Stove Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Wood Burner for Your Home
Wood burning stove expert, Phil Wood, shares what homeowners should look out for if considering upgrading a fireplace or adding a freestanding stove for an efficient heating solution this autumn-winter Energy costs remain a concern for many households as the colder months set in. Gas and electricity prices are still high, and to avoid exorbitant heating bills, many homeowners are considering alternative options to keep warm this winter. When used and maintained correctly, a wood burner that meets government regulations is a completely viable option for homeowners looking to upgrade an old stove, replace an open fireplace, better heat a living space, or even switch to wood as the main energy source. And for those confused by the choice of wood burning stoves and what might be right for their needs, Phil Wood, UK Managing Director of Swedish stove manufacturer, Contura, is here to help. Phil says: “With cost-of-living still a challenge for many households and forecasts suggesting colder and more unpredictable weather this autumn-winter, homeowners may be looking for reliable ways to stay warm. A modern wood burning stove provides just this, delivering a dependable heat source and unparallelled comfort when the cold becomes too much. “Since 2022, wood burning stoves must be Ecodesign compliant, so all new stoves now meet strict UK and EU standards for cleaner burning and lower emissions. “Modern stoves save both resources and money when compared to open fireplaces. They offer around 80% efficiency compared to just 20% in the case of traditional open fires – convecting and radiating heat into the living space and halving the deemed air loss from a room – whilst less wood is needed to produce more heat – two logs of similar characteristics will burn for up to one hour in a wood burning stove compared to only 15 minutes on an open fire. “A compliant wood burning stove will also significantly reduce particulate emissions compared to an older model or an open fireplace. “After making the up-front investment, a wood burning stove will help save money on energy bills in the longer-term and allows homeowners to take back some control of their fuel supply. “And as well as reducing reliance on central heating, a stove acts as a design statement, offering both practicality and style through the colder months ahead”. Read on for Phil’s guide to choosing the right wood burner for your home. 1. Size & Heat Output When it comes to a wood burning stove, bigger is not always better. A stove that’s too powerful for your space will have you opening windows in midwinter, while one that’s too small won’t provide enough warmth. As a general rule of thumb, a 5kW stove will heat an average living room of around 20m², while 6-7kW models are better suited to larger or open-plan spaces. If in doubt, speak to your local stove dealership or using an online calculator to work out the correct output for your home. 2. Style & Positioning A stove should suit both your space and your personal taste. If you have a fireplace, an inset stove can sit neatly upon a hearth for a more traditional look, whilst a cassettestove can be built into a closed or purpose-built chimney breast for a more modern statement piece.If your home doesn’t have an existing chimney, a freestanding model can be installed almost anywhere, creating a flexible design feature. Taller stoves lift the fire into view, giving the flames more presence and creating a focal point in a room. Wood burning stoves also come in a range of finishes. From classic black cast iron to contemporary sleek white enamel, or even natural soapstone for a traditional Scandi aesthetic with added heat retention qualities. 3. Features Designed to Enhance Enjoyment, Convenience and Efficiency Stove design today goes far beyond delivering a simple black-box style chamber to burn wood, incorporating innovative features and advanced technology to enhance your enjoyment of the flames, improve efficiency, minimise emissions, and make life easier for stove owners. For optimal flame viewing, look for models that include large or wraparound glass panels that make the fire the centrepiece of any room. Silent sliding ash drawers or cool-touch handles ensure cleaner and safer use. Some models benefit from automatic air regulation that adjusts airflow to maintain a more even and efficient burn, whilst smart stoves with app connectivity will even notify you of weather changes and when it’s time to refuel. Be sure to compare features before purchasing to make day-to-day use easier and enhance the overall experience of stove ownership. 4. Considering Different Spaces For smaller rooms, compact inset or cassette stoves are ideal. They fit neatly into an existing fireplace or chimney breast, delivering warmth without overwhelming a room. For open plan living, a freestanding stove works perfectly as it can be placed virtually anywhere, so long as the flue can be connected to the outdoors. Tall glass panels or wraparound viewing panes allow the flames to be enjoyed from different angles, making a great choice for sociable spaces. A cubic cassette design stove built into the chimney breast or a purpose-built wall opposite the seating area will create a mesmerising centrepiece and allow you to enjoy the stress-relieving power of flames in place of a TV. For an underused corner, an elegant, tall cylindrical stove can create a welcoming, cosy zone, and will complement both modern and period interiors. A low model providing floor level flames will be ideal for rooms with low ceilings or for those who love lounging around on the rug – including any furry companions! 5. Budget & Installation The purchase of a wood burning stove can be a significant investment. While some stoves start from around £500, lower-cost options can lack in quality, efficiency and eco-credentials. Investing in a high-quality stove, installed by a professional, ensures maximum performance, safety, and better long-term value. A good benchmark to guarantee quality would be upwards of around £1,000, depending of course on size & output, brand name
Angus council bans stoves in social housing and public buildings
Angus Council leaders in north east Scotland have said they are banning solid fuel appliances and open fires in their own properties, such as social housing. Angus Council, which covers a large area of rural Scotland north of Dundee, has approved a new policy regarding the installation and use of wood burners, stoves, open fires, and other open-flued appliances within council-owned properties and tenancies. Under the new policy:• Angus Council will not normally permit the installation or replacement of solid fuel heating systems in its properties• Each application will be considered on its merits, but the default position will be to refuse requests due to environmental and health risks• In exceptional circumstances, where solid fuel may provide a significantly more cost-effective option than alternatives, an application may be considered following a full assessment and subject to approval.The policy does not apply to private homes, only to council housing and properties managed by Angus Council. The new policy – which is effectively a ban – comes almost exactly a year after the Scottish government reversed its own ban on the installation of solid fuel heating in new build properties. Angus Council’s Housing Committee Convener, Councillor Jill Scott said: “This policy is about ensuring clarity for our tenants in how the council will deal with requests regarding wood burners, stove and open fires in council properties. It does not apply to private homeowners. “While we understand the role of wood burners and open fires, our priority is to provide safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible heating for our tenants.” You can visit their website here.
Stove Industry Association Announces Restructure of Operations Team
The Stove Industry Association (SIA) has announced a restructure of its operations team, strengthening its leadership structure as the Association moves into its next phase of growth and development. From the 1st September 2025, the following appointments took effect: Erica Malkin moves into the role of Executive Director, having previously served as Communications Manager and Treasurer. In her new position, Erica will lead on strategic direction, governance, financial stewardship, and external relations and advocacy, acting as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for the Association. James Verlaque becomes Director of Policy, Regulation and Technical, evolving from his previous position as Technical Manager. James will lead the SIA’s policy engagement and technical strategy, representing members in regulatory consultations and providing authoritative technical guidance. David Hamilton takes on the role of Head of Membership, moving from his current role as Client Manager. David will focus on growing and retaining membership across all sectors, supporting members, and developing the SIA’s membership offer. Andy Hill will continue as Chair of the SIA, maintaining governance oversight, board leadership, and representation of the Association at sector level. Commenting on the restructure, Hugh Wells, Vice Chair of the SIA, said: “This evolution of our operations team is a very positive step in the Association’s journey. It ensures that we have the right expertise and leadership in place to serve our members effectively, influence policy, and champion the role of modern stoves in the UK’s energy mix. I am confident that Erica, James, David, and Andy will provide strong direction as we continue to grow and develop as an organisation.” The new structure reflects the SIA’s commitment to strengthening its voice on behalf of members, maintaining robust technical and regulatory engagement, and continuing to promote the important role that modern wood-burning stoves play in boosting energy grid resilience and providing affordable, renewable, and low-carbon heat. Erica Malkin, newly appointed Executive Director of the SIA, added: “I am delighted to take on this role at such an important time for the SIA and our industry. With a strong and experienced team in place, we are well positioned to build on the Association’s successes, continue to represent our members’ interests, and demonstrate the essential contribution that modern stoves make to affordable, renewable and low-carbon heating in the UK. I look forward to working closely with colleagues, members, and stakeholders to continue to deliver on these goals.” You can visit the Stove Industry Association website here.
The New 900 Style series from Contura
Europe’s leading wood burning stove manufacturer, Contura, launches a new stove collection this autumn: Contura 900 Style series is the ‘big brother’ to the brand’s most popular and award-winning stove series, 800 Style. Contura 900 Style builds upon the much-appreciated design and technology of Contura 800 Style, adding a larger format, new features, and more generous glass panels. Offering greater flame visibility, the glass door and side panels on Contura 900 Style are larger than in any of Contura’s previous models, making the fire the star of the show. The extremely spacious firebox makes lighting easier and more practical and allows for logs of up to 40 cm in length. Designed with heat exchange technology, facilitating the extraction of more energy from the wood, the 900 series also provides a more efficient heat source whilst also reducing emissions. In the taller 900 Style models there is also room for a Powerstone, which stores (and emits) heat for longer. In a first for Contura stoves, the 900 Style series features an all-new Bypass Function (BPF). When opening the door, a bypass damper opens, which captures the smoke and reduces the risk of it entering the room. Other functions and features of the 900 Style series include: Contura 900 Style comes in several colours, materials, sizes and heights, and with integrated open or closed log boxes, catering to different tastes, spaces and needs. Homeowners can choose from classic black, a contemporary grey, crisp white, or soapstone – with unique, natural veining. Contura 900 Style is also available with or without glass side panels. “The 900 Style series provides a bigger and improved version of our best-selling stove collection – the 800 Style – and with the latest fire combustion technology,” says Phil Wood, UK managing director at Contura. “This new series is ideal for those looking for more flame visibility, and with so many different variations of stove in regard to size, height, colours, glass panels, and log box options, stove owners will benefit from a truly customised appliance to fit their space, style preference and heating needs.” Features, specifications, availability & pricing: Contura 900 Style Low Contura 900 Style High Positioning Freestanding Fire visibility Large front and side glass panels Log box Yes (open or with door) Materials Cast iron and steel with soapstone option Dimensions Up to 1,145mm H Up to 1,620mm H Net Weight 108-188kg 130-240kg System efficiency class A+ Combustion efficiency 84-85% Maximum log length 40cm Heat capacity Up to 150 m2 Heat output 6 kw Price From £2,895 From £3,295 All Contura stoves meet Ecodesign regulations and are Defra Clean Air Act exempt, which means they are approved for use in Smoke Control Areas. Contura stoves offer style combined with outstanding performance, maximum efficiency, practicality and ease of use. With 80% heating efficiency compared to only 20% of traditional open fireplaces, and thanks to a 3-9kW heat output, Contura stoves can heat spaces of up to 150m². Further benefits include powerful convection and clean burning systems, ensuring less wood is used, working to save the environment as well as customers’ money. For more information, please visit www.contura.eu.
Poujoulat Introduces SLIMFLEX‑ISO: A Game‑Changer in Chimney Relining
Poujoulat, a leading name in chimney and flue systems, has unveiled its latest innovation: SLIMFLEX‑ISO, a state-of-the-art insulated flexible liner that sets a new standard in chimney renovation. Unveiled at the BEPOSITIVE trade show earlier this year, SLIMFLEX‑ISO is a first-of-its-kind, ultra-slim solution featuring a high-quality stainless steel liner at its core, surrounded by a 13 mm layer of mineral insulation and an outer sheath of robust glass fibre material. This compact design enables seamless relining of conventional masonry flues, even in tight spaces—a major advancement over bulkier traditional options. At the heart of the system lies the innovative GRIPFLEX header end-piece, designed to bind the insulation and glass fibre sheath snugly to the liner’s core. Its robust, ergonomic profile aids installers in guiding the liner through difficult bends and offsets. The result? Faster, smoother installations and improved flue draft performance. Poujoulat UK offers SLIMFLEX‑ISO in multiple diameters – from 80 mm up to 150 mm – presented in convenient 25 m coils and pre-cut lengths – complete with GRIPFLEX headers. SLIMFLEX‑ISO complements Poujoulat’s broader range of flexible flue solutions – such as STARFLEX, the trusted double-skin stainless steel liner for multi-fuel applications – and is fully compatible with all STARFLEX components, ensuring seamless integration and installation flexibility. What This Means for Installers and Homeowners• Ultra‑thin profile: The 13 mm insulation makes SLIMFLEX‑ISO ideal for space-limited environments.• Installer-friendly: End-piece GRIPFLEX eases threading through tricky offsets. • Customisable and efficient: Coil format with easy cutting saves time and materials. • Enhanced performance: Insulation improves and increases draught, prevents low-temperature flue gas and dew point formation, thereby extending the operating life of the chimney liner and boosting appliance efficiency. • Certified quality: SLIMFLEX‑ISO is CE marked and fully compliant with BS EN 1856‑2, carrying the designation T450 N1 W V2 L50010 G—assuring high standards of safety, performance, and durability. “SLIMFLEX‑ISO gives installers a reliable, future-proof solution for lining existing stacks -especially in tight or awkward flue runs,” says Anthony Reed-Forrester, Managing Director at Poujoulat UK. “Renowned for its innovation, Poujoulat continues to lead the way with this major step forward in chimney renovation – making relining simpler, neater, and more energy-efficient than ever before.”For more information, visit poujoulat.co.uk/Slimflex
Sweep uncovers prophetic 60-year-old newspaper page
A West Yorkshire chimney sweep has made the best find of his career so far. Gary Walker had to laugh when he pulled a historic bit of newspaper from the flue of a 1940s semi in Huddersfield. The ‘crispy’ but still readable page from the October 29, 1965 issue of The Daily Express featured an article speculating whether England could win the football World Cup on home soil the following year. The team, captained by Bobby Moore, famously beat West Germany at Wembley with two goals in extra time sealing a 4-2 victory. Unfortunately England teams ever since have watched their own World Cup ambitions go up in flames. As for how this historic keepsake avoided being burned up, Gary said he believed it had been stuck on a ledge high up in the chimney in a fireplace that had been unused for decades. He explained: “The landlady was renovating the home in between tenants and they had opened up an old open fire in a bedroom that had been boarded up for years. “She got me in to do a power sweep and I pulled it out. “I just laughed when I saw it as the guy was speculating whether England would win the World Cup or not. “The lady was also quite excited as her husband is a big football fanatic, so she took it home to show him. “It was quite interesting, there were a few bits that had been stuck on a shelf quite high up. “It’s probably been lifted up on the flue gases and then trapped on a ledge for all these years.” The other page uncovered by Gary features an article about Lord Snowden – who was a celebrated fashion photographer in 1960s London and controversial husband of Princess Margaret. The page also has news of Britain’s Eurovision song contest hopes. By Nick Lavigueur – Editor, Fireplace Specialist Visit the Swept website here.
Eurostove to exhibit at Grand Designs Live 2025
Leading self-build, renovation and home show Grand Designs Live returns to the NEC Birmingham this October and Eurostove is proud to announce that it too will be returning for a second time. Taking place from 3-5 October, Grand Designs Live is the place to visit for inspiration, ideas and expert advice for every room, garden and renovation project. Visitors can speak with the Eurostove team and see a range of award-winning woodburning and multi fuel stoves from Mendip, state-of-the-art electric stoves from Iconic and iLektro as well as new supplier Varde Ovne’s woodburners, all on the Eurostove stand H60. Beautifully crafted with the British home – and weather – in mind, Mendip Stoves’ classically styled woodburners and multi fuel stoves combine the best combustion techniques, traditional aesthetics and exceptional build quality to create the heart of the home. For those who need their heat quick, clean and fuss-free, the Iconic and iLektro electric fire collections provide instant heat at the touch of a button with realistic flame effects, authentic crackling and sparks and real fire audio for all the hallmarks of a real log fire without the effort. There are also app-operated designs, programmable timers, digital thermostats, remote controls and varying volume levels to suit every home. Eurostove will also be showcasing its latest supplier Varde Ovne, and its Scandinavian woodburners. These sleek and sophisticated stoves combine simple styling with quality, functionality and sustainability for innovative eco-conscious design that’s easy to use. For further information on Grand Designs Live at the NEC, visit www.granddesignslive.com
New Director for Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps
The Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps are pleased to announce that Tony Lavin has accepted the offer of appointment to the Guild Board of Directors. Tony has been involved with Guild training for several years. Many members will have met Tony whilst attending courses and recognise him as enthusiastic and approachable. Tony trained with the Guild in 2012 after a 30-year career in the police. He ran TL Chimney Sweep Services in Lincoln for over 12 years, ultimately selling the business on last year. Tony became a Guild Master Sweep and an on-site trainer. He has also assessed for the Level 2 NVQ in Chimney Sweeping. He has helped many new members with on-site training and invigilated during final assessments. Early this year the board asked Tony to take the lead with the new ‘Assessment Interview’ programme for existing sweeps seeking Guild membership. He has since interviewed a number of prospective members and made some valuable contributions to the fine tuning of this innovative programme. The board are looking forward to working alongside Tony and applying his considerable skills to the benefit of Guild members. His appointment will be ratified by members at the first opportunity, most likely the next AGM. Tony said: “I feel extremely honoured to have been asked by the Guild to join the Board of Directors. Since first completing the Guild training and becoming a chimney sweep, I have always been passionate about the sweeping industry and The Guild in particular. To put back something into the industry I decided to complete an assessor’s qualification and have assessed firstly for the Level 2 NVQ in Chimney Sweeping and latterly for The Guild. I also completed a formal teaching qualification after I started to teach on The Guild courses. I put my business up for sale in 2024 and it sold much quicker than I had anticipated. I was asked if I would continue to teach on The Guild courses and continue as a Guild assessor which I agreed to as I thoroughly enjoy doing both. Since my retirement from sweeping, I have become more involved with re-writing Guild assessment forms and exam papers. I am working in the agricultural industry now part-time but have got the capacity to become more involved in Guild work and projects and assist the other Directors who are still running their full-time chimney sweeping businesses. I look forwards to continuing to work with and for The Guild and its members and, by doing so, remain involved in the sweeping industry which has been my life for the past thirteen years. Albeit I know many Guild members, especially the newer ones that I have taught, I look forwards to meeting more existing members and am happy to try and provide assistance to anyone who requires it.” You can visit the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps website here.
Supporting Families with Modern Stoves: A Sustainable Solution for Rising Energy Bills
At Prime Minister’s Questions, which took place on the 16th July 2025, concerns over rising energy bills took centre stage. Jacob Collier, MP for Burton and Uttoxeter, highlighted the anxiety felt by families in his constituency, noting that many are dreading the impact of their winter energy bills. He welcomed Labour’s proposed Warm Homes Discount, which would offer £150 off energy bills, aiming to alleviate the financial strain on households. Sir Keir Starmer echoed these concerns, emphasising that the Warm Homes Discount would be a lifeline for many struggling constituents, with promises of more support on the way. While such initiatives are critical in the short term, we must also consider long-term solutions that can help households save energy and money year-round. Modern stoves, for instance, provide a practical and efficient heating solution. With innovations in stove technology, these appliances are not only very low emission and highly efficient, but also cost-effective. Modern wood-burning stoves offer exceptional efficiency, allowing households to reduce reliance on gas and electric heating, ultimately lowering their energy bills. They also provide a comforting, sustainable source of warmth, which is particularly valuable during cold months. As we move forward in addressing the rising cost of energy, investing in energy-efficient heating options like modern stoves can complement government initiatives like the Warm Homes Discount, giving families a sustainable way to stay warm while managing their energy expenses. Whether it’s through government support or personal investment in energy-efficient home solutions, the combination of immediate financial relief and long-term energy savings is key to helping families through these challenging times. For more on the SIA’s work and how modern wood burning stoves are helping to build a sustainable, low emission and low carbon future, visit: https://stoveindustryassociation.org/
Where Function Meets Flawless Finish: DEKO WOOD & DW DESIGN by DINAK
With over 40 years of manufacturing experience, DINAK offers high-performance flue systems that combine durability, clean aesthetics, and ease of installation. Both the Deko Wood 1.2mm and DW Design products have been designed with the installer and homeowner in mind. Therefore, we have carefully developed a full range of quality components to cover all installation situations. DEKO WOOD 1.2 mm Single-wall chimney, matt black vitreous enamel, 1.2 mm thick. The Deko Wood 1.2 mm range is the ideal solution for wood-burning stoves with a visible flue pipe. • Smooth finish with no visible welding • Colour stability and resistance to high temperatures and condensation • Can be cut on site, as long as the male end of the piece is always preserved • Provides an aesthetic connection and integrates perfectly in visible installations • Individually boxed and shrink-wrapped for additional protection • Available in diameters from 125mm to 200mm • 10-year manufacturer’s warranty DW DESIGN Double-wall insulated stainless steel flue, multi-fuel with a smooth aesthetic finish. A solution combining performance and aesthetics for all types of applications. • Factory-fitted union collar for quick and easy installation • Laser-welded finish and integrated locking bands for a seamless appearance • 25 mm high-density rockwool insulation • Suitable for dry and condensing applications (use silicone seals if condensing) • Compatible with wood, pellets, gas, gas oil and condensing oil • Gas-tight up to P1 (200 Pa), temperature class up to T600 (600 °C) • Available in stainless steel and matt black finishes as standard • Available in diameters from 80mm to 200mm • 10-year manufacturer’s warranty Feel free to contact us now and arrange a full demonstration of both systems, and to find out more about DINAK and the services we offer. Plot A, Opus Aspect, Chester Road, Erdington. B24 0QY – Birmingham. Tel: 0121 272 4830 uk@dinak.com / dinak.com