Wood-burning Stoves – Are They Bad for the Environment?

We all love the comfort of a roaring fire on a cold dark night, but recently wood burning stoves appear to have gotten a bad reputation. So if you are wondering about getting one for your home this winter, here we offer some useful information on wood burning stoves for the home.

The popularity of wood-burning stoves has experienced an exponential rise over the last decade, with more than 200,000 UK households installing the appliances each year. Aside from their charming aesthetic qualities and the incredible warmth they produce, we’ve long-since believed wood burners to be an environmentally friendly source of home heating. Unfortunately, there is growing concern from scientists over the potentially harmful impact of these stoves on air pollution and health.

According to researchers at King’s College London, wood burners account for up to 31% of the capitals particle pollution. Known as PM2.5, these tiny particles are believed to be the most harmful form of air pollution and are known to exacerbate lung and heart conditions. In light of these findings, London Mayor Sadiq Khan has proposed a ban on wood burners in the city’s most polluted areas, as well as tougher controls on the sale and use of the stoves throughout the UK. These moves have been welcomed by the Green party and campaigners. The ban will not be reinforced though, it is only valid for certain more polluted areas of London and will only be in operation at certain times of the year, but there are some who might question the investment in a wood burning stove.

The Answer? Low Emission Stoves, Used Responsibly

Whilst the use of open fires is prohibited by smoke control zones in most large towns and cities within the UK, the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs does permit the use of certain stoves for burning wood. New generations of low-emission stoves will also likely continue to be available, which means peace of mind for homeowners who aspire to the scent of burned wood and the warmth of a genuine fire.

But what are the alternatives if you decide to avoid the slightly controversial wood-burning stove? If you want retain the open fire aspect rather than installing a gas appliance, you could enhance the space with decorative tiles or metallic sheets over the open brick, or you could stack the recess with piles of logs. Alternatively, you could create a beautifully cosy glow and some rustic charm by retaining the exposed bricks, filling the grate with a cluster of large pillar candles, and adorning the hearth luscious flora like ivy, ferns and succulents.

If you need to use the space to heat your room but you’re not keen to install a gas fire, consider purchasing an electric imitation stove. They are a great source of warmth in addition to central heating, and they are incredibly realistic—many of them have adjustable flame settings and smoke effects, so you may just be able to fool yourself and your guests into thinking it’s a real wood-burning stove!

Clyde Property is a leading independent, multiple award winning estate and letting agent with 30 years’ experience in selling and letting property in Scotland. Just call your local Clyde Property branch today, for friendly, impartial advice on finding your next dream home.