When it comes to buying a log burner, choosing the right size is crucial. You need to ensure that the log burner you select is not only the right size for your room, but also suitable for your needs.
A log burner that is too small for your space will not heat the room effectively, while a log burner that is too large will waste fuel, potentially damage your stove or liner and generate excessive heat.
In this buying guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about selecting the perfect log burner, so you can make an informed decision.
Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
Table of contents
Understanding Heat Output
The heat output of a log burner is measured in kilowatts (kW). A wood burning stove with a higher heat output will generate more heat, while a log burner with a lower heat output will generate less heat.
Therefore, it is essential to understand how much heat your room needs to stay warm and comfortable.
Room Size Guidance:
- Very Small (up to 1.9kW)
- Small (2kW to 4.9kW)
- Medium (5kW to 7.9kW)
- Large (8kW to 10.9kW)
- Extra Large (over 11kW)
Log burners have a nominal heat output which is what they normally produce given the correct amount of fuel and type of fuel. It must be understood that stoves vary on many factors and so generally are given a heat output range.
Calculating Heat Output
To determine the heat output required for your room, you need to calculate the volume of the space. The volume of a room is calculated by multiplying the length, width, and height of the room.
Once you have the volume of the room in cubic meters, you can use a formula to calculate the required heat output:
Room x 0.06 = Required Heat Output in kWFor example, if your room measures 4m x 5m x 2.5m, the volume of the room is 50 cubic meters.
Using the formula, the required heat output for the room would be:
50 x 0.06 = 3kWTherefore, you would need a log burner with a heat output of at least 3kW to effectively heat the room.
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Factors Affecting Heat Output
It is important to note that other factors can affect the required heat output, such as insulation, ceiling height, and windows.
A poorly insulated room will require a higher heat output to stay warm, while a room with high ceilings or large windows may require a higher heat output to compensate for the heat loss.
Factors to Consider
Once you have calculated the required heat output for your room, you can choose the right size log burner.
Log burners come in a range of sizes, with heat outputs ranging from 3kW to over 15kW. To select the right size log burner, you need to consider the following factors:
Room Size
The size of your room will determine the required heat output of the log burner. As discussed earlier, you need to calculate the volume of the room and use a formula to determine the required heat output.
One of the most important factors to consider is the size of the room you want to heat. This will determine the heat output required from your log burner.
As a general rule of thumb, you will need 1kW of heat output for every 14 cubic metres of space. So, if your room measures 28 cubic metres, you will need a log burner with a heat output of 2kW.
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Insulation
The level of insulation in your room will also play a role in the size of log burner required. If your room is well-insulated, you may be able to choose a smaller log burner as the insulation will help retain the heat.
Log Burner Efficiency
The efficiency of a log burner is the percentage of heat generated from the fuel. A log burner with a higher efficiency will generate more heat from the same amount of fuel.
Therefore, it is important to choose a log burner with a high efficiency rating to save on fuel costs.
Fuel Type
The type of fuel you use can affect the heat output and efficiency of the log burner.
For example, wood burns hotter than coal, which means you can use a smaller log burner with wood compared to coal.
Style and Design
Log burners come in a range of styles and designs, from traditional to contemporary.
It is essential to choose a log burner that complements the décor of your room and meets your aesthetic preferences.
Log burners also come in free standing and inset versions which are oftern referred to as cassette stoves. Freestanding wood burners sit on the floor and provide a great amount of heat as they’re not confined to the insides of a wall.
Inset log burners can be installed into an existing fireplace to be positioned inside a wall. The beauty of them is that they take up less space but tend to not produce as much heat as a freestanding model.
How to Choose the Right Size Log Burner
Now that you understand the factors to consider when selecting a log burner, it’s time to determine the right size for your needs. To do this, follow these steps:
- Measure the room you want to heat, including the height of the ceiling.
- Determine the volume of the room by multiplying the length, width, and height.
- Divide the volume of the room by 14 to determine the required heat output in kW.
- Choose a log burner with a heat output that matches your requirements.
Over 5kW Requirements
The higher kW output of the log burner, the more ventilation will be required. If a log burner exceeds 5kW of heat output, different air requirements apply.
Properties built after 2008 and houses that have been renovated require an air vent for the installation of 5kW log burners.
Commonly found in new builds or properties that have been renovated, where the walls are well insulated.
This could typically be an air vent leading to fresh air, often an external air kit commonly added as an accessory alongside the purchase of a wood burner.
Conclusion
Choosing the right size log burner is crucial to ensuring that your room stays warm and comfortable. You need to calculate the required heat output of your room and consider factors such as log burner efficiency, fuel type, and design.
By following these guidelines, you can select the right size log burner that meets your needs.
FAQs
Yes, you can!
The terms wood-burning stove and log burner are often used interchangeably, but a wood-burning stove typically refers to a stove with a more enclosed firebox, while a log burner has a more open firebox.
You should clean your log burner at least once a year to remove any soot or debris buildup that can affect the efficiency and safety of the appliance.
Yes, but you need to choose a log burner that is approved for use in smoke control areas and use only approved fuels.
The cost of installing a log burner varies depending on factors such as the type of appliance, the size of the room, and the complexity of the installation. On average, installation costs can range from £1,000 to £2,500. This does not include materials or products.
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