Office for Environmental Protection Annual Progress Report – SIA Statement
The Stove Industry Association (SIA) has welcomed the publication of the Office for Environmental Protection Annual Progress Report and its scrutiny of the government’s progress towards legally binding environmental targets. The report notes that “outdoor air quality in the UK has improved significantly over the past 50 years” which is greatly encouraging and has been brought about by a range of measures including sector regulation and technological advances. However, the SIA also recognises the report’s findings that emissions from domestic combustion have increased over the last decade. The technological advances in sustainable solid fuel stoves have been significant over the last decade so we must now look at progressing the replacement of open fires and older stove technology with modern, Ecodesign compliant stove models. These new stoves, which made up 100% of new appliance sales in 2023, represent a real opportunity for a significant reduction in PM emissions from domestic combustion, emitting up to 90% less PM than an open fire. In 2021, modern Ecodesign compliant stoves burning dry wood fuel accounted for less than 0.1% of total UK PM2.5 emissions; that’s 12 times less than cigarette smoking which, in 2021, created 0.92 kilo tonnes of PM2.5 emissions, and 18 times less than bonfire night which, in one single night of the year accounted for 1.5% of total UK PM2.5 emissions. (Source: NAEI) Choosing to burn dry wood on a modern appliance also helps to significantly reduce carbon emissions, particularly when you correspondingly reduce or don’t use oil, gas or electricity for heating. Wood logs have the lowest carbon emissions factor of any domestic heating fuel at 0.01kg CO2e per kWh, 1/20th that of natural gas or electricity. (Source: gov.uk Greenhouse gas reporting: conversion figures 2023) However, choosing the right appliance is only part of the picture. As the Report itself notes “…technological approaches to tackle air pollution will not be sufficient by themselves. Education and communication are crucial to bring about required changed in behaviour. This could include, for example, promoting clean burning practices…” Andy Hill, chair of the Stove Industry Association, commented: “The SIA and its members remain committed to raising awareness of the importance of responsible stove ownership and burning best practice, with information delivered via its website and social media channels. This is alongside the significant technological advances in stove manufacture in line with the Ecodesign Regulation and beyond. These advances continue, with the ultimate ambition being zero emission stoves.” SIA Top Tips For Environmental Protection: To keep up-to-date on the latest news from within the fireplace industry, subscribe to Fireplace Specialist Magazine today.
Tackling false information spread by London Wood Burning Project
Whilst the industry is doing a huge amount to reduce particulate emissions and working closely with Defra, it is always frustrating when you see negative campaigns that spread misinformation, such as the current London Wood Burning Project. Covering most of the London Boroughs, the campaign is funded by the Defra Air Quality Grant Scheme. The Campaign message being “Domestic wood burning, linked to increased risk of asthma and lung cancer – Wood burners. Careless, not cosy”. The Stove Industry Association (SIA) has been doing a lot of work to tackle the misinformation being circulated by the London Wood Burning Project. They are also aware of another range of very negative posts and adverts from another anti-burning project, Clean Air Hub which is part of the organisation’s Global Action Plan. Other SIA Members have published Blogs on the misinformation being circulated by the London Wood Burning Project to help set the record straight, you can read the arguments here: Certainly Wood, Charnwood and Charlton & Jenrick. Like Certainly Wood, Charnwood and Charlton & Jenrick are frustrated by the negative narrative unfairly manufactured around the wood-burning stove industry, “repeatedly use misleading claims and stats to scare the public” and keen to set the record straight. The issue is becoming an election debate with more misinformation headlining the Liberal Democrats debate The wood-burning stove community’s voice in this debate isn’t just about defending an industry; it’s about ensuring a fair and balanced path towards a cleaner and more energy-secure future. Targeting outdated appliances, promoting responsible practices, and encouraging sustainable forestry practices yielding far greater results for all. The SIA are emphatic that “A modern sustainable solid fuel stove used correctly is actually a very low emission, highly efficient, low carbon, and cost-effective way to heat the main living space in your home and provide radiated warmth throughout the rest of your property.” A recent article in the Telegraph tells us that despite the misinformation being circulated the rise in household energy bills that are staying stubbornly high while temperatures drop, the once-humble log burner has been flying off the shelves. More than a quarter of a million units were installed in British homes in the year to July 2023, as homeowners look for cheaper (and more rustic) alternatives to traditional heating systems. Andy Hill, chair of the Stove Industry Association (SIA), said burners have seen a “massive” rise in popularity, fuelled first by Covid and then the war in Ukraine. “Lots of people were spending their money on home improvements during the pandemic, and then the energy crisis made people look for ways to save money on their bills,” he explained. A supply of wood or other sustainable solid fuel means your heating is “bought and paid for” and households can gauge exactly how much fuel they are using to stay warm. “People are also wanting grid-independence. They’re worried that, if the grid goes down, can they heat their homes?” A modern sustainable solid fuel stove can also be beneficial for older properties as they are highly effective at providing space heating and reducing condensation, helping to alleviate mould and damp. A real fire can help promote feelings of warmth and security and provides a focal point for the whole family, in turn benefitting mental wellbeing. Scaremongering tactics about “domestic combustion” as a whole are unhelpful. Modern Eco-design compliant stoves burning dry wood make up a tiny fraction of UK particulate matter emissions – less than 0.1%. There are a whole host of human activities that generate PM emissions, and the UK stove industry is committed to ensuring that its appliances are as clean and efficient as possible. Using dry wood fuel is both sustainable and renewable; wood logs have the lowest carbon emissions factor of any domestic heating fuel at 0.01 kg CO2e per kWh. That’s 1/20th of the carbon emissions of natural gas or electricity and 1/29th that of oil. There is a world of difference between an open fire and a modern stove designed for precision combustion and maximum efficiency. Switching from an open fire to a modern stove will reduce PM emissions by up to 90%. Burning dry wood (e.g. Ready to Burn certified) in an Eco-design compliant stove (e.g. clear skies certified) makes up just 0.09% of total UK PM2.5 emissions. Take care when choosing your appliance and your fuel to ensure that you minimise emissions and maximise efficiency. Locally sourced wood fuel helps support small businesses and reduces the carbon footprint of fuel transport. It is a key component of the woodland management cycle and the economies attached to it. It also plays a key role in maintaining woodland diversity, health, and resilience. Unmanaged woodland is bad for wildlife. At present 42% of UK woodland is unmanaged. At SFL, as part of the Sphering Group we are passionate about building on our 50 years of experience leading developments in the industry and producing the most efficient flues and chimneys for the most efficient stoves on the market. We too understand why people want to reduce PM2.5. As a committed company determined to play an active role towards the environment and society, Sphering, the Group has its own R&D centre: WeLab®. This facility has allowed the group to comply with the newest European standards (including the NZEB: nearly zero energy building) in terms of security and performance of appliances, but also to adopt a responsible innovation approach. Want more information? Find out what the Stove Industry Alliance are saying over at: https://stoveindustryalliance.com/the-real-facts-about-wood-burning-stoves/ Images courtesy of Adobe Stock.
The small wood burning stove Accona from F2 Fires
Whether it’s a period property, cosy cottage or barn conversion, the Accona stove from F2 Fires is a small woodburning stove expertly crafted to sit snugly inside a fireplace opening. Bringing a characterful focal point to living spaces with a 5kW heat output and 3-6kW range to suit all seasons, this compact stove may be small in size but it delivers big in warmth and comfort, all year round. The A+ rated Accona from F2 Fires is available from Eurostove and features clean burn technology with an advanced secondary air wash system for a clean and clear view of the flickering flames and radiant heat inside. Perfect for cosy evenings in catching up on the latest box set or hunkering down with a good book, the stove’s airflow is easily controlled for performance and heat output. Measurements / Dimensions This Ecodesign compliant stove is crafted from durable and hardwearing cast iron for a stove that lasts for years to come while also delivering even, radiant heat throughout, making it extremely efficient. The stove measures H570 x W430 x D394mm and can be used with both wood and smokeless fuels in all areas, including smoke control zones. It has a 150mm distance to combustibles at the rear and 450mm to the side and comes in a stylish anthracite finish. Design Suitable for use with a 12mm glass hearth, the Accona stove is safe and convenient with an elegant look that creates a stunning centrepiece to living areas, dining rooms, snugs, dens and open-plan spaces. It also comes with adjustable feet for full flexibility on any surface. “The Accona woodburning stove is a really versatile design” says Chris Baines, Managing Director of Eurostove. “It’s compact enough to fit into any standard fireplace and brings timeless charm and character to any home. It’s also an extremely efficient stove that combines mesmerizing flicking flames with a warm glow, perfect for cosy nights in with the family or entertaining friends.” Pricing The Accona stove from F2 Fires is priced £750 from Eurostove, view them here: https://www.eurostove.co.uk/accona Other articles View our other articles and discover more from Eurostove: https://fireplacespecialistmagazine.co.uk/category/article/
Percy Doughty Appoints new Technical Director
Percy Doughty, a market leader in the Fireplace industry has announced the appointment of Simon Bower as its new Technical Director. Having worked in the heating industry for over 20 years, and prior to joining Percy Doughty in 2018 in his capacity as Technical Services Manager, Simon has accumulated an extensive knowledge in this field and gained valuable experiences throughout this time, in various senior technical positions held. Speaking of the appointment, Andrew Mulligan Managing Director said: ‘Simon has a tremendous amount of technical experience and has demonstrated continued commitment and dedication to the company. This is a pivotal time for our industry, the combination of technical expertise and project management skills make him a valuable addition to our senior management team. Based at the Head Office in Farnworth Simon’s vision and experience will play a crucial role to further enhance the company’s strategic implementation of the current and future product development project plan. This role will further strengthen the senior management team bringing greater structure and energise the team ensuring Percy Doughty remains at the forefront of the Fireplace industry. Simon added “As Technical Director, the role is the natural career progression for me, and I am looking forward to the challenge, contributing to the senior team and playing my part in the delivery of the company strategy, in order to reach our goals collectively. I am also extremely excited at the prospect of what we can achieve together as a team, in this new phase of the company’s journey.” Percy Doughty based in Bolton, are a UK market leader in solid fuel spares, fireplaces, stoves & accessories. Selling directly to the trade since 1952, the product portfolio now boasts a range of over 6000 stock lines, home of the Vision Fires, Qudos, Penman and Gallery collections. Don’t forget to subscribe to Fireplace Specialist Magazine to receieve updates, stories and all the latest news from within the industry right to your inbox!
Latest Woodland stove from Mendip: extra size, extra heat
The latest model of Mendips Woodland stove is here with a larger size and a higher, more powerful heat output. Manufactured in Somerset, this British designed stove, with all the qualities needed for today’s modern living, is now available in a larger design, perfect for open-plan schemes and spacious living areas. The award-winning Woodland is Mendip’s best selling model. To complement the original 5kW version, the new Woodland Large is a powerful 8kW stove with higher legs and a deep chamber for a spacious feel. Its large glass viewing window and clean-lined look make it ideal for both contemporary and classic interiors. With an easy-to-use dual-control air adjustment system, the Woodland stove allows for optimum combustion and control. The tertiary air also aids post-combustion of the flue gases; so ultimately, your stove will burn cleanly, creating as much energy from your fuel as possible. Naturally the Mendip Woodland Large adheres to the 2022 Ecodesign standards, meaning it emits around 80% fewer particles than stoves of old with 90% fewer particles than open fires. Better for the environment, better for the pocket. About Mendip Stoves Mendip Stoves, manufacturer of modern woodburning and multifuel stoves, opened its brand-new factory in Somerset in January 2023. The Mendip range is also designed in Britain, ensuring that the stoves are beautifully built by experienced craftsmen using cutting-edge technology. Mendip stoves are manufactured to exceed British standards with demand for quality at every stage. From its heavy-duty steel body to the ergonomically designed door handle, every detail has been meticulously considered. The Woodland Large costs from £2,287, you can find more information and view the product here on the Mendip Stoves website Interested in more of Mendip’s products? View our recent article on The Churchill 5 Multi-Fuel Stove from Mendip here. Don’t forget to subscribe to keep up-to-date with all the latest products in the fireplace industry!
New Year, New Courses at Mr Soot
There’s no standing still at Mr Soot!
With the New Year now here, Mr Soot is launching a series of courses to help YOU grow your knowledge and business in 2024.
Alongside their core HETAS courses, they’re delivering a series of business masterclasses as well as in-depth chimney-related courses.
Hunter Stoves’ Herald Range – Tradition Reinvented for the Modern Era
In the realm of stove manufacturing, the Hunter Stoves brand has long stood as a beacon of quality and heritage. This year, the industry watches with keen interest as Hunter Stoves embarks on a transformative journey, rebranding their much-acclaimed Herald Range. This move isn’t just a facelift; it’s a significant stride towards amalgamating the charm of traditional stoves with the advancements of modern technology and design. For over four decades, the Herald Range has been a mainstay of Hunter Stoves’ portfolio, revered for its dependability and quintessential design. The rebranding of this iconic range marks a pivotal moment, reflecting the company’s dedication to evolving with the times while preserving the core attributes that have cemented its place in many UK homes. This reimagined Herald Range stands as a testament to Hunter Stoves’ commitment to innovation. Incorporating Eco Design technology, these stoves not only adhere to but surpass contemporary environmental standards. This development aligns with the increasing consumer emphasis on sustainability, offering the classic warmth of a Hunter stove, now coupled with eco-conscious peace of mind. Aesthetically, the rebranded range strikes a harmonious balance between traditional and contemporary. While retaining the classic cast iron accents – a homage to the craftsmanship of yore – the stoves now sport a refreshed, more streamlined design that resonates with modern tastes. The result is a collection that is both nostalgically familiar and excitingly new. The integration of CLEANBURN technology is a highlight of this rebranding. This feature significantly enhances the stoves’ efficiency, ensuring optimal fuel usage and reduced emissions. It’s a move that not only elevates the stoves’ functionality but also positions them at the forefront of the environmentally friendly heating solutions market. The rebranded Herald Range maintains its versatility, offering both single and double door options to suit various interiors and preferences. The redesign of the inbuilt grate and ashpan underscores Hunter Stoves’ focus on user-friendly maintenance and efficient performance. Another innovative feature in this rebrand is the upgraded AIRWASH system, designed to keep the glass doors of the stoves clear, thereby enriching the visual enjoyment of the flames and lessening the need for frequent cleaning. This system exemplifies Hunter Stoves’ knack for marrying practicality with aesthetic appeal. Accompanying these technical and aesthetic updates is a renewed commitment to customer satisfaction. The extended 10-year conditional warranty on wood-burning stoves in the range reflects Hunter Stoves’ confidence in their products and dedication to customer assurance. As Hunter Stoves unveils its rebranded Herald Range, it invites both long-time enthusiasts and new customers to experience how the brand continues to honour its legacy while embracing future possibilities. This blend of tradition and modernity, quality and sustainability, places the new Herald Range in a class of its own. For more information about the range, visit www.hunterstoves.co.uk
Percy Doughty launches new brand – The Qudos Collection
Percy Doughty is excited to announce the latest addition to their product portfolio, the Qudos Collection. The Qudos Collection presents a distinctive range of beautiful, cutting edge and innovative designs, born out of the vast experience that comes with developing and manufacturing the world’s finest quality fireplaces for over 70 years. The Collection brings together a range of quality stoves that deliver in both form and function. Every Qudos appliance is designed with our forward-thinking approach and crafted with meticulous attention to detail. So, if you are looking for an extraordinary Eco Design Ready Stove or a gas appliance, you will recognise the difference our design and details make. Launching January 2024, the new Qudos Collection is the perfect range for those who wish to create the ultimate luxury fireplace and deliver extraordinary heating performance to their home. Responsible for transforming the humble stove into the prestigious focal point of the home. From the outset of every stove concept, before pencil touches paper, one of the driving goals of our design team is to ensure an enjoyable user experience. From the ergonomic consideration of handles and control knobs to easy to operate remote control systems, we want our appliances to be a joy to use, intuitive to interact with, all without fuss or frustration. Andrew Mulligan Managing Director said “We are excited about the launch of the Qudos Collection. Our design and technical teams have done an outstanding job developing a range of new premium stoves. The new range of stove products includes balanced flued gas stoves, and EcoDesign Ready stoves. Work has already commenced on the development of the next additions. Graeme Tombs Design manager added “The Qudos Collection was created by our inhouse team of artisan designers who all share a passion for innovative design. From the outset of every stove concept, one of the driving goals of our design team was to ensure an enjoyable user experience. Our designs pioneer an inspirational new way of living with contemporary appliances for any room in the home.” For more information on the Qudos Collection please visit www.qudoscollection.co.uk, call 01204 868550 or email info@qudoscollection.co.uk
The Churchill 5 Multi-Fuel Stove from Mendip
When you want to create a cosy interior with a clean, efficient burn that complies with all the new rules on Ecodesign 2022, the Churchill 5 from Mendip Stoves, which comes in three different configurations all at 5kW, is the perfect choice. The impressive curved door, which is made from cast iron, features a large viewing window and dual air control. This gives users even greater control over the primary and secondary air intake. Ideal for making a focal point in any space, the Churchill 5 can fit into an inglenook fireplace or stand alone in the room to make a lasting first impression. A+ rated for energy efficiency, it offers multi-fuel burning, closed combustion for better efficiency and a contemporary freestanding design that complements all decors and property styles. The floor standing model measures H614mm x W505mm x D388mm and is suitable for smoke control areas too, making it ideal for city dwelling. With its clean-lined contemporary design, which suits both modern and traditional interiors, the stove comes with or without a log store for convenience. It’s also 12mm floor plate compatible and has a convection top plate. The Churchill 5 Convection Dual Control features contemporary curved convection panels which lower the distance to combustibles to the sides of the stove to 150mm, making it perfect for open-plan living. Chris Baines, MD of Eurostove, comments: “Mendip Stoves has a wide range of Ecodesign and Defra approved models that meet the emissions and minimum efficiency criteria of the new legislation, reducing particle matter emissions by burning wood more efficiently. Burning fuel more efficiently gives a clean environment in which to spend time in. We are proud to do our part in helping the planet and help consumers make the right choice for both their home and the environment.” An Ecodesign compliant wood burner produces up to 90% fewer emissions than an open fire and up to 80% less than a stove manufactured over 10 years ago. “When choosing a new stove,” adds Chris, “it must ‘fit’ the room in terms of heat output. As a general rule, work out the cubic metre capacity of the room and divide by 14. This gives the ideal minimum heat output required in kW. However, for modern and well-insulated homes it is probably more accurate to divide by 20. One must also make sure that the distance to combustibles is observed, as individual stoves may have very different space requirements around the stove itself. Finally, do ensure that the stove is professionally installed by a HETAS registered engineer. Not only is this the safe choice but your home insurance may be invalid if not.” The Churchill 5 from Mendip Stoves is priced from £1,557, the logstore from £1,765 and the convection model is from £1,627.
The Hergom E-30 family from Eurostove is designed for longevity and comfort
Hergom E-30 S With autumn/winter just around the corner, now is the perfect time to reassess heating within the home. As energy bills continue to rise, a woodburning stove is the perfect solution to saving money while giving any interior a warm, cosy glow and a focal point feature at the same time. There’s nothing like coming home after a chilly walk and relaxing in front of a roaring fire or enjoying a weekend with the family in the comfort and warmth that a Eurostove woodburner provides. Suitable for compact living rooms through to large, open-plan spaces, the Hergom E-30 stove is available in three sizes – small, medium and large – making it the perfect choice for everything from a country cottage to a spacious and modern new-build. All sizes comply with the Ecodesign directive, and feature a balanced design with optimised combustion system with a built-in air wash to keep the glass clean and maintain an optimised view of the flames within. The Hergom E-30 S is the smallest of the three, offering a contemporary look with a simple design, large viewing window and clean lines. Made from quality European solid cast iron for longevity, this compact yet highly efficient stove features white cast iron reflective panels on the inside. As well as being robust and durable, the panels have the added benefit of reflecting heat back into the room. Rated A for energy efficiency, the E-30 complies with all current regulations and specifications for new Clear Air legislation, and is also DEFRA approved so it can be used in Smoke Control Areas. Hergom E-30 M The Hergom E-30 M is the medium sized model, which is also A rated and DEFRA approved and combines a balanced design with optimised combustion technology to create a high quality and efficient stove. Thanks to the white internal plates, heat is slowly and gently reflected back into the room, ensuring the space remains warm and cosy long after the fire has gone out. Hergom E-30 L As the largest of the Hergom E-30 family, the A-rated E-30 L has a wide 52cm viewing window for a great view of the flames within. With a high heat output of 11kW, it’s perfect for larger spaces and open-plan living and can take awkwardly-shaped logs as well as those up to 60cm in length. The Hergom E-30 small stove is priced from £1,842; the medium, from £2,241 and the large, £2,690. As part of the Eurostove family, Hergom is one of Europe’s largest and most established manufacturers of cast iron stoves. Made in its own state-of-the-art foundry in Santander, northern Spain, they use only the finest materials to produce durable, efficient, thermally effective heating solutions. Image courtesy of Eurostove.