I want a Solid Fuel Stove - Don't I?

Nov. 10, 2009 - PRLog -- After the energy price hikes of 2008, a sudden unprecedented demand for solid fuel stoves for home heating, outstripped manufacturer's stocks. Despite manufacturers increasing output to maximum capacity, they could not produce in sufficient quantity to fulfil outstanding orders. This resulted in waiting lists, in some instances of several months.

Traditionally, the solid fuel stove had been predominantly popular in rural parts of the UK; particularly where natural gas was not available on tap. The use and maintenance is appreciated by users in these parts, which need to be addressed by anyone considering this appliance in order to keep the stove working efficiently and safely.

It is important to realise that the fuel used for burning in a solid fuel stove is either; wood, coal, composites, or indeed all. I say important because if you intend to only burn wood, then a 'Wood Burner Stove' is fit for purpose. If you intend at any time to burn coal, then you require the more versatile 'Multi-Fuel Stove'. The biggest misconception and one which seems to be the main reason for choosing a stove is that this will be a cheaper heating option. The stove must be considered as a long term option due to the investment required, not only for the stove, but the installation requirements.

If you have your own constant supply of seasoned dry wood, by having a compartmental wood store, then possibly it is - providing you accept the work involved (Dry wood for immediate burning / Wood for seasoning / newly sourced wood for burning next winter). If freshly cut wood is burned (against stove manufacturers instructions) this will cause some real problems. Creating black smoke and soot up the stove, producing thick tar deposits within the stove and flue, which then greatly increases the risk of a chimney fire. Also, this practice could well void the manufacturer's guarantee for the stove. A strict regime for the chimney to be swept regularly is also part of the essential maintenance required.

Installation should be carried out by a HETAS registered installer who will check the suitability for your chosen appliance. Ventilation as well as other stringent regulations must be considered along with 'DEFRA' environmental issues. The suitability of a stove is also dependant on the room size as a high output stove can be overpowering. If your fuel is sourced through a kiln dried wood supplier, then although considered carbon neutral and therefore environmentally friendly, you will have to accept that there will be a greater running cost for the fuel alone (possibly up to 3 times that of using a gas fire). A dry storage area to accept delivered fuel supplies needs to be found as modern houses do not have the "Coal House" as in the past.

Providing all the above is considered, then there is nothing really that out performs the heat output than a solid fuel stove and of course satisfies man's desire for fire.

Fireplaces for this purpose must be manufactured allowing for expansion and suitable for the intended use, therefore specialist advise should be sought in this regard. Fireplaces not suitable are extremely likely to crack, burn, discolour and stain.

For further information and to view our wide range of available products, please visit us at http://www.firelive.co.uk

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