As winter approaches and the nights draw in, many of us are already preparing our homes for the colder months, especially when it comes to staying warm and snug when the temperatures drop.
If you live in a house without a chimney, you might not have considered installing a wood burning stove to heat your home. This is because, there’s a common misconception that you cannot have a wood burning stove without a chimney.
The good news is that you can! And we’ve created a helpful guide outlining how you can do this.
Do I Need a Chimney for a Wood-Burning Stove?
The good news is you don’t need a chimney to install a wood burning stove however, you will have to fit a twin wall flue system through the roof or wall of your home.
There are two types of twin wall chimney flue systems that you should be aware of:
-External twin wall flue system – These systems involve connecting the pipes to the stove so that they are able to exit through an external wall. In most cases, these pipes run up the side of a property, leading to the roof so that the fumes can exit safely.
-Internal twin wall flue system- This type of system runs from the stove, and up into the ceilings, before exiting through the roof.
If you are looking to install a wood burner without a chimney, you should always touch base with a professional to carry out the work. This is because it’s not a case of one size fits all when it comes to the installation process, as every property is different.
However, if you’re looking to gain an idea of how the installation process works, we’ve created a general guide outlining what you will need install a wood burner without a chimney.
A Stove
Whether you opt for a wood burning stove or a multi fuel stove, you will need to remember to make a note of the flue size so that you purchase the correct stove pipe.
Stove Pipe
You should always ensure that the stove pipe diameter fits your stove, as many vary in size! Again, you should always consult a professional when it comes to choosing the correct stove pipe.
Twin Wall Flue System
A twin wall flue pipe is a type of flue system that is used when there is no chimney stack. It is constructed from two layers of rigid stainless steel and acts as its own chimney stack and liner combined. Ultimately, the system features a series of connectable pipes that carry the fumes from your stove outside.
A Hearth
Finally, your wood burning stove must be placed on a suitable hearth and as a general rule of thumb, the hearth will need to be at least 12mm thick, made of a non-combustible material and it is paramount that it covers an area of 840mm x 840mm, with at least 225mm in front of the stove door.
How Much Will It Cost?
The cost of installing a wood burning stove without a chimney depends on the work required to install the stove. With this in mind, all quotes are bespoke and are looked at on a case by case basis.
At the same time, labour costs may also differ as it will cost more to install a twin wall flue as the process can be more complex. Visit our ‘Where To Buy’ page to find your nearest stockist and installer
Why choose us?
Founded in 1972, we are a privately owned, family controlled, British company specialising in the design and manufacture of high quality wood burning and multi-fuel stoves. Our team are committed providing the highest quality stoves, at the best possible price.
We also have a firm focus on protecting the environment and ensuring our operations are sustainable and responsible.
We operate a policy of caring for the environment in all aspects of the business; from the products we design, to the way we package them, to the way we transport them, to the way we deal with disposal of waste products, to the vehicles we use, to our choice of raw materials.
Get in touch now
If you have any questions about our wood burning stoves, please get in touch with a member of our team today.
A fire pit is a great addition to any outdoor space, adding warmth, comfort and functionality to your garden, balcony or terrace. It will not only ensure that you’re always warm and cosy, but you can also cook on a fire pit. They also provide a great entertainment centrepiece, all year round.
When it comes to lighting your fire pit, there are several techniques you can use to ensure that your fire pit lights and lasts. Here, we explore some top tips.
Invest in good quality, dry firewood
First and foremost, you will need to invest in good quality, dry firewood to give yourself the best chance of lighting your fire quickly and safely. If you don’t have well seasoned wood to hand Kiln Dried Logs are one of the best alternative options and can be purchased from several suppliers.
But why are they the best option? Dry firewood has a moisture content below 20%, meaning it can be used on your fire pit straight away. It will also burn much cleaner with less harmful emissions.
Hardwoods such as oak and beech are the best option for achieving a long burn and for cooking lots of different dishes. Charcoal is also considered as being a great choice for cooking with on a fire pit.
• Kiln Dried or well seasoned logs with a moisture level below 20%
• Matches
• Kindling sticks
• Natural firelighters
• Heat resistant gloves
How to light your fire pit
• First build a ‘Jenga’ tower of six-eight kindling sticks in your fire pit
• Next, place a natural firelighter in the middle of the tower and place some small logs at an angle across the kindling.
• Now it’s time to light the firelighter. You should leave this for a few minutes until the tower and logs are well lit.
• Add two or three more logs to your fire at a time ensuring that there’s plenty of air gaps to achieve good airflow.
Now all that is left to do is enjoy your fire!
Our top tips
Here are our top safety tips for lighting your fire pit:
• It is important to place your fire pit on a non-combustible surface such as a paving slab. Ensure there is plenty of safe space around the fire pit to allow for any ash and hot ember spillage.
• When using an open fire pit, you should make sure that children and animals are supervised at all times.
• You should never light your fire pit in a confined space or next to branches or any other object that can catch fire easily. Before you begin, it’s always worthwhile reading a safety guide.
• When lighting the fire pit, make sure that you are wearing appropriate clothing and that you keep a safe distance away from the fire.
• You should only use well seasoned ‘Ready to Burn’ wood and always keep your firewood in a log store to ensure that it is kept dry.
No matter how you light your fire, it’s important to always put safety first.
Take a look at our Charnwood Fireball – a British made, fun-to-assemble kit. Purchase one today and enhance your outdoor space.
Why Choose Us?
Charnwood Stoves is a leading manufacturer of fire pits, and we have over 30 years of experience in the industry. We offer a comprehensive range of tips and advice on how to light and use your fire pit safely and efficiently. Our tips are based on the latest research and best practices, and they are designed to help you get the most out of your fire pit.
Our team are committed to providing you with the information you need to use your fire pit safely and enjoyably. Here are some of the reasons why you should choose Charnwood for fire pit tips:
– We are experts in the field of fire pits.
– Our tips are based on the latest research and best practices.
– We are committed to providing you with the information you need.
Simply get in touch with our team now so that we can help with your wood-burning stove needs.
Contact Charnwood today
If you’re inspired to bring the outside warmth in, why not consider a wood burner or stove? Please get in touchwith Charnwood today. Our experts are on hand and ready to answer any queries you might have.
At Charnwood we feel strongly about caring for the environment. We consider design, packaging, transportation, the materials we use and how we handle them, all with a view to being as environmentally friendly as possible. With far better eco credentials than oil, coal or gas, a wood-burning stove is an opportunity to make a positive environmental impact. However, to maximise this, it’s important to use your stove the right way.
Whether you are a new owner or eagerly awaiting your new order’s arrival, it’s wise to do a little research before lighting your first fire – however tempting it may be to strike that first match! In this blog we will discuss the essential stove tips that will give you a significant head start on your journey into the wonderful world of wood-burning — enabling you to optimise your stove for both the environment and your personal satisfaction.
Choosing your wood
A key factor in creating that warm, cosy fire is the choice of wood you burn. Charnwood stoves are designed to run on seasoned or kiln-dried wood with a moisture content of less than 20%. This is important because it produces a significantly cleaner and more efficient burn.
Hardwoods such as ash, birch, beech, or oak are renowned for burning hot, clean and for longer periods. Softwoods such as fir, pine and sycamore can be used but will burn faster with moderate heat output. Freshly cut logs generally contain over 60% water and should be dried for 18-24 months before the wood is ready to burn. Here is a useful chart that gives more detail about different species and their various qualities.
SPLIT wood into logs in a size to suit your stove no larger than 15cm (6”) in diameter. Split some smaller pieces to use as kindling.
STACK the wood in a place that gets plenty of sun and wind. A pile of wood may rot before it has time to season, so make sure the logs are stacked in a way that allows air to circulate. Ideally, keep the stack off the ground and away from the house. Never stack logs above head height to prevent injury from falling logs.
COVER the stack to protect it from rain and snow. You can cover just the top, or the sides as well – just make sure the air can get in and that moisture isn’t getting trapped.
STORE the wood for 18-24 months or until the moisture content is below 20% (you can test this with a moisture metre). It’s a good idea to bring wood inside two or three days before you intend to burn it to make sure it’s properly dried out and ready to use.
This is another widely available alternative and an excellent choice! The wood is cut, split and dried in large ovens, which speeds up the seasoning process. Look out for the Woodsure Ready to Burn label which guarantees a moisture content of 20 % or less.
What not to burn
If you are a new owner, it’s tempting to burn almost anything you can get your hands on, however for environmental and health reasons we strongly recommended against this. What to avoid requires a certain amount of common sense as the list is long, but here are a few key ones to be mindful of.
-Plywood offcuts, chipboard and MDF are not advised due to the glues used to make them.
-Avoid old/recovered wood that has been treated or old painted wood as these can be toxic.
-Do not burn rubbish.
-Printed papers are coated with chemicals and can cause troublesome ash deposits.
-Natural or synthetic fibres, such as fabric, burn too fast and can be toxic.
-Any solvents or chemicals and substrates potentially exposed to them.
Lighting your fire
Now you have the right wood for your needs, there are several stages you should know to building and lighting a successful fire in your stove. Following our four simple steps when making your fire will allow your stove to run at maximum efficiency and with minimum emissions.
1/ Clear the grate of ash then place 2-3 smaller logs on the stove bed. On top of this build a ‘Jenga style’ stack of 6-8 kindling sticks and place a natural fire lighter inside.
2/ Fully open the air control for maximum air intake and a quick and easy ignition. Light the fire lighter.
3/ Close the door but leave it slightly ajar. This helps to heat the chimney flue for a clean burn. Once the fire is burning well close the door and reduce the air control.
4/ Every time a log is added open the air control again until the fire is burning well and then return the air control to normal. Re-fuel little and often.
Maintain your stove
The winter months are when your wood burning stove will see the most use. Regular maintenance will ensure your stove burns safely and efficiently while giving you many years of service.
CLEAN THE GLASS
If soot accumulates on the stove glass, we offer an effective Atmosfire dry wiper for cleaning. For any stubborn stains you can use a stove glass cleaner or ceramic hob cleaner but avoid using any abrasive cleaning products.
CLEAN THE SURFACE
When it comes to cleaning the exterior surface of your stove and the surrounding area, you can’t go far wrong with a soft brush and a damp, lint free cloth. It is important you only clean your stove when it is unlit and cool to the touch.
EMPTY THE ASH PAN
When burning wood, it is helpful and effective to start your fire on a bed of wood ash but avoid letting the ash build up too much. When your stove is not in use empty out the ash pan and firebox completely.
INSPECT DOOR SEALS
Take the opportunity to regularly check the rope seals on the doors and around the flue to ensure your fire box is airtight and the doors close firmly. A well-sealed stove will burn much more efficiently and effectively.
A FRESH COAT OF PAINT
For a quick touch-up or a complete colour change we offer cans of our high temperature stove paintin the 8 Charnwood colour options. This is a simple yet brilliant way to give your stove a new lease of life.
SWEEP FREQUENTLY
It’s important to keep your flue clear of blockages and soot and we recommend you have your chimney swept at least once a year. A Charnwood stove is fitted with a drop-down throat plate allowing you to sweep through the appliance with minimum mess.
Enhance your stove experience
Charnwood offer a wide range of accessories designed to optimise the performance of your stove and enhance your fireside experience.
COOKING PLATE
Available for most of our models this cast-iron plate replaces the blanking plate on a Charnwood stove where a rear outlet has been fitted to create a highly effectivehot plate for cooking. It comes complete with 4 trivets.
TOASTING FORK
The perfect gift for any stove fanatic. Simply place the magnetic holder onto the stove top and suspend the fork in front of the glass. The fork and holder are made from stainless steel with a turned beech handle.
You can find our full range of accessories along with spare stove parts on our website charnwood.com.
Bodj Fireside
Our sister company Bodjoffer a beautiful range of fireside accessories which are a perfect complement to any fireplace. From elegant log baskets to the fireside tools needed to help maintain the daily glow and warmth emanating from you stove. It’s award winning design, handmade by experienced craftspeople, using sustainable and locally sourced materials.
Why Choose Us?
Charnwood Stoves is a leading manufacturer of wood burning stoves, and we have over 30 years of experience in the industry. We offer a comprehensive range of tips and advice on how to use your wood burning stove safely and efficiently. Our tips are based on the latest research and best practices, and they are designed to help you get the most out of your stove.
Our teamare committed to providing you with the information you need to use your wood burning stove safely and enjoyably. Here are some of the reasons why you should choose Charnwood for wood burning stove tips:
• We are experts in the field of wood burning stoves.
• Our tips are based on the latest research and best practices.
• We are committed to providing you with the information you need.
