The Best Woodburners
The relaxing, blood pressure-reducing benefits of a wood stove are well-documented. What about the tiny soot particles released by them?
New stoves are made to be in line with the EcoDesign directive. You can have cozy and warm home, without compromising your environmental responsibilities.
1. Ekol Edge
The Ekol Edge wood burner is simple in appearance, but doesn't compromise on performance. It's a great choice for those living in smoke controlled areas as it is certified with Level 5 ClearSkies certification that means it can be used with dry and seasoned logs and approved solid fuels. The high heat output makes it a great choice for large rooms. The huge fire glass also permits you to enjoy the flames.
It is made of modern steel, which means it can be used in both traditional inglenooks as well freestanding ones. It has an integrated air wash system that keeps the glass clear and helps prevent the build-up of soot. The stove is highly efficient, meaning that it carries a large portion of the heat generated into your home instead of being directed up the chimney.
The criticism of wood burning stoves has grown, since it was shown that they could contribute to the production of microscopic sooty particles referred to as PM2.5. wood stove burning have been associated with lung and heart issues. However, newer models that comply with the Eco design Regulations are much less likely to produce these particles. They're only a tiny portion of the overall pollution generated from burning fossil fuels, such as gas and coal, however there is no doubt that wood burning stoves are the main source of this pollution.
It is crucial to select the right wood for the stove in order to get the most efficient heat output and the best combustion. Many types of wood can be utilized, including eucalyptus as well as Ash. Eucalyptus, which is fast-burning and also produces plenty of heat, is a good option. However, it must be well-seasoned. Beech is another good choice, but its vicious thorns make it difficult to handle without protective gloves.
The Ekol Adept has been designed to handle the upcoming changes in regulations that have been implemented as well as being Defra exempt and ClearSkies rated. This means that you can use it with approved fuels, as long as you follow the guidelines. It's a powerful burner that is built to last, with a robust construction and 10-Year body warranty, which is back by its impressive heating performance.
2. Arada Holborn 5 Widescreen
Wood burning stoves remain very popular and despite the directive maze that is surrounding them, they're not going anywhere. Some groups have pushed for tighter regulations and even a ban on log burners. It's worth checking out our guide on stove pollution and regulations, prior to shopping for an all-fuel or log fire.
One company which is making an effort to keep the popularity of woodburners at a high is Arada Stoves, who recently launched a widescreen version of their renowned Holborn 5 Multifuel/Wood Burning stove. It's a DEFRA-approved, SIA 2022 Ecodesign Ready stove with a huge door glass, which gives you an impressive flame image and an airwash system that helps to prevent soot build up.
This stove is easy to use, and has a heat output rating of 4.9kW. The curved lines and classical design makes it suitable for both traditional and contemporary decor. This model is easily fitted into smaller spaces due to its flat back design. It is also easy to install direct air systems using this model, which will improve the efficiency.
Another excellent aspect of this stove is the built-in ash dump, which makes it easy to remove and clean out ashes on a regular basis which reduces the possibility of odours or dust escaping into the room. There are two kinds of flue adaptors dependent on the chimney type. It also comes with a wireless remote control.
While the debate continues about whether or not woodburning stoves are good for your health We can all agree that they create a wonderful ambience in our homes. However, it's important to be aware of the impact of particulate matter as well as how burning wood or other forms of fuels can affect the quality of our indoor air and health. If you're installing a woodburner, it is recommended that you close the door when you are not working on the flame. It is also recommended to regularly clean the stove to keep the air as clean as is possible.
3. Go Eco 5kW Plus
It's relaxing to watch the flames flutter and can reduce blood pressure. It's not without it's problems however, research has revealed that older stoves can cause harm due to the production of tiny soot particles that can get into your breathing system. This has resulted in new regulations being put in place, which means that new log burners need to meet higher standards. This reduces the risk on creosote leakage, smoke accumulation and, most importantly harmful gases like carbon monoxide.
New woodburners must meet the new safety standards. The Go Eco 5kW Plus is a multi-fuel stove that not just meets, but exceeds the new standards. It has a widescreen glass viewing window that offers the best view of your flame and is kept clean with an air wash system that is powerful. This stove has an impressive efficiency rating of 80. It's DEFRA exempt, meaning that it can be used within areas that are smoke-free. It's also SIA Ecodesign ready which means it is already in compliance with European restrictions regarding the emissions from wood-burning stoves that will be in force in 2022.
As if that wasn't enough this stove is supplied with an air venting kit that is included making it simpler than ever before to set up. This is a sturdy model made of premium steel. The finish is a classic matt black and it's easy to keep clean as the body is coated with an enamel that is able to repel dirt and grime.
This stove is an clearSkies label, which signifies that it was independently tested and certified as efficient and environmentally friendly. This is above the fundamental requirements of Ecodesign. This is one of only the stoves on our list to have the five-star clearSkies rating.
4. Chilli Penguin Defrost
A feisty Welsh brand, Chilli Penguin has become a big brand in the world of wood burners with a distinctive style that's not to be ignored. They specialise in small do-it-all multi-fuel stoves, which have earned them an enviable reputation due to their low flue-draught requirements hotplate tops and integral ovens, and a range of features and sizes. This 4.7kW model is a prime example of their brand focus and also shows that they can still provide an excellent product at a cost that won't cost you a fortune. This DEFRA-approved woodburner can be used for use in Smoke Control Areas, and is fully in compliance with the current emission limit of 5g/hr. It also comes with the level five ClearSkies credentials. It is a great choice for those who are not sure where the directive is heading and want to rest assured that their stove remains exempt from smoke control regulations.
