How to Get the Most From a Wood Burner Fireplace
Unlike traditional open fireplaces wood stoves are designed and optimised to burn wood. This allows them to comply with stricter emission regulations.
Wood burning stoves provide glowing yellow flames, cozy crackling sounds and that primal feeling of warmth. The smoke that is produced contains toxic air pollutants like formaldehyde, benzene, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Efficient
Fireplaces and stoves that burn wood offer a stunning and natural heat to the home, they are also incredibly efficient. A high-quality wood burner can attain an Ecodesign rating of as high as 77 percent. It is crucial to get the most benefit of your log stove, especially with increasing energy costs. The good thing is that it's easier than ever to do!
The moisture content of firewood is an important factor that determines how efficient a wood-burning stove is. This is the reason we suggest only using seasoned wood, that has been dried for at least one year, and often two years. The more dry the wood, the more efficiently it burns which results in less smoke and less harmful emissions.
Another advantage of a wood-burning stove is that it's a low carbon source of fuel, which is fantastic for the environment. Furthermore, by buying locally-sourced firewood, you are aiding in the active management of woodlands which is a good option for wildlife.
The only thing a wood burning stove requires in terms of maintenance is to regularly remove and get rid of ash. It can be a bit of a hassle but it's worth it to get the most heat from every log. In addition, if you wait 2-3 days for the ashes to fully cool they can be used as a non-toxic and eco-friendly ice melt. They can be used to polish jewelry and also absorb odors.
A wood-burning fireplace is an old-fashioned classic. Although they're less well-known than gas fireplaces, their appeal and charm of a roaring flame cannot be disregarded. They are ideal to cuddle to on cold winter evenings, and they make a warm and inviting space in your home. A high-quality wood stove will pay off for many years. Contact us today to learn more about how our expert chimney sweeps can help you get the most out of your stove.
Low Carbon
Wood burners that are efficient and clean are the most effective option to save money while keeping your home warm. They also help local woodland management. This is a fantastic option to help wildlife in your area.
Wood-burning fireplaces and stoves create very little pollution if they are maintained properly and are used with dry, seasoned and dry firewood. When they are not maintained properly or use wood of poor quality, the smoke that is produced is a result of fine particles, commonly referred to as particulate pollution, which can irritate lung organs and other body organs. Carbon monoxide, toxic air pollutants such as benzene and formaldehyde and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are also in the. Inhaling air pollution can cause irritation to the lungs and trigger asthma attacks wheezing, coughing, and lung irritation. It can also lead to cancer, heart disease or premature death.
Many are concerned that wood-burning stoves can contribute to climate change, but this isn't necessarily true. Burning wood is a carbon neutral energy source. Throughout the lifetime of a tree, it absorbs carbon dioxide, and when it is burnt, the carbon absorbed is released back into the atmosphere.
The wood is produced locally, which reduces the amount of pollution released during transportation. It is also essential to select top quality well-seasoned hardwoods, as they will provide a longer and more even burn than softwoods.
Modern, EPA certified wood stoves and heaters (such as those manufactured by Charlton & Jenrick) have much lower emissions than older stoves. They are certified to meet 2020 EPA standards, which are considerably more strict than earlier emission limits.
To avoid the buildup of exhaust within your home, all wood burning stoves should be vented to the outside. All of our DEFRA-exempt and clean burn stoves can produce extremely clear exhaust by keeping the flames above the logs of wood and using dry, seasoned firewood.
A wood-burning stove equipped with a catalytic converter is the most efficient low carbon solution for heating. These units re-ignite the gases and particulates that were ignited during the initial combustion in a second stage by mixing them with superheated air. The remaining gases and particulates are then transported through a catalytic combustion unit for a final and third combustion. This further reduces emissions to levels well below government standards.
Clean Burn
Cleanburn wood stoves burn fuel with the highest efficiency. This results in the emission of a small amount of particles into the air when burning wood. The air management system of the stove regulates the intake and venting of gases to ensure the combustion process is conducted in a safe and controlled environment. It also regulates the flame's height to maximise heat output and minimize emissions.
This means that your chimney as well as the surrounding area will be a lot cleaner than older stoves. Particulate matter, also referred to as particle pollution, is a result of incompletely burned wood can trigger respiratory problems, such as wheezing and coughing, and can contribute to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other serious conditions. Wood burning is also a contributor to poor air quality in cities.
The smoke from poorly combusted wood contains fine particulate pollution as well as hazardous air pollutants such as carbon monoxide volatile organic compounds nitrogen oxides, benzene formaldehyde and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. These particles can reach deep into the lung and other organs which can cause discomfort, damage and even death. Airborne dust can also damage surfaces in your home with a smudge-like sensation.
It is essential to use only high-quality, seasoned and dried firewood for your fireplace with a wood burner. Hardwoods like oak, ash, and beech are the most efficient for heating. Hardwoods are extremely dense and have higher BTU than softwoods. They also provide more heat.
You should also check whether your local authority has any rules regarding wood burning. These may include rules on odors and nuisances, as well as visible emissions or smoke opacity limitations.
It is important to keep the glass of a wood stove with an open front that is free of dirt and deposits. This can be done with a dry cloth or oven cleaner spray. You can also add bicarbonate of soda mixed with a little water to the glass.
Regular maintenance is crucial for your chimney and stove. This includes regular chimney cleanings that remove creosote and ensure the proper functioning of the flue. Also, make sure you mark dates for inspections on a regular basis in your diary, as this will help you avoid costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your wood stove.
Low Maintenance
Many people prefer installing wood-burning fireplaces due to the warmth and natural beauty they provide. However, this type of fire requires a bit of upkeep and maintenance. If not cleaned and maintained regularly, the chimney, flue, and stove could all be fire hazards in your home. They also provide warmth in the event of a power outage, particularly during winter storms where branches of trees may fall and power lines may be damaged.
Utilizing a wood burner for heating will reduce your carbon footprint considerably compared to other fossil fuel sources such as gas. Modern wood stoves, inserts, and fireplaces are built to comply with EPA standards (Environmental Protection Agency) which means that they emit very little emissions. The more seasoned wood you use, the more efficient the stove will be. You'll need less wood to get the same amount of heat.
Fireplaces require some care and maintenance. They should be kept away from materials that ignite and have a screen. The flow of air will be improved by keeping the grate clear of ash and other debris. This will ensure that the fire is burning longer and your home in good order. You should have your stove and chimney swept at least once a year to prevent creosote build-up which could be a dangerous fire hazard and a blockage that can hinder circulation.
A wood-burning stove needs to be kept in good order and it could take some time for a novice homeowner to understand how to ignite, light, and maintain a steady fire in the fireplace. Once you've mastered the art, your wood burning stove will be a source for warmth and comfort in your home.
Wood burning fireplaces have been around in one form or another for more than 500 years. They've gained a lot of attention because of their energy efficiency, sustainability and the natural warmth of real wood. If you're thinking of buying installing a new heater, speak with your local Regency certified dealer to find out more about the advantages of a wood stove or insert for your home.