Knowledge Base

Chimney theory

Covers the fundamentals of temperature, chimney height, diameter and location as well as the effects of friction. Also deals with access, draught measurement, dewpoint and chimney maintenance.

Fuel

Includes wood and its calorific value, and the effect that moisture has on this. Also how to buy, season and store wood and a comparison of different wood types.

Heat Loss

Explains the basics of heat loss including conductivity, U values, partitions, floors, ventilation and how to make sense of the Heat Loss figures.

Installation

A summary of the principles that govern most installations in the interests of efficiency & safety. Includes the hearth, firewalls, heat shields and distances to combustibles and air for combustion. Also deals with flue pipes and components, stove connections, access, soot boxes, freestanding and recessed stove installations, acid resistance and sectional chimneys.

Technique

Covers the issues involved in running your stove safely and efficiently including the right and wrong ways to burn wood, burning solid fuel correctly, and how a chimney works.

Temperature Gradients

Nearly every home has a “cold spot” and bigger homes usually have several. This section explains what temperature gradients are and what you can do to temper their effects. Causes include conservatories and stairwells.

Water Heating

With some stove having a boiler option, the issues of direct and indirect systems are discussed, plus radiators, thermostats and balancing the system.

Troubleshooting

Comprehensive list of problems that may occur with your stove and their solutions.