Solid Fuel Stoves burn a variety of “solid” Fuels such as coal, peat, wood..etc and are sometimes also called multi fuel stoves.. it’s just a different name.
The reason that most people choose solid fuel stoves over single burning wood stoves is that it allows for more choice when choosing fuel to warm your home. It can often be the case that wood can be expensive or unavailable and thus you need a stove that can use other fuels to sustain your home heating.
Solid fuel/multi fuel stoves can dramatically decrease the amount of money spent each year on heating bills. I know in the UK the heating bills have been increasing year on year and my parents heating bill was totally outrageous last year ( I have tried to move them onto a solid fuel stove but sadly they won’t budge…!)
Once you have decided that you want a solid-fuel stove then you need to decide on budget… and make sure you don’t spent more than you can afford. Choosing a multi-fuel stove is a way to reduce expenditure – not add to it!
The two main materials for a solid fuel stove are:
- Cast Iron (More expensive and thus last a lot longer and slightly less efficient as use firebrick or cast panels)
- Steel (Cheaper but again this can effect how long it lasts but you still should expect at least 10 years – however can be more efficient as they have a skamolex heat board.)
Multi Fuel Stoves are usually placed in a prominent position so do think about the design and look as it will be a major focal point of the room. As with most material objects.. better design usually comes at a premium cost. I would suggest going down to a local showroom to see what each stove looks like.. but don’t buy just yet!
The Major manufactures for these type of stoves are:
- Stanley – Cast in China but good stove..
- Mulberry - Cast in China but good stove..
- Efel - Cast in Europe so expect to pay more, good quality though
- Nestor Martin - Cast in Europe so expect to pay more, good quality though
- Charnwood – Highly recommended as have high efficiency
- Arrow - Highly recommended as have high efficiency
- Esse – Well liked brand.. very similar to Charnwood and Arrow
- Stovax – Well liked brand.. very similar to Charnwood and Arrow
- Hunter – Another highly recommended brand as has similar efficiency as Charnwood
Ok so now you have some idea of the type of stoves available your next job on your to-do list is to arrange a viewing at the relevant showrooms. Make sure you explain your needs to the salesmen/women but be wary of heavy sales tactics.
Remember – you are not going to buy the stove today.. you just want to get an idea about design and price plus any other info.
I hope you have enjoyed this little article about solid fuel stoves, make sure you also check out my future article that will explain how to purchase your choice of stove online for far less than the price in the showroom…so stay tuned.
P.S: if you have any questions.. feel free to shout in the comments and I will try to answer straight away (seriously, I am happy to help) 