A conservatory is more than just an extension of space. In many homes, they are designated spaces of calm relaxation. A place to get away from it all. Because of this, many people ban things like a TV in such areas of the house, and for good reason, they don’t want it to be just another living area.
A wood-burning stove in a conservatory can be a great idea if you want a focal point that will add to the calming ambience of such a space.
Before you fall in love with the idea of having a wood-burning stove in your conservatory, you must be aware of some points. A stove will need to be kept away from combustible materials and doors. Your fitter will also need to make a decision if a metal chimney can be stand-alone in design, or whether it has to be attached to the main wall to get up and out above roof level.
You also need to consider ventilation in your conservatory and the air supply your stove requires. An option here is a direct external air supply. This will mean the stove will be able to take air for combustion from outside the conservatory – which will reduce drafts and increase efficiency. Building regulations require homeowners who are fitting a stove in a home built after 2008 to either have an air vent or external air intake. For homes built before 2008, this applies only to stoves with a heat output above 5kW.
When a stove is installed in your conservatory, assuming all is in order with the above points, you should ensure a qualified professional installs it. This will help ensure your safety and the efficiency of the stove. You can search for a HETAS-registered installer here.
If you can’t have a wood-burning stove in your conservatory?
If it’s not possible to have a wood-burning stove in your conservatory, all is not lost! There is always the option of a gas stove or electric stove. Both look very similar to a wood-burning stove without the work. If you love the look of a real flame, the electric stove will probably be ruled out. In which case gas is your next best option. Here are a few points to consider if this is you:
Stoves in your conservatory – gas vs wood.
Safety Aspects – You will need your gas stove serviced annually as a minimum, even if they are located in a conservatory. Poorly serviced gas appliances can be deadly. However, when they are working as intended, they are generally very safe.
They also have safety features such as flame failure detectors, oxygen sensors and room temperature control. Wood-burning stoves are a little different – and more simple in some elements. They won’t need to be serviced in the same way a gas stove would.
However, the primary safety issues with wood come when lighting and filling the stove when lit – there can be a risk of smoke entering the conservatory.
Furthermore, sparks and embers can also leave the stove when the door is opened, which you need to be aware of and guard against. Wood-fired is more manual and takes more skill and experience to perfect, whereas gas is more switch on and enjoy!
Cost Considerations – The cost of a wood-burning stove vs a gas stove varies hugely. Some gas stoves will be cheaper than a wood stove and vice-versa. A good idea is to have a budget in mind and then, if you’re undecided if you want a gas or wood stove, look at what is available within your budget – quite often, you will reach a decision very quickly using this approach, as you will be eliminating any stoves which are not in your price range.
Be aware of fitting costs and any adjustments needed to your conservatory; these can push the price up. Your local showroom will be able to advise on this during an initial survey. Once a survey is complete, you will have a good idea of the total costs.
Final consideration:
You can fit a wood-burning stove in your conservatory, subject to various points. If you can’t fit a wood-burning stove, all is not lost – you always have the option of a gas or electric stove. If you are considering a stove for your conservatory you first of all need to talk with a local showroom, who will be able to complete a survey and advise accordingly.
Please visit our showroom locator here.
