We often get asked a number of questions around stoves, the law and regulations, and other various questions from curious potential (and current) customers.
We have listened to you, and have compiled a list of a number of popular questions surrounding wood burning stoves, along with links to relevant pages for further information.
Should you have any further questions please contact us.
What size stove do I need?
Stove output is based on the size of the room to be heated, and how well insulated your home is. During a survey, your stove showroom will be able to advise on this. A local HETAS registered installer will also be able to perform the required calculations for this too. It’s important that you get the right size, as too small will not heat the room enough, and too large will make things very uncomfortable. This article we produced does give you an insight into the required heat output, based on house type and room size https://www.charltonandjenrick.co.uk/news/2016/06/buying-a-wood-burning-stove-essential-advice/
I have an existing wooden beam on my fireplace – is this ok to use with a new stove?
Most of the time this is fine, but do check with the store you are buying your stove from. Stoves from Charlton & Jenrick, are designed to reduce where possible, heat transfer from the stove, by use of a double skin. The purpose of such is to allow a stove to be used in places where existing features may wish to be kept, without fear of heat damage.
In the UK , who approves stoves, and the installation of them?
HETAS (Heating Equipment Testing and Approvals Scheme) is the only organisation, which approves biomass and solid fuel heating appliances, which include wood burning stoves. HETAS also is the body, which certifies installers. You are able to find out if an installer is HETAS registered here.
What property can/can’t have a stove?
Most properties are able to have a stove. One of the more pressing issues is the available internal space. If you don’t have a chimney this is usually not an issue, as a flue can be fitted when the stove is installed. When you have an initial survey you will then be able to find out for sure if you can have a stove, and also the locations where a stove could be fitted in your home.
Could I install the stove myself?
Unless you are suitably trained, you should never attempt to install a stove yourself. We strongly recommend the installation is completed by a HETAS registered installer. This helps ensure the installation is safe and complies with the relevant Building Regulations and Standards. When you move home, a certificate of compliance will be needed. It’s not worth cutting corners here.
When should I have my chimney swept?
If your chimney is in regular active use, we would suggest a sweep every quarter. We would also recommend having it swept before the season starts, around September time. This is to ensure any debris, or birds nests etc are carefully removed before the chimney is used. You can learn more about the importance of having your chimney swept here – https://www.charltonandjenrick.co.uk/news/2018/03/chimney-safety-and-care/
My new home has a stove – do I need any certification?
Yes you do. Since April 2005, any solid fuel appliance requires a document called a Certificate of Compliance, which is usually provided by your solicitor, from the previous owners.
What can I burn on my stove?
We have produced a number of articles on this, which can be found below. As a general rule, you should only burn correctly seasoned wood. Burning unseasoned (or “wet”) wood, will increase stove emissions, increase the chances of carbon monoxide poisoning, and produce a lesser heat output.
Dangers of burning unseasoned wood
Ready to Burn
Can I change by gas fire to a stove, or vice-versa?
If you alter a fireplace, which makes it capable of being used for a different fuel (for example, burning wood to gas), it will be subject to Building Regulations.
Should I have a CO (Carbon Monoxide) alarm fitted with my stove?
It is now compulsory in England and Wales to have a CO alarm whenever a new or replacement solid fuel appliance is fitted in a home. The alarm must be installed by either mains or battery power. You can learn more about the importance of CO alarms in an article we produced https://www.charltonandjenrick.co.uk/news/2017/12/carbon-monoxide-poisoning-risks/
