The 10 Scariest Things About Indoor Wood Burner
Indoor Wood Burner - An Eco-Friendly Alternative
Indoor wood burning produces fine particle pollution, as well as other air pollutants like 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 an indoor freestanding wood burning stove burning fireplace or stove can increase the risk of lung cancer. These findings were based on the self-reported use of the stove and fireplace, and were not medically verified.
Low Carbon Alternative
If you love the look and cosiness of a fireplace but are worried about the health risks it could pose, you might be looking for an eco-friendly alternative. Don't worry, there are many options that won't result in a fine from DEFRA. One such option is a bioethanol-based fire which 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 want to keep their current log burner and just change the fuel. You can feel good about buying it since it's made of recycled wood and plant waste.
You can also consider investing in an Eco Design wood burning stove. These stoves are up-to-date and Indoor Wood Burner comply with the latest standards. They also are efficient and have high levels of efficiency that result in lower emissions. They are also more robust and more user-friendly than earlier versions.
A new Eco Design stove would not be a good investment for your home but also for the environment. Be aware that the emissions from wood combustion can contribute to pollution of the air and, in turn, lead to climate change. However there are ways to minimise the impact of your stove for example, using dry and clean fuel, sweeping up regularly and opening the windows when you're burning wood.
Switching to an electric stove is a great way to reduce your environmental impact. They are also more efficient and use a third less electricity than traditional open fires. These are also easier to install since they don't require chimneys or flue and can be powered using a standard 3-pin plug.
There are also a number of other eco-friendly log burners available including eco briquettes that have been made from recycled wood and are carbon-neutral. Pellet stoves are a great option if you want to go completely green. They are extremely efficient and work with a wide range of biomass fuels. Their automatic fuel feeding, and air supply regulation, guarantees the most efficient combustion.
There are some who are concerned about the health implications of using a conservatory wood burner-burning stove in particular after hearing reports that they release particles into the air. It's important to note that the latest studies have shown that other household activities like cooking can release higher levels of PM10 and PM2.5 particles into indoor air than an Eco Design wood burning stove.
Easy to Clean
A wood-burning stove can give your home a rustic, authentic feel. However, it can be easy to overlook the necessity for regular maintenance and cleaning. The ash that sticks to the grates and the creosote that forms during combustion can transform a fireplace into a towering fire.
Wood stoves are only to be used with dry well-seasoned, dried wood. If you burn green or unseasoned or excessively wet logs not only will the fire be difficult to start and burning cleanly but also the amount of toxins released into the atmosphere increases dramatically. Wood smoke is a source of fine particles that are contaminated by volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide and other dangerous air pollutants such as benzene. These pollutants are especially harmful to children, older adults as well as those suffering from lung diseases like asthma, chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD), and lung cancer.
Most modern wood stoves come with a ash tray that collects ash, debris and grit from the grates. You can easily remove the pan and empty it into a ash bucket. It's important to keep in mind that ashes contain embers and must cool completely before disposal.
Make use of a fire retardant cleaner like a special spray for cleaning stoves or a vinegar mixture to prevent creosote buildup. You can also use a soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner, or dry rag. Avoid using a wet rag as it could cause rusting.
It's also a good idea to use prepared split and stacked wood that has been allowed to season outdoors for at least 12 months prior to taking it inside. A stack of seasoned, kiln-dried wood will not only save you time and effort but also money by being ready to burn and providing a better heat output. A steady supply of tinder will help keep your fire going at a faster pace and reduce the amount of soot. If your area is a smoking zone, you must be very diligent about maintaining your chimney and stove in good condition to avoid penalties.
Savings on Money
Wood stoves are an excellent alternative to traditional fuel sources, especially when energy prices are increasing and more volatility expected. A well-maintained and efficient wood burner can drastically reduce your energy bills in comparison to gas or electricity.
In addition to savings on heating costs, a wood-burning fireplace insert provides additional financial advantages. In contrast to traditional wood burning stoves, certified modern inserts generate more heat with less fuel. In fact, they generate up to three times as much heat as a traditional wood burning fireplace, allowing homeowners to keep more of their hard-earned money in their pockets.
However it is crucial to remember that there are some additional "non financial" costs associated with the use of wood heat. This includes a certain amount of labor involved with loading the stove, starting fires and cleaning out the remains of the ashes. If you decide to split and cut your own logs it could be a lengthy and laborious process.
Drying and store the logs is another possibility cost. Inexperienced, damp or wet logs can create plenty of smoke when burned and result in harmful deposits on the chimney and stove. Therefore, it is essential to follow best practice advice regarding stacking and placing your logs in storage to ensure they are dry, and that you only burn seasoned logs on the stove.
Additionally, it is essential to maintain and regularly sweep your chimney to prevent obstructions and smoke build-up. This can be accomplished by hiring a professional chimney sweep or by following a few simple maintenance tips, such as making sure that the stove is cleaned prior to beginning to use it for the first time every season, and cleaning it after each fire.
Installing and purchasing a wood-burning stove isn't cheap. These costs can add up, even though they are at present less expensive than replacing a gas boiler.
Adds Style
An indoor wood burner is an ideal focal point for an interior setting, particularly when it's styled with the right decor. A wood burning stove in a kitchen living space or dining room instantly adds warmth and comfort the space. There are a myriad of designs to choose from, which range from traditional to contemporary. You're sure to find one that matches the style of your home.
The addition of a wood burning stove to your indoor space can also add a sense of historical and character to the space. The sight and sound of a real flame can instantly lift your mood and creates a sense of warmth and comfort - especially when the temperature decreases.
A log burner is not only a practical option for your home, but it can also help you save on your energy costs. The new trend of replacing open fires with low-emission wood burners that are eco-friendly is a great method to create a cozy atmosphere without sacrificing heating performance.
It is crucial to take into account the heating capacity of the stove in relation to the size of your house and insulation levels. The stove makers will give you guidelines to help you choose the ideal size stove for your home. This is highly recommended if you are looking to maximize the return on your investment.
Stoves with a built-in log store is perfect for a modern-day living space, providing a neat and clean appearance, and ensuring you have wood on hand to use. Stoves with log stores are an excellent option for small homes. You can keep logs near without having to worry about space or safety.
An indoor wood burner is also a great choice for a farmhouse style interior, and it is possible to combine it with wooden beams and panelled walls to create a classic rustic aesthetic. This Farringdon stove from Arada Stoves is available in an attractive Spice finish, adds a pop of style and color into a modern living space.
With a wood burning stove, the whole family can gather to enjoy each other's company in front of a real flame. This is not only an excellent way to improve quality time as well, but it can help children and adults switch off from their screens and focus on each other instead.