Frequently Asked Questions
These are some of the frequently asked questions of Home Fires and Fuels by people considering the purchase of a wood-burning or multi-fuel stove. If you have a question that isn’t featured in this list, or if you want more information on one that is, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We’ll be more than happy to assist you.
Wood Burning and Multi-fuel Stoves
Answers to those frequently asked questions about wood burning and multi-fuel stoves.
I live in a smokeless zone. Can I still use a stove and burn solid fuel?
Yes. You will need to fit a DEFRA approved stove in a smokeless zone. These stoves are highly efficient and you will be able to burn seasoned logs. You must however ensure that if you use coal you use a smokeless variety (e-coal for example).
My house does not have a chimney. Can I still use a stove?
Yes. A stove can be installed in almost any property. All solid fuel appliances must have an external flue but one of these can usually be installed for you.
Will a stove create a lot of mess and smoke in my house?
The technology of modern stoves means that much less waste is created and over 80% of the fuel used is turned into heat for the home (compared to 20% of the fuel being turned to heating your home with an open fire). Modern stoves require little maintenance.
If I have a stove will I need to get my chimney swept?
Yes. All chimneys and flues need to be swept to ensure efficiency and safety.
Where can I buy logs and how should store them?
We provide a delivery service for logs, smokeless coal, kindling and other fuel products.
We can also provide log stores to ensure that your wood is kept dry.
What wood should I use in my log burning or multi fuel stove?
You should only use very dry (preferably Kiln dried) logs that have been seasoned for at least two years. Logs with a moisture content of more than 20% produce more smoke, less heat and will tar up the glass and flue. We provide a delivery service for logs and kindling – from small nets to bulk bags and you can purchase logs by telephone or online.
Are wood burning stoves more efficient than an open fire?
Yes! A new ‘eco design’ stove produces 90% fewer particles than an open fire. The problem of open fires and older inefficient stoves skews the pollution statistics. Potential customers wishing to reduce the emissions from an open fire would be advised to have an eco-design stove that is up to 80% efficient (against that of 20% for an open fire). Meaning that 80% of the heat produced by burning the wood is used to heat the room rather than go up the chimney.
Are wood burning stoves going to banned?
No! But new government regulations will come into force in 2022 and will mean that only very efficient stoves will be allowed to be fitted. Home fires and fuels are already installing stoves that meet the new guidelines.
Can I still use my old wood burning stove?
Yes. The rules are not retrospective and if you fit a stove now you will not have to change it after 2022. But in the future, you may wish to consider replacing an older inefficient stove with an ‘eco design’ model.
What can I do to ensure that my stove is safe and working at optimal efficiency?
You should arrange an annual chimney sweep to ensure that the flue is clean and the stove is serviced.