Indoor Wood Burner - An Eco-Friendly Alternative
Indoor wood burners produce fine particle pollution and other dangerous air pollutants, including carbon monoxide volatile organic compounds benzene, and nitrogen oxides. These pollutants can cause irritation to the lungs and can cause other health issues.
Research has previously demonstrated that the frequent use of a wood-burning stove or fireplace indoors can increase the risk of lung cancer. These findings are based on the self-reported use of the stove and fireplace, and were not medically validated.
corner wood burning stove
If you are a fan of the design and cosiness of a fireplace but are concerned about the health risks it might pose, you might 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 such option is a bioethanol fire that burns a liquid fuel that is made from renewable sources and emits significantly less dust than wood.
Bioethanol is an excellent option for those who wish to keep their existing wood stove, but simply change the fuel. You'll be able to feel confident about purchasing it because it's made from recycled wood and plant waste.
You can also invest in an Eco Design stove. These stoves are modern and comply with the latest standards. They also are efficient and have high levels of efficiency that result in less emissions. They are also more robust and less cumbersome to use than older models.
A new Eco Design stove would not be just a great investment for your home, but also for the environment. Remember that wood combustion emissions are a major source of pollution of the air, which in turn leads to climate change. However there are ways to minimise the impact of your stove, for example, using dry and clean fuel, regularly sweeping it clean and opening your windows when you're burning wood.
Another option to reduce the environmental impact of your stove is by switching to an electric model. They are also more energy efficient and consume a third less energy than open fires. They are also simpler to install since they don't require a chimney or flue. They can also be powered using the standard 3-pin plug.
There are a variety of other eco-friendly log burners available including eco briquettes that have been made from recycled wood and are carbon-neutral. Pellet stoves are also an alternative if you wish to go completely green. They are extremely efficient and can be utilized with a range of biomass fuels. Their automatic fuel supply and air supply regulation allows for exceptionally efficient combustion, minimising emissions.
Some people may be concerned about the health risks of a wood-burning fireplace especially when they hear that it may release particulates in the air. It's important that you know that the latest studies show that other household activities like cooking can release higher levels of PM10 and PM2.5 in the indoor air.
Easy to Clean
Having a wood burner brings an authentic, rustic vibe to your home. It's easy to overlook the importance of maintaining and cleaning regularly. The ash that clings to the grates as well as the creosote formed when firing can transform a stove or fireplace from the holiday-card image of a gentle puff of smoke into a raging inferno.
Wood stoves are only to be used with dry, seasoned wood. Burning green, unseasoned or wet logs will not only make the fire difficult to start and burn effectively however, the amount of toxins released into the air will also rise dramatically. Wood smoke contains fine particles that are contaminated by volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide and other hazardous air pollutants like benzene. These pollutants are especially harmful to older adults, children as well as those suffering from lung diseases like asthma, chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD), and lung cancer.
Most modern wood stoves come with an ash tray that can be removed that collects ash, debris and grit from the grates. You can easily pull out the pan and empty it into an bucket for ash. It is important to remember that ashes contain embers so they must be completely cooled before disposal.
To avoid a buildup of creosote, wash your stove daily and use a fire retardant cleaner, such as a special stove cleaning spray or vinegar mixture. You can also use an attachment for a soft brush for your vacuum cleaner or dry rag. Avoid using a rag that is wet as it could cause rusting.
It's also a good idea to use well-seasoned, split and stacked wood that has been allowed to dry outdoors for at least 12 months before taking it inside. A stack of well-seasoned, kiln dried wood will not only save you time and effort but also money as it is ready to burn. A regular supply of tinder will aid in keeping your fire going at a faster pace and reduce the amount of soot. If your area is a smoke-control area, you must be vigilant about keeping your chimney and stove in good working order to avoid any penalties.
Savings on Money
Wood stoves are a great alternative to traditional fuel sources, particularly when energy prices are increasing and more volatility forecast. A well-maintained and efficient wood burner can drastically reduce your energy bills when compared to electricity or gas.
A wood-burning stove can provide additional economic benefits in addition to reducing heating costs. Modern inserts are more efficient than traditional stoves that burn wood and generate more heat using less fuel. They can produce three times as much heat than traditional wood burning fireplaces which means homeowners can keep more money to spend in their pockets.
It is important to remember that wood heating has some "non-monetary" expenses. This includes the labor involved in loading the stove, igniting fires and cleaning out the remains of the ashes. In addition, if opt to cut and split your own logs it can be lengthy and strenuous.
Drying and store the logs is a further possibility cost. Wet, green or unseasoned logs can release a lot of smoke when they're burned. They also result in harmful deposits on the chimney and stove. Therefore, it is essential to follow the best practice guidelines on stacking and placing your logs in storage to ensure they are dry and only burn seasoned logs in the stove.
Finally, it is important to maintain and regularly sweep your chimney to avoid blocking smoke and clogging. This can be accomplished by hiring a professional chimney sweep or by following a few simple maintenance tips, like ensuring that the stove is cleaned prior to beginning to use it for the first time in a season, and then cleaning it after each fire.
In the end, homeowners who decide to switch to wood-burning stoves must be sure to consider installation and purchase costs. Although they're currently cheaper than replacing an older gas boiler but these costs can add up.
Adds Style
A wood burning stove in the indoors is a fantastic focal point, particularly if it is decorated with the right decor. The addition of a wood-burning stove to a living room or dining room instantly gives the room an inviting and warm feel. With a variety of styles from traditional to modern, there's sure to be one that will fit perfectly with the aesthetic of your home.
A wood-burning stove can give character and a sense of history to any room. The sight and sound of a real flame is an instant mood lifter, creating a feeling of warmth and comfort - especially when the temperature decreases.
A log burner isn't only a practical option for your home but can help you save money on energy bills. With the new trend for replacing open fires with eco-friendly, low emissions wood burners, it's possible to create a warm and cozy space without compromising on heating efficiency.
When choosing a stove, it is essential to consider its heat capacity in relation to the dimensions of your house and the insulation levels. Stove manufacturers offer guidelines to help you choose the best size stove for your space, which is highly recommended if want to get the most of your investment.
A stove with a built-in log store is perfect for a modern-day living space with a neat and uncluttered look and ensuring you always have wood ready to use. Stoves with log stores are also a good option for smaller homes which allows you to store logs near by without having to worry about safety or space issues.
A wood stove in the indoors is also a great option for a farmhouse-style interior, with the option to match it with wood beams and panelled walls for a classic rustic aesthetic. This Farringdon stove comes from Arada Stoves with a vibrant Spice finish, adds the colour and style into a modern living space.
A wood-burning stove enables the entire family to spend time with each other while enjoying a real flame. This is a wonderful way for all the family members to spend time with each other.