The History Of Best Woodburners
The Best Woodburners
The relaxation and blood pressure-reducing benefits of a wood burning stove have been well-documented. But what about the microscopic sooty particles they release into the air?
Fortunately, the latest stoves are built with the EcoDesign directive in the back of your mind. This means you can enjoy a warm, cosy home, without breaking your environmental commitments.
1. Ekol Edge
The Ekol Edge wood burner is simple in appearance, but doesn't compromise on performance. It's a great option for those living in areas that are smoke-free since it is certified with the Level 5 ClearSkies credentials which means it can be used with dry and seasoned logs and approved solid fuels. The high heat output makes it a fantastic choice for large rooms. The large fire glass also allows you to take pleasure in the flames.
It features a contemporary steel frame, which means it can be used in both traditional inglenooks and freestanding situations. It has an air wash system which keeps the glass clean and stops the accumulation of soot. The stove is extremely efficient, which means that it carries a large portion of heat produced to your home, instead of being emitted up the chimney.
Recent criticism of wood burners has increased, as it was discovered that they can contribute to the production of microscopic sooty particles called PM2.5. These particles have been linked to heart and lung problems. Newer models that meet the Eco design Regulations will be less likely to create these sooty particles. Wood burners contribute to pollution created through the burning of fossil fuels such as coal and gas.
The right wood for your stove is crucial to ensure the highest heat output and combustion. Many types of wood can be employed, including eucalyptus and ash. Eucalyptus is fast-burning and also produces lots of heat, is a great choice. However, it must be well-seasoned. Beech is also a great alternative, but it's hard to work with due to its thorns.
The Ekol Adept has been designed to be able to withstand the imminent changes in regulations that have been implemented as well as being Defra exempt and ClearSkies rated. This means that you can use it with approved fuels as long as you follow the guidelines. It's a robust burner that is durable and comes with a 10-Year Body Warranty and a sturdy construction. Its heating capabilities are also impressive.
2. Arada Holborn 5 Widescreen
Wood burning stoves are still popular despite the confusing directives that govern the use of these stoves. Some groups have pushed for tighter regulations and the ban of log burners. It's worth checking out our guide to stove pollution and regulations before you shop for an all-fuel or log fire.
One company which is doing its bit to keep the popularity of woodburners at a high is Arada Stoves. They have recently launched a widescreen model of their popular Holborn 5 Multifuel/Wood Burning stove. It's a DEFRA-approved SIA 2022 Ecodesign Ready stove with a large door glass that provides an excellent flame picture and an airwash system that helps to prevent soot build up.
With a power output of 4.9kW, this is a great stove for all rooms. It's extremely easy to operate and maintain. The curving lines and classic style make it suitable for both modern or traditional design. This model can be easily fitted into smaller spaces due to its flat back design. It is also simple to install direct air systems on this model, which can increase the efficiency.
Another excellent characteristic of this stove is the built in ash dump which makes it very easy to clean and remove the ashes regularly which reduces the risk of odours and dust that escapes into the room. There's a choice of two flue adaptors (standard or pre-fabricated) depending on the chimney type you have, and it's also equipped with an remote control.
While the debate rages on about whether wood burning stoves are beneficial to your health, we can all agree that they create a beautiful ambiences in our homes. It's important to consider the health consequences of indoor pollution and particulate matter. So, if you're going to install a woodburner it is recommended that you keep the door shut when you're not in the vicinity of the fire, and clean the stove to ensure the air is as clean as is possible.
3. Go Eco 5kW Plus
A woodburner can add a wonderful ambience to a room, it's not only relaxing to watch the flames flicker but it can also help lower blood pressure. However, it's not without its problems though, research has found that older stoves can cause a lot of harm due to the production of tiny particles of soot that end up in your breathing system. New regulations are in place to ensure that log burners meet higher standards. This will reduce smoke leakage, creosote accumulation and more important, harmful gases such as carbon monoxide.
New woodburners must comply with a new safety standard. The Go Eco 5kW Plus is a multi-fuel stove that meets, but exceeds the new standards, but also exceeds them. It features a large-screen glass viewing window that gives you a great flame view, and is kept clean with the power of an air wash system. The stove boasts an impressive 80% efficiency rating. It is DEFRA exempt, meaning it can be used in smoke controlled areas. It's also SIA Ecodesign ready which means that it already meets European restrictions on wood burning stove emissions that will come into force in 2022.
This stove comes with a free air vent kit. It is now easier to install than it has ever been. This is a robust model made of premium steel. The finish is a classic matt black, and it's easy to keep clean because the body is coated with an enamel that keeps dirt and grime out.
This stove has a clearSkies label, which means that it has been independently tested and certified as efficient and environmentally friendly. This is above the fundamental requirements of Ecodesign. Modern wood burning stoves of the few stoves we've reviewed that have the full five star clearSkies rating, which means you can be certain that this woodburner is as efficient as it gets.
4. Chilli Penguin Defrost
Chilli Penguin is a feisty Welsh wood burner manufacturer with a maverick style that shouldn't be missed out on. They specialize in small, all-in-one multi-fuel stoves that have gained an enviable reputation due to their low flue-draught requirements, hotplate tops and integral ovens and a variety of features and sizes. This 4.7kW model is a prime example of their focus on brand and also shows that they can still provide an excellent product at a cost that won't break the bank. This DEFRA approved woodburner can be used in Smoke Control Areas and is fully conforming to the current emission limit of 5g/hr. It also comes with level five ClearSkies credentials. It's the perfect option for those who aren't sure what the directive will be and want to be sure that their log burners are exempt from smoke control regulations.