Author: Nichola

Stoves

What is the stove clearSkies standard?

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The environment has been a hot topic in the media for some time, even though the Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in 2021 put it front and centre. The clearSkies standard won’t necessarily be as well known as the Ecodesign regulations. “clearSkies’ mission is to improve air quality by encouraging the industry to move beyond the minimum requirements set by regulations and to help homeowners clearly identify those stoves and fireplaces that meet these exacting standards” The fact that Ecodesign regulations are Law distinguishes them from clearSkies. Although the clearSkies certification is optional, it is increasingly acknowledged as a long-term component of the stove industry. All products must be manufactured under a type of legal framework provided by the Ecodesign standards. But it is hoped that consumers will start to […]

Stoves

Easy steps to get the most from your stove

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Maintenance of a stove is extremely important and won’t take much time. Keeping your stove in proper working order requires regular maintenance. Maintenance is a straightforward task and can be carried out by the stove owner.  If you have a multifuel stove, you will need to check that the grate is in proper condition. If the grate is distorted or cracked, replace it immediately. If your stove has fire bricks these will also need checking and changing if damaged or cracked.  To avoid burns to your carpet you will need to check the ash pan for holes. On a cast iron stove checks to the seals between the side and top plates will be needed and if found resealed with fire cement.  Check the glass for cracks and clean off […]

Log Stores

What you need to think about when buying a stove

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You’ll need enough room to store fuel, especially if you’re burning logs as buying in bulk is cheaper.  Stoves are generally used to heat 1 room but you can attach them to a central heating system to include the whole house.  You might be assuming that a stove will reduce your energy bills but that will depend on how energy efficient your home is, how efficient the stove is, how often you have it on and what your current energy costs are.  You’ll also need to consider the added time to use a stove. Stoves can take some time to light, they need to be controlled effectively and some need the ash cleaned out before each time the stove is lit. The chimney will also need sweeping ideally twice a […]

Stoves

Rising Energy Costs – Consider a Wood Burner

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The picture of a cosy home often centres around the fireplace and having a stove creates a focal point for not just your lounge but the whole home. The sound of crackling of the wood and woody scent all adds to the ambience of rest and relaxation whilst providing a centrepiece for your home and necessary heat as a bonus. With the cost of gas and electricity rising, now is the perfect time to consider a wood-burning stove to heat your home. Wood is considerably cheaper than the rising energy cost and can be sourced as and when you need it. The ability to buy in bulk makes it easier to plan when you may need a delivery and maintain a ready supply throughout the year. A stove is much […]

Stoves

Lighting a Wood Burner

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There is nothing quite like a cosy evening with the wood burner heating the room and watching the flames dance. But before you can get to this point, you need to light the wood burner. Here are the steps necessary to ensure your wood burner lights and stays alight. Ensure that you open the air controls to allow a good air supply to establish the fire. The wood you choose to light the burner is essential too. Choose small to medium seasoned logs that have low moisture content. On top of these pieces of wood, place small wood logs. This creates a fuel stack within your stove. Place an eco firelighter in the centre of the stack. This will help the larger logs ignite when the fire burns down. On […]