend opting for a hardwood as they are generally denser than softwoods and will produce more heat and burn longer. However, softwoods do light quicker and can be cheaper, but they are more resinous than hardwoods, meaning they are more likely to build up tar deposits in your flue.

Common hardwood species include beech and oak.

Common softwood species include cedar and pine.

Kiln dried logs are a good option as these guarantee a low moisture content. ‘Ready to burn’ logs should have less than 20 per cent moisture levels for optimum heat output and efficiency, and with kiln dried logs you can be sure you’re purchasing a consistently dried log that will provide the best source of heat. Naturally seasoned logs are generally less expensive but be sure to test the moisture content before burning. They will need to have been seasoned for at least one year, preferably two.

To learn more about our different types of firewood, view here.

 

Which wood burns the longest?

There are several firewoods that burn for a sufficient amount of time, but oak and hawthorn are both favourable hardwoods to choose. These both burn slowly and produce a good source of heat.

Although hardwoods are a more efficient fuel source in terms of heat output and burning time, they can be harder to ignite from cold. This is when softwood kindling comes in handy, as it can help you get your fire up and running, before using the hardwood to fuel and maintain the slow burning fire.

The following chart is a common list of UK firewoods, showing you if they are hardwood or softwood and providing some detail of their characteristics.

Additionally, to learn everything you need to know about firewood, view here.

 

Firewood Name Hard or softwood Comments Grade
Alder Hardwood Generally considered a low quality firewood as it burns quickly and provides little heat. Poor

 

Firewood Name Hard or softwood Comments Grade
Apple Hardwood Needs to be seasoned. Has a nice smell and burns well with a without sparking/spitting. Good
Ash Hardwood Considered one of the best firewoods. It has a low water content and can be burned green. It is still best when seasoned and will burn at a steady rate. Great
Beech Hardwood Beech has a high water content so will only burn well when seasoned. Good
Birch Hardwood Birch burns easily but also fast, so is best mixed with slower burning wood such as Elm or Oak. A great fire lighter is birch bark. Good -Great
Cedar Softwood Cedar provides a pleasant smell and provides lasting heat but with little flame. You can also burn small pieces unseasoned. Okay
Cherry Hardwood Needs to be seasoned to burn well. Okay-Good
Elm Hardwood A good firewood but due to its high water content, it must be seasoned well. It may need assistance from another faster burning wood such as Birch to keep it burning effectively. Okay-Good
Hawthorn Hardwood A good firewood that burns well. Good-Great
Hazel Hardwood Excellent firewood when seasoned. Burns fast but with no spitting. Great
Holly Hardwood A good firewood that can be burnt green. Good
Hornbeam Hardwood A good firewood that burns well. Good
Horse Chestnut Hardwood Horse chestnut spits a lot and is considered a low quality firewood. Okay
Larch Softwood Needs to be seasoned well. Spits excessively while it burns and can produce a lot of soot. Poor
Lime Hardwood Considered a low quality firewood. Okay
Oak Hardwood One of the best firewoods when seasoned well.  It provides lasting heat and burns at a slow rate. Great
Pear Hardwood Needs to be well seasoned. Burns well with a pleasant smell and without spitting. Good
Pine Softwood Pine burns well but spits a lot and can leave behind soot. It can act as a good softwood kindling. Poor
Plane Hardwood A usable firewood. Good

 

Firewood Name Hard or softwood Comments Grade
Poplar Softwood Considered a poor firewood and produces black smoke. Poor
Rowan Hardwood Considered a good firewood that burns well. Good
Spruce Softwood Considered a low quality firewood. Okay
Sweet Chestnut Hardwood Burns when seasoned but spits excessively. Not for use on an open fire. Poor-Okay
Sycamore (Maples) Hardwood Considered a good firewood that burns well. Good
Walnut Hardwood Considered a low quality firewood. Okay
Willow Hardwood Willow has a high water content so only burns well when seasoned properly. Okay
Yew Hardwood Considered a usable firewood. Okay-Good

Energy Support for Wood-Burning – Don’t miss out!

charnwoodstoves
12 May 2023

In April the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero announced they were extending the time period for evidencing the purchase of alternatives fuels, including wood and solid fuels to the end of May 2023.

The £200 Alternative Fuel Payment (AFP) is a government scheme aimed at supporting households that rely on alternative fuels for heating. It is available to those not connected to the mains gas grid and covers homes heated by tank or bottled gas, LPG, oil, wood, or solid fuel. The payment is in addition to the £400 payment from electricity suppliers.

Recently, the government announced an extension to the AFP scheme. Eligible households can now use receipts from June 2022, instead of September 2022, until May 2023 as evidence to claim the payment. This change will ensure that those households that purchased fuel in bulk ahead of the winter 2022 heating season will receive the support they are entitled to.

Most households meeting the eligibility criteria automatically received the payment as a credit on their electricity bill. However, in some cases, the discount was not received automatically, for example if you:

-pay for energy through a landlord, housing manager or site owner

-live in a park home, houseboat or off the electricity grid

Andy Hill, chair of the SIA, commented: “This is a common-sense announcement and ensures that those households that did plan ahead, buying their wood logs and solid fuel supplies in the summer months last year, will not be penalised for doing so. Wood and solid fuel heating is an essential lifeline for the many thousands of homes that are off the gas grid network, and for remote and very rural locations it is vital to ensure that a fuel supply for the winter months is sourced well in advance.”

You can check your eligibility and apply for the AFP scheme via the government’s official website here.