As the seasons change with autumn just around the corner, you might be thinking about how to keep your home warm and cosy – whether it’s with a modern fireplace, a media wall electric fire, or a wood burning stove. To help you make the best decision for your home, we've answered some of the most common questions.
Installing a stove in the summer can make the entire process smoother and less rushed.
Many people only start thinking about their heating needs as the nights get colder, which is when chimney sweeps and installers are at their busiest. By planning ahead and installing your wood stove or gas fire in the summer, you have the luxury of time to carefully choose the perfect model for your home without the pressure of an impending winter.
Additionally, you might find that installers have more availability and may even offer better pricing during the off-peak season. Preparing in advance means your home will be ready and warm as soon as the cold weather hits.
The key features of a good stove depend on the fuel type (wood, gas or electric), along with your personal needs and preferences. Here are a few considerations:
Of course, there is a wide range of styles available, from traditional to contemporary, ensuring you can find a fireplace that complements your home décor and provides a beautiful and comforting flame to warm your home.
The duration of a fireplace installation can vary significantly depending on the type of fireplace and the complexity of the installation. For example, installing an inset electric fire might only require constructing a faux chimney breast, which is relatively quick.
On the other hand, installing a gas fire or a freestanding wood stove may involve more extensive building work and take longer. Always consult with your installer to get a clear timeline based on your specific project.
The ideal position for a fireplace depends on several factors, including the type of fire, the layout of the room, and your personal preferences.
A solid fuel stove or fire can be installed almost anywhere, as long as there is a flue and that the installation satisfies the requirements of the product, such as distance to combustibles. This may mean having a pre-fabricated flue system installed if you do not have a chimney already. Every property and installation are different, so you will need expert advice from your retailer considering all the factors. At the end of the day, it comes down to personal taste, your budget, and how much space you have.
As with solid fuel, a conventional flue gas fire can be fitted to an existing fireplace and chimney or a fireplace can be constructed with a metal prefabricated flue system. Balanced flue gas fires can be installed in locations where there is adequate access to install the flue system to outside. There are restrictions for installing conventional flue gas fires in bedrooms or bathrooms, and they should be located where accidental contact is unlikely.
The great thing about an electric fire is that it does not require a flue, meaning it can be installed almost anywhere in the home. Electric products are also very versatile in their installation, often being slimmer and lighter than their gas or solid fuel counterparts. Some can even be just hung on a wall, or placed in a corner.
An electric fire is best placed away from windows or doors. This allows the maximum efficiency from the heater to circulate the warm air around the environment.
Whether you’re looking to install a new stove or upgrade your current setup, now is the perfect time to take action. Our expert retailers are here to guide you through every step of the process, from selecting the ideal model to ensuring a seamless installation.
Contact your local stove and fireplace specialist today to schedule a consultation.
Sign up to our newsletter and receive the latest news and updates, including product launches, offers and promotions, exclusive giveaways and competitions, as well as seasonal tips and advice.
Subscribe Now!
We have recently bough a new home with Stovax studio 2 fire. No instructions.
I hwve had wood fires before but this is really difficult to set up. I light fire and close door to have room filled with smoke few minutes after. I’m trying to work out the vent openings to the left side (top and bottom) but not much joy. Any advice.
Once lit and burning its perfect but just the initial lighting.
Hi Gary, thanks for your comment. Both controls are open when positioned to the right and closed when to the left. If needed a manual for this fire is available from our technical information page.