FAQ

How do I know what size and output of stove I should buy?

This depends on the room volume and what looks aesthetically correct for your room. Prior to visiting us, it is wise to measure the length, width and height of your room and we will advise on the size of stove that would be suitable. Photographs of your existing fireplace are also useful.

How do I know if my chimney requires lining?

Since the mid sixties, the most common lining for class one chimneys has generally been clay-type liners. Although there are many types of chimney systems, pre-sixties chimneys are usually unlined and brick built. We will, however, always conduct a survey prior to installation and will advise you as to whether your chimney requires lining.

How often should I have my chimney swept?

If your stove or open fire is in daily use then it should be swept at least twice a year. If you are having a gas fire installed and the flue was previously used for solid fuel it is vital the flue is swept prior to installation.

kind of wood can I burn?

Seasoned hardwoods are best - preferably that which has been seasoned for three years. Do not burn painted or creosoted wood. Unseasoned wood will produce tar over a prolonged period which can cause chimney fires.

We don’t have a chimney. Is there any way we can still have a wood burning or gas stove?

This is usually possible although a survey by one of our engineers would be required to determine the route and type of flue required.

What is the life span of a multi-fuel stove?

A good quality stove will last you many years and we are only prepared to supply stoves of quality. Beware of very cheap imports.

I want to buy a wood burning stove from the internet and to save money install it myself

This is not something that we recommend; remember, if you do this, it is vital that the stove is installed and certified by a competent, Hetas-registered installer or planning permission from your local authority is sought.

We can offer the full supply, installation and chimney lining service if this is required.

Do I need an air vent?

This depends on the the type of appliance. Multi fuel stoves under 5kw output and gas fires under 7kw input do not generally require ventilation, although this is subject to a spillage test. The guide for an open fire is 50% cross sectional area of the throat/flue.

We want a landscape hole-in-the-wall fire but have been told they are inefficient

Many of them are. Always check the gas output figure and divide that by the gas input figure. Generally a glass fronted fire will give more efficiency than an open flame fire. If the manufacturer does not give an output, rest assured you are heating the atmosphere not your home.

My old gas fire is controlled from underneath. Can my new one have controls that are more accessible?

Most gas fires now have a top or remote control option.

What is the difference between balanced flue and power flue fires?

A power flue is usually open fronted, requires electricity and is normally flued to the rear, although there are other options if this is not possible. A safety device to cut off the gas is fitted to ensure these cannot be used during a power cut. In some cases these also require additional ventilation.

A balanced flue is glass fronted and no electricity is required. They are room sealed so do not require additional ventilation.

Balanced flue fires are generally more efficient than power flues.

Do you recommend flueless gas fires?

The advantage is they are 100% efficient and you have more choice in where they can be installed.

The disadvantages are there is a dampness so not designed as a primary source of heat. Permanent ventilation is required and usually your room volume must be a minimum of 30 cubic metres.

We would always recommend a flued fire as opposed to a fluless.

Can you send an engineer out to survey our fireplace?

Once you have placed your order an engineer will arrange to call out and survey your property without charge. If you require a survey prior to placing an order, there will be a charge depending on your location, although this will be deducted from the final invoice.

We want to order from you. How long do we wait?

It can be anything from 2 to 6 weeks although we normally complete the job within 4 weeks. Many components from various suppliers combine to make your fireplace. Please be patient – a fireplace is for life not just for Christmas!