Thinking about installing a stove in your home, but unsure which fuel type is right for you? You’re not alone. Choosing the right stove is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning a new fireplace or heating feature, especially in Scotland, where warmth, efficiency, and reliability really matter.
At Living Fires, we help customers every day who are weighing up wood‑burning, gas, and electric stoves. This updated guide brings together practical advice, modern considerations, and expert insight to help you choose a stove that looks right, feels right, and works beautifully in your home.
Start with the Size: Why Heat Output Matters
Before choosing a style or fuel type, it’s important to think about stove size and heat output. A stove that’s too powerful can overheat a room, while one that’s too small won’t provide the comfort you’re looking for.
Stove output is measured in kilowatts (kW), and the right size depends on:
- Room dimensions and ceiling height
- How well your home is insulated
- Whether the stove is heating one room or contributing to whole‑house warmth
As a general guide, most living rooms need between 4–7kW, but every home is different. Our team will always calculate this with you to ensure your stove heats efficiently and comfortably without wasted energy.
Choosing the Right Fuel Type for Your Home
One of the biggest decisions when choosing a stove is how you want it to work day‑to‑day. Do you enjoy the ritual of lighting a fire, or would you prefer instant warmth at the touch of a button? Each fuel type offers its own benefits.
Gas & Electric Stoves: Convenience Without Compromise
For a fuss-free flame, gas and electric stoves are a popular choice. Advances in design mean modern models are often virtually indistinguishable from traditional fires, offering realistic flames and impressive heat output without the mess.
Gas stoves provide:
- Instant heat and controllable flames
- High efficiency and consistent warmth
- A real flame experience with minimal maintenance
Electric stoves are ideal if:
- Your home doesn’t have a chimney or flue
- You want a simple plug-in solution
- You’d like flame visuals that can be enjoyed with or without heat
Both options suit modern lifestyles and work well in apartments, extensions, and contemporary Scottish homes.
Wood‑Burning Stoves: Timeless Warmth and Efficiency
Wood-burning stoves remain a favourite for many homeowners and for good reason. They offer a traditional flame, excellent heat efficiency, and a comforting sense of independence.
One major advantage is that wood-burning stoves can continue to provide heat during power cuts, something many Scottish homeowners value during winter weather.
Modern wood burners are highly efficient, with up to 80% of the heat generated delivered directly into the room, and they continue to radiate warmth even after the fire has burned down.
It’s important to burn the right fuel. Always look for logs with the ‘Ready to Burn’ logo, which confirms a moisture content of 20% or less. This reduces smoke, improves performance, and helps protect both your stove and the environment.
Matching Your Stove to Your Home Style
A stove should complement your home as well as heat it. Scottish homes vary hugely, from stone cottages and period townhouses to modern new builds and open-plan living spaces.
- Traditional homes often suit classic or softly styled stoves with a timeless feel
- Cottages benefit from compact designs that provide warmth without overwhelming the room
- Modern interiors pair beautifully with clean-lined, minimalist stoves or inset designs
Choosing the right finish, proportions, and installation style ensures your stove becomes a natural focal point rather than an afterthought.
Designed for Scottish Weather
Scotland’s damp, cold climate makes high-efficiency stoves especially important. A modern stove helps maintain a steady, comfortable temperature while using fuel responsibly.
All new wood-burning stoves must meet Ecodesign regulations, ensuring lower emissions and improved efficiency. Look out for the SIA Ecodesign Ready label when choosing your stove; it’s a reliable indicator of modern performance standards.
Installation & Safety Considerations
Professional installation is essential for both safety and performance. Key considerations include:
- Correct flue placement and ventilation
- Compliance with current building regulations
- Suitability for your property type
Whichever fuel you choose (except electric), all combustion appliances can produce carbon monoxide. Fitting a carbon monoxide detector in the same room as your stove is essential for peace of mind.
At Living Fires, we guide you through every step, from initial advice to installation and aftercare.
Let Living Fires Help You Choose with Confidence
Choosing the perfect stove is about balancing warmth, efficiency, design, and lifestyle. With expert guidance and a carefully selected range of stoves for Scottish homes, Living Fires helps you make a confident, informed choice.
Visit our showroom or speak to our team to explore your options and find a stove that will keep your home warm, welcoming, and beautifully styled for years to come.
Living Fires 