Eurostove is the new official distributor for Varde Ovne
Eurostove Ltd, the family-owned UK company specialising in the supply, distribution and manufacture of wood-burning stoves, gas and electric fires, is thrilled to announce its appointment as the new official distributor of Scandinavian wood-burning brand Varde Ovne in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland. Based in Somerset, Eurostove Ltd is a well-established and highly regarded company, offering innovative heating solutions and expert advice for heating the home. Renowned for its in-depth industry knowledge, expertise and outstanding customer service, Eurostove is excited to now play a pivotal role in the continued success and development of the Varde Ovne brand. Varde Ovne’s sleek and stylish wood-burning stoves are built on the bedrock of Scandinavian design – combining simple styling with quality, functionality and sustainability in one. Its stoves create a lifestyle as well as a cosy home, and the brand prides itself on its craftsmanship, product development and sustainable credentials, making it a perfect fit for Eurostove. “We are thrilled to be expanding our mutual business and launching this successful partnership,” says Chris Baines, Managing Director of Eurostove. “Varde Ovne prides itself on its innovative design, ease of use and environmental impact and this fits in perfectly with our own ethos. We know our customers will also appreciate the stoves’ Scandinavian aesthetic and we cannot wait to show what we have in store.” For further information on Varde Ovne products or services, please contact the Eurostove head office, where its experienced and helpful team are on hand to help. Call 01934 750500 or email info@eurostove.co.uk The Varde Ovne head office can also be contacted on +45 7482 0003 or sales@vardeovne.dk. Visit their website here: https://vardeovne.dk/en/
Fondis inserts: The perfect stove solution for customers who want an open fire
For many people an important feature of their dream home is a big open fire, but that’s not something that fits with modern houses. The answer to this problem is Fondis inserts, a wide screen insert stove with a counter-balanced guillotine door. This gives you all the efficiency, controllability and safety of a stove but, at the lift of a fingertip, the door slides up and away and you’re left with a big roaring fire. Fondis have been designing and manufacturing stoves like this for years and their Stella and Ulys models have a number of big advantages over the competition. The problem with stoves with big windows is that they need a lot of airwash to keep them clean, so you end up with a stove that can’t be turned down. Fondis have solved this by keeping their windows clear using viseoceram glass. An invisible metallic coating on the glass means that the window heats up the moment the stove is lit, preventing any particulates condensing on the window. Any dust that does land on the glass is burnt off the moment the fire is turned up. The result is a stove that can be turned right down, and will burn gently for hours on just a few logs, all the while keeping its window sparkling clean. While other makes stress that the door should only be raised for re-loading, and some even have the door weighted to self-close, Fondis make it clear that their inserts can be used with the door up. This is a winning feature for those customers who really want an open fire. Fires like this aren’t limited to just rural areas either as Fondis’s best selling model, the Stella 111, is DEFRA Exempt. So cleanly do Fondis stoves burn that even on its lowest setting the Stella breezed through the DEFRA test without any air control adjustment being needed. Despite their beautiful designs and high build quality, Fondis stoves are still very reasonably priced compared to their competition, putting them within reach of a much larger customer base. This affordability is further enhanced by the fact that most models are designed to go on 200mm flues, in sharp contrast to the 300mm and 350mm flues required on many continental fires of this type. So there you have it, a range of efficient, clean burning and controllable wide screen insert stoves that don’t cost the earth. Every showroom needs to offer that top end alternative to black box stoves and cassette inserts and the Fondis range perfectly fills that role. For further information, and to learn about our showroom deals, contact Martin on 01803 712721 or email martin@firepower.co.uk www.firepower.co.uk
World of Fireplaces 2025 trade fair inspired the experts in Leipzig
The second edition of the international trade fair for fireplaces in Leipzig brought together over 340 exhibitors and more than 8,600 visitors from all over the world – and impressively confirmed that the World of Fireplaces has established itself as a central industry platform and driving force for dialogue and innovation in all aspects of tomorrow’s heating solutions. The World of Fireplaces 2025 (WOF) has come to an end with great popularity and positive feedback. From 28 to 30 April, 20,000 square metres of Hall 5 at the Leipzig Exhibition Centre were transformed into the international centre of the fireplaces industry – “the fireplace to be” – with exhibitors and trade visitors from numerous countries, leading industry representatives, a top-class supporting programme and strong political interest. The second edition of the still young trade fair not only seamlessly built on the great success of the premiere in 2023, but also surpassed it in almost all areas – be it in terms of the number of exhibitors, visitor attendance or media interest. Michael Rambach, Managing Director and shareholder of the organising trade fair company trendfairs, draws an extremely positive conclusion: “What we have experienced here at WOF 2025 in Leipzig is a strong sign for trendfairs. The great success of the première was not only confirmed, but even increased. The enormous response makes me proud and shows that the World of Fireplaces has finally established itself as a permanent meeting point and source of inspiration for the industry – as a place where innovation, dialogue and visions for the future come to life.” This year’s World of Fireplaces attracted 340 exhibitors, an increase of 41 per cent compared to 2023. The response from trade visitors was also exceptionally high: over 8,600 trade fair visitors from 61 countries were counted at the entrances, with the first two days of the event standing out as particular crowd-pullers. In addition, around 1,200 exhibitor representatives, who were on site every day, ensured a lively trade fair. Around 63 per cent of visitors came from Germany, in particular from the economically strong state of Bavaria with a particularly large number of trade visitors. Saxony followed in second place, which impressively emphasises Leipzig’s importance as an attractive and strategically important trade fair location. Baden-Württemberg and North Rhine-Westphalia were also well represented. But the World of Fireplaces also lived up to its name in terms of internationality: trade visitors from the Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Great Britain, the Czech Republic, Belgium, Sweden, Switzerland and Italy were particularly numerous. There were also experts from Denmark, Norway, Slovakia, France and Spain. Guests even travelled to Leipzig from overseas: China in particular should be mentioned here, followed by Australia and the USA as well as other African, Asian and South American countries. The trade fair once again attracted numerous decision-makers and industry experts: Owners, managing directors and sales managers together made up the largest group of visitors. They were joined by specialists from assembly and customer service, purchasing, marketing, product management and development as well as designers and independent sales representatives – a mix that made the trade fair a high-calibre meeting place for the industry. The exhibitors – with a focus on pellet, tiled and storage stoves, electric fireplaces, decorative fireplaces, cookers and grills, flue gas systems, control technology, fuels, building materials and software solutions for smart homes – were also enthusiastic. In particular, the diversity of the sectors represented ensured a positive response. The most important target groups – fireplace and stove manufacturers and specialist studios – were represented by a clear majority of 55 per cent. The breadth of the industry was also reflected: compared to 2023, almost twice as many tiled stove and ventilation builders attended, accounting for 14 per cent of visitors. Chimney sweeps, flue gas technicians, HVAC tradespeople, architects and energy consultants also made intensive use of the trade fair to exchange information and network. Decision-makers from construction and electrical store chains rounded off the visitor spectrum, a clear indicator of the growing relevance of the sector in the construction and energy industry. Fireplace HUB: Forum for forward-looking topics The Fireplace HUB was the meeting point for knowledge transfer over the three days of the trade fair. Presentations and interactive discussions focussed on the topics of emissions reduction, energy, particulate matter, trade, hybrid heat and security of supply. Personal encounters and direct interaction between players from business, politics and associations and trade visitors took centre stage. Major industry associations contributed to the success of the Fireplace HUB. This joint kick-off event is crucial for generating momentum in the political arena. The participating associations include the German Firewood Association, the German Biomass Research Centre (DBFZ), the Agency for Renewable Resources (FNR), the European Fireplaces Association (EFA), the German Stove Builders’ Association (GVOB), the German Association for House, Heating and Kitchen Technology (HKI), the Wood Heat Initiative, the German Chimney Sweep Association (ZIV) and the Straubing Technology and Promotion Centre (TFZ). Innovative heating solutions at the “Hybrid heat” special show Topics relating to the energy transition are currently causing a lot of movement in the industry, which is reflected in new technical developments and innovations. WOF took this development into account with the special show “Hybrid Heat” as an important highlight of the trade fair. Visitors were given an overview of the range of innovative heating systems that combine conventional and renewable heating technologies to efficiently supply domestic heating and hot water. From wood-burning stoves with modern heat exchange technology to combinations with solar and photovoltaic systems: the variety of solutions was impressive. Conclusion and outlook With its mix of new products, technological innovations and socially relevant topics such as the energy transition, security of supply and emissions reduction, the World of Fireplaces 2025 has impressively proven itself as an indispensable industry meeting place. What began two years ago as an ambitious event has now developed into one of the most dynamic platforms for heating technologies in Europe. The next World of Fireplaces is already being planned
Elevate Your Expertise with Poujoulat’s Industry-Leading Training
At Poujoulat UK, we believe that knowledge is the foundation of excellence. That’s why we offer HETAS-approved training designed to equip installers with the skills and expertise needed to excel in the chimney industry. Whether you’re an experienced professional or new to the trade, our comprehensive programmes ensure you have the confidence to tackle any installation challenge. Our dedicated training centre in Guildford, Surrey, provides hands-on experience in real-world scenarios, led by industry experts with decades of experience. Anthony Reed-Forrester, Managing Director of Poujoulat UK, and Terry Caldecott, HETAS’s first Training Course Director, bring unparalleled insight to our courses, making learning both practical and engaging. To further enhance your training, our Online Learning Platform offers a flexible, self-paced approach to chimney education. This unique platform allows you to expand your knowledge of HETAS courses anytime, anywhere. In addition to HETAS certification, we provide specialised training on Poujoulat products, ensuring you gain a deep understanding of our world-leading chimney systems. From pot-hangers to triple-wall chimneys, our training gives you the expertise to install with confidence. Supporting you throughout your journey is Alecia Elphick, our dedicated Training Coordinator, who is on hand to guide you every step of the way. With over 70 years of industry leadership, Poujoulat UK is committed to not only delivering top-quality chimney solutions but also empowering professionals with the knowledge to succeed. Train with the best—train with Poujoulat UK. Visit their website here. For more information contact Alecia Elphick training@poujoulat.co.uk01483 461700
ESSE unveils next generation garden stove with pizza oven
It’s almost time to embrace the Great British summer and all that entails – whether it’s enjoying homemade pizza in the bright sunshine, or cozying up on cool evenings around the fire. Master British stove maker ESSE has unveiled this summer’s most versatile must-have; a stunning outdoor garden stove complete with pizza oven. Along with welcome warmth and a clear view of the flames, al fresco diners can enjoy mouth-watering pizzas in just two minutes, with authentic wood-fired flavour. The rectangular cooking chamber above the firebox measures 410mmW x 395mmD; ideal for a 10-slice 14” sharing pizza. As the UK’s oldest stove manufacturer, established in 1854, ESSE understands the British stove market and the changeable British seasons. This practical garden stove comes complete with wheels to move positions and escape the wetter weather, as well as being easily stored away if required. Unlike stone-built pizza ovens, this portable model means customers can pick the perfect spot for it depending on their mood or the position of the sun – you might opt for pizzas on the patio, or long leisurely lunches on the lawn. It comes with a 1500mm length flue pipe to take smoke up away from garden gatherings and has a built-in rear air slide to conveniently control the burn rate. The wood-fired pizza oven provides a sustainable and traditional way of cooking, without hassle. The steel plate’s heat retention and distribution means you can achieve restaurant-quality pizzas with an authentic wood-fired flavour and deliciously charred crust, while the high temperatures also burn off residue to leave a clean cooking surface for each use. ESSE Director Peter Ashby explains: ‘We’re very proud of our new Garden Stove with pizza oven because it packs so many practical benefits into an outdoor stove that’s incredibly stylish in its own right. It’s a great focal point for any garden or terrace, and is already proving equally popular with food lovers and garden enthusiasts; I don’t think outdoor cooking has ever looked this good!’ Even when the nights begin to draw in again, this stove allows you to enjoy more of the great outdoors with its flickering flame pattern, welcome warmth, and plenty of surface space for hot drinks. The traditional stove-style door means it can be enjoyed all year round. The British-built Garden Stove features a grate log bed with ash pan and is supplied complete with 1500mm length flue pipe and heat-proof leather mitt. To find out about showroom display models, email enquiries@esse.com or call 01282 813235. You can find this article in the latest issue of Fireplace Specialist magazine.
New and innovative touchscreen chimney camera from Rodstation
RodStation has launched two new touchscreen chimney camera that has many innovative features aimed to help sweeps and installers. “Quick set up, simple operation and low cost” were the key factors that inspired owner Adam Pedersen to design the camera kit. He adds that “For many sweeps and installers the cost of a camera kit was out of reach, so the challenge was to create an affordable and compact alternative to more expensive systems”. The unique British made ball head is designed to protect the camera and is simply fitted onto standard sweeping rods and power sweeping rods. There are conveniently positioned threaded holes in the head so the camera can be set at different viewing angles as well as a side mounting option to connect the camera onto the side of the chimney rod. A choice of arms are supplied to help guide the head in the flue. The full HD colour camera is available with a 7” or 10” inch touchscreen display and has 6 hours recording time and also features a zoom in and photo function. There is a micro SD card slot for recording videos and photos as well as a phone app to stream footage directly onto a smartphone. Press the button and the RodStation logo flashes on the screen and you are ready to go. The camera kits are supplied in a neat heavy duty padded case at a trade price of £550 For the 7” monitor kit and £700 for the 10” monitor kit plus Vat with free delivery. The kit includes the camera ball, monitor and a range of connections and fittings. RodStation produces and sells a wide range of sweeping rods, brushes, sweeps sheets and their popular Flue Boss range of power sweeping equipment. Rodstation will also be present at the NACS Trade Show on 13th May in Stratford Upon Avon. “Please do come and say hello to us,” said Adam. “We love getting to know chimney sweeps, not just because we sell related products. But we enjoy being part of the wider community of sweeps and it’s nice to meet some new faces (as well as meet-up with regular customers!). We look forward to seeing you there!” For more information you can visit www.rodstation.co.uk , call 01446 500695 or email sales@rodstation.co.uk. You can find this article in the latest issue of Fireplace Specialist magazine.
Government confirms Future Homes Standard permits wood burning stoves
A joint letter, co-ordinated by the Stove Industry Association (SIA), from a range of organisations representing over 1,500 businesses and woodland owners, has led to the government confirming that wood burning stoves will be permitted in new homes in the future under the Future Homes Standard, ending ongoing speculation in the media that these appliances could potentially be banned. In response to a letter from the SIA co-signed by the British Flue & Chimney Manufacturers Association (BFCMA), Confederation of Forest Industries (Confor), Federation of Environmental Trade Association (FETA), OFTEC, Renewable Energy Association (REA) and the Small Woods Association, on the 2nd April the Ministry of Housing Communities & Local Government (MHCLG) stated that: “…the Government is currently working towards setting a new standard which will be called the Future Homes Standard and will ensure that its new homes are zero carbon ready, meaning that they will need no retrofitting to become zero carbon in use as the electricity grid decarbonises. A full technical consultation on the Future Homes Standard was launched in December 2023 and closed in March 2024. Under the standards proposed in the consultation, a wood burning stove would be permitted as a secondary heating source in new homes.” The MHCLG also notes that: “The Government acknowledges that it is possible to significantly reduce the level of smoke emitted through domestic burring if the right fuels, appliances and practices are used.” Within the joint letter, sent in early February to various government departments, the SIA sought to highlight the significant benefits of modern wood burning stoves, including their role in reducing carbon emissions, alleviating energy system strain, improving air quality, and promoting sustainable energy solutions. Commenting on the response received from government Andy Hill, Chair of the SIA, said: “We are delighted that it has been officially confirmed that under the proposed Future Homes Standard, the installation of a wood burning stove will be permitted and we are also particularly heartened to see that government acknowledges the impact of domestic burning best practices. Responsible use of modern wood burning appliances is something the SIA and its members have advocated for over many years.” “The SIA welcomes the government’s positive response and looks forward to continued engagement as policies are developed and implemented. We believe that modern wood burning stoves can play a crucial role in achieving cleaner air, supporting local economies, and providing consumers with sustainable and flexible heating choices.”
Mendip Stoves’ Willow Freestanding stove combines elegance and storage
Introducing the Willow Freestanding woodburning stove from Mendip Stoves, the gorgeous freestanding stove with handy storage beneath When it comes to replacing or upgrading home heating, it’s best to plan ahead. By considering warmth and comfort in the spring/summer months, homeowners can avoid the rush come autumn/winter and look forward to instant heat when they want it. Somerset-based brand Mendip Stoves, experts in high-quality stoves that are both functional and design-led, is excited to reveal the launch of its new Willow Freestanding woodburning stove, available from family-run leading distributor of woodburning stoves, Eurostove. The perfect combination of warmth, elegance and storage in one, the Willow Freestanding stove is an ideal complement to modern interiors with its sleek and smooth rounded design, milled stainless steel handle and minimal look. Sophisticated and subtle in its styling, it creates a stunning centrepiece for contemporary living areas and open-plan spaces and features a curved steel door beneath the curvaceous stove, discreetly concealing storage for firelighters, matches and kindling. With a 3kW to 6kW heat output, it’s ideal for rooms of all sizes and offers an impressive 77.7% efficiency. This versatile woodburner also offers closed combustion for excellent efficiency and a top or rear flue exit for versatile installation with an 8mm convection top plate for optimal heat distribution and an 8mm base plate for lasting stability. Users will also benefit from the large viewing window giving a captivating view of the flames flickering inside, along with its warm, welcoming glow and sleek minimalist design boasting clean lines and a contemporary finish. The Willow Freestanding woodburning stove is available from Eurostove, renowned UK distributor of woodburning, multi fuel, inset and freestanding stoves. Measuring H1000mm x W480mm x D419mm, this ecodesign woodburner is ideal for whole home renovations, new-build projects or heating upgrades for existing systems. “Now is the perfect time to start thinking about this winter’s heating,” says Chris Baines, Managing Director of Eurostove. “Planning ahead means homeowners can find the installation they need before the rush comes in autumn and have everything in place for when the weather turns. We’re thrilled to offer the new Willow Freestanding woodburner with its concealed storage for firelighters, matches and kindling, keeping the essentials within easy reach for a quick and easy winter warmer.” Mendip Stoves’ Willow Freestanding woodburning stove is priced from £1,896
HETAS approved industry-leading training at your doorstep
With 15 HETAS Approved Training Centres across the UK, you’re never far from industry-leading training. Develop your skills through expert-led training and begin your journey to HETAS registration. Whether you’re looking to gain a sweeping competency, start servicing appliances, or give trusted, professional advice to customers in your shop, HETAS training will prepare you for whatever lies ahead. Completing training will ensure you are up to date on the latest regulations and requirements – grow your skillset, knowledge, and customer base through a mix of constantly evolving practical and written assessments. Open the door to HETAS registration by completing training, gaining a range of benefits, including a listing on the HETAS consumer search – putting your company at the front of 100,000s of stove owners’ minds when they are looking for a local professional they can trust. UKAS accredited HETAS is independently accredited by UKAS to operate its competent person scheme and Microgeneration Certification Scheme. With training aligned to minimum technical competencies (MTCs), you’re guaranteed to be prepared for any job. As an industry-leading certification body, we strive to keep our registrants well-informed and prepared through our training courses, enabling you to represent our industry through high-quality, professional work – whatever your role. Gain skills that customers trust Consumers across the UK value the HETAS logo, recognising and trusting the associated scheme marks when looking for a local expert. Unlock a wider customer base and demonstrate your expertise by completing HETAS training and registration. Gary – founder of Swept. – hung up his marketing hat after two decades to start his chimney sweeping business, donning a brush after completing his training: “I looked at a number of sweeping courses before deciding on the H011. For me, it was important that I not only had quality training, but also had the opportunity to become HETAS approved, as it’s a brand which is highly recognised and valued by customers. “I’d definitely encourage anyone who is looking to get into chimney sweeping to book on the H011 HETAS course – highly recommended!” Support beyond the field Completing training opens the door to HETAS registration, granting you a range of additional benefits. Rooted in years of knowledge and key positions in technical steering groups, our dedicated expert technical team are committed to supporting you through your career in the solid fuel and biomass industry – whether you register as an installer, sweep, servicing technician, or retailer. Regular technical bulletins will keep you updated on any industry changes. From approved documents and regulations to British Standards, our experienced technical team can provide you with the advice you need to tackle the most frequent problems in industry. Find out more about which course is right for you at https://www.hetas.co.uk/trade/training-courses/ Contact on 01684 278170 or by email: hello@hetas.co.uk You can find the full HETAS Training Feature in issue 13 of Fireplace Specialist Magazine.
Guild to host Sweep Stuff 2025
The Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps is again hosting its Sweep Stuff exhibition this spring. The event is open to all and a great opportunity to meet industry suppliers and learn about their products and services. Representatives from allied industry organisations will be on hand to provide their expertise on stove and chimney manufacturing, formal qualifications and host of other areas. The exhibition offers the chance to network with the country’s best sweeps and installers who are willing to share their knowledge and experience. A wide range of free seminar presentations will also be held to offer in-depth insight into many aspects of the industry. A spokesperson said: “The knowledge, networking contacts and friendships gained by spending a couple of days at the show is simply invaluable – just one good idea or contact can add real value to your business and a new friend is priceless!” The Sweep Stuff trade exhibition will be held on: Friday 11th and Saturday 12th April 2025 at: Chesford Grange Hotel, Kenilworth. Nr Warwick. CV8 2LD The Guild company AGM is for members only and will be held at 3.30pm in the Othello suite on Saturday 12th April 2025, immediately after the exhibition closes. The gala dinner / entertainment and famous charity raffle is on the evening of Saturday 12th April 2025 from 7.30pm. Visit the exhibition 2025 webpage to see the programme of events (the programme is regularly updated as timings and events are confirmed). The exhibition, AGM and gala dinner are the social highlights of the chimney sweeping year. As always, you are encouraged to bring your partner and family members, everybody is welcome and there are excellent leisure facilities at this lovely four-star hotel. Guests can explore the county of Warwickshire with ease from this central location. Visit the exhibition webpage and link to ‘Local Attractions for what’s on nearby. Dining information A subsidised lunch is available but you MUST book via the Guild website. Order buffet lunch for Friday / Saturday. Lunch cost is subsidised by 50% at £12.50, but if you don’t book, you won’t get any. Gala Dinner Gala dinner and entertainment – guests welcome. Saturday 12th April 7.30pm – late. Let your hair down at the social highlight of the chimney sweep year. The cost of the 3-course gala dinner is excellent value at £39pp. Dinner includes after-dinner entertainment. We’ll also recognise members who have made a positive contribution to the Guild and the sweeping industry. The famous charity raffle is not to be missed. See the menu options and book via the Guild website. The Chesford Grange Hotel Accommodation – Visit the Chesford Grange online booking or any booking website. The Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps will not enter into any disputes arising from accommodation bookings. We have organised additional car park security arrangements. Exhibition opening times – open to all Friday, 11th April, 2025 – 10.00 to 4.30pm Saturday, 12th April, 2025 – 9.30 to 3.00pm www.guildofmasterchimneysweeps.co.uk/sweep-stuff-live-2025/