Indoor Wood Burner - An Eco-Friendly Alternative
Wood burning in the home can cause fine particle pollution as well as other air pollutants like carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds. They can cause irritation to the lungs and cause other health issues.
Prior research indicates that frequent usage of an indoor wood burning fireplace or stove increases the risk of lung cancer. These findings are based on self-reported usage, and not medically verified.
Low Carbon Alternative
If you are a fan of the design and feel of a log burner but are worried about the health risks it may create, you may be seeking an eco-friendly alternative. There are many options that won't get you an DEFRA fine. One option is to choose a bioethanol fireplace that utilizes a liquid fuel made from renewable sources that releases far fewer particles than wood.
Bioethanol is a fantastic alternative for those looking to keep their current log burner and just change the fuel. It is made from recycled wood and plant waste and you'll feel confident about purchasing it!
Alternatively, you could invest in an Eco Design wood burning stove. They comply with the latest regulations and achieve high efficiency, which results in lower emissions. They are also more robust and easier to use than earlier versions.
A new Eco Design stove would not be a good investment for your home but also for the environment. Remember that wood combustion emissions can contribute to air pollution, which in turn leads to climate change. However, there are ways to minimize the impact of your stove such as using dry and clean fuel, regularly sweeping it clean and opening your windows when you're burning wood.
Switching to an electric stove is another option to reduce your impact on the environment. They are also more energy efficient and consume a third less energy than open fires. They are also simpler to install, with no chimney or flue and can be powered by a standard 3-pin plug.
There are a lot of other eco-friendly log burners on the market, such as eco briquettes, which have been made from recycled wood and are carbon-neutral. Pellet stoves are also an option if you want to go green. These are incredibly efficient and can be used with a range of biomass fuels. Their automatic fuel feeding and air supply regulation, ensures the most efficient combustion.
Many people are concerned about the health risks of a wood-burning fireplace especially after hearing that it could release particulates in the air. It's crucial to be aware that recent studies indicate that other activities in the home such as cooking can release higher levels of PM10 and PM2.5 into the indoor air.
Easy to Clean
A wood-burning stove can give your home a rustic, authentic feel. It is easy to overlook the need to maintain and clean it regularly. The ash that sticks to the grates as well as the creosote that forms during the firing process can transform a stove or fireplace from the holiday-card image of a gentle puff of smoke into a towering inferno.
Wood stoves are best used with seasoned, dried wood. Burning unseasoned, wood burning fires or wet wood will not only make the fire difficult to ignite and burn efficiently however, the quantity of toxins released into the air will also rise dramatically. Wood smoke is a source of fine particles that are contaminated by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) carbon monoxide, as well as hazardous air pollutants like benzene. These pollutants are particularly harmful for children, older adults and those with lung conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) and lung cancer.
The majority of modern wood stoves come with a ash tray that can be used to collect ash, debris, and grit from the grates. It is easy to remove the pan and then empty it in an ash bucket. Remember that the ashes contain embers and should be cooled completely before disposal.
Make use of a fire retardant cleaner, such as a specialized spray for stove cleaning or a vinegar-based mixture to avoid creosote buildup. You can also use the soft brush attachment for your vacuum cleaner or dry rag. Avoid using a wet rag as it can cause rust.
It is a good idea to bring in wood that has been seasoned outdoors for at least a year prior to bringing it indoors. A stack of kiln dried, well-seasoned wood will save you not only time and effort but also money as it is ready to burn. In addition, a regular supply of tinder that is fresh helps to keep your fire burning at a quicker rate and reduces the amount of soot that is produced. If your area is a smoke control area, you must be vigilant about keeping your stove and chimney in good order to avoid any fines.
Savings on Money
Wood stoves are a great alternative to the conventional fuel sources, especially with energy prices increasing and more volatility forecast. A well-maintained and efficient wood burner can drastically reduce your energy consumption, compared to gas or electricity.
In addition to savings on heating expenses, a wood-burning fireplace insert offers additional financial advantages. Modern inserts are more efficient than traditional wood-burning stoves, and generate more heat using less fuel. They can produce three times as much heat as traditional fireplaces that burn wood and put to make more money.
It is important to remember that wood heating has some "non-monetary" costs. This includes a certain amount of work involved in loading the stove, igniting fires, and clearing the ashes. If you decide to split and chop your own logs on your own, it can be a long and tedious process.
Another potential cost is the need for a safe location to store and dry the logs. Wet, green or unseasoned logs can create a lot of smoke when they are burned and create harmful deposits in the chimney and stove. It is crucial to follow the right procedures for stacking and storing logs so that they are always dry and that only seasoned logs are burned in your stove.
It is also essential to clean and maintain your chimney on a regular basis to avoid clogging. You can do this by hiring a professional to sweep your chimney, or by following a few simple maintenance tips. For instance, you should ensure that you wash the stove after every fire and sweep it before using it the first time of the season.
The homeowners who make the switch to wood-burning stoves must be sure to consider the cost of installation and purchase. Although currently cheaper than replacing a gas boiler that is older however, these costs can add up.
Adds Style
A wood stove in the indoors is a perfect focal point for an interior setting, particularly when it's styled with the right decor. A wood-burning stove in a kitchen, living room or dining area instantly brings warmth and comfort to the room. There are a myriad of designs to choose from, ranging from traditional to contemporary. You're sure to find one that matches the style of your home.
A wood burning stove can add character and historical value to any room. The sight and sound of burning real flames can instantly lift your mood and creates a sense of comfort and warmth - especially when the temperature decreases.
A log burner is not only a viable option for your home, but can help you save money on your energy costs. With the trend of replacing open fires with eco-friendly, low-emission wood burners, it is possible to create a warm and cozy space without sacrificing heating performance.
When choosing a stove, it is essential to consider its capacity for heat in relation to the size of your home as well as the insulation levels. Stove manufacturers provide guidelines to help you choose the correct size stove for your space, which is highly recommended if want to get the most out of your investment.
Stoves that have an integrated log store is ideal for a modern living space with a neat and uncluttered look and ensuring you always have wood on hand to use. Stoves that have log stores are a great option for homes with limited space. You can keep logs near without having to worry about safety or space.
A wood stove inside is a fantastic addition to a farmhouse-styled interior. You can combine it with wood beams or panels to create a classic rustic appearance. This Farringdon stove from Arada Stoves in a vibrant Spice Finish adds design and color into any contemporary living room.
A wood-burning stove lets all family members to bond while savoring a real flame. This is a great way for all the family members to bond and spend time together.