Debunking myths about wood-burning stoves

Wood-burning stoves have a negative reputation that is simply unearned. 

But not to worry: these myths can be easily debunked using evidence from HETAS, DEFRA and the Stove Industry Association. Stay tuned as Fires2U sheds light on why wood-burning stoves are one of the most eco-friendly heating options! 

MYTH: They are harmful to the environment

The most common misconception about wood-burning stoves is that they release large amounts of harmful emissions. In reality, this isn’t true at all. 

While older wood-burning stoves released CO2, particulate matter and nitrogen directly through chimneys (leading to poor combustion efficiencies), fireplace manufacturers have worked hard to ensure this is no longer the case. 

In fact, the UK now has extremely stringent regulations when it comes to air pollution. 

The government’s ‘Clean Air Strategy’ (released in 2019) noted that, despite significant reductions in emissions levels from domestic burners (since records dating back to the 1950s), more needed to be done to prevent indoor air pollution. 

That’s why companies like Stovax now manufacture wood-burning stoves with Cleanburn technology. Cleanburn systems work by burning the gases and particles responsible for air pollution, thereby reducing emissions and doubling your stove’s efficiency! 

MYTH: They are difficult to manage/clean

The days of labouring in the forest for timber are behind us. 

Today, fireplace users can make bulk purchases of slow-burning, unseasoned wood. The government-backed ‘Ready to Burn Scheme’ introduced new regulations surrounding the burning of fuels in wood-burning stoves. 

Using wet wood (wood with a high moisture content) releases harmful particulate matter when burnt and can also reduce your stove’s efficiency. The Heating Equipment Testing and Approval Scheme recommends using wood with a moisture content of 20% or less.

When it’s time to learn how to light a wood-burning stove, you might find it a learning curve at first. But with our handy guide to mastering the ‘Upside Down’ method of wood stacking (as recommended by HETAS), you’ll be lighting perfect fires every time! 

MYTH: Anyone can fit a wood-burning stove

A wood-burning stove can only be fitted and installed by a HETAS-registered installer. But why? 

Installing a wood burner is a technical job: the installation must be done according to strict Building Regulations outlined by the UK government. Failure to adhere to these standards is not only a safety risk but can result in fines or penalties for the homeowner. 

This misconception that anyone can install a wood burner may stem from the ease of other fireplace installations, like electric models. 

Arguably the easiest to fit, electric fireplaces only require access to an outlet to be operational (however, some structural alterations may need to be completed by professionals prior to installation). Gas fires, on the other hand, can only be installed by a gas-safe registered engineer. 

MYTH: Open fires can generate more heat 

Burning wood on an open fire is far less efficient. 

According to the Stove Industry Association, switching out an open fire in favour of an EcoDesign Cleanburn stove can result in significantly greater heat output (with less fuel needed to produce said heat!). Generally, open fires have an efficiency of 30% or less. 

Modern wood-burning stoves are far superior, offering homeowners efficiency ratings of anywhere between 70-85%. Cambridge Carbon Footprint also notes that burning wood on an open fire is also 6 times more polluting than a wood-burning stove. 

MYTH: They can’t be used in smoke-controlled spaces

DEFRA-exempt wood-burning stoves can be used in smoke-controlled areas. These are appliances that have passed tests commissioned by the Department of Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). 

The test measures emissions levels, and only those appliances that pass the emissions limits (according to the particular stove’s size and heat output) can be installed in smoke-controlled zones. 

Get your own wood-burning stove from Fires2U! 

As you can see, there’s simply no truth in the myths. 

Wood-burning stoves are an elite heating option. They’re integrated with the latest technologies for efficient, reliable warmth, so why not check out our range? At Fires2U, we offer wood-burning stoves from top industry brands like Portway Stoves, Dik Geurts and The Gallery Collection.