Stoves and fireplaces not only for decoration

Many self-builders install beautiful stoves and fireplaces as a focal point in their new houses. To their pity, they are not interested in the practical features and heating opportunities these appliances can offer.

In Denmark people have up to three different heating sources - gas, oil and wood at home. They can therefore select the type of heating according to their needs and financial advantage.  However, in the U.K. most architects design houses with only one heating source - in most cases the gas central heating. When fuel prices go up, people have no immediate cheaper alternative to switch to. Nevertheless, it is very simple to integrate stove or fireplace (to heat more rooms) into the building project.  However, heating with such appliances is completely different than what we are used to.

Firstly, high quality stove or fireplace features external air intake which is necessary for efficient combustion. This important feature is widely underminded by consumers. Worries that it creates a cold draught are not necessary as the whole system is built-in. Nowadays, when good insulation is a must, lack of air can be a problem for combustion. Some might argue that opening a window solves the problem. However, this is not economical as perhaps more cold air enters the space and more warm air escapes out. The amount of air intake is automatically regulated ensuring that only the required amount of air enters the space.

Secondly, many models offer connection to central heating or hot water systems. Heating radiators, while relaxing infront of a flickering fire is a very practical, economical and eco-friendly solution. The boiler models are designed to be used with typical storage water system. Connecting the stove or fireplace is very simple too.

Thirdly, the heat itself is transferred into the room/s in different ways. Widely known is the traditional cast iron version which transfers the heat by radiating the warm air into its immediate surrounding. Less known to the consumer is the principle of convection heat (more in article "No more cold feel thanks to convection heating" soon to be published on our website) which works on the principle of warm air rises above the cold air. Usually convection stoves or inserts have double wall structure. This allows the cold air to be drawn at the floor level in the appliance. The gap between the walls allows the air to warm up. As warm air is lighter than cold air, it naturally rises through the top of the stove into the room. This creates a natural and consistent air circulation in the room taking the cold air from every direction. The temperature difference between the floor and the ceiling is only 2 degrees compared to 10 degrees difference with the radiating stove.

All these features are appreciated by people who wish to purchase stove or fireplace not only for decoration but also as a functional heating source.

EuroFlames offers over 30 models in different styles, sizes and finishes. In fireplace surrounds, we offer marble in pink, red and black. Even green marble, which is very rare, is on offer to fulfil the needs of even the most demanding customer.