Room Heating Stove Archives - Charnwood Stoves

When the weather turns, resilience matters. Modern wood burning helps.

Author: charnwoodstoves

Published: 16 Jan 2026

Storm Goretti has reminded the UK how quickly the grid can become strained. Heavy snow, strong winds and ice have led to thousands of power cuts and widespread travel disruption. Over 169,000 homes lost power and while most were reconnected within 24-48 hours, some communities were still off four days later. In the severely wintery conditions we’ve experienced recently, even short outages are difficult, and multi-day cuts are more than just an inconvenience.

For households, it’s a stark reminder that we need heating that is efficient, low-emission and reliable, even when the grid goes down. This is perhaps one of the main reasons, among many others, a modern wood-burning stove deserves strong consideration.

Energy security at home

A high quality Ecodesign or clearSkies rated stove gives controllable heat and independence from the grid. In severe weather or price spikes, a well run stove with dry, locally sourced logs keeps one or two core rooms warm without having to heat the whole house. It complements heat pumps, solar and good insulation and it is certainly not either or. It is a practical mix that covers the gaps when the weather does not play ball.

If you want the simplest everyday operation, our Aire Intelligent range uses iBlu control to manage airflow automatically, keeping the burn clean and steady while helping reduce wood use. That is lab grade control, designed for real homes.

Cleaner by design

Modern stoves are not open fires and independent testing shows Ecodesign compliant appliances used with dry fuel can cut particulates (PM2.5) dramatically compared with open fires and many older stoves. The keys are good specification, professional installation and correct use. Choose Ready to Burn logs at 20% moisture or below, run the stove to temperature, keep the door closed in normal use, and sweep regularly. If you do that, you get efficient heat with ultra low emissions.

The hearth still has human value

There is also a significant human side to all this. As a recent Crisis Magazine essay argued, the hearth has always gathered people, taught care and created a natural centre to the home. Modern research is beginning to measure some of those effects, with studies noting calming responses to hearth and campfire exposure. The point is not to romanticise smoke but to recognise that when you combine clean burning technology with good practice, you keep the unique warmth, the focus and the comfort without the mess of the past.

A quick word on balance

We totally agree that it is right to continue seeking ways of improving air quality. However, it is also vital to keep homes warm, dry and resilient when storms hit. London’s latest air quality figures show total PM2.5 has been falling, and the share attributed to wood burning has edged down since 2019. The most constructive path is the obvious one. Replace the worst burning with the best. Never burn wet wood or waste. Enforce the rules already in place. Educate for best practice and keep innovating. That is how we make the air cleaner and our homes stronger at the same time.

Ready to make your home more resilient?

•Use our Stove Calculator and speak to your local Charnwood stockist for the right size and model for your space.

•If you prefer near automatic control, ask about the Aire Intelligent range with iBlu.

•Brush up on best burning practice and store your logs correctly so they stay dry.

Storms come and go, but whatever the weather, a Charnwood stove gives you warmth you can count on.

Why ‘Just Ban It’ is the wrong answer to complex problems

Author: charnwoodstoves

Published: 20 Aug 2025

Banning feels bold, but it’s often lazy. From cars to wood burning stoves: progress comes from fixing flaws, not scrapping whole solutions.

Modern society has developed a curious habit: when faced with a problem, our first instinct is not to solve it, but to call for its eradication. Campaign groups, pressure organisations and self-appointed moral guardians are often united in their conviction that the easiest way to deal with something they dislike is to ban it outright. But if we applied that logic consistently, the results would be absurd.

Let us begin with an example so commonplace we hardly think about it: the car. Each year cars are responsible for millions of traffic accidents worldwide, with a tragic number ending in fatalities. They pollute the air, clog our cities and contribute to climate change. If the same criteria used to target other technologies were applied here, the case would be clear: cars kill, therefore cars should be banned. Imagine the press release: ‘No more road deaths: ban private vehicles’. It would be a simple solution, except for the small problem that our entire economy, supply chain and personal mobility depend on them. Cars are dangerous, yes, but we regulate them: seat belts, airbags, speed limits, driving tests. We improve them: cleaner engines, electric drivetrains, advanced braking systems. We don’t – because we can’t – ban them.

Now consider the darlings of the green revolution: solar panels, wind turbines and battery storage. The marketing is immaculate – clean, renewable and the embodiment of environmental virtue. But peel back the glossy veneer and some uncomfortable truths emerge. Much of the polysilicon used in solar panels is manufactured in parts of China where forced labour has been credibly reported (1). China’s massive growth in this sector has also come at a huge environmental cost with recent coverage saying the expansion has “caused severe social and environmental damage” in mining regions, underscoring that no technology is impact-free (2).

‘It’s taxpayers’ money and we should not be supporting slave labour with that money… and wherever possible, we should… buy British if we can,’ says Labour MP Sarah Champion (3).

Wind turbines, meanwhile, come with a substantial carbon cost during production and at the end of their life their vast composite blades are notoriously difficult to recycle (4). And batteries, the great hope of our electrified future, have been linked to child labour risks in parts of the cobalt mining sector in the Congo (5). On top of this, extracting rare earths is highly waste intensive with roughly 2,000 tonnes of often-toxic waste produced for every 1 tonne of rare earths. This is a cost which is rarely seen in clean-tech marketing (6).

If we applied the ‘ban it’ principle here, the decision would be easy: slave labour? Ban solar. High carbon footprint? Ban wind turbines. Child exploitation? Ban batteries. And yet, quite rightly, we do not. We recognise that these technologies are vital for a sustainable future. However, it is imperative that those industries rise to the challenge and clean up their supply chains, reduce their impact and improve their recyclability – not to throw them on the scrap heap of history.

50 years of stove development has led to I-Blu combustion technology which is up to 90% more efficient than older stoves and open fires.

Finally, we turn to a far more ancient technology: wood heating. For thousands of years, humanity has used wood for warmth and cooking. Properly sourced and when burned responsibly, wood is a renewable, local, and carbon-neutral fuel over its lifecycle. Modern wood-burning stoves can be highly efficient, reducing fossil fuel dependence and supporting rural economies. And yet, because of concerns over particulate emissions primarily from older stoves and open fires, some campaign groups have decided the answer is to ban them entirely. No allowance for new designs, cleaner combustion systems, or better user education – just a blanket prohibition. The irony is striking: the same voices willing to overlook the human rights and environmental issues in other energy technologies are suddenly calling for zero tolerance when it comes to wood heat – despite its many sustainable advantages.

Here lies the heart of the problem. Banning is easy. It requires no innovation, no compromise, no messy balancing of trade-offs. But progress comes from tackling problems, not abolishing entire technologies. We did not ban cars to prevent road deaths; we made cars safer. We did not ban solar or wind when confronted with ethical and environmental concerns; we sought to improve them. The same approach should apply to wood heating – or any technology with both benefits and drawbacks.

The path forward is not prohibition but improved regulation and more innovation. It is the hard, patient work of identifying the harms and mitigating them: cleaner fuels, better designs, improved emissions standards, ethical supply chains, better user guidance and effective enforcement where rules exist. ‘Let’s ban it’ may be a catchy rallying cry, but it is rarely a wise policy. If we banned everything with negative side effects, we’d be left with nothing but our faux-moral purity – and a very cold, dark, immobile world.

Introducing Aire Intelligent: Smarter, cleaner wood-burning

Author: charnwoodstoves

Published: 09 Jul 2025

The drive for cleaner air has gained momentum in recent years. Air pollution stems from a wide range of sources and remains a complex challenge. While our approach differs from campaigns such as Global Action Plan’s Clean Air Night, Charnwood pursues the same goal of cleaner air. With more than fifty years spent refining wood burning technology, we have tackled the drawbacks while preserving the unique benefits of real fire. Our new Aire Intelligent range is the latest proof that you can enjoy the welcoming glow of a stove and still help improve the air we all breathe.

Welcome to effortless wood-burning; welcome to Aire Intelligent

Available as the Aire 300, 500 and 700, our new stove family caters for everything from a snug cottage parlour to a generous open-plan living space. Each model is powered by our I-Blu combustion technology– a micro-processor that reads the fire in real time and constantly fine-tunes the airflow for a perfect burn. These automatic intelligent adjustments mean the stove can reliably achieve test lab performance in the home all of the time.

Model	Rated output	Max log length	Efficiency	PM (mg/m³)
Aire 300	3.9 kW	250mm	86.7 %	29
Aire 500	5 kW	340mm	87 %	18
Aire 700	6.6 kW	400mm	88 %	17

Available in eight classic Charnwood colours

Early users are already reporting fuel savings of up to 50 percent, crystal-clear glass and barely any ash. Operation is so simple, just load it, light it, leave it, love it and the stove does the rest.

Click here for the full brochure.

Modern Woodburing stoves key benefits

• Cleaner air – continuous R&D has led to the Skye E700 and Aire Intelligent, which cut emissions even further than EcoDesign standards and can dramatically cut emissions from open fires and old stoves. Learn more here.

• Energy resilience – locally sourced wood offers a reliable and renewable back-up when storms, world conflicts or other supply issues disrupt the grid. Read more here.

• Healthier Forests – managed coppicing for firewood stimulates new growth and encourages greater biodiversity. Learn more here.

• Well-being – studies confirm that a real fire lowers stress, brings people together and can significantly improve well being. Read more here.

Facts, not fear

Modern clearSkies-certified stoves like Aire Intelligent cut particulate emissions by up to 90 percent compared with an open fire and around 80 percent versus an older pre-Ecodesign stove. Independent data from Defra’s latest National Atmospheric Emissions Inventory shows that cleaner appliances and dry-wood fuel are already driving down national PM 2.5 levels despite record stove sales. Yet some campaigns continue to cite outdated figures or lump all forms of domestic burning together which misleads the public.

We have repeatedly offered to share and discuss our test data and innovations with Global Action Plan and other groups behind Clean Air Night but, to date, have received no meaningful engagement. Our invitation remains open because we believe the best outcomes come from collaboration and accurate information, not scare-stories.

Common sense prevails

Recent rulings by the UK and Scottish governments, and even the Advertising Standards Authority, have all confirmed that modern Ecodesign stoves are part of the low-carbon solution, not the problem. Aire Intelligent embodies that direction of travel, delivering lab-grade cleanliness in real-world homes

People, planet and prosperity

Charnwood is a family business founded on Christian principles and a deep respect for the environment. Yes, we earn our living from making stoves, and in doing so we support hundreds of families on the Isle of Wight and beyond– but every decision we take is measured against our core values. Sustainablity, providing a good place to work and delighting our customers remain the key considerations at every stage of our business operation. We are proud that our team and business approach has received significant recognition in the form of a King’s Award for Enterprise.

Ready to burn smarter?

If you want the warmth, resilience and sheer pleasure of a real fire without the downsides, Aire Intelligent is ready. Speak to your local Charnwood dealer who can advise you on the perfect stove size for your space and prepare to experience the new benchmark in clean wood-burning.

Patience By Dammy Ponnuthurai

Author: charnwoodstoves

Published: 02 Apr 2025

“But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.”
Romans 8:25

Whenever I embark on a household chore, I have a small struggle with myself. It is a necessary maintenance that we all have in our homes, and since my mind is always full, the clarity of order around me is an essential condition for my habitable space. In her podcast ‘The curious history of your home’, Ruth Goodman charts the evolution of once time consuming domestic tasks, such as, say, dishwashing, which was once achieved through grit and hard work, to the modern day dishwasher. Maybe these mundane, but now less time consuming tasks, are really an instruction in patience. Few of us, I imagine, intentionally wake up in the morning, with the intention of honing our moral armour, but patience really is an essential part of any success that we hope for in other aspects of our lives.

Nature commands us to pause, as the light now shines brightly through Spring days, the trees sharing their new blossoms we can gaze in wonder, just pause and enjoy. It asks nothing of us in terms of doing, but really it’s simply about being. My lack of patience is often driven by time. Recently, I have had many passing conversations with neighbours and friends about how the days are so rapidly progressing, with winter almost a trail in the mist, particularly as we experience waves of rising temperatures. Though the magic of nature’s changes is that they are not driven by controlled and exacting timings, but by a natural process of change, such as first daffodils, budding daisies and new goslings. However, nature’s changes, unlike our sense of planned time, seem to take place when timing marries, with the sense of gentle patience. This observation might allow us to take the same time in our days, where we can accept pause and waiting despite the time pressures that feel heightened by the phones in our pockets.

The button or automation, might have saved us from days spent consumed by menial tasks, but on the other hand the ready convenience we have at our fingertips to complete tasks perhaps robs us of our ability to practice patience. The way this convenience has penetrated our daily lives, with digital tools working to make time more efficient and money saved, is beginning to have a lasting impact on our patience. There is a chartered shift to our mindset, which has been illustrated by OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) research spanning the last ten years around our abilities to process and apply information. We have moved from self-directed activity, in which we are using the web as a tool for research, to the now constant, passive, consumption of social feeds. This surely has a detrimental effect not only on an ability to understand information, but also on our patient ability to actually question and enquire as someone else now does the work for us. The patient trait of questioning seems an important trait for us to keep within our culture of daily notifications.

Often in the process of working alone, there is a sort of impatience, the intensity of work surrounds me without the distractions and alliance provided by chats with colleagues over the kettle. But for me in those moments, a household chore that provides me with much joy is that of lighting the stove for it is like a return to earth, and a nice way to slow my natural impatience. There is a simplicity and inherent analogue nature at the heart of composing a fire. Laying the kindling, gathering the logs and lighting a fire is a patient ritual, but in this ritual, there is no feeling of impatience to complete it as soon as possible. There is something that removes this task from the uninviting to do list, as it brings me into the moment and a true enjoyment of the task at hand.

Maybe there is learning in this moment of thoughtfulness. We mostly all agree that the uncertainty of the world affects us all in different ways, but with uncertainty comes a knowledge that there is so little we can control. So perhaps the answer lies in slowing down, being drawn back to looking around us, and, for me, the lighting of a stove is a temptress into that moment of patience.

Why Choose Charnwood?

For over 50 years, Charnwood has been a leader in crafting high-quality wood-burning stoves. Our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction ensures that we offer products that not only meet but exceed expectations. Whether you’re looking for a traditional stove or the advanced Skye E700, Charnwood has the perfect solution to keep your home warm and spark a moment of patience.

For more information or to explore our range of stoves, visit our website or speak to an official Charnwood dealer for guidance on what will best suit your space and other requirements.

The SIAs #PositiveWoodBurning Campaign

Author: charnwoodstoves

Published: 22 Jan 2025

At Charnwood, we’re in full support of the Stove Industry Association (SIA) launching the #PositiveWoodBurning campaign to highlight the many environmental, economic, and personal benefits of modern wood-burning stoves. Running for two weeks from 15th January 2025, this campaign is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on how responsible wood-burning can be a key part of a sustainable and low-emission future.

Modern wood-burning stoves: The difference is clear

Efficiency and sustainability are more important than ever and modern Ecodesign-compliant stoves are an innovation-led led response to these demands. Compared to older, inefficient models or open fires, these stoves can reduce particulate emissions by up to 90% while providing families with a reliable, cost-effective heating solution. Meaning no matter what’s going on in the world with energy prices/availability, they can always heat their home!

By using dry, seasoned wood— with a moisture content of 20% or less—modern stoves deliver optimal performance, generating more heat while using less fuel. This simple change not only enhances efficiency but also significantly lowers emissions, making it an environmentally responsible choice too.

A campaign rooted in awareness and action

The #PositiveWoodBurning campaign is not just about stoves; it’s about building awareness of the broader benefits of sustainable wood-burning:

• Emission Reductions: Modern stoves produce far fewer emissions than outdated systems or open fires, making them a key ally in improving air quality.

• Forest Health: Responsible wood-burning supports active woodland management, encouraging biodiversity and reducing the risk of forest fires.

• Energy Security: With modern wood-burning stoves, households can rely on a renewable, locally sourced fuel that offers independence from volatile global energy markets.

• Wellbeing: Find out why 93% of wood stove owners say it helps their wellbeing!

As Andy Hill, Chair of the SIA, highlights, “Modern wood burning stoves are not only a cost-effective and low carbon heating solution, they also play a crucial role in reducing emissions compared to other ways of burning wood such as open fires. By using dry wood, we can ensure that our stoves operate at their highest efficiency, providing warmth and comfort while minimising our environmental impact. We believe that through this campaign, we can help educate the public on the benefits of modern wood burning and encourage a shift towards more sustainable and lower emission domestic combustion practices.”

Why now? The case for positive wood-burning

Recent global challenges underscore the importance of reliable, sustainable heating. Energy security is a growing concern in the UK, with limited gas reserves and increasing reliance on imports. Modern wood-burning stoves offer a vital alternative, providing homes with consistent heat even during power outages or supply disruptions.

Moreover, the environmental benefits of positive wood-burning cannot be overstated. By combining advanced stove technology with responsible fuel use and proper maintenance, households can contribute to a more sustainable future without compromising comfort or convenience.

Best practices for responsible wood-burning

The #PositiveWoodBurning campaign offers practical advice for homeowners to get the most from their stoves while minimising environmental impact:

• Choose the Right Stove: Ecodesign-compliant and clearSkies-certified appliances are up to 90% cleaner than open fires and significantly outperform older stoves.

• Use the Right Fuel: Opt for wood with the Ready to Burn logo, ensuring moisture content is at or below 20%. Avoid chemically treated wood or waste materials.

• Regular Maintenance: Have your chimney swept and stove serviced annually by qualified professionals. The Federation of British Chimney Sweeps has links to all the main sweep associations.

• Proper Installation: Ensure your stove is installed by a competent person registered with HETAS or OFTEC for safety and performance.

• Follow Manufacturer’s Guidelines: Adhering to the manufacturer’s instructions ensures optimal stove performance and longevity.

Please join the #PositiveWoodBurning conversation

The SIA invites everyone to join the conversation online using the hashtag #PositiveWoodBurning. Visit www.stoveindustryassociation.org to learn more about modern stoves, responsible wood-burning, and the many benefits this approach offers.

Wood Burning for the Future: Balancing Tradition, Innovation, and Emerging Science on UFPs

Author: charnwoodstoves

Published: 17 Jan 2025

For generations, wood-burning stoves have offered warmth, comfort, self-reliance, and a connection to one of nature’s oldest renewable fuels. At Charnwood, we believe these qualities must be closely aligned with responsible design – ensuring the timeless joy of a real wood fire has a valuable place in an increasingly environmentally and health conscious world.

A proven record of facing challenges head-on

While older stoves improved on open fires, there was still significant room for improvement in terms of efficiency and emissions. As we all learned more about PM2.5, the wood-stove industry tackled the issue head-on through technological innovations including:

•Advanced firebox design

•High-efficiency combustion systems

•Precision air controls

•Intelligent microprocessor controlled stoves

Modern, Ecodesign-ready stoves now significantly reduce PM2.5 – by up to 90% in many cases when compared to older stoves and open fires. These improvements arose from dedicated innovation and a willingness to embrace new scientific insights. Thanks to independent testing and ongoing refinements, today’s stove owners can be confident their modern appliances, used appropriately, are both cleaner and more efficient than ever before. This track record underscores the integrity of our industry: we see challenges, respond with research and engineering, and deliver on our promises.

Emerging science on Ultrafine Particles (UFPs)

Now, scientific focus is turning to ultrafine particles. These are smaller than PM2.5 particles and are found everywhere. From road traffic and industrial emissions to sea spray, mushroom spores, laser printers and even the simple act of peeling citrus fruit. Their potential impacts on human health are not fully known and are still being investigated:

•UFPs can arise from activities at a distance – such as large-scale industry or busy motorways far from our homes – but the reality is that winds can carry these particles over vast areas. Pinpointing an individual source’s contribution to local air quality is extraordinarily difficult.

•The WHO determined that there was not enough data to provide guidelines for ultrafine particles (UFPs) – aerosolised particles measuring as little as 0.1 micrometers in diameter or less.(1)

•Studies and risk assessments remain inconclusive. As of now, scientists do not fully agree on the level of health risk posed by UFPs specifically, nor do we have a comprehensive understanding of each source category’s relative contribution. (2)

In this context, it is too early to claim a direct, confirmed health risk from UFPs emitted by any single source, including wood stoves—particularly as stoves contribute only a small fraction of overall UFP emissions compared to transportation, industry, and natural occurrences.

Nevertheless, at Charnwood we approach new challenges as we always have – by embracing further research. We continue to push for greater efficiency gains/emission reductions and are monitoring developments in filtration technology and beyond.

Overestimation and real-world context

As we’ve seen before with PM2.5, there is a desire from some to overestimate the impact of modern wood-burning stoves and the same will likely happen with UFPs. However, no matter the heating method – whether it’s a gas boiler, electric, heat pump, wind or solar – ultrafine particles inevitably arise somewhere along the chain including drilling, shipping, road transportation and burning for fossil fuels, large-scale manufacturing of high-tech components etc. All these processes can generate huge amounts of UFPs and other sized particles at different stages capable of contributing in varying degrees to the levels in the air.

A 2024 report by the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) found that: Average PM2.5 levels in England fell by 54% between 2003 and 2023, reaching a 20-year low.(3)

Despite frequent sensational headlines, the IFS explicitly noted a tendency to “overestimate the importance of wood burning” in overall PM2.5 apportionment.

They clarified that “emissions may be dispersed by the wind or brought to the ground by rain, meaning a large emission of PM2.5 may not translate into significantly higher amounts of PM2.5 in the air we breathe … Considering only primary PM2.5 tends to overestimate the importance of wood burning as opposed to transport and energy combustion.”

By focusing broadly on “domestic wood burning” and neglecting the huge performance gap between old, inefficient stoves and modern designs, some public campaigns overlooked real opportunities to tackle air pollution more effectively. The same may prove true for UFPs, where conflating all wood-burning – regardless of technology or best practices – could distort our understanding of actual emission levels.(4)

The unique positives of Wood Burning

While every form of home heating solution has an environmental footprint somewhere along the line, only wood-burning brings such a variety of unique benefits when done responsibly:

Energy security & resilience
Wood stoves offer a degree of independence during power outages and times of high energy prices. They can heat a home even when the grid is down or gas supplies are uncertain and they don’t rely on intermittent sources such as sun and wind.

Sustainably managed woodlands
Responsible wood-burning supports active forest management. Using locally sourced firewood encourages healthy woodlands when replenished responsibly.

Lower carbon footprint (with good forestry practices)
Trees absorb carbon dioxide as they grow, making well-managed wood fuel part of a more balanced carbon cycle.

Ambience & wellbeing
There’s an intangible comfort to a wood stove’s gentle crackle and glow – a focal point that brings the family together. 93% of stove owners say it has a positive impact on their well-being(3)
(See our blog on “The Real Reason People Install a Wood Burning Stove” for more.)

Compatibility with older homes
Many traditional homes were designed with solid-fuel heating in mind. Removing or neglecting this feature can lead to inadequate ventilation and moisture problems, sometimes resulting in mould or dampness. By using a suitable wood stove, occupants can maintain the home’s historical character and proper airflow patterns.

A big future role for positive wood burning

Beyond emission numbers, positive wood burning is about family comfort, reliable energy, and the stewardship of our woodlands. At Charnwood, our mission is to safeguard this heritage while meeting and improving upon modern standards – through rigorous research, responsible innovation, and genuine care for our customers and the environment. Our success in cutting PM2.5 emissions so far shows our commitment to leading the way. As emerging science investigates UFPs, we promise to bring the same diligence to any future challenge, ensuring wood burning remains a truly sustainable, rewarding choice that gives us energy security.

We can’t – and shouldn’t – try to live in a world with zero UFPs, as they’re a natural byproduct of countless human activities and processes that are vital for progress. But we can be sensible, realistic, and evidence-based in reducing emissions where we can – just as we have done with PM2.5. With news recently that Britain’s gas storage levels are “concerningly low” it’s clear that modern wood-burning stoves have a big role to play now and in the future.(5)

References & Further Reading

1.https://www.iqair.com/newsroom/2021-WHO-air-quality-guidelines

2.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ultrafine_particle

3.https://naei.energysecurity.gov.uk/data/data-selector/results?classification=4&start_year=1990&end_year=2022&sector=all&category%5B1A4bi%5D=1A4bi&include_ad=1

4.https://stoveindustryassociation.org/pm2-5-levels-halved-since-2003/

5.https://news.sky.com/story/britains-gas-storage-levels-concerningly-low-after-cold-snap-says-owner-of-british-gas-13286305

6.https://www.charnwood.com/news/wood-burning-stoves-wellbeing-benefits/

7.Charnwood Blog: “The Real Reason People Install a Wood Burning Stove”

8.https://www.charnwood.com/all-stoves/room-heating-stoves/skye/skye-e700/

Modern Wood Burners Bring Ultimate Efficiency, Warmth and Cosiness

Author: charnwoodstoves

Published: 02 Nov 2024

Among the many heating solutions available in the UK and around the world, a modern wood burner brings unrivalled warmth, ambience, and efficiency to UK homes. At Charnwood, the UK’s original wood-stove manufacturer, we’ve led the industry since 1972 with innovations that balance efficiency, design, and functionality. Our stoves, such as our clearSkies 5-rated models, are crafted with advanced Cleanburn technology, outperforming the strictest Ecodesign standards and achieving up to 90% efficiency, drastically reducing both emissions and fuel costs.

The efficiency of a modern wood burner

Modern wood burners, especially clearSkies models, offer dramatically improved efficiency and minimal emissions. By optimising air intake and combustion, Charnwood’s log burners not only provide a steady heat output but also produce an exceptionally clean burn, with 80% less emissions compared to traditional stoves and up to 90% less than an open fire. For those interested in sustainability, this means less particulate matter and a healthier environment inside and outside the home.

Also explore wood-burning stove’s co-heating future.

Choosing the right wood burner for your space

Selecting a modern wood burner involves balancing heat output with room size, heating needs, and personal style. Charnwood’s wood-burning stoves are available in a range of outputs from 3kw all the way up to 12kw, perfect for tiny homes and cosy little cottages all the way to spacious open-plan areas. It’s essential to find a stove that matches your unique preferences while also heating your space effectively. For this, the SIA Retail Group’s knowledgeable members are at your service, ready to guide you toward a stove that fits seamlessly into your home.

Read the many reasons people are choosing wood-burning stoves!

The future is here!

Our new revolutionary Skye E700 model has arrived, featuring intelligent combustion technology, which automatically regulates airflow for optimal burning and a hassle-free user experience. It really is just a case of loading your fire, closing the door and letting the stove do the rest. It is as simple as that. The Skye E700 has Charnwood I-Blu combustion intelligence which continuously monitors the state of the fire and optimises efficiency while reducing emissions through real-time adjustments. Air is introduced in just the right amounts, in the right places, at exactly the right time to ensure a consistent, cleaner and highly efficient burn. This is good for air quality and the environment, good for saving fuel and good for giving a crystal clear view of the fire. The Skye E700 has a remarkable 89% efficiency rating making it one of the very cleanest, greenest and most fuel-efficient on the market.

The best of British

We are proud that our team and the wonderful work they do has been recognised with A.J Wells & Sons receiving the most prestigious UK business award – The Kings Award for Enterprise 2024. By buying a Charnwood you are buying a best-in-class wood-burning stove and supporting a British Business that in turn supports other British businesses as we always ensure our suppliers are as local as possible.

Sustainability at the core

At Charnwood, our wood burners support a cycle of sustainability. We passionately support responsible forestry practices which ensures the health and biodiversity of our forests and that wood harvested for fuel is replaced, maintaining carbon neutrality and helping mitigate climate change. Locally sourced, kiln-dried wood fuel minimises transportation emissions and supports local businesses, while our clearSkies rated models (which outperform standard Ecodesign) reduce overall environmental impact by using far less wood to create the same heat (see image above).

Investing in a modern wood burner from Charnwood means choosing a heating solution designed for lasting efficiency, cosiness, and reduced environmental impact. Explore our range and find the perfect fit for your home’s warmth and style.

Why choose us?

Our stoves are crafted with precision and care, ensuring durability, efficiency, and timeless aesthetic appeal for your living space. With decades of experience in the industry, we are committed to sustainability, craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. Experience the warmth and comfort of a Charnwood stove while reducing your carbon footprint and heating costs. Get in touch now to start your journey towards a greener, cosier home.

Choosing the Perfect 7kW Wood Burning Stove

Author: charnwoodstoves

Published: 03 Sep 2024

A wood-burning stove’s superpower is the ability to heat a space while offering a host of other benefits that other heating solutions just can’t match. They can transform any room into a warm, inviting space, improve well-being and offer energy security and independence. Stoves come in many sizes to suit the size of your home and the spaces you wish to heat. A 7kW wood-burning stove is perfect for those larger spaces needing just a little more oomph!

In this blog we’ll give you the information and tools to decide if a 7kW stove is the perfect fit for your home.

Why a 7kW stove?

A 7kW stove is ideal for medium to larger spaces, typically ranging from 100 to 150 cubic meters, depending on insulation and if you have cavity walls. Unlike a 5kW stove, which is better suited to smaller rooms and well insulated modern homes, a 7kW model can provide enough warmth for larger living rooms with high ceilings and open-plan spaces. To ensure the best match, measure your room carefully and consider factors like insulation, the number of windows, and overall layout. Using a Stove Calculator or consulting a stove specialist can help you make the right choice.

Maximising efficiency and safety

To ensure safety and efficiency when choosing the location for your wood-burning stove we recommend consulting a HETAS-registered installer. They will guarantee that your stove installation meets all safety standards, considers chimney access, proper ventilation, and safe distances from combustible materials.

The benefits of a 7kW stove

Versatile installation options

With its larger heat output, a 7kW stove can be installed in more substantial rooms or spaces with a higher heat demand. This includes open-plan kitchens, combined living and dining areas, or even conservatories.

Eco-friendly and cost-effective

Modern log burners are designed to burn wood (a renewable resource) cleanly and efficiently, helping reduce emissions, unlike older models or open fires. This makes them kinder on the environment and a cost-effective solution, particularly as energy prices fluctuate.

Energy Security

Burning wood from sustainable sources reduces your reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, during power outages, a wood stove can serve as a reliable source of warmth, adding to your home’s energy security.

Wellbeing

The Charwood wellbeing study found that people and their families are getting significant well-being benefits from owning and using their stove. Learn more here

Exploring Charnwood’s 7kW stove collection

Charnwood offers a variety of 7kW stoves, each designed to cater to different aesthetic preferences and functional needs. Charnwood’s collection has something to suit every home, for those looking for a classic look or a more contemporary design. Here are some standout models:

Aire 7

The Aire 7 offers between 6-8kW of heat, making it perfect for larger spaces. Its sleek, minimalist design ensures it fits seamlessly into any setting, whether modern or traditional. The Aire 7 features Charnwood’s Quattroflow Air Management System which provides a crystal-clear burn, allowing you to enjoy the full beauty of the fire through its large viewing window.

Arc 7

The Arc 7 features a contemporary design and is equipped with an advanced air control system, reducing emissions with outstanding efficiencies of over 80%. So much so that the Arc outperforms the new Eco Design standards and DEFRA exemption limits. It’s an excellent choice for larger, modern open plan living spaces.

C-Seven

The C-Seven combines robust performance with a more compact design, delivering between 6-8kW of heat, which makes it suitable for various room sizes. Its classic design and and Cleanburn Airwash Technology make it a favourite among those looking for a reliable, eco-friendly heating solution.

Skye 7

As thoughtful in style as it is in function, the Skye has a refreshing design aesthetic; classically minimal with a soft modern edge. Whilst the Skye 7 is very easy to operate (one simple push/pull control), the ground breaking technology behind the cast iron casing ensures the user gets the very best efficiency from the fuel burnt.

The Skye E700: The Future of Wood-Burning

The Skye E700 is set to revolutionise wood-burning, offering a new level of simplicity and efficiency that removes the guesswork from stove operation. Simply load the fire, close the door, and let the stove do the rest—it’s that easy!

What sets the Skye E700 apart is its Charnwood I-Blu combustion microprocessor-controlled technology. This intelligent system continuously monitors the state of the fire, making real-time adjustments to optimise efficiency and minimise emissions. Air is introduced in precise amounts, at the exact right places and times, ensuring a cleaner, highly efficient burn every time. This means better air quality, reduced environmental impact, and significant fuel savings, all while providing a crystal-clear view of the fire.

With an impressive 89% efficiency rating, the Skye E700 stands as one of the cleanest, greenest, and most fuel-efficient stoves on the market. It eliminates the variability that comes with human operation, delivering a level of performance that even the most seasoned wood-stove enthusiasts can’t match.

The Skye E700 truly offers all the benefits of wood-burning without the downsides—ushering in a new era of intelligent, eco-friendly heating.

Maintaining your 7kW stove for optimal performance

It’s essential to burn only dry, seasoned wood to get the best performance from your wood-burning stove. This ensures a cleaner burn but also prolongs the life of your stove and significantly reduces any chance of chimney fires. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the glass, removing ash, and scheduling annual chimney sweeps, is crucial. For more complex maintenance tasks, or if you’re unsure, always consult a qualified stove engineer.

Why Choose Us?

Our stoves are crafted with precision and care, ensuring durability, efficiency, and timeless aesthetic appeal for your living space. With a legacy of excellence spanning generations, Charnwood Stoves is a trusted name synonymous with quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction.

How Lighting Your Wood Burning Stove Could Help Your Mental Fitness

Author: charnwoodstoves

Published: 26 Jun 2024

In today’s fast-paced world, stress and anxiety have become commonplace. While there are many ways to combat these issues, you may be surprised to learn that a wood-burning stove can have a profoundly positive impact on your mental fitness and wellbeing.

In this blog, we’ll delve into the ways lighting a wood-burning stove can benefit mental fitness, including reducing stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation and mindfulness. With Mental Health Awareness Week approaching (15-21 May), there’s no better time to explore this simple yet highly effective technique.

How lighting a wood burning stove can support mental fitness

A wood-burning stove is more than just a source of heat and can support mental fitness in multiple ways. The experience of making a fire, followed by the warmth and soothing crackling sounds it generates, creates a calming and meditative atmosphere that promotes relaxation and reduces stress. Focusing on the process of lighting and maintaining the fire can also help shift the mind away from negative thoughts and distractions.

Wood burning can also provide a sense of purpose and connection to a timeless practice that has the potential to bring people together. Studies have shown how hearth and campfires can influence arterial blood pressure and defray the costs of the social brain through fireside relaxation. Here is a section from the study:

‘Results indicated consistent blood pressure decreases in the fire-with-sound condition, particularly with a longer duration of stimulus, and enhancing effects of absorption and prosociality. Findings confirm that hearth and campfires induce relaxation as part of a multisensory, absorptive, and social experience.’

By incorporating wood burning into your self-care routine, you can enjoy a mindful and fulfilling experience that promotes mental fitness and overall wellbeing.

The physical/mental fitness benefits of wood burning

As well as providing a source of heat that is both sustainable and environmentally friendly, wood-burning can also benefit physical health. Chopping and carrying wood requires physical activity that can help improve cardiovascular health and build muscle strength.

These benefits to physical fitness have a positive knock-on effect to one’s mental fitness:

“There is a growing body of literature that recognizes the positive effects of exercise on mood states such as anxiety, stress and depression, through physiological and biochemical mechanisms…”

https://www.maturitas.org/article/S0378-5122(17)30856-3/fulltext

Additionally, the unique bone warming heat produced by your wood-stove promotes physical activity as it is a great way to ease any aches and pains of the day. For example, a long winter walk is far more tempting when you know you have a warm fire to cosy up to when you get home.

Wood burning as a type of mindfulness

Lighting a fire and tending to it requires a level of patience, focus, and attention to detail that can bring a real sense of calm and centeredness.

As the flames flicker and the wood crackles, it’s easy to become absorbed in the sensory experience of the fire and let go of distracting thoughts or worries. This type of mindfulness practice can be particularly beneficial for those who struggle with anxiety or stress.

How to get started

With the fire lit, sit comfortably with eyes open or closed and try focusing on the sound of the crackling wood and the warmth of the flames. Allow yourself to be fully present in the moment and let go of any distracting thoughts as they arise and simply return your attention to the fire.

Explore how to successfully light a fire pit.

Wood burning Increases bonding and improves relationships

Gathering around the fire with family and friends provides a sense of warmth, comfort, and connection that is often missing in our fast-paced, technology-driven world.

Invite friends or family to join you around the fire and enjoy the warmth and connection that it can provide. You’ll be surprised how much more the conversation flows when there is a fire crackling in the background!

Here are some quotes from some Charnwood customers:

“My grandchildren ask for the fire to be on when they are having a hot chocolate on a frosty day.”

“Winter evenings with friends. Whenever we have visitors during the winter, we always make sure the stove is running as this usually ensures nobody will request the television be turned on, leading to an altogether much nicer atmosphere with people actually chatting and engaging much more, rather than staring at the screen.”

“Chopping wood is a great way to relieve stress! Everyone congregates around the fire and the children like to help with the kindling etc. It just creates a special atmosphere.”

“The stove is the catalyst for family bonding, which helps with relaxation & mood improvement. It helps to unwind after a days exertions at work.”

“You can just gaze into the fire and be taken away from the stresses of work. It gives opportunity for the family to come together and talk. Talking just seems to come easier when siting around the stove.”

Source: The Charnwood Wellbeing Survey 2021.

Increased energy security lowers stress

A wood-burning stove also has some very practical ways of reducing common life stressors. With energy prices going up and supply issues still a real concern, a wood-burning stove provides a great way to mitigate both worries.

Here are some more Charnwood customer quotes:

“We love our log burner. It makes us feel warm, safe and secure. It helps heat the whole house, which has proved an asset in power cuts. Nothing beats sitting in the living room with the warmth of the fire in the depths of winter.”

“Lighting the stove after a walk by the sea during winter is a joyful experience. Has helped to alleviate the worry of power failures as we live in an area prone to electricity outage during bad weather. Just knowing that we have our lovely stove for independent heat and low light is fab.”

“As an electric only house, we wanted a plan b during a power cut to heat the home”

“Having a wood burner means I am less vulnerable in power cuts. I can still have heating, boil a kettle, cook food if I need to.”

Don’t forget!

Ensure you use best wood-burning stove practices to save money, reduce emissions and to stay safe! Read more here

Look out for the Woodsure Ready to Burn label which guarantees a moisture content of 20% or less.

For a list of approved firewood sellers in your area click here.

Why Choose Us?

At Charnwood Stoves, we believe in enhancing your home environment and your well-being. Our wood-burning stoves are meticulously crafted to provide warmth, comfort, and a sense of tranquillity. With a focus on mental fitness, our stoves offer more than just heat; they create a soothing ambiance that can help reduce stress and improve your mood. Our team prioritise sustainability and efficiency, ensuring our products are eco-friendly and cost-effective. Choose Charnwood for a reliable, high-quality stove that supports your mental health and enriches your living space. Experience the perfect blend of functionality, style, and well-being with Charnwood.

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With such high demand for wood-burning stoves, particularly in the colder months, now is an ideal time to prepare for next year. We highly recommend purchasing through an official Charnwood stockist where you can be assured of excellent after-care, and you will also qualify for our dealer-backed 10-year guarantee.

Bonus: Podcasts that contribute to our mental fitness

Mo Gawdat:

https://www.mogawdat.com/podcast

Andrew Huberman:

https://hubermanlab.com/welcome-to-the-huberman-lab-podcast/

Diary of a CEO:

https://stevenbartlett.com/the-diary-of-a-ceo-podcast/

Rich Roll:

https://www.richroll.com/all-episodes/

Disclaimer: The content in this blog is not a replacement for professional medical advice. Please always contact your GP for help with any mental health issues.

Clicks or Conversation? Why Common Sense Should Guide the Wood Burning Debate

Author: charnwoodstoves

Published: 04 May 2024

I spent the weekend clearing and chopping a large Eucalyptus which had blown down in storms a few weeks ago. It was a magnificent tree and one which we were sad to see come down. Its beauty, however, went beyond its imposing stature. As logs were cut and split ready for stacking and seasoning to provide heat at a much later date, the beauty of creation’s ability to store energy was demonstrated in its fullness. Energy storage has always been a human challenge, but this tree had done it perfectly. Earlier that day I had been at Parkrun and the subject of wood burning had been raised in light of the Scottish government’s reported ‘ban’ on installing wood burners in new builds (which has caused problems for the Scottish Government): “It is just crazy, where is the common sense in that” a local businessman said to me. Indeed, as I looked at the logs I had just cut, I agreed – where is the common sense of not using this stored energy for heat? It is local, widely available, and it is nature’s gift. When we look out of our window we may see a number of energy sources – maybe some sun, sometimes the effects of wind, but almost always trees.

Despite the clear benefits of using wood as a fuel source, there has been much anti-wood-burning talk recently, not least in Scotland. So, are we losing our common sense? Are we disregarding nature? At Charnwood, environmental responsibility has always been a core value and driver of our business as we try and make a difference in what we do. We want to listen, we want to engage with the voices that are contrary to our views, indeed that is the way we learn. There is a proverb from the bible which says:

“Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.” (Proverbs 9)

We initially held back from engaging with the anti-wood burning lobby on social media. However, we eventually felt compelled to start pushing back on some of the misleading and untrue claims made by the Wood Burning London and Global Action Plan campaigns. As we started to engage more, we realised that there were a lot of different viewpoints, some of which we hadn’t considered fully before. In light of this, we wrote:

‘Shared Goals, Cleaner Air: Reimagining the Wood Burning Debate with Healthy Dialogue & Believing the Best in Each Other’

In this, we argued we needed to start believing the best in each other in order that we work together for positive solutions. In truth, this has been really hard. We have always sought to be polite – to engage well and be constructive. However, perhaps unsurprisingly, this is rarely reciprocated. In hindsight, maybe we should have paid more attention to the first part of the proverb:

“Whoever corrects a mocker invites insults; whoever rebukes the wicked incurs abuse. Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you; rebuke the wise and they will love you”

We were certainly mocked, insulted, abused and hated! We are apparently representatives of the ‘Stink Industry’, our customers are ‘stokers’ and we have been given a new brand name ‘CharrredWood’. We were called liars, condescending and not genuine…. The claims went on, abuse was thrown our way and when we did invite more meaningful debate away from X we were accused of having bad motives and wanting to discredit people. When there seemed to be genuine concerns and we offered to engage in detail away from social media to find solutions, in most cases, those with the issues refused the offer of help and even called us creepy for offering! Our motives and funding were questioned, and we were accused of acting in bad faith. Some users have even learnt how to use AI images to produce grotesque anti-wood-burning memes. It was tempting to want to reply aggressively, but we tried to resist.

We know there are strong voices on both sides, and social media can breed one-sided arguments while amplifying negativity. But the intensity of the anti-wood burning sentiment online from certain groups was still a little unexpected. Engaging felt a bit like venturing into a lion’s den – or maybe a nest of angry wasps – we got our fair share of stings! Our words were sometimes twisted, and our motives misconstrued.

Here is one example of a social media post that highlights some of the challenges to the debate. An unwillingness to recognise the very real differences between different stoves and other forms of woodburning is not constructive. Obviously ‘good’ is subjective, but we think it is a justified adjective when you consider a modern stove, burned correctly, is up to 80% more efficient than an old stove and 90% more than an open fire. Additionally, emissions from modern wood stoves, when used correctly, are negligible. Burning dry wood (e.g. Ready to Burn certified) in an Ecodesign-compliant stove (e.g. clearSkies certified) makes up just 0.09% of total UK PM2.5 emissions. Source: NAEI (1).

Also, scaremongering tactics regarding an increased cancer risk to stove owners misrepresent the facts and is very unhelpful to all. This report undertaken by Dr Amanda Lea-Langton, (2) senior lecturer in Bioenergy Engineering at the University of Manchester found:

-No scientific evidence for adverse health impacts from exposure to the indoor air typically associated with modern, enclosed wood-burning stoves

-Use of modern wood-burning stoves may help to improve air quality inside the home due to the natural draught created during wood stove operation that pulls air from the room into the appliance and from outside. (Even the findings from the London Wood-Burning Project (3), who are anti-woodburning, back this up: “Use of the clearSkies Level 5 stove demonstrated some benefits for indoor air quality. Indoor PM2.5 did not increase when adding fuel to the stove once lit… At times there was actually a decrease in indoor concentrations of PM2.5 when adding fuel.”)

-Other sources of particulate matter in the home, such as cooking, can release much higher levels of PM compared to modern, enclosed wood-burning stoves, and could therefore have greater health risk potential

Despite the hostility online, the experience did provide some value. We do recognise people’s concerns and understand some of the frustration. What was very apparent is that many of the most vehement anti-wood-burners have had very bad neighbourhood experiences of wood-burning. Pictures of smoky chimneys are too frequent, and, in all honesty, we would be complaining just as much if we had to live next to some of the chimneys in question. Undoubtably, there is a very real and present problem with the way that some people are burning their wood fuel which is something we rarely hear as most of the people we interact with at Charnwood HQ love their stoves. They find it has improved their health and well-being, keeps them warm and provides energy security – but we acknowledge that our experience on X has revealed there are others who have been very negatively affected by bad burning.

So where does this leave us – what do we do? We are passionate about wood-burning heating, to us and to many it seems like common sense. It makes use of a local, natural and renewable fuel source that encourages the planting and managing of forests and woodland which is important for improving biodiversity (4). We make Charnwood stoves here on the Isle of Wight, we employ local people and one of our company objectives is to make a positive difference to the local community. Sustainability is a core driver in our business, and we continue to seek ways to minimise our environmental impact. We are confident of the many benefits of wood-burning, however, we are not oblivious to the downsides and burning anything can produce bad particles. Although the improvements in burning technology have overall reduced wood smoke emissions significantly (1), if you have a neighbour who is burning badly, this is of little comfort.

However, we do need to be realistic about energy solutions and apply common sense to each situation. There will not be a one-size-fits-all solution. Heat pumps are the solution being pushed by governments at the moment, but the uptake has been really poor. Where around one million gas boilers are fitted every year there were only around 60000 heat pumps sold last year (5). Despite the best efforts of governments, consumers have been reluctant to install them and many who have, are left disappointed. I was talking to a local heating engineer a couple of weeks ago and he was telling me how he now has customers asking him to remove their heat pumps and instead install a gas solution. In Germany, part of the success of the AFD has been its opposition to heat pumps (6). Although heat pumps can work very well, they have limitations and when policymakers ignore these genuine concerns and try to push a one-size-fits-all solution, we can see it backfire. But in the same way that we need to be careful about over-pushing one solution, we also need to be careful about restricting other solutions because of their perceived negatives. Should we ban electric cars and battery storage because the metals used often come from mines using child labour? (7). Should we ban solar panels because most are produced in China using Uygur forced labour and some of the chemicals used are toxic (8)? And should we ban all solid fuel burning because of the problems of emissions in some cases? All of these are valid questions which are likely to make us feel uncomfortable, and our lived experiences will determine our responses. But instead of banning things and reducing our energy security and flexibility, should we not mitigate the negatives so we can take advantage of the positives?

All energy sources have upsides and downsides – are they low carbon? Are they emission-free at the point of generation? Are they emission-free at the point of use? Is the energy source sustainable? What about the manufacturing impact of the equipment? What about the recyclability of the equipment? In the UK we often congratulate ourselves on being well on our way to having sustainable energy, however as Sir Dieter Helm, Professor of Economic Policy at the University of Oxford points out much of this has been because we have deindustrialised (9). For example, closing the steelworks at Port Talbot won’t mean that we consume less steel. It will just mean that the environmental and carbon impact of the steel we use gets moved to another country often with less human and environmental protections than our own. The same could be said for importing wood pellets from North America to power the Drax power stations – we still use and generate the carbon here, even if it is offset where the trees are grown. We need to use the ‘common sense’ test, and both of these examples fail miserably.

Now more than ever, with so much instability in the world, we need a pragmatic and diverse energy mix that is resilient to future demands. We believe burning wood on modern wood-burning stoves is an overall small, but important part of this. By using logs from locally managed forests, and burning properly with locally made, long-lasting equipment which can be easily recycled at the end of its life, wood-burning stoves are one common sense solution for many situations. At Charnwood, we are investing in new technology which mitigates the negatives of wood-burning emissions. We have just launched the Skye E700 which uses electronic control to constantly monitor the fire and make automatic adjustments to ensure wood is always burnt cleanly and efficiently. The results are remarkable and build on the already large steps forward we have made in clean burning technology. What is more, wood burning compliments heat pumps very well. Whereas heat pumps struggle in cold weather, combining a heat pump with a stove works well and could increase heat pump uptake if encouraged. Indeed, in Norway, if a heat pump is installed a provision must be made for a flue to take a stove.

So, let’s use our common sense as we think about heating. We are continuing to invest in new technology which will allow us to burn wood more cleanly and efficiently. We know it is sustainable and a brilliant solution for many situations that have suitable wood fuel available. As an industry, we need to continue making improvements in our appliances to ensure overall air quality improves, but we also need to work together with other stakeholders to ensure that local instances of bad burning are eradicated. This might mean tougher penalties, improved education and it may include a stove swap-out programme to replace old appliances with cleaner ones. It may also mean other things, but to do this we need positive and constructive engagement. Will we get criticism? Of course, we will, and we will expect it – just take a look at the comments below when we post this article on social media! Sustainability, the environment and air quality are important issues, so we welcome constructive debate and criticism, we want to see real improvements so this time we just might not respond to the mockers. Instead, our efforts will focus on innovation and development to overcome the challenges of wood-burning while further amplifying its many benefits.