Bonfire Fireplaces And Stoves was recently featured on BBC Radio Berkshire, where our Managing Director Marc Barlow was invited to share expert insight on wood burning stoves, fuel choices, and the latest UK regulations affecting homeowners.

The interview highlights Bonfire’s role as a trusted local authority in Reading and the wider Berkshire area, providing clear, practical guidance during a time of increased public discussion around wood burners and air quality.

With decades of hands-on experience in fireplace and stove installation, Marc Barlow’s contribution reflects Bonfire’s long-standing commitment to safe, compliant, and efficient heating solutions.

Listen to the interviews below:

Expert Commentary from Bonfire’s Managing Director

During the interview, Marc Barlow addressed common misconceptions around wood burning stoves and explained how modern appliances, when correctly installed and used with the right fuel, are significantly cleaner and more efficient than older models.

As Managing Director of Bonfire Fireplaces And Stoves in Reading, Marc oversees a fully in-house team of qualified specialists and has been directly involved in thousands of installations across Berkshire and the South East. His appearance on BBC Radio Berkshire reinforces Bonfire’s expertise not only in installation, but also in navigating evolving regulations and best practice.

Wood Burning Stoves: What Homeowners Need to Know

A key theme of the interview was the importance of understanding how modern wood burning stoves differ from older, open fires or outdated appliances.

Marc explained that today’s DEFRA-approved and Ecodesign-compliant stoves are engineered to:

• Burn fuel more efficiently
• Produce significantly lower emissions
• Deliver higher heat output using less wood
• Comply with Smoke Control Area requirements

For homeowners in Reading and Berkshire, where smoke control rules apply, choosing the correct appliance is essential for both legal compliance and environmental responsibility.

Burning the Right Fuel Matters

Another major focus of the discussion was fuel quality. Marc highlighted that many issues attributed to wood burners are actually caused by burning the wrong fuel, rather than the appliance itself.

Key points included:

• Only properly seasoned or kiln-dried wood should be burned, with a moisture content below 20%.
• Wet or unseasoned wood produces excess smoke, poor heat output, and tar build-up in the flue.
• Using certified ‘Ready to Burn’ wood improves efficiency and reduces emissions.

Correct fuel choice not only improves performance but also extends the lifespan of the stove and chimney system.

Understanding New Regulations and Smoke Control Areas

Marc also discussed recent and ongoing regulatory changes affecting wood burning stoves in the UK. These regulations are designed to improve air quality while still allowing homeowners to enjoy real-flame heating responsibly.

Key regulatory points covered included:

• Wood burning stoves installed in smoke control areas must be DEFRA-exempt.
• Only authorised fuels may be burned unless the appliance is specifically approved.
• New installations must meet Ecodesign standards, which significantly reduce particulate emissions compared to older appliances.

Marc emphasised that professional advice is essential, as regulations vary depending on appliance type, fuel, and location.

Why Professional Installation and Advice Is Essential

Throughout the interview, Marc reinforced the importance of working with qualified professionals. Bonfire Fireplaces And Stoves operates with HETAS and Gas Safe registered engineers, ensuring every installation meets current building regulations and safety standards.

Bonfire’s service includes:

• Expert consultation and appliance selection
• Full site surveys
• Certified installation
• Ongoing servicing and maintenance

This end-to-end approach ensures homeowners receive accurate guidance, safe installations, and long-term peace of mind.

Bonfire Fireplaces And Stoves: Trusted Local Experts in Reading, Berkshire

Being invited onto BBC Radio Berkshire to discuss wood burning stoves and regulations reflects Bonfire’s standing as a trusted authority in the industry. With over two decades of experience and thousands of completed projects, Bonfire continues to support homeowners with honest advice grounded in real-world expertise.

Marc Barlow’s interview reinforces Bonfire’s commitment to education, compliance, and responsible wood burning — helping customers make informed decisions in a changing regulatory landscape.