The Best Woodburners
Wood burners are believed to lower blood pressure and help relax. But what about the tiny sooty particles they release into the air?
New stoves are designed to be compliant with the EcoDesign directive. You can enjoy a warm and cosy home without compromising on your environmental commitments.
1. Ekol Edge
The Ekol Edge is a simple-looking wood burner that doesn't compromise on performance. It's a fantastic choice for those who live in smoke-free areas, as it has ClearSkies Level 5 certification. This means it can be used to burn dry and seasoned wood logs or approved solid fuels. Its large heat output makes it a great option for larger rooms and the large glass firebox provides a stunning view of your flames.
It is constructed of modern steel, and therefore can be used in both traditional inglenooks as well freestanding situations. It comes with an air wash system that keeps the glass clean, and prevents soot accumulation. The stove is extremely seasonal efficiency, which means that a significant portion of the heat produced is transferring into your home instead of being lost up the chimney.
Wood burners have been the subject of some criticism in recent times since it was proven that they contribute to tiny sooty particles in the air known as PM2.5 which has been linked to heart and lung problems. However, newer models that are made to conform to the Eco design Regulations are much less likely to generate these particles. Wood burners contribute to pollution created from burning fossil fuels, such as coal and gas.
It is crucial to select the correct wood for the stove in order to get the highest heat output and combustion. There are a variety of wood that can be burned in your stove, including eucalyptus, hazel and beech. Eucalyptus, which is quick-burning, but also offers plenty of heat, is a great option. However, it needs to be well-seasoned. Beech is a different option however its thorns that are vicious make it difficult to handle with protective gloves.
The Ekol Adept has been designed to handle the upcoming changes to regulations that were recently implemented as well as being Defra exempt and ClearSkies rated, which means that you can use it with approved fuels as long as you follow the guidelines. It's a robust, durable burner with a 10-year Body Warranty and a robust construction. The heating performance is also impressive.
2. Arada Holborn 5 Widescreen
Wood burning stoves remain popular despite the confusing regulations that govern the use of these stoves. Some campaign groups have pushed for tighter regulations and even the ban of log burners. It's worth checking out our guide on the pollution of stoves and regulations prior to shopping for a new multifuel or log fire.
One company which is doing its bit to keep the popularity of woodburners at a high is Arada Stoves, who have recently launched a widescreen model of their renowned Holborn 5 Multifuel/Wood Burning stove. It's a DEFRA approved, SIA 2022 Ecodesign Ready stove with a huge door glass that provides the best flame view and an airwash system that helps to prevent soot from accumulating.
With a maximum heat output of 4.9kW, this is a great stove to heat the majority of rooms. It's extremely easy to operate and maintain. The curving lines and classical design make it suitable for both traditional and contemporary decor. This model can be easily placed in smaller spaces due to its flat back design. It is also easy to install direct air systems with this model, which will increase the efficiency.
The stove also has an integrated ash dump which makes it simple to clear ashes and clean them up regularly. This helps reduce the risk of odours and dust escaping the room. You can choose between two types of flue adaptors, dependent on the chimney type. It is also available with a wireless remote control.
While the debate continues about whether wood burning stoves are beneficial to your health, we can all agree that they create a wonderful ambience in our homes. However, it is important to keep in mind the impact of particulate matter as well as the way that burning wood and other types of fuels can impact the quality of indoor air as well as health. If you're installing a woodburner, it is recommended that you close the door when not working on the flame. It is also recommended to regularly clean the stove to keep the air as clean as is possible.
3. Go Eco 5kW Plus
A woodburner adds a lovely ambience to a room, it's not only relaxing to watch the flames dance, but it can also help reduce blood pressure. It's not without it's problems however, research has revealed that older stoves can cause harm because they release tiny soot particles that can get in your breathing system. New regulations have been enacted to ensure that log stoves have higher standards. This helps reduce creosote and smoke leakage and, more important, harmful gases such as carbon monoxide.
New woodburners have to comply with a new standard, and this is where the Go Eco 5kW Plus stands out. This multi-fuel stove not only meets, but surpasses the new standards. It has a large, clear view window that provides an excellent view of the flame,
Small and is maintained clean by a powerful air wash system. This stove boasts an impressive 80% efficiency rating. It is DEFRA exempt, which means it can be used in areas that are smoke-free. It is also SIA Ecodesign-ready, which means it already meets European emission limits for wood-burning stoves which will be in effect in 2022.
This stove comes with a free air ventilation kit. It's now simpler to install than it has ever been. It's a solid little stove, that has been built with high-quality steel. The finish is a classic matte black. It's easy-to-clean as the body has been coated with an enamel that wards off dirt.
The clearSkies label on this stove demonstrates that it has been independently tested and verified to be sustainable and efficient. This goes above and over the minimum requirements laid out by Ecodesign. This is one of only one stove on our list that have the full five-star clearSkies rating.
4. Chilli Penguin Defrost
Chilli Penguin is a feisty Welsh wood burner brand with a maverick style that shouldn't be missed out on. They specialize in
small, do-it-all multi-fuel stoves, which have earned them cult status thanks to their low flue-draught requirements, stove tops with hotplates, integrated ovens, and a range of features and sizes. This 4.7kW model exemplifies their focus on brand and also shows that they can still deliver the best quality product at a cost that isn't too costly. This DEFRA-approved woodburner is suited for use in Smoke Control Areas, and is fully in compliance with the current emissions limit of 5g/hr. It also comes with level five ClearSkies qualifications. It's the perfect option for those who aren't sure what the future direction of the directive is and want to be confident that their log burners will be free of smoke control regulations.
