Efficient, sustainable and often employed as a designer focal point, woodburning stoves are almost impossible to resist. Assuming you don’t mind the modest effort involved in obtaining the fuel, preparing a fire and emptying the ash pan (and for many, these rituals are part of the enjoyment), they are ultra-stylish features that look as good as they perform.
Today’s stoves are around 70%-80% efficient – far more effective at heating a room than an open fire – and come in a massive selection of designs. There is a woodburner to suit the majority of budgets, room sizes and situations, from products that fit neatly into a corner to dual-aspect and rotating versions. Here’s an outline of what you should know before you buy.
New from Charnwood, the Arc7 (from £1,995) is Ecodesign Ready, meaning that it meets forthcoming emissions rules