Living Fires

Understanding Hearth and Bench Options for Wood Burning Stoves

Well done! You’ve selected your new stove but now you need to decide how you’re going to mount it.

With many options from pedestals and steel log store stands to benches and even stylish clear glass stands there is so much available. Some stoves even have the option to be wall mounted or ceiling hung, for a statement stove installation. Each mounting option transforms the final look, letting you choose the perfect match for your stove and your home.

Below we take a closer look at traditional hearth options and the alternative steal benches.

HEARTHS

Okay, strap in, this is going to get technical. Got a coffee? Biscuits?

A hearth is designed to protect a building and occupants from a solid fuel appliance. Basically, hearths are to prevent the floor surface around your stove going on fire, either by heat from the stove or from fuel falling out when you open a door. Wood burning multi-fuel stoves need a hearth made from non-combustible material, this usually means a slab of stone or concrete that is higher than the floor around it and corresponds to the appliance’s hearth requirements.

There are set rules about hearths and stove installation. The rules are different if the stove is being inserted into a fireplace recess rather than if the stove is to be “freestanding” outside of the usual stove recess (e.g. a modern stove connected to a twin wall flue that exits the building via the ceiling or wall of the room).

Rules for hearths consist of two elements:

Constructional hearth: An area, around and underneath the stove, of non-combustible material. This can be the floor of the room if the floor is non-combustible (so a concrete floor or slate tiled floor can essentially mean the whole floor of the room is a massive constructional hearth).

Superimposed Hearth (sometimes called a Visual Warning Area): A superimposed hearth acts as a visual warning of a “restricted area” around the stove – a warning to suggest: “do not place any combustible items in this area or carpet over it”. Superimposed hearths are often made of slate or tiles.

Added together the constructional hearth and superimposed hearth must have a combined depth of 125mm (5″). However, some modern stoves can have this reduced to 12mm. The requirement for a 12mm hearth installation typically occurs when the room that you wish to install in has no available chimney or fireplace. If you are planning to install your freestanding stove into this particular type of room, it is essential to have a hearth placed below the stove to allow a safe distance to combustible materials to be maintained. Many stoves in our range have been designed to only require a 12mm hearth, allowing for a sleek installation. These minimal hearths are often created from special toughened glass to help them blend in with your interior.

We also have a wide selection of beautiful, traditional stone hearths including small or large sizes. The larger sizes are commonly styled with a slight overhang and the small features flush edges.

The decision on the type of hearth that you may need is dependent on the type of stove that you plan to install. We are on hand to advise you on which type of hearth is needed.

BENCHES

If you are looking for an accessory that will create a focal point that will leave everyone talking, consider mounting your wood burning stove on a steel bench.

To assist homeowners in creating an adaptable alternative to the ‘on hearth’ mounting of contemporary stoves, we offer several sizes of bench to which the stoves may be secured.

A great accessory and alternative to hearth mounting, steel benches can create a dramatic look for your new stove. Offered in a variety of sizes, you can be sure to find something no matter the dimensions of your wood burner! Standing at 250mm or 350mm high with 60mm wide legs, you can not only match the bench to the space available within your home but you can match it to your unique style by positioning your wood burning stove either centrally or offset to one side.

Depending on the colour of your stove the matt finish of your steel bench can either complement it perfectly or create a striking contrast, both are equally sure to make a fantastic statement.

No Chimney, No Problem: Choosing the Right Fire for Your Home

A lack of a traditional chimney doesn’t mean you have to forgo the cosy ambiance of a fireplace or stove. Modern homes without chimneys can still enjoy the warmth and charm of a fire with the availability of gas and electric alternatives. In this informative blog, we’ll explore the options of gas and electric fireplaces as well as gas and electric stoves, discussing their features and the installation processes involved.

Gas Fireplaces:

The Onyx Eclipse gas fire (Part of the Stovax Heating Group)

Features:

Gas fireplaces offer the beauty of a real flame without the need for a traditional chimney. They come in various designs, including built-in, wall-mounted, and freestanding models.

Installation:

Gas fireplaces require professional installation, usually involving the connection to a gas line. Venting options include direct vent, vent-free, or power vent systems, providing flexibility in placement within your home.

Electric Fireplaces:

(Suitable for home built after April 2024)

Features:

Electric fireplaces have gained popularity for their convenience and versatility. They come in a range of styles, from traditional mantelpiece designs to modern wall-mounted units. Electric fireplaces offer flame effects and often come with a heater for added warmth.

Installation:

One of the key advantages of electric fireplaces is their easy installation. Most models simply need to be plugged into a standard electrical outlet, making them a convenient option for homes without chimneys.

Gas Stoves:

Charlton and Jenrick Paragon Edge Conventional Flue Gas Stove

Features:

Gas stoves bring the charm of a traditional wood-burning stove without the need for a chimney. They are available in various styles, including classic and contemporary designs, and can be freestanding or built into an existing fireplace space.

Installation:

Similar to gas fireplaces, gas stoves require professional installation. The process involves connecting the stove to a gas line and, depending on the model, may involve venting options such as direct vent or vent-free systems.

Electric Stoves:

(Suitable for home built after April 2024)

Features:

Electric stoves offer a hassle-free alternative to their gas counterparts. With various styles to choose from, including freestanding and compact models, electric stoves provide the warmth of a traditional stove without the need for a chimney.

Installation:

Like electric fireplaces, electric stoves are incredibly easy to install. They only require access to a standard electrical outlet, eliminating the need for complex venting systems.

Choosing the right fire for your home without a chimney involves considering your preferences, the date your property was built, the available space, and the desired aesthetic. Gas fireplaces and stoves provide the authenticity of a real flame, while electric alternatives offer convenience and easy installation. Regardless of your choice, professional installation ensures safety and optimal performance, allowing you to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a fire in your home, chimney or not.

Understanding Stove Fans: A Guide for Wood-Burning Stove Owners

For wood-burning stove owners, maximising the heat output from your stove is essential, especially during colder months. One popular and simple way to enhance your stove’s efficiency is by using a stove fan. If you’re new to stove ownership, here’s everything you need to know about what stove fans do, how to install them, and the types of homes or spaces they are best suited for.

WHAT ARE STOVE FANS FOR?

A stove fan is a small, heat-powered device designed to distribute the warm air generated by your stove more evenly throughout the room. Without a fan, the heat from your stove tends to rise straight up, creating hot spots near the stove and leaving the rest of the room cooler. Stove fans circulate this warm air horizontally, helping to spread heat more efficiently. This means you can enjoy a more even temperature in your home without needing to crank up the fire, saving you fuel in the process.

HOW TO INSTALL A STOVE FAN

Installing a stove fan is incredibly easy. These fans are self-powered, so they don’t require any batteries or electrical cords. They work using the heat from the stove itself, with most models starting to spin automatically once the stove reaches a certain temperature (usually around 50°C/122°F).

TO INSTALL:

1. Place the fan on top of the stove: Make sure it’s in a location where it can get direct heat but not so close to the chimney or flue pipe that it overheats.

2. Ensure proper distance: Leave enough space behind the fan for airflow. Fans work best when they can draw cool air from the back and push warm air forward.

3. Monitor for overheating: Most stove fans are designed to operate safely at high temperatures, but it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid any potential damage.

WHAT HOMES AND SPACES ARE STOVE FANS BEST SUITED FOR?

Stove fans are especially useful in smaller rooms or open-plan spaces where heat can quickly build up near the stove. They’re also ideal for cabins, cottages, and conservatories where distributing heat more evenly can make a big difference. For homes with large, open spaces, a stove fan may not cover the entire area, but it can still help increase overall warmth in the vicinity of the stove.

Stove fans are an affordable, energy-efficient way to get more out of your wood-burning stove. By installing one, you’ll enjoy better heat distribution, increased comfort, and potentially lower fuel costs, all while keeping your space cosy and warm.

Our showrooms stock a selection of stove fans along with flue thermometers. We also have a host of other accessories to keep stoves well-maintained and functioning at their best such as door ropes, high-temperature paints and slate oil.

Maintaining Your Hearth: A Guide to Springtime Chimney Sweeping

As the chill of winter begins to fade and the promise of some warmer days approaches, it’s easy to forget about the hearth that kept you cosy during the colder months. However, neglecting your chimney and fireplace during the spring can lead to issues when winter returns. In this blog, we’ll share hints and tips on how to properly maintain and prepare your chimney and fireplace in the spring, ensuring they’re ready for hibernation until the next winter season.

SCHEDULE A CHIMNEY SWEEP

Before stowing away all your fireplace tools and tidying away the log basket, schedule a chimney sweep. A professional sweep can identify potential issues and ensure your chimney is in optimal condition.

If your sweep recommends a new chimney liner kit, we are on hand to help and advise you for all your fireplace needs with comprehensive and expert knowledge.

INCLUDE CHIMNEY CLEANING IN YOUR SPRING ROUTINE

As you start working your way through your spring-cleaning checklist, don’t forget about the fireplace and chimney. While it’s not necessary to clean it immediately after the last snowfall, adding it to your list is a sensible move.

Clearing away any residual soot, debris, or creosote buildup is crucial for preventing potential fire hazards and maintaining the longevity of your fireplace.

ANNUAL CLEANING FOR YEAR-ROUND FUNCTIONALITY

Make chimney and fireplace cleaning an annual tradition. Regular maintenance prevents operational issues and keeps your fireplace ready for use when winter returns. Neglecting this routine can lead to costly repairs and render your fireplace inoperable when you need it most.

PREPARATION FOR NEW INSTALLATIONS

If you’re considering installing a new fire or fireplace, it’s advisable to have your existing chimney or flue swept or checked beforehand. At Living Fires, we recommend Lee David a certified chimney sweep who also has camera equipment for checking out flues. He covers both Edinburgh and Fife and can be contacted on 07930 748367.

Alternatively, if you live outwith these regions, please visit the National Association of Chimney Sweeps website (www.nacs.org.uk) or call 0800 833464 to find a registered chimney sweep in your area.

As you bid farewell to the winter fires and welcome the warmer months, taking the time to properly prepare your chimney and fireplace for the next season is a wise investment. Whether it’s scheduling a chimney sweep, incorporating cleaning into your spring routine, or preparing for new installations, these tips ensure your hearth remains in top condition. Remember, a little maintenance now can save you from headaches and expenses when it’s time to relight your fire.

That Is So 2025!

Resolution #1: Start 2025 in style with a fresh new look!

The new year is here, and it’s the perfect time to reimagine your home’s interiors. Whether you’re looking to update your living space or enhance the warmth and charm of your fireplace or stove, the Colours of the Year for 2025 are here to inspire you. This year’s trending hues offer something for everyone, from soothing neutrals to zesty pastels. Let’s explore the standout shades from Pantone, Dulux and Etsy to see how they can transform your space.

Pantone Colour of the Year: Mocha Mousse (PANTONE 17-1230)

Pantone’s 2025 pick, Mocha Mousse, is a rich, warming brown that radiates comfort and sophistication. This delectable shade captures the essence of chocolate and coffee, delivering a sense of thoughtful indulgence and timeless elegance. Mocha Mousse is versatile enough to suit any style, whether you’re aiming for minimalist chic or a more opulent design.

Pantone has curated several inspiring palettes featuring this hue, including “Relaxed Elegance” and “Floral Pathways. “ It is a great choice for pairing with soft pastels and bold accents. Imagine this luscious shade framing your fireplace or stove, creating a cosy and inviting focal point in your home.

Dulux Colour of the Year: True Joy

Dulux’s True Joy is a cheerful, uplifting yellow that brings energy and optimism into any space. Designed to inspire creativity and pride, this vibrant hue is perfect for brightening up modern and traditional interiors. Its sunny tone beautifully complements natural light, making it an excellent choice for highlighting the area around your stove or fireplace.

True Joy works particularly well in Scottish homes, where natural daylight can sometimes feel … sparse. Pair it with softer neutrals or earthy tones to create a harmonious and inviting look.

Etsy Colour of the Year: Lime Cream

Etsy’s 2025 colour, Lime Cream, is a delicate pastel with a zesty twist. Equal parts calming and playful, this dreamy shade offers versatility as a neutral base or as part of a bolder colour scheme.

Think of Lime Cream as the perfect backdrop for soft furnishings, decorative accessories, or even your fireplace surround. This fresh hue can brighten up your space while maintaining a soothing vibe, perfect for layering with other colours to suit your style. Picture Lime Cream walls accented with vibrant cushions or a chic fire surround to bring a touch of pastel perfection into your living room.

Incorporating the Colours of the Year into Your Fireplace Design

At Living Fires, we understand the importance of creating a warm and stylish home. These Colours of the Year provide endless opportunities to refresh your fireplace or stove setup. Here are a few tips to incorporate these trending shades into your design:

Feature Walls: Use Mocha Mousse, True Joy, or Lime Cream as a backdrop to highlight your fireplace. These shades can enhance the warmth and character of your living space.
Accessories: Add colour through cushions, rugs, or throws near your stove or fireplace. True Joy’s uplifting yellow or Lime Cream’s pastel charm can create a cohesive look without overpowering the room.
Fireplace Surrounds: Consider repainting your fire surround in one of these trendy hues to make it a standout feature. Mocha Mousse, for example, brings timeless elegance and a sense of grounding to any room.
Layered Palettes: Pair these colours with complementary shades for added depth. Lime Cream works beautifully with bold jewel tones, while True Joy pairs seamlessly with natural woods and greys.

Ready to Transform Your Space?

Whether you’re embracing the rich warmth of Mocha Mousse, the sunny optimism of True Joy, or the playful zest of Lime Cream, 2025’s Colours of the Year can elevate your interiors. At Living Fires, we’re here to help you create a space that’s not only warm and welcoming but also on-trend and uniquely yours.

Visit our showrooms in Edinburgh and Fife for expert advice and inspiration. Let’s make your home a haven of style and comfort this year.

Living Fires – Bringing Warmth and Style to Scottish Homes Since 1991

Flexible Spaces for a Better Work-Life Balance

It goes without saying that lockdown affected the design of our homes. It brought about a revolution in the way we think about home and many more of us now need permanent and flexible home-working areas in energy-efficient spaces.

Before the coronavirus lockdown, 70 per cent of Brits had never worked from home, according to the Office for National Statistics. Fast forward to today and the pandemic has resulted in an estimated 20 million people swapping crowded and long journeys for smooth 10-second commutes to makeshift workspaces on kitchen worktops or the dining table. Waking up at your ‘workplace’ has become a normal way of working for at least 1 day a week for many of us. We are now more aware than ever of the need for multifunctional spaces for living and working.

One of the biggest perks of working from home is the greater flexibility. With the ability to work from any room, those working from home can take advantage of this and create a flexible schedule to take care of work and personal responsibilities. But how do you get the balance right?

Well, we’ve found the key, flexible spaces are the future. How you might ask? Making spaces work for multiple occasions is critical to being able to fully use your home for its all its purposes. Creating multiple workspaces throughout the home means that two or more people can work from home at the same time without bothering each other, no matter how they’re designing their schedules. We love these top tips for creating multifunctional spaces by interior designer Samantha Watkins Mcrae;

A children’s bedroom can be an area for play and learning with fun considered, multipurpose storage units and a bed that moves.
A kitchen island can entertain guests yet still provide a working desk option
Flexible desk space in a living room or dining room can be tidied away when not in use, even if it’s only a fold-up desk squeezed into an unused corner.
Sliding doors and dividers can be installed (should a wall cavity allow) to hide an office or gym area.

It’s all about making your home fit its purposes and creating more space. Spaces to be apart and work in peace and spaces to come together and relax. Creative storage built into bespoke seating and maximising cupboard space in the kitchen from floor to ceiling is already becoming a key trend, as are other creative storage solutions like under bench storage and hallway storage.

Spending more time in our homes – and higher utility bills – means many of us are also prioritising energy efficiency and sustainability in the home. Including a fireplace in your home improvements could help you achieve this. Installing an electric fire in the rooms where you spend a long time sitting for extended periods is a great way to regulate the heat in the room as you need. Electric fires can be used with the heat on or off. This means if you start to get a little chilly and want some localised heat in the room, it’s a great way to warm up without turning the central heating on. Likewise, if you just enjoy the comforting ambience but it’s also the height of summer, simply select the stove to function without the heat and you’re left with a beautiful and calming flame display, a great background feature for all those zoom calls!

It’s a Fairisle Christmas

As the festive season fast approaches, it’s time to infuse your home with warmth and cheer. One timeless and cosy trend that’s making a comeback in interior design is the Fair Isle pattern. This traditional knitting technique originated from the small island of Fair Isle, located between mainland Shetland and Orkney in Scotland. It involves creating intricate, multi-coloured patterns using different shades of yarn. These patterns are typically geometric and often feature motifs like diamonds, crosses, and stars.

In this blog, we’ll explore the allure of Fair Isle in interior design and discover affordable ways to incorporate it into your home this festive season.

The Fair Isle Aesthetic:

Fair Isle knitting is usually done with two colours per row, making it distinctive for its colourful and detailed appearance. The technique gained global popularity in the 1920s when the British royal family wore Fair Isle sweaters in public. Today, it’s closely associated with Scottish heritage and is commonly used in sweaters, hats, scarves, and other winter garments.

Characterised by its intricate, repeating motifs and a harmonious blend of colours this design has transitioned seamlessly into interior spaces, adding a touch of country elegance. Its versatility allows it to complement various design styles, from rustic and traditional to modern and eclectic.

Affordable Fair Isle Accents:

Throws and Cushions:

If you’re looking for a quick and cost-effective change, swap out your existing cushion covers for Fair Isle-inspired ones and add in matching throws. Choose a colour palette that complements your existing decor for a coordinated look. Opt for a mix of sizes and patterns to add depth and interest. Layer these on sofas, chairs, or beds to instantly introduce a warm and festive ambience.

Table Linens:

Elevate your dining experience by incorporating Fair Isle tablecloths, placemats, or napkins. This small addition can create a big impact during festive gatherings. Mix and match patterns for an eclectic feel or stick to a single colour scheme for a more contemporary look.

Wall Art:

Affordable Fair Isle-inspired wall art, such as prints or framed samples, can transform your walls into a festive focal point. Consider creating a gallery wall with a mix of Fair Isle prints and other holiday-themed artworks for a visually striking display.

DIY Decor:

Embrace your creative side by crafting your own Fair Isle-inspired decor. This could include handmade ornaments, rag wreaths, or even painted wooden signs. Second-hand garments can often be sourced online or in local charity stores and these are ideal for upcycling projects. Why not gather the family for a fun and budget-friendly crafting session to create unique, personalised decorations?

This festive season, invite the timeless charm of Fair Isle into your home without breaking the bank. With affordable accents like throws, cushions, table linens, wall art, and DIY decor, you can effortlessly infuse your space with this heritage-inspired trend. Embrace the tradition, creativity, and warmth of Fair Isle, creating a home that radiates Scottish charm.

Stylish Fireplace Decor Ideas for Christmas

Open your doors to warmth and style whether you have a timeless and traditional, hearth mounted, multi-fuel stove or a stylish and contemporary wall-mounted gas fire, tis the season to jazz up your living room!

From minimalist trees and coordinated accessories to traditional stockings and vintage decorations, here’s our take on styling your fireplace this Christmas.

Big and bright.

Using pale or white festive accessorises not only helps keep your room bright during the darker days but helps to accentuate the dark framing of most fireplaces drawing to eye to your centrepiece. White trees and colourful baubles brighten up any dull day while fluffy rugs and fireside wines make the living room a place to stay. Add plain fairy lights to your tree or mantel for extra sparkle.

A Natural Approach

Furnish your fire mantel with foraged foliage. Pine cones, ferns, birch twigs and evergreen branches create a subtle earthy theme. Wooden letters spelling out a seasonal word or message complete the look. Add a little extra glamour by replacing these with opulent gold letters and incorporating some gold baubles into your foliage. Adorn your sofas with faux-fur throws and knitted blankets for the ultimate cosy retreat.

Timeless traditions.

Enhance your mantel with seasonal plants such as poinsettias, holly and ivy. Finish the look by placing a candlestick on both sides of the mantel, red candles mimic the flames even when not lit and cinnamon candles fill the room with seasonal scents. Why not take it further and add a garland and stockings, keep to traditional patterns in red and green to maintain a complimentary and striking classic scheme?

Minimalist Moments

Alternatively, if you’re not into glitzy Christmas decorations, there’s nothing wrong with keeping it low-key. Keep it minimalist with a wooden star decoration and a sprig of mistletoe on the mantelpiece. Hang a simple green foliage wreath above the mantel with a white ribbon and continue the theme to your tree.

Whatever your style, whichever your fire, it’s sure to brighten up the living room with its warm glow. Watch as magic fills the room when the flames dance, decorations capture the light and sparkles appear. Get ready to snuggle up in style and get your living room ready for cosy nights in.

However you decorate, make your fire the centrepiece to gather around and make memories this season.

2024 Halloween Decorating Trends: Spooky Elegance for Your Fireplace and Mantel

As the crisp autumn air rolls into Scotland, it’s time to embrace all things Halloween. If you’re a stove or fireplace owner, you have the perfect canvas for creating a warm, and slightly eerie, atmosphere in your home. In 2024, Halloween decorating trends are all about combining spooky elements with a sense of elegance, making your mantel and fireplace the ideal focal point for the season.

Here’s a look at the top Halloween décor trends for your fireplace and mantel this year.

Moody and Monochrome

This year’s Halloween trends are moving away from traditional bright oranges and purples and heading towards moody, dark tones. Black, charcoal grey, deep burgundy, and dark green are making a statement, bringing a chic yet spooky vibe to your décor. These colours work especially well with crackling fire to cast eerie shadows over the room.

For your fireplace, consider decorating with matte black pumpkins, charcoal-dyed fabric garlands, and dark candlesticks. A black lace or cobweb-style mantel runner can add a layer of gothic elegance to your display. To keep it sophisticated, stick to one or two main colours (or shades) and complement them with metallic accents like gold or copper.

Natural Elements Meet Halloween

The Farringdon in Midnight from Arada Stoves

Combining nature with Halloween décor is a growing trend that blends the beauty of autumn with the spooky season. Think dried leaves, foraged branches, and seasonal gourds paired with subtle Halloween accents like bats or skulls. If you have easy access to the countryside or a nearby park, elements like pinecones, heather, and autumnal foliage are perfect to incorporate into your décor.

For a stunning mantelpiece, layer natural materials like rustic wooden pumpkins, wicker baskets, and dried flowers, mixed with faux spiders or eerie candleholders. You can also drape garlands of dried orange slices or foraged twigs to add texture. The balance of natural and spooky will create a refined, seasonal look.

Statement Pumpkins

Pumpkins remain a staple in Halloween décor, but in 2024, they’re taking on more modern, artistic styles. Forget the basic jack-o’-lantern and opt for painted pumpkins in a variety of styles—from metallic finishes to intricate hand-painted designs. You can even use pumpkins as a base for floral arrangements or paint them to match your home’s existing colour scheme.

Arrange a mix of large and small pumpkins on your hearth or mantel, layering them with faux cobwebs, dried flowers, or candles. Try displaying a few pumpkins in neutral tones, like cream or grey, for a minimalist touch, then contrast them with a couple of gold or black pumpkins to add depth and elegance.

Vintage and Timeless Pieces

Another key trend for 2024 is blending vintage and timeless elements with Halloween décor. If you have an older home or one with traditional design elements, this style can beautifully complement your fireplace. Vintage candelabras, antique mirrors, and old lanterns can transform your fireplace into a spooky yet timeless centrepiece.

Drape your mantel with Victorian-inspired lace, or add ornate picture frames filled with eerie, vintage portraits. Antique books with worn, dusty covers can be stacked on your hearth, or placed beside vintage-style pumpkins to enhance that mysterious old-world charm.

Candles, Candles, and More Candles

Nothing sets the mood for Halloween quite like candles, and in 2024, more is definitely more. Opt for tall, tapered candles in black, white, or dark red, and mix them with pillar candles in various sizes. Candleholders in silver, brass, or matte black can enhance the gothic feel, while dripping wax candles add a spooky, haunted touch.

Line your mantel with a variety of candles to create a soft glow, and use LED candles in difficult-to-reach spots for safety.

This Halloween, your fireplace and mantel can be the ultimate focal point of spooky sophistication. Whether you go for dark, moody tones, natural elements, statement pumpkins, or vintage décor, the key is balancing Halloween fun with timeless elegance. And with a roaring fire or flickering stove in the background, your home will feel warm, inviting, and perfectly on-trend for the season.

Understanding Clean Air Data for Wood-Burning Stoves

Every year, air pollution reports make headlines, but they often miss important details. For example, a recent article by Helen Horton in The Guardian might leave readers thinking that all wood-burning stoves are bad for air quality. This is due to how the media sometimes oversimplifies the data, grouping all wood stoves together without distinguishing between different types.

The Problem with Simplified Labels

The term “wood-burning stoves” is too broad and can be misleading. It combines various types of stoves and fuels into one category. According to the Stove Industry Association (SIA), recent data from the National Atmospheric Emissions Inventory (NAEI) shows that, despite a record year for stove sales in 2022, emissions from domestic wood burning actually fell by 2.7%. This important detail often gets overlooked in the media.

Breaking Down the Data

The NAEI data separates “wood-burning stoves” into specific categories, such as:

Basic Domestic Closed Stoves

Ecodesign Domestic Closed Stoves

Upgraded Domestic Closed Stoves

Standard Domestic Fireplaces

Each of these categories is further divided by fuel type, including different kinds of wood and other materials.

The Impact of Modern Stoves

Modern Ecodesign stoves, which are designed to be more efficient, have a much lower impact on air quality compared to older models. In 2022, open fires were responsible for 13.3% of the UK’s PM2.5 emissions, while Ecodesign stoves accounted for only 1.8%. When burning dry wood, Ecodesign stoves contributed just 0.3% of emissions.

Putting It in Perspective

For comparison, the NAEI data reveals:

Road transport produces 66.7 times more PM2.5 emissions than Ecodesign stoves burning dry wood.
Cigarette smoking causes 4.7 times the emissions.
Small-scale waste burning results in 22.7 times more emissions.
Bonfire night emissions are 7.4 times higher.

Making Smart Choices

To reduce your environmental impact while using a wood-burning stove, consider these tips:

1. Choose an Ecodesign Stove: Opt for a stove that meets Ecodesign standards and is certified by clearSkies. In Smoke Control Areas, make sure it’s Defra exempt.

2. Get Expert Advice: Consult a local SIA Retail Group member for recommendations on the best stove for your home.

3. Proper Installation: Have your stove installed by a qualified professional, such as one registered with HETAS or OFTEC.

4. Use Quality Fuel: Burn wood logs with the Ready to Burn logo, which indicates they are properly seasoned. Avoid burning treated wood or waste.

5. Regular Maintenance: Service your stove and sweep your chimney at least once a year.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the warmth of your wood-burning stove while minimising its impact on air quality.

For more information, you can read the full report from the Stove Industry Alliance here.