wood burning stove

Many of us are embracing the warmth and charm that woodburning and multifuel stoves bring into our homes. However, improper use can lead to issues like blackened stove glass, wasted fuel, and environmental pollution. 

Blackened glass is caused by a buildup of soot, creosote, and other combustion byproducts. If the fire doesn’t burn hot enough or wood used is not seasoned properly, it can produce more creosote which caused the glass to blacken. 

Check out these essential tips to ensure your stove operates efficiently, while maintaining a clear glass window to enjoy those mesmerising flames.

1. Choose Properly Seasoned Wood: Using dry wood with a moisture content of 20% or less is crucial for efficient burning and minimising soot buildup. Look out for the Ready to burn logo to be confident that you are purchasing firewood

As the Christmas season approaches, many of us are gearing up to deck the halls, and it's crucial to ensure that our fireplace decorations are both festive and secure. Transform your fireplace into a cosy focal point with these safety guidelines in mind.

Elevate your mantel and hearth with a visually stunning display, but always prioritise safety. Experts advise maintaining a minimum three-foot distance between the fireplace opening and any combustible materials, be it pillows, blankets, or seasonal decorations like stockings or garlands. Check the manufacturer's instructions for your stove to get specific guidance on safe distances from combustible materials, including Christmas decorations. 

Candles are a timeless addition to mantel decor, but they do require careful consideration, especially when mantels are made of flammable materials. Choose candles with appropriate containers or drip trays,

In these times of global crises and rising fuel poverty, wood-burning stoves have emerged as a crucial lifeline for many families. However, some newspapers have been quick to condemn this heat source, misrepresenting data and overlooking the positive impact it has on people's lives.

While it is undeniable that updating outdated open fires and wood-burning stoves can substantially reduce PM2.5 emissions, we urge a more nuanced examination of the facts. The UK's Clean Air Strategy by Defra suggests that domestic combustion is responsible for 38% of fine particulate matter, based on a 2015 government survey that overestimated wood burning in stoves and fireplaces.

A more extensive and independently verified 2019 survey of over 10,000 individuals revealed a much lower figure, around 13%, for domestic combustion. Furthermore,