Why would you select a wood-burning fire?
For many people, a wood-burning fire is the ultimate in comfort. The scent and the sound of crackling wood as well as the instant heat generates a pleasurable ambience. Nowadays, thanks to all sorts of innovations, wood-burning fires have become far more efficient and environmentally-friendly. Moreover, the fuel of a wood-burning fire is also renewable and you can often find suitable wood for burning in your garden or in the neighbourhood. Wood-burning fires are available in all types of models and designs: there is always a fire that matches your interior design and your needs. Want to figure out which type of wood-burning fire is a good choice for your situation? We are pleased to provide you with the most important information.
What is the difference between a gas fire and a wood fire?
Nowadays, the difference in output between a gas fire and a wood fire is no longer so great. Thanks to innovative designs and good insulation, combustion in a wood-burning fire is efficient and clean and the emission of particulates is limited. However, a vital element for a wood-burning fire is the presence of an existing flue or the ability to install one.
What is the difference between an open fire and a wood fire insert?
Traditionally, open fires have many disadvantages compared to the current generation of wood-burning fires. The combustion in an open fire is very inefficient. Moreover, due to poor combustion, a lot more particulates are released during burning. Nowadays, new wood-burning fires are always equipped with a door or a hatch and are generously insulated. This means that the fire reaches the required temperature for proper combustion faster and creates less smoke and deposits in the living room. Therefore, there are more reasons to opt for a wood fire insert rather than for a traditional open fire.
Built-in or inserted wood-burning fire?
An inserted wood fire combined with open combustion heats the room far faster than a traditional open fire. Therefore, a wood fire insert is often used to replace an existing open fire and, if necessary, can be custom-made to size. A built-in wood fire is the best option in an entirely new situation, for example during a complete renovation project or when building a new home. In that case, the fire is installed first, with the rest of the wall or chimneybreast being built around it.
Types of wood-burning fires
There are many types and dimensions available, including various capacities, hatches, doors and designs. One of the options that you have is to choose the type of fire view.
- The front-type of wood fires offers a one-dimensional fire view at the front.
- In the case of a tunnel wood-burning fire, it is possible to have a fire view from two opposite sides. This type of wood fire is typically installed in a dividing wall between two rooms.
- In the case of a corner wood fire, you have a fire view from two sides. That way, even if the fire is positioned in the corner of the room, you have the best possible view.
- A three-sided wood fire is installed against a wall and allows an all-round view of the fire. You also benefit from heat on all three sides.
What else should you consider when purchasing a wood-burning fire?
What other important points are there if you plan to buy a wood fire? What should you consider when installing a wood fire; how much capacity is necessary and how do you maintain the wood fire?
Installing the wood-burning fire
When you install a wood fire, you need a flue in your home or it must be possible to install a flue that complies with the wood fire that you purchased. A wood-burning fire often works with open combustion; the air for combustion in the fire comes from the room. The flue gasses are subsequently expelled through the flue. It is vital that the flue is installed by a qualified engineer and connects well to the fire. Get expert advice for this!
The capacity of the wood-burning fire
It is important to choose a wood fire that has the capacity to heat the space you want to heat. If the wood fire has too much capacity, the room will become unpleasantly hot and the combustion will no longer be appropriate. Check in advance how much capacity you need for your room or living space.
Maintaining the wood-burning fire
The air supply to the fire must remain clear of ash and you must be able to clean it easily by yourself. You must also be able to use special maintenance products to clean the hatch or door. The flue must also be swept regularly. It is essential to employ a chimney sweep to do the job. If you only use the fire for decorative purposes, then sweeping once per year is sufficient. If the wood fire is the primary or supplementary source of heat for your home, then sweeping more regularly is recommended.