This depends on a range of variables and therefore there is no definitive answer. But as a guide take the measurements in meters of the room you wish to heat, and calculate (Height X Width X Length ÷ 14) the answer is the kw required to heat the room with an outside temperature between 0 & 5 deg C. This calculation takes no account of the insulation properties, number of adjoining rooms, number of windows, type of construction etc. So, although this calculation might produce the right answer, it is best to talk to us armed with as much information as you can gather and we can put you on the right track.
At present there is no statuary requirement, but in most cases the stove will function more satisfactorily if the chimney is lined. The reason is that the metal insulated liner warms up much quicker which improves the draw on the stove. In addition a lined chimney will stay cleaner for longer and is less likely to suffer from tar build up, again because of the higher operating temperature. So if in doubt line the chimney.
Yes it is a Building regulation requirement. The hearth needs to overlap the footprint of the stove by at least 150mm around the back and sides and then 300mm in front of the stove. There are further requirements depending on your proposed choice of stove. Please talk to us about your proposal.
In simple terms a multi fuel stove has a grate with a riddler attached and a wood only stove does not. If you burn anything other than properly seasoned wood and or some varieties of compressed wood chip it could damage your wood burning stove. Whereas you can still burn wood in a multi-fuel stove as well as or instead of coal. The most efficient stoves tend to be wood only stoves.
Air wash is one of several terms which applies to a system of using pre-heated air introduced at the top of the fire box and fed down over the glass door - thereby keeping the glass clean. This is part of the combustion process which introduces hot oxygen to reignite the gasses within the stove for a secondary burn. This makes the stove burn more cleanly and efficiently as well as keeping the glass clean.
Even though wood burning stoves have relatively low source emissions, Ecodesign is the European wide programme for stove manufacturers to lower emissions which is due to come into force in the UK in 2022. Manufacturers who have already released stoves already meet the required standards can be promoted as Ecodesign Ready. The scheme is independently overseen by HETAS to verify that the stoves meet the Ecodesign tests.
Assuming proper maintenance, and care not to over heat the stove, it should keep your running for many years. You would expect the more expensive and better made stoves probably last longer say 25 years average. Having said that we also have examples of stoves much older than that but they tend to be of the heavier cast variety because that is how they were made 40 years ago.
This is not usually required but there are exceptions particularly in sensitive planning areas. A phone call to the planning office will clarify this point.
All new installations have to have a "HETAS" certificate. If you are confident you can do the job correctly you can get the building inspector to check it and issue the certificate (for which there is a charge). If you intend to go that route check with the building inspector first before you start and ask about charges etc. You may well find that it is less hassle and as cost effective to use a registered supplier.
HETAS is the official body recognised by the Government to approve biomass and solid fuel domestic heating appliances, fuels and services including the registration of competent installers and servicing businesses. For more information please click here
Most installations are completed in one day. Occasionally a job may run into the next day. More complex installations can take longer but you would be informed of this before the job commenced.