An efficient and stylish wood-burning stove will create a warm welcome in your home this winter.
Whether it be to make your home cosy for your guests or to become more energy efficient for the new year, achieve the Danish concept of hygge (pronounced 'hoo-ga') in your home with our handy buyer's guide to choosing the best wood burning stove.
Radiant or convection?
Image: Contura
Wood-burning stoves come in two types. Radiant models supply heat through the glass and stove body to warm the immediate surrounding area, which makes them best for occasional use.
Convection models, on the other hand, heat the whole room – cool air is drawn into a convection chamber, then warmed as it rises before flowing out. Prices range from £400 to £5,000 (excluding installation), depending on style and heat output.
Decide on an installation style
Image: Focus Fireplaces
Wood-burning stoves are cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Freestanding, wall-hung, mounted on a base or placed in a fire surround, whichever style you choose, the Heating Equipment Testing and Approval Scheme (HETAS) recommends that a lined flue is fitted as part of the wood-burning stove installation process.
Wood burners are energy efficient
Image: Morso
The latest designs are up to 90% energy efficient, compared with only 15% for open fires. Logs are inexpensive and sustainable; make sure you use seasoned fuel for maximum heat output.
If you live in a built-up area, you can burn logs only in a Defra-exempt appliance that’s designed to produce very little smoke and is approved for use in controlled zones.
Great for modern homes
Image: Dovre
Many contemporary models blend great design with advanced cleanburn technology, so they’re efficient and produce less smoke, too.
Inset stoves, built into a wall or false chimney breast, are a good idea if space is limited. Some models have glass doors on three sides, which makes them ideal as a central focal point.
Stoves with rounded fronts, side panels and double doors also showcase flames beautifully.
For more advice on wood burning stoves and other ways to get your home ready for a cosy Christmas, buy tickets for the Ideal Home Show Christmas, where you'll come away brimming with festive inspiration.
