
Wood is better in environmental terms as the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere is the same as that absorbed by the tree during growth. It is also a renewable resource, particularly when derived from plantations and cultivated woodland. For optimum results, we recommend logs should be seasoned for 2 years or more to achieve a moisture content below 20%. This will not only give up to twice the output of freshly felled timber but help avoid a build up of tar in your flue. Furthermore, if you can obtain hardwood logs this is better still, as they will have around twice the calorific value of softwoods.
This is a photo through the glass of an advanced technology wood stove, one that is CE certified and HETAS accredited. Note that the flames are big and lush and semi-transparent, much different from the dark, opaque, ragged flames you would see in an open fireplace. The small jets and feathery flames at the top of the image are flowing downward from the tiny combustion air holes at the top of the firebox.
Not only do these stoves burn much cleaner and more efficiently than older conventional stoves, but the view of the fire is just spectacular. By upgrading to one of these stoves, you can save wood, reduce smoke and enjoy the view all winter long.