Indoor Wood Burner - An Eco-Friendly Alternative
Wood burning in the home can cause fine particle pollution, as well as other air pollutants, such as carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds. These pollutants can cause irritation to the lungs, as well as other health problems.
Previous research suggests that the frequent usage of an indoor wood-burning fireplace or stove can increase the risk of lung cancer. However, these results were based on self-reported frequency of use, and were not medically confirmed.
Low Carbon Alternative
If you love the look and comfort of a log burner but are worried about the health risks it may cause, you may be seeking an eco-friendly alternative. Well, fear not - there are plenty of options that won't result in a fine from DEFRA. One option is a bioethanol fireplace that makes use of a liquid fuel derived from renewable sources that emits less particles than wood.
Bioethanol is an excellent option for those who wish to keep their existing wood stove, but simply change the fuel. You'll feel comfortable buying it because it's made of recycled wood and plant waste.
You can also invest in an Eco Design stove. These stoves are up-to-date and comply with the latest standards. They also have high levels of efficiency, which results in less emissions. They're also designed to be more durable and easy to use than previous models.
A new Eco Design stove would not be a good investment for your home, but also for the environment. Keep in mind that the emissions of wood combustion are a major source of pollution of the air which, in turn, leads to climate changes. However there are ways to minimise the impact of your stove, such as using dry and clean fuel, regularly sweeping it clean, and opening windows when you're burning wood.
Switching to an electric stove is another way to reduce your environmental impact. They are also more efficient in energy use and consume a third less electricity than open flames. They are also simpler to install because they don't require chimneys or flue. They can also be powered with the standard 3-pin plug.
There are outside wood burners -friendly log burning options, including eco briquettes that are made from recycled wood that are carbon neutral. Pellet stoves are a great option for those who want to go green. These stoves are extremely efficient and can be utilized to burn a variety of biomass fuels. Their automatic fuel feeding and air supply regulation assures the most efficient combustion and reduces emissions.
There are people who are worried about the health implications of a wood-burning fireplace especially after hearing that it could release particulates in the air. It's important to note that the most recent research has shown that other activities in the home like cooking can release higher levels of PM10 and PM2.5 particles into the indoor air than a contemporary Eco Design wood burning stove.
Easy to Clean
Having a wood burner brings an authentic, rustic vibe to your home. It is easy to forget the necessity to maintain and clean it regularly. The ash that sticks to grates and the creosote that forms during combustion can transform the fireplace into a massive fire.
Wood stoves can only be used with dry and seasoned wood. Burning unseasoned, green or wet logs will not just make the fire difficult to start and burn efficiently however, the amount of toxins released in the air will also increase dramatically. Wood smoke is a source of fine particle pollution, volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, and dangerous air pollutants, such as benzene. These pollutants are especially harmful to children, older adults as well as those suffering from lung diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer.
Most modern wood stoves come with a ash tray that can be used to collect ash, debris, and grit from the grates. You can easily pull out the pan and empty it into a ash bucket. Remember that the ashes contain embers and should be completely cooled before disposal.
To avoid the buildup of creosote, clean your stove regularly and use a fire-repellant cleaner such as a specialized stove cleaning spray or a vinegar-based mixture. You can also make use of the soft brush attachment to your vacuum cleaner or dry rag. Avoid using a wet rag since it can cause rust.
It's also recommended to select well-seasoned split and stacked wood that has been allowed to season outdoors for at least 12 months prior taking it inside. A stack of well-seasoned, kiln-dried wood will not only save time and effort, but also money because it is ready to burn and providing an increased heat output. A consistent supply of tinder can help to keep your fire burning faster and reduce the amount of soot. To avoid any penalties, if your area is a smoking-control zone it is essential to keep your chimney and stove working correctly.
Saves Money
Wood stoves are a great alternative to traditional fuel sources, especially with energy prices on the rise and more volatility forecast. A well-maintained and efficient wood stove can significantly reduce your energy costs when compared to gas or electricity.
In addition to savings on heating costs, a wood-burning fireplace insert can also provide additional financial benefits. Modern fireplaces are more efficient than traditional wood-burning stoves, and produce more heat with less fuel. contemporary wood burning stoves can produce up to three times the heat as traditional wood burning fireplaces, allowing homeowners more money to spend in their pockets.
However, it is important to be aware of certain "non economic" costs associated with the use of wood heat. There is also a certain amount of labor that goes into loading the stove, lighting fires and cleaning up the ashes. In addition, if you choose to cut and split your own logs this process can be lengthy and strenuous.
Another potential cost is the need for a safe storage and drying area for the logs. Wet, green or unseasoned logs can create a lot of smoke when they are burned and result in harmful deposits on the chimney and stove. It is essential to follow the proper procedures for stacking and storing logs to ensure that they remain dry and only well-seasoned logs are burned in your stove.
Finally, it is important to maintain and regularly sweep your chimney to avoid obstructions and smoke build-up. This can be done by hiring a professional chimney sweep, or by following simple maintenance tips, for example, making sure the stove is cleaned prior to making use of it for the first time in a season, and cleaning it after each fire.
Installing and purchasing wood-burning stoves isn't inexpensive. Although they're currently cheaper than replacing an older gas boiler but these costs can add up.
Adds Style
An indoor wood burner is the perfect focal point in an interior setting, especially when it's decorated with the right style. A wood-burning stove to your living room or dining area, or kitchen instantly gives the room a warm and welcoming feel. There are a variety of styles to choose from, which range from traditional to modern. You're bound to find one that fits the aesthetic of your house.
The addition of a wood burning stove to your indoor setting can also add a sense of historical and character to the room. The smell and sound of a real flame can instantly lift your mood, particularly in colder weather.
A log burner is not just a practical choice for your home but can help you save money on energy bills. With the new trend for replacing open fires with eco-friendly, low-emission wood burners, it is possible to create a cozy space without compromising on heating efficiency.
When selecting a stove, it is essential to consider its heat capacity in relation to the size of your home and the insulation levels. Stove manufacturers provide guidelines to help you choose the correct size stove for your space. This is highly recommended if want to get the most out of your investment.
Stoves that have an integrated log store is perfect for a modern living space that offers a clean and uncluttered look and ensuring that you always have wood available for use. Stoves that feature log stores are an excellent option for small homes. Logs can be stored nearby without worrying about space or safety.
A wood-burning stove in the indoors can be a wonderful addition to a farmhouse-styled interior. You can pair it with wooden beams or panelled walls to create a rustic and classic style. This Farringdon stove is from Arada Stoves, in a vibrant Spice finish, brings a pop of style and color into a modern living room.
With a wood-burning stove, all the family can gather to spend time with friends in front of a real flame. This is a great opportunity for the whole family to spend time with each other.