Month: January 2019

Stove Brands by CarolJan 31, 20196:24 pm

Helios 5 Cleanburn Defra Approved Multi-Fuel Stove Review

The Helios 5 Multi-Fuel Stove is considered by many people to be an entry-level store of although this is not really a fair description. The long description is Helios 5 Cleanburn Defra Approved Multi-Fuel Stove, burning wood and approved solid fuels, which obviously highlights the fact it is Defra approved for use in smoke control areas. This is not one of those cheap and cheerful multifuel stoves you see in bargain basements, this is one of a range of Helios Stoves which are already making a strong impact on the market. As we look to review the Helios 5 Cleanburn Defra Approved Multi-Fuel Stove it is worth reminding ourselves it is available for less than £500.

Look and feel of the Helios 5 Stove

If there was one phrase to describe this stove it would be a “traditional multifuel stove” with an old world look and feel, creating the exact atmosphere you would expect. While the stove itself is relatively small, the viewing area is relatively large which allows you to watch the flickering flames and the burning embers. Even though the heat capacity is around 5 kW you will feel the impact of the heat created by this impressive wood-burning stove. In some ways it is the decorative edging around the viewing area which makes it stand out, gives it a little character and draws your attention.

Stove Advice & Maintenance by CarolJan 18, 20193:03 pm

10 things you should never burn in your wood burning/multifuel stove

There has been a lot of media coverage in relation to wood burning/multifuel stoves and what it is safe to burn. The UK government has launched a new clean air strategy and highlighted an array of different pollution sources. The simple fact is that burning any material creates heat but can also create an array of different pollutants.

Buy your Firewood Online – FREE LOCAL DELIVERY

The stove industry has improved the efficiency of both wood-burning and multifuel stoves enormously over the last decade. So far as to say, used correctly and burning the appropriate fuel, a modern day stove can be in excess of 80% efficient. It will also create 80% less air pollutants than stoves from just 10 years ago. In summary you should only use the following fuels:

Stove Advice & Maintenance by CarolJan 3, 20192:46 pm

Gas or wood-burning stoves, what is your preference?

Even though wood-burning stoves and multifuel stoves continue to grab the headlines we have also seen the emergence (or should that be re-emergence) of gas and electric stoves in recent times. There is a growing interest in gas stoves although many people are not quite sure about the pros and cons of gas stoves when compared to wood-burning stoves.

We have therefore put together a basic guide as to the pros and cons of gas and wood-burning stoves giving you some pointers and issues to think about.

The appearance

From a distance, it is difficult to notice the difference between a gas and a wood-burning stove. It is only when you get closer that you will realise the flames are different and the “inside decor” is different. A wood-burning stove creates a glow and the rustic feel of a burning wood which for many people epitomises the product.

Firewood and Fuel Tips by CarolJan 3, 20191:07 pm

Wood-burning stoves, maximising heat output

While many wood-burning stove owners will have their own tips and tricks to maximise heat output, the process is fairly straightforward and in many ways a scientific approach does best. Whether utilising the draft to light your fire, using the right type of wood or simply maintaining your stove, there are ways and means of maximising your heat output, reducing fuel costs and extending the life of your stove.

Air control

When you think about it, fires do not burn in a vacuum therefore it goes without saying that air control is an integral part of maximising fuel efficiency. When starting your stove in the morning, many people fully open the draft control which lets air in. You may need to reduce the amount of air entering your stove once the “fire has caught hold” but in the early days the draft will certainly help. It is also worth noting that once the stove is burning it is the amount of wood not the air control which will regulate the temperature.

Stove Advice & Maintenance by CarolJan 2, 20196:03 pm

Simple safety checks for your wood-burning stove

While the UK weather is difficult to predict (to say the least!) there are a number of simple safety checks you can carry out on your wood-burning stove. These will ensure that you squeeze maximum efficiency from your stove which can cumulatively have a significant impact on your fuel bills.

Sweep your chimney

The general consensus seems to be that you should have your chimney swept at least once a year, if not twice a year, to ensure everything is okay. If issues are found at a relatively early stage they can be rectified while those left can eventually cause serious damage. Any blockages can also lead to potentially fatal gas escaping into your room although thankfully carbon monoxide metres are now commonplace.