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FAQs
WHAT DOES AIRWASH MEAN?
Airwash is a method of keeping the glass clean by directing combustion air across it's surface.
CAN I RUN MY STOVE WITH THE DOORS OPEN?
In most cases the answer is yes, but the success of this depends on the capability of the chimney to clear the smoke and fumes associated with wood and solid fuel. Sparks and ash can fall from the stove so spark guards are a good idea and can be purchased with most brands of stoves. It should be remembered that the efficiency of the stove will suffer when run with the doors open.
WHAT IS MEANT BY EFFICIENCY?
Most people regard efficiency as the maximum heat output of a stove or fire. The efficiency referred to in manufacturers literature is the difference between heat to the room and heat lost up the chimney. In simple terms, an 80% efficient stove will give £8 worth of heat for every £10 spent.
DO I NEED TO LINE THE CHIMNEY?
If the chimney leaks it must be lined. However, a chimney liner concentrates the heat and gives a positive updraught which will make your stove more efficient and easy to control.
CAST IRON OR STEEL – WHICH ONE TO CHOOSE?
Generally stoves fall into 3 price levels with steel often being the cheapest, cast iron next and enameled cast iron the most expensive. The most obvious difference is the appearance as cast iron can be moulded into intricate shapes and detail. Steel stoves are plainer, only the doors are cast iron and therefore the only decorative part of the stove. Both types are generally equally durable and efficient.
HOW MUCH HEAT DO I NEED?
To calculate the heat required please follow this formula:- Multiply room length x room width x room height in metres. Divide the result by 14. Your final figure is the kilowatt output required from the stove to heat the room. This calculation, although not exact, is a good rule of thumb. Large numbers of doors, windows and draught sources can affect the ability of the stove to heat the room adequately and you may decide to purchase a stove with a greater heat output. However, one must be careful not to choose a stove which is too big as this may mean the stove has to be run at a lower level. This can result in condensation in the flue, reduced efficiency and visual appeal. Please feel free to phone or e mail for further advice (this is the most important aspect of buying a stove).
SOLID FUEL OR GAS. WHICH TO CHOOSE?
Each type of fuel has its own pros and cons. Here is a list of the main benefits followed by any disadvantages.
GAS
Gas is cleaner to use, requires no storage (except bottled gas) and fires are easy to light and maintain. Gas stoves are usually more expensive to buy than the equivalent solid fuel stove, require annual servicing and can be more expensive to fit and service. Solid fuel burning stoves come in 2 types, wood burning and multifuel
WOOD
Wood is a renewable source of fuel, provides the best flame effect and a wonderful smell There will be less ash than with the equivalent coal or smokeless fuel fire. Well seasoned wood can be difficult to obtain and is bulky to store.
SMOKELESS FUEL (MULTIFUEL)
Smokeless fuels such as anthracite produce more heat than wood and burn more slowly, enabling fires to slumber throughout the night. Smokeless fuel can be burnt in smoke control zones. Smokeless fuel makes more ash than wood, is more expensive to buy and can be dirty.
DO I NEED A COWL?
It is not compulsory but is often a good idea for the following reasons:- Cowls with mesh can stop birds nesting in the chimney. Specially designed cowls prevent back draughts and cowls with metal tops prevent rainwater from falling down the chimney. Some cowls combine all 3 functions. Click here for options available 'chimney cowls'