charnwoodstoves

Similar to a wood burning stove in design and appearance, a multi-fuel stove enables you to  burn coal and mineral fuels in addition to wood, making it a versatile and functional heating solution for your home.

The main difference in the design of a multi-fuel stove is that it features a grate with a removable ash-pan enabling you to burn different fuels at their best efficiency.

 

How does a multi-fuel stove work?

Just like a wood burning stove a multi-fuel stove has a number of different components, including the firebox where the fuel is loaded and lit, a door that provides easy access for loading the fuel and lighting the fire, a glass window so that you can watch your fire burning, a flue to draw the emissions into the chimney and an air vent that provides an air supply, while controlling how quickly the fuel burns. Coal and mineral fuels burn most efficiently with under grate air whereas wood burns best on a bed of ash.

The Charnwood converting grate switches from a flat bed to an open grate with flick of a lever on the side. This can also be used as an effective riddling mechanism depositing ash and embers into the removable ashpan below. The riddling can be untaken with the doors closed ensuring mess is kept to a minimum. This grate is built into our Island, Cove, Skye, Arc, SLX and Country boiler ranges.

Charnwood also offer a reciprocating grate: a retro-fit grate that converts our C-Series and Country models (non-Blu) into multi-fuel appliances

Contemporary multi-fuel stoves are extremely energy efficient. With this in mind, it’s no surprise that this functional and aesthetically pleasing heating solution has increased in popularity in recent years.

How to light a multi-fuel stove

It’s easy to light a multi-fuel stove and, as long as you adopt the right technique, it is also extremely safe. We recommend the top down method – simply follow these steps:

Set the grate to the correct burning position. Open grate for mineral fuels or a flat bed for wood.

Place your chosen fuel on the stove bed.

On top of this build a stack of 6-8 kindling sticks

Then place a natural fire lighter inside

Fully open the air control for maximum air intake and a quick and easy ignition

Light the fire lighter and close the door but leave it slightly a jar

This helps to heat the chimney flue and burn hot and clean

Once the fire is burning well close the door and reduce the air intake

Re-fuel little and often

Every time a log or fuel is added open the air control again until the fire is burning well and then return the control to normal

By running your stove in this way you will achieve maximum efficiency with minimum emissions

Learn more on how to light a multi-fuel stove.

How long does a multi-fuel stove last?

If you maintain and burn your multi-fuel stove correctly you could enjoy it for many decades. Of course, you can expect to have to replace certain consumable parts during this time such as door seals, glass and fire bricks but at Charnwood we hold good stock of all components past and present that can be ordered from our online shop.

If you’re considering buying a multi-fuel stove, please get in touch.

 

Why Choose Us?

At Charnwood Stoves, we’re not just about providing stoves; we’re dedicated to delivering exceptional heating solutions tailored to your needs. With decades of experience, we’ve perfected the art of crafting high-quality, reliable multi-fuel stoves that stand the test of time. Our commitment to sustainability drives us to create products that are not only efficient but also environmentally conscious.

What sets us apart is our unwavering focus on innovation. Our team stay at the forefront of stove technology, ensuring our products are equipped with the latest advancements for optimal performance. From design to production, every Charnwood stove is a testament to our passion for warmth, efficiency, and style.

Get in touch with us today.


charnwoodstoves

More people than ever before are using a wood burning stove to heat their homes.

With the ability to quickly and effectively heat up a single room or even an entire home, wood burning stoves are one of the most efficient ways to heat a space. Of course, wood burning stoves also look great and can add an exciting focal point to any room.

If you’re thinking about investing in a wood burning stove, you’re in the right place. Here’s our guide to everything you need to know about using one.

Correct installation

We always recommend that you buy your stove through an official Charnwood stockist, where the installation and after-sales support will be of a standard approved by us.
It is important your stove is installed by either by a HETAS registered engineer or in accordance to building regulations (refer to document J https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/combustion-appliances-and-fuel-storage-systems-approved-document-j )

All official Charnwood Stockists will offer this service and by purchasing through this channel you will also qualify for our 10 year dealer backed guarantee.

 

Familiarise yourself with our stove instruction guide

First and foremost, when you are having your wood burning stove installed, it’s important to familiarise yourself with our instruction guide, so that you know how to get the best from your stove.

Explore more on how to install a wood-burning stove.

 

Choosing the right fuel

Next, you’ll need to choose the right fuel for your stove, either a hardwood or a softwood fuel. Failure to use the correct fuel can affect how long your fire burns, increase fuel costs, and damage the internal parts of your woodburning stove. It can even cause damage to the stove body or flue system.

To light your stove we recommend the top down method.

1) Clear the grate of ash then Place 2-3 smaller logs on the stove bed
2) On top of this build a stack of 6-8 kindling sticks
3) Then place a natural fire lighter inside
4) Fully open the air control for maximum air intake and a quick and easy ignition
5) Light the fire lighter and close the door but leave it slightly a jar
6) This helps to heat the chimney flue and burn hot and clean
7) Once the fire is burning well close the door and reduce the air intake
8) Re-fuel little and often
9) Every time a log is added open the air control again until the fire is burning well and then return the control to normal

By running your stove in this way you will achieve maximum efficiency with minimum emissions

To find out more about using your Charnwood wood burning stove, please get in touch.

Find out more about our approved wood-burning stove fuel.

 

Why Choose Us?

Selecting the right wood-burning stove is a significant decision, and at Charnwood Stoves, we’re here to make that choice clear and rewarding. With decades of expertise, we excel in producing stoves that marry functionality with elegance, enhancing your living space while providing efficient heating.

Our commitment to sustainability sets us apart. Our team take pride in crafting stoves that not only warm your home but also contribute to a greener planet. By choosing Charnwood Stoves, you’re investing in a product that balances performance with environmental responsibility.

Innovation is at the heart of our philosophy. We’re dedicated to staying at the forefront of stove technology, ensuring our products are equipped with the latest advancements for optimal use. When you choose us, you’re choosing a legacy of quality, style, and warmth that will enrich your home for years to come. Experience the Charnwood difference today by getting in touch with our team.

 

charnwoodstoves

As energy bills continue to soar and households across the UK are preparing to manoeuvre what is set to be another challenging winter, many of us are looking for alternative solutions to heat our homes.

If you’re considering opting for a wood-burning stove and are wondering whether or not it is eco-friendly, you’ve landed in the right place. We’ve created a helpful guide outlining everything you need to know.

 

What is a wood-burning stove?

A wood-burning stove is a self-contained heating appliance designed to produce indoor heat through the process of wood combustion.

More and more households are opting for wood burning stoves to heat their home as it gives them fuel independence from the larger utility companies.

Modern wood-burning stoves or log burners are considered to be more efficient and cheaper to run than traditional gas and electric heaters, making them a great choice for those looking to stay warm and cut costs at the same time.

 

How does a wood-burning stove work?

Wood burning stoves provide a controlled heating solution that burns wood safely, whilst heating a space at the same time. For those looking for affordable wood burning stoves, the market offers various options that balance cost with quality. In the UK, wood burning stoves are popular for their efficiency and aesthetic appeal.

There are no electrical components in a wood stove; instead, they are powered by manual input – in other words, the wood or fuel that is set alight. Here’s a brief overview of how a wood burning stove operates:

 Wood is placed inside the stove’s firebox, which is surrounded by fireproof walls.

 The wood burning stove’s air vents control the amount of airflow to the firebox, which allows the wood to burn efficiently and slowly.

  The stove’s metal enclosure radiates heat which ensures spaces of all shapes and sizes remain warm and toasty.

For those with limited space, small wood burning stoves offer a compact yet effective solution to keep your home cosy.

Explore more on how to use a wood-burning stove.

 

Is burning wood bad for the environment?

This is a question that continues to crop up and there have been some very misleading articles and campaigns in recent years that suggest bu. The answer depends on how it is burnt and the source of the wood being burned. If wood is properly seasoned and burnt on an modern, Ecodesign wood burning stove then the impact on the environment is minimal. You can read more here.

Are wood-burning stoves environmentally friendly?

Wood burning stoves are considered to be one of the most environmentally friendly ways of heating your home, especially when it comes to reducing your carbon footprint.

 

Benefits of a wood-burning stove

Wood burning stoves offer a number of benefits, including the following:

Stylish – wood burning stoves are aesthetically pleasing and bring a sense of well being

 Flexible placement – they can be installed in various locations around the home

Economical – a wood burning stove can be cheaper to run than other types of heating, reducing utility bills

 Environmentally friendly – less damaging to the environment than other types of heating

 Provides reliable heating, even during power outages.

 

How much wood does a wood burner use?

This depends on a number of factors, however generally speaking, if you use your wood burner a few evenings a week over the winter, you will need 3-4 cubic metres of wood.

 

What wood is best for a wood-burning stove?

The best type of wood to use with a wood burning stove is hardwood, such as Beech, Elm, Birch, and Oak. For those considering affordable wood burning stoves in the UK, selecting the right wood is crucial for maximising efficiency.

When choosing hardwood for your wood burning stove, including small wood burning stoves, you should keep in mind that the heavier the wood, the greater the heat output. This also means that the wood will burn for longer, limiting the number of times you will need to refill.

Find out more about our approved wood-burning stove fuel.

 

How to make a wood-burning stove more efficient?

There are a number of different ways that you can optimise the efficiency of your wood burning stove, including:

 Ensuring you light the fire correctly

 Always use the correct amount of fuel

Always use the best type of wood – remember hardwood is the best and it should have a moisture content of less than 20%

Maintaining an efficient temperature and always controlly airflows

 Circulating the heat from your wood stove

Have your chimney and flue swept regularly (twice a year)

Maintaining your stove

 

What to look for in an environmentally friendly log burner

When looking for an environmentally friendly log burner, you should look for a ClearSkies rated stove

 

Why choose us?

Founded in 1972, we are a privately owned, family-controlled, British company that specialises in the design and manufacture of high-quality wood burning and multifuel stoves. We are committed to providing the highest quality stoves, at the best possible price.

Here at Charnwood, our team 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 the 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 do not hesitate to get in touch with a member of our team today.

 

charnwoodstoves

This is the first in a series of essays by Dammy Ponnuthurai. Dammy is the author of Midnight Feasts: An Anthology of Midnight Feasts & Late Night Munchies, and co-founder of Dammy (a workwear jacket brand riffing on the chef’s jacket). She is also the former founder of Crane cookware used by the Charnwood team in many of our photo and video shoots. When it comes to food, everything she touches turns to gold delicious. Without further ado, here is Dammy Ponnuthurai on Storytelling… 

________________

All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances; And one man in his time plays many parts.” – William Shakespeare, ‘As you Like it’

As the nights draw in and we set our minds towards wrapping up , autumnal soups and stews, the end of the day holds the promise of a lit fire and time to slow down with the marrying of the change in light. One such joy of slowing down is the luxury of opening a book, and this has become even more treasured as our lives are governed in a large part by immediate tech based communication. Enveloping ourselves in a story enables us to change gear – in fact according to neuroscience research reading fiction enables an opening of our empathetic pathway. We depend on this empathy to allow our minds to open to stories, without which we risk stagnating within the tightly set perception of our own preconceived ideas.

The ancient art of storytelling predates writing, using oral narrative, gesture and even painted symbols. We can all imagine that intimate time as the light fades at the end of the day where ancient communities without the conveniences of electricity, were simply absorbing the light and warmth of the fire. The animated spoken sharing of stories married with the ancient art of drawing we find all over the world. The Australian aboriginal people painted symbols as a means of helping the storyteller remember the story, and since humans have carved into trees to record folktales in pictures.

Ancient stories range from the familial, the historical to the religious and spiritual. There is a materiality to the way that the drawings took shape both in their content but also in the form of canvas chosen to record the memory of the story. In Japan the earliest form of Manga could be found on paper scrolls,in Mexico above doorways in the form of lintels, in the Middle East by Assyrians through elaborate stone work, in Africa and Australia painted on rocks, in China within bronze mirrors and in 5th Century Rome through the passion caskets in Ivory. There are of course many more examples across all cultures; the human dedication to storytelling is infinitely tied into all of our cultural heritage and history.

William Shakespeare as one of the world’s foremost storytellers, helps illustrate this point well. We may often think of his stories as fictional tales, make believe. Yet the success of Shakespeare is rooted in the relatability of his characters and plots – from Othello’s jealousy to Demitrius’ lust, from Hamlet’s grief to Don Pedro’s wit. From the minor to the major aspects we are living the stories we have been retelling for generations.
 

We have all had those moments, maybe at the top of a mountain as dawn breaks, or a roaring fire at Christmas, which holds a special focal point as we share the stories of the year gone by and the ones we imagine going forwards. The essence here is we can feel the possibility of colouring outside the lines of our daily existence.

In the tale of Prince Siddartha we read the tale of a privileged Prince whose father the King has worked to from encountering any of the world’s hardship. Siddartha was cosseted by beauty and luxury, with even his trips outside the palace wall heavily choreographed by his doting father, who instructed that the streets were filled with flowers and only beautiful healthy crowds. Legend says his experience of leaving the palace produced the first signs of cracks to his rose tinted life, as he saw people in the crowd that did not meet the expectations set by his father. Whilst Siddartha’s questions on the suffering he glimpsed on those trips were ushered away with excuses, the young Prince grew restless and ended up leaving the palace under the cover of night to begin the journey of enlightenment and to discovering through hardship a new story and through his own journey was able to share a bigger story of a oneness with humanity that has remained as a positive set of principles for living with a shared consciousness towards the other.

Stories that stand the test of time comprise so many layers, and have provided us with a way for sharing and interpreting the breadth of experience that life offers. Stories enable us to bridge national, cultural and generational divides. They include the things we suggest and tell ourselves to provide a vision for at best the moment, that day or year ahead, stories mirror our experience of the world and therefore allow learning from lives beyond our own.

Perhaps one of the most over used words of our times is the sense we are all so ‘busy’. We can feel the self creaking as we make the expression, but in that moment after a long day and the fire is lit, we can sit and gaze at the flames with the possibility of a silent retreat into our imaginations. Whether that moment is shared or alone, like the fluid movement of the flames themselves, stories have the capacity to move us in unexpected ways.

All Jesus did that day was tell stories—a long storytelling afternoon. His storytelling fulfilled the prophecy: I will open my mouth and tell stories; I will bring out into the open things hidden since the world’s first day.

Matthew 13:34-35

________________

BONUS:

If you like what you have read then her latest podcast is really worth a listen – Click here to listen! 

 

charnwoodstoves

Wood burning stoves have long been a staple in many homes, providing warmth and a cosy atmosphere during colder months. However, like any appliance, these stoves have a finite lifespan. Understanding when it’s time to replace your wood burning stove is essential for maintaining safety, efficiency, and comfort in your living space.

In this article, we delve into what to look out for when it’s time to bid farewell to your trusty old wood burning stove and welcome a newer, more efficient model into your home.

 

What is the Lifespan of a Wood Burning Stove?

On average, a well-maintained wood burning stove can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years and sometimes longer. The ingenuity behind Charnwood stoves lies in their modular design, allowing the majority of components to be replaced gradually as needed. However, it’s important to note that there might eventually come a time where the stove body itself reaches the end of its lifespan.

The primary determinant of a stove’s lifespan is the materials used in its construction. High-quality stoves crafted from durable materials such as cast iron or steel tend to have longer lifespans. Cast iron stoves are known for their robustness and ability to withstand high temperatures, while steel stoves are lighter and offer durability when properly cared for.

The longevity of a wood burning stove also depends on other factors, including its usage, maintenance and environmental factors, such as excessive moisture.

Also find out how a wood-burning stove can help reduce energy bills.

 

Are Newer Wood Burning Stoves More Efficient?

In recent years, advancements in stove technology have led to the development of more efficient and eco-friendly models. These newer stoves are designed to burn wood more efficiently, generating more heat with less fuel consumption and emitting fewer pollutants.

When considering the lifespan of your wood burning stove, it’s worth weighing the benefits of upgrading to a newer model that not only extends the longevity of the appliance but also offers enhanced performance and reduced environmental impact.

A new initiative from the EU, Ecodesign, has been brought in to improve the energy efficiency and environmental impact of all stoves, including wood burning stoves.

 

Signs That Your Wood Burning Stove Needs Replacing

Warping

One of the key indicators that it’s time to replace your wood burning stove is warping. Over time, intense heat exposure can cause the metal components of the stove to warp, affecting its structural integrity. Warping can lead to gaps in the seams, which may result in heat leakage, decreased efficiency, and even potential safety hazards.

 

Cracks and Splits

Cracks and splits are clear signals that your wood burning stove has reached the end of its useful life. Cracks, especially in the firebox or other critical areas, can allow smoke and fumes to escape into your living space, posing health risks. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help prevent cracks, but once it becomes widespread, replacement becomes the safer choice.

 

Broken Door

The door of a wood burning stove plays a critical role in ensuring the stove operates safely and efficiently. If you’re experiencing difficulty in closing or sealing the door properly, it could indicate a problem with the hinges, gaskets, or other components. A broken or ill-fitting door can lead to improper combustion, inefficient burning, and potential escape of harmful gases. You may be able to repair or replace the door, however, in some cases, it may be better to replace the stove altogether.

Increased Smoke Levels

An increase in smoke levels or the presence of smoke within your home when using the wood burning stove is a clear sign that something is amiss. It could be due to poor ventilation, a blocked chimney, or even an issue with the stove itself. Inefficient burning can lead to the production of more smoke, which not only decreases indoor air quality but also shows that the stove is not operating at its best.

 

More Fuel for Less Heat

As wood burning stoves age, their efficiency tends to decline. If you find that you’re using more fuel than usual to achieve the same level of heat output, it’s an indicator that your stove’s performance is diminishing. This situation not only puts a dent in your pocket due to increased wood consumption but also contributes to higher emissions. Investing in a newer, more efficient stove can result in substantial long-term savings on fuel costs.

Explore more about wood-burning stoves.

 

Why Choose Us?

As the stove approaches the end of its expected lifespan, it’s essential to pay close attention to signs of wear and deterioration. If efficiency drops, visible damage such as warping or cracks occur, or repairs become increasingly frequent and costly, it might be an indication that the stove has reached the end of its useful life.

Upgrading to a more modern model not only enhances the aesthetics of your living space but also contributes to reducing your carbon footprint. The increased efficiency of newer stoves means you’ll need less fuel to achieve the same or even better heat output, leading to significant long-term savings.

Charnwood has been committed to providing quality wood burning stoves since 1972 and we know all there is to know about getting the most out of wood burners and how to choose your next wood burning stove. If you have any questions about heating your home with a wood burning stove, please get in touch.

charnwoodstoves

When it comes to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home during the colder months, a crackling fire can be just the ticket – but the success of your fire largely depends on the quality of your firewood. Burning damp or unseasoned wood not only produces less heat but also creates excessive smoke and creosote build-up in your chimney, posing a fire hazard. Therefore, it’s crucial to know how to determine if your firewood is ready to burn.

In this article, we’ll delve into the importance of dry wood, the best methods to check if your firewood is ready, and the proper techniques for storing it.

 

Importance of Dry Wood

Using properly seasoned firewood is paramount for efficient and safe burning. Seasoned wood, often referred to as “dry” wood, has had sufficient time to reduce its moisture content. When wood is cut, it typically contains a significant amount of water, known as its moisture content.

Burning wood with high moisture content requires a substantial amount of energy to evaporate the water before it can combust, leading to less heat produced and more smoke emitted. In contrast, dry firewood burns efficiently, generating more heat and decreasing the potential for creosote build-up.

 

Best Ways to Detect When Firewood is Ready to be Burned

There are several reliable methods to determine if your firewood has reached the appropriate level of seasoning:

Moisture meter

A moisture meter is a valuable tool for gauging the moisture content of your firewood. These handheld devices use metal prongs to measure the electrical resistance between them, which changes based on the wood’s moisture level. For well-seasoned firewood, the moisture content should ideally be around 20% or lower. Readings higher than this indicate that the wood requires further drying. Moisture meters are easy to use and provide a quick and accurate assessment of your firewood’s readiness.

Colour

The colour of firewood can offer clues about its readiness to burn. Seasoned firewood tends to be darker in colour, with visible cracks and splits on the ends. Unseasoned wood, on the other hand, appears lighter and smoother. As the wood dries, it develops these distinctive characteristics, making colour a simple yet effective way to assess its readiness for the fireplace.

Find out why we split firewood.

Sound

When two pieces of dry firewood are knocked together, they produce a sharp, resonant sound. In contrast, unseasoned wood creates a dull, thudding noise. By tapping two pieces of firewood together, you can listen for the distinct sound that indicates the wood is dry and ready to be burned.

Explore the best firewood to burn chart UK.

Feel

Dry firewood is notably lighter than its unseasoned counterpart as there is much less water to weigh the wood down. Pick up a piece of wood and feel its weight. If it feels significantly lighter than you’d expect, it’s a good indicator that the wood has lost much of its moisture and is suitable for burning.

 

How to Correctly Store Firewood

Properly storing firewood is crucial to maintaining its dryness and overall quality. By adhering to the following storage guidelines, you can preserve the quality of your firewood and ensure it’s ready to produce a warm and efficient fire when the time comes.

Elevate and cover

Store your firewood off the ground to prevent moisture from seeping in. A raised platform or pallets work well for this purpose. Cover the top of the stack with a tarp or other waterproof covering to shield it from rain and snow.

Allow air circulation

Airflow is essential for drying out firewood. Arrange the wood in a way that allows air to circulate between the pieces. This encourages further moisture evaporation.

Choose a dry location

When selecting a storage area, opt for a dry, well-ventilated spot. Avoid areas prone to high humidity, such as directly against a wall or in a basement.

Rotate the stack

If you’re storing firewood for an extended period, periodically rearrange the stack. Moving the older pieces to the front and bringing the newer pieces to the back ensures that all the wood gets air exposure and continues to dry evenly.

Explore more ways to store firewood outdoors.

 

Why Choose Us?

Charnwood has been committed to providing quality wood burning stoves since 1972 and we know all there is to know about wood burners, and how to get the most out of the wood you burn. If you have any questions about heating your home with a wood burning stove, please get in touch.