Log burners and multi-fuel stoves are very trendy right now.
They offer a lot of advantages and if you are thinking of replacing a gas or electric fire because of the high cost of fuel, read on for some useful advice.
Greater Fuel Efficiency
Compared to an open fireplace, log burners are much more efficient.
All new stoves must conform to DEFRA regulations, which means they have fuel efficiency ratings of 70% or more.
A traditional open fireplace has a fuel efficiency of 15% or less because combustion is lower and most of the heat is lost up the chimney.
Less Fuel
If you are used to burning coal or logs on an open fire, you’ll be familiar with the constant need to add more fuel.
Open fires burn a lot of fuel because they are very inefficient. Buy a ton of kiln dried logs and your stack won’t last all that long, whereas with a log burner, your store of wood or smokeless fuel will last a lot longer.
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More Heat
Once a log burner has reached the optimum temperature, it will kick out a lot of heat — far more than an open fire.
The larger the appliance, the more heat it will generate, so this is something to be aware of when choosing a stove for a smaller room.
Because log burners and multi-fuel stoves generate a lot of heat, they can heat the whole of the downstairs in an open-plan home.
You’ll find you don’t need to put the heating on if you prefer your bedrooms to be colder.
Less Reliance on Gas and Electricity
A log burner or multi-fuel stove doesn’t need gas or electricity to operate. This means you can save money on your utility bills if you use your central heating less.
Obviously, you’ll need to buy fuel for your stove but if you can source free or cheap logs and other seasoned wood, it could cost you very little to run.
Greater Flexibility
Power cuts are a nightmare when you are reliant on electricity for your central heating.
Once the power goes off, the house will soon get cold in winter.
Having a log burner or multi-fuel stove installed gives you a secondary heat source that’s capable of keeping your house nice and cosy for as long as you have fuel. With a bit of attention, a stove will burn indefinitely.
Disadvantages
There are some disadvantages to installing a log burner or multi-fuel stove. The main one is cost. Stoves cost around £600-£800, depending on the size and brand.
However, that’s not the only cost. Your chimney may need a liner if it doesn’t already have one, and the installation won’t be cheap.
You may also need renovations to your fireplace and hearth. The upside is that over time, the installation will pay for itself.
Another point worth making is that some areas of the UK fall within smoke control zones and councils have the power to fine households when chimneys release too much smoke.
However, smokeless fuels such as anthracite are exempt. Finally, only work with a HETAS-approved installer if you decide to have a log burner fitted. That way you know the installation is safe.