Indoor Wood Burner - An Eco-Friendly Alternative
Wood burning in the home can cause fine particles of pollution, in addition to other air pollutants such as carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds. These pollutants can cause irritation to the lungs and can cause other health issues.
Prior research indicates that frequent usage of a wood-burning indoor fireplace or stove increases the risk of lung cancer. These findings were based solely on self-reported usage, and not medically validated.
Low Carbon Alternative to Carbon Neutral
If you like the look and comfort of a wood stove but are worried about the health risks it might cause, you may be seeking an eco-friendly alternative. Well, fear not - there are good options available that won't land you with a fine from DEFRA. One option is a bioethanol fireplace, which uses a liquid fuel from renewable sources that releases less particles than wood.
Bioethanol is a fantastic alternative for those looking to keep their log burner, but switch the fuel. You'll be able to feel confident about purchasing it because it is made from recycled wood and plant residues.
You could also invest in an Eco Design stove. These stoves are up-to-date and comply with the latest standards. They also are efficient and have high levels of efficiency that result in less emissions. They're also designed to be more robust and easier to use as opposed to older models.
A new Eco Design stove would not only be a fantastic investment for your home but also for the environment. Keep in mind that the emissions of wood combustion can contribute to air pollution which, in turn, leads to climate change. There are ways to lessen the impact of your stove. These include using clean, dry fuel, cleaning up regularly and opening windows while you burn wood.
Another option to reduce the environmental impact of your stove is by switching to an electric model. They are also more efficient in energy use and consume a third less energy than open fires. These are also easier to install because they don't require chimneys or flue. They can also be powered by the standard 3-pin plug.
There are many eco-friendly log burning options including eco briquettes made of recycled wood that is carbon neutral. Pellet stoves are also an alternative if you wish to go green. These stoves are extremely efficient and can be used for a variety of biomass fuels. Their automatic fuel supply and air supply regulation assures exceptionally efficient combustion, minimising emissions.
Some people might be worried about the health risks of having a wood-burning stove particularly after hearing reports that they release particles into the air. It's important that you know that the most recent studies have shown that other household activities like cooking can release higher levels PM10 and PM2.5 in the indoor air.
Easy to Clean
Having a wood burner brings an authentic rustic look to your home. It's easy to forget the importance of regular cleaning and maintenance. The ash that sticks to grates, and the creosote formed during combustion can transform the fireplace into a massive fire.
Wood stoves can only be used with dried, seasoned wood. Burning unseasoned, green or wet wood will not only make the fire difficult to ignite and burn cleanly however, the amount of toxins released in the air will increase dramatically. Wood smoke contains fine particles of pollution, volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide and hazardous air pollutants like benzene. These contaminants are particularly harmful to children, older adults, and those living with lung diseases like asthma, chronic obstructive respiratory disease (COPD) and lung cancer.
Modern wood stoves are equipped with an ash tray that can be removed that is used to collect ash, debris and grit from the grates. It is easy to take the pan off and dispose of it in an ash bucket. Remember that ashes contain embers and must be cooled completely before disposal.
Make use of a fire retardant cleaner such as a specially-formulated spray for cleaning stoves or a vinegar mixture to prevent the buildup of creosote. You can also use the soft brush attachments for your vacuum cleaner or dry cloth, however it is best to avoid using a damp sponge as this could cause rusting.
It's a good idea to bring in wood that has been dried and seasoned outdoors for at least a year prior to taking it indoors. A stack of well-seasoned, kiln-dried wood will not just save you time and effort, but also money because it is ready to burn and providing more heat. A regular supply of tinder will help keep your fire going at a faster pace and lessen the amount of soot. If your area is a smoke control area, you should be vigilant about maintaining your chimney and stove in good working order to avoid any penalties.
Saves Money
Wood stoves can be a fantastic alternative to traditional fuel sources, particularly with energy prices on the rise and more volatility expected. A well-maintained and efficient wood stove can drastically reduce your energy bills when compared to gas or electricity.
In addition to reducing heating costs, a wood-burning fireplace insert provides additional financial benefits. Modern fireplaces are more efficient than traditional wood-burning stoves and generate more heat using less fuel. They can generate three times as much heat than traditional fireplaces that burn wood and put to make more money.
It is important to keep in mind that wood heating is a process that has "non-monetary" costs. This includes the work involved in loading the stove, starting fires and cleaning the ashes. If you decide to split and chop your own logs it could be a long and tedious process.
Another cost to consider is the need for a safe storage and drying area for the logs. Wet, unseasoned or green logs can cause a lot of smoke when they are burned. They can also create harmful deposits that build up in the stove and chimney. It is crucial to follow the best practices for stacking and storing logs to ensure that they remain dry and that only seasoned logs are burned in your stove.
It is also essential to maintain and sweep your chimney on a regular basis to avoid getting blocked. This can be done by hiring a professional chimney sweep or by following some simple maintenance tips, like ensuring that the stove is swept prior to beginning to use it for the first time each season, and then cleaning it after every fire.
The process of installing and buying a wood-burning stove is not affordable. The costs can be high even though they're currently cheaper than replacing a gas boiler.
Adds Style
A wood stove inside is a fantastic focal point, especially if it's decorated with the right decor. A wood-burning stove in the kitchen, living space or dining room instantly adds warmth and comfort the area. There are top wood burning stoves of designs to choose from, ranging from traditional to contemporary. You're sure to find one that complements the style of your home.
A wood burning stove can bring character and history to any room. The sound and the sight of a real fire can instantly improve your mood, particularly in winter.
In addition to being a practical option for your home, a log burner can also be used to help you reduce your energy costs. With the new trend for replacing open fires with eco-friendly, low emissions wood burners, it's possible to create a cozy space without compromising on heating performance.
When choosing a stove, it is important to think about its heat capacity in relation to the size of your home and the insulation levels. Stove manufacturers provide guidelines to help you choose the right size stove for your space, which is highly recommended if want to get the most out of your investment.
Stoves that have a built-in log store is perfect for a modern-day living space, providing a neat and uncluttered appearance and ensuring you always have wood ready to use. Stoves with log stores are a great option for small homes. You can store logs near without having to worry about space or safety.
A wood-burning stove for indoor use is also a good option for a farmhouse interior, with the option to combine it with wooden beams and panelled walls to create a classic rustic aesthetic. This Farringdon stove is from Arada Stoves, in a vibrant Spice finish, injects a pop of colour and style into a modern living room.
A wood burning stove allows the entire family to bond while savoring a real flame. This is a great opportunity for the whole family to bond and spend time together.