Choosing A Fuel Type

There are a number of different fuels available, therefore a good starting point when choosing your stove is to decided on the fuel you want to use. Below we have listed the fuels with a brief guide to the pros and cons of each one.

Wood Pros : A renewable source of fuel, which should be cheap if you have a readily available supply, such as in rural areas. When burnt, wood offers the best flame effect and the unbeatable smell and sound of a real fire. The ash doesn't need emptying as often as coal and new fires can just be lit on the ashes in the bottom of the stove. Ideally you should build up a stock of wood, allowing time for it to season (dry out) before use. Wood is a carbon neutral source of fuel. Cons : In this country seasoned wood, which has a lower moisture content is difficult to find and if buying on an irregular basis from shops or garages it can be more expensive. The removable of ash can be a messy job as there is no ashpan to remove in a woodburning stove. Wood can take up a lot of space if stored properly. Inner city areas may not permit the use of a wood burning stove.

Multi-fuel Pros : Ensure you use a smokeless coal such as anthracite. This will produce more heat than wood and burns a lot slower, ideal for an evenings fire or to slumber the fire throughout the night. Traditional coal merchants still offer a regular delivery service. You have the option of a number of fuels if supply is sort - wood, coal or even peat. The initial cost of the appliance will be cheaper than gas or oil. Able to burn smokeless coal in smoke control zones. Cons : Coal can be a dirty fuel to handle and to store. The ash needs to be removed ideally after every fire. Prices can very widely if you purchase fuel from a garage, where no local merchant is available. More difficult to light initially. Your chimney will need regular sweeping.

Gas There are two types of gas, Natural Gas or Liquid Propane Gas (LPG): Pros (Natural Gas) : Mains natural gas is readily available in most towns in the UK. The fuel is cheap and will be added to your normal bill. Natural gas requires no storage and is a very clean fuel to use.. The flame effects are now very realistic. Gas appliances are very easy to light, with self sparking ignitions and a lot of controlability. Cons (Natural Gas) : No real fire noise or smell. Gas appliances are more expensive to buy initially and should be serviced yearly. Pros (LPG) : If using your appliance primarily as a focal point (you already have central heating), LPG is very effective. Can be supplied in very remote areas or where access is difficult. The flame effects are now very realistic. Gas appliances are very easy to light, with self sparking ignitions and a lot of controlability. Cons (LPG) : LPG is the most expensive fuel to use on a cost per minute basis. Bottles or a tank must be stored safely and refilled regulary.

Electric Pros : No chimney or installation required. Can be fitted in any location with access to a standard electrical socket. The appliance can be moved easily within the home or even taken with you if you move. Able to have an effect only without heat for use in warmer months. Cons : The maximum heat output is low. Although the light only setting cost roughly just 1p an hour to run, the heat settings can be quite expensive. The flame effect tends not to be as realistic as other fuels.

Oil Pros : Ideal for homeowners out in the country with no use of Natural Gas. The pence per minute running cost is probably the lowest of all fuels. Can produce a high output relative to gas. Cons : Appliances are designed for continuous use, through day and night, thus increasing costs. Need a suitably sited storage tank. For automatic lighting you will require electric to the appliance. Both the appliance and the installation are generally expensive.