A – Z Glossary
At StoveBay.com, we've compiled an A-Z Glossary from a variety of trusted sources, including manufacturers and regulatory bodies, to help our customers gain a better understanding of their new stove and the essential components for optimal performance.
Air – Primary
Primary air is the main source of air for combustion in a stove. It is typically supplied through the lower air inlet, especially in multi-fuel stoves, to support the ignition and burning of fuel.
Air - Secondary
The secondary air system manages the airflow within the stove, directing air to help re-ignite any unburned gases. This process generates additional heat and improves combustion efficiency.
Air - Tertiary
The tertiary air system is designed for burning wood and introduces hot oxygen directly into the firebox at the heart of the stove. This helps re-ignite unburned gases, improving combustion efficiency, reducing particulate emissions, and keeping the chimney cleaner.
Airwash
The airwash system directs pre-heated air evenly across the fire door, creating a protective barrier between the fire chamber and the glass. This helps keep the glass clean, allowing you to enjoy a clear view of the flames at all times.
Aperture
The aperture is the structural opening in your wall or chimney breast designed to accommodate your stove or fire. Also known as a Builder's Opening or fireplace recess, it is traditionally positioned near the floor. However, modern designs are increasingly featuring inset stoves, which are made to be installed higher up on the wall for a more contemporary look.
Ash Pan
An ash pan is a tray, typically made of stainless steel, designed to caollect ash from burnt fuel as it falls through the grate. Stoves that burn solid fuel will require more frequent ash removal compared to those burning well-seasoned wood, as they produce more ash during combustion.
Ash
When burning wood, ash is generated over time and forms an insulating layer in the fire. This layer increases combustion temperature, improves efficiency, and protects the fire bottom. Only remove ash once it reaches the threshold, leaving at least 2 cm to maintain optimal combustion and stove protection.
Baffle Plate
The baffle plate, also known as the throat plate, is located in the upper part of the firebox, typically above the grate. It helps minimize heat loss into the chimney by deflecting flames and heat back toward the stove’s front, maximizing heat output into the room.
Balanced Flue [BF]
A balanced flue is used with gas stoves and fires, consisting of two pipes, one inside the other. The inner pipe expels waste gases outside, while the outer pipe draws in fresh air from outside for the combustion process. This design ensures efficient and safe operation of the stove or fire. See Conventional Flue [CF].
Boiler Stove
A boiler stove is a type of stove designed to heat water, which can then be circulated through a heating system, such as radiators or underfloor heating. These stoves combine the efficiency of a wood or solid fuel stove with the ability to provide hot water for domestic use, making them a popular choice for homes looking to reduce energy costs while enjoying the warmth and ambiance of a stove.
British Standard Pipe (BSP) Thread
BSP thread is a plumbing standard that ensures fittings from different suppliers can connect properly. It defines the pitch, width, and depth of the threads on a pipe to ensure compatibility.
Building Control
The role of checking that Building Regulations are being complied with falls to Building Control Bodies.
Building Regulations
Building regulations apply to any work that affects an existing chimney, including the installation of a stove or flue liner, or the creation of a new chimney. This type of work is considered building work and must comply with the relevant regulations to ensure safety, efficiency, and proper function. Compliance with these regulations is essential for ensuring that the stove is safely installed and operates within legal and safety guidelines.
Builders Opening
A builder's opening is the hole in the wall or chimney breast left open during the construction of a house. This opening can be used for various purposes, such as fitting a fireplace back or chair-brick for an open fire. Alternatively, it can be left clear for the installation of a stove. If a stove is installed, the inside faces of the opening are typically rendered with cement or lined with a suitable non-combustible board to ensure safety and improve the efficiency of the stove installation.
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is an odourless, colourless, tasteless, and poisonous gas produced by the incomplete combustion of carbon-based fuels such as wood, coal, oil, and gas. Often referred to as "The Silent Killer," it is highly dangerous and can poison both people and animals when exposed to high levels or even small amounts over extended periods.
Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Your installer should have fitted a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm in the same room as the appliance. For detailed installation guidance, refer to BS EN 50292:2002 and the manufacturer's instructions for the alarm.
Cast Iron Stoves
Cast iron is the traditional material used in the construction of stoves and wood burners. Its main advantage over steel is its superior heat retention. Cast iron continues to radiate heat to the room long after the fire has died down, making it an efficient material for maintaining warmth. This ability to store and slowly release heat enhances the overall efficiency and comfort of the stove, even when the fire is no longer actively burning.
Chamber Edge Trim
A finishing Trim designed to hide the rough edge of the Stove Chambers or Cladding.
Chimney Adaptor
Chimney Adaptor is used as an alternative to Flexible Flue Liner to connect the Stove Pipe to the existing chimney. The Sump Adaptor can be used with a flat lintel. The Clay Pot Adaptor is used with a flue gatherer.
Chimney Cleaning
The chimney should be swept at least twice a year to maintain safe and efficient operation. If the stove has been out of use for a prolonged period, it’s important to have both the flue connection and chimney swept before lighting the stove again.
If the stove has replaced an open fire, the chimney should be swept after a month of continuous operation. This is to ensure that any "softer" deposits left by the open fire haven't been loosened by the higher temperatures generated by the closed stove.
Chimney Cowl
A chimney cowl is a device fitted to the top of a chimney to enhance stove or fireplace performance and safety. It prevents downdrafts by stopping cold air, smoke, and gases from entering the home, while ensuring combustion gases exit properly. It also protects against weather by keeping rain, snow, and debris out, preventing potential blockages and damage. Some chimney cowls improve draught by boosting airflow, which is useful when the chimney isn’t drawing air effectively. Additionally, chimney cowls can stop animals from nesting, preventing blockages and fire risks. The right cowl depends on your stove type, chimney height, and local weather conditions.
Cleaning Baffle
It is important to regularly check the top of the baffle for any build-up of soot and ash, both during use and after a long period of inactivity. Periodically, remove the baffle if necessary to ensure that the flue entrance remains clear.
Cleaning Inner Firebox
Periodically brush the inside of the firebox to check the condition of the plates, liners, and other components. Repainting the firebox interior is typically unnecessary due to the high temperatures, as paint tends to burn off quickly. Steel and vermiculite board liners are durable materials and generally require minimal maintenance. However, depending on the type of fuel and usage, the liner boards may need to be replaced regularly. Please note that liner boards are considered consumable parts and are not covered under warranty.
Cleaning Glass
While the airwash system helps reduce build-up on the glass, it will still need occasional cleaning depending on the fuel quality and burn rates. Never clean the glass when the stove is hot. Always use a stove glass cleaner or ceramic hob cleaner, which can be purchased from your stove retailer. Alternatively, you can use a damp cloth with some clean wood ash (if burning wood), but be cautious to ensure the ash is clean to avoid scratching the glass.
Cleaning the Outer Body
The outer body of the stove only requires occasional dusting. Do not use furniture polish or any cleaning agent other than the stove supplier's recommended paint.
Clean Air Act
The Clean Air Act is a law that prohibits the emission of smoke in designated Smoke Control Areas, unless an exempted appliance or an authorised fuel is used. The aim is to reduce air pollution and improve air quality in urban areas. To comply with this law, stoves or appliances used in these areas must meet specific requirements, and only fuels approved by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) can be burned. Exempt appliances are designed to operate cleanly, producing minimal smoke and pollutants.
Clean Burn
Clean burn is a system that introduces hot air into the firebox just above the normal height of the fire. This promotes the combustion of unburned hydrocarbons in the smoke, resulting in a cleaner burn—meaning fewer soot particles are released into the chimney and atmosphere. Additionally, this system enhances the visual appeal by creating more vibrant flames.
Clear Skies Scheme
The clearSkies certification indicates that an appliance meets or exceeds the minimum performance standards set by the Ecodesign Regulations—the legal requirement for all solid fuel appliances manufactured in the UK from 1st January 2022. This scheme helps consumers identify cleaner, more efficient, and environmentally responsible stoves and heating appliances.
Closed Combustion [CC] Stoves
If your stove is labeled with "CC" or "Closed Combustion," it means the stove is designed to take air directly from the outside to fuel the fire. Many closed combustion stoves come with a spigot already fitted to the back or rear of the stove
Closure Register Plate
A closure register plate is used when a freestanding stove is installed into an open fireplace. It seals the base of the chimney, preventing debris from falling into the fireplace and helping to improve draft efficiency. Typically, it includes a hole for the flue pipe to pass through, as well as an access door to allow for chimney sweeping and maintenance.
Commissioning
Commissioning a solid fuel or gas stove, fire or fireplace must be done following installation of the appliance. This is a compulsory procedure to ensure that the flue/appliance/room ventilation are all in accordance with building regulations, safety requirements and the manufacturer’s installation/operation instructions.
Conventional Flue [CF]
A conventional flue uses natural air circulation to expel gases and combustibles from a fireplace, stove, or boiler. Unlike a balanced flue, it draws air from the surrounding room for combustion. This type of flue is typically used when installing a stove into an existing chimney stack.
Convection Heat / Radiant Heat
Convection stoves heat a room by warming the air around them, which circulates and spreads throughout the space. They typically feature a design that allows air to flow through the stove and heat up before circulating into the room, providing more even and efficient heat distribution.
Radiant stoves, on the other hand, heat a room by radiating infrared heat directly from the stove’s surface. The heat is absorbed by objects and people in the room, offering concentrated warmth in the immediate area. These stoves provide quick, direct heat but are more focused and may not distribute heat as evenly across a large space.
In summary, convection stoves are better for even room heating, while radiant stoves excel at providing immediate, focused warmth.
Cooktop Oven Stoves
Cooktop oven stoves combine the functionality of a traditional stove with an integrated oven, allowing you to cook or bake while also heating your home. The stove typically features a top cooking surface for pots and pans, while the oven section can be used for roasting, baking, or heating dishes.
These versatile appliances are perfect for homes that want to utilize a single heat source for both cooking and space heating, often using solid fuels like wood or coal. Some models also include additional features such as temperature controls, removable trays, and ash collection systems for easy maintenance.
Consumables
While all stoves come with a minimum 1-year guarantee, certain parts are not covered under warranty as they are considered consumables. These include components such as the glass, rope seals, fire bricks, and fuel grates. These parts are subject to wear and tear through regular use.
Cracks in the glass or fire bricks are typically the result of incorrect firing or accidental impact, and are not considered manufacturing faults.
Data Plate
A data plate is an information label or sticker typically attached to the stove itself. It provides key details such as the manufacturer, heat output, and compliance with relevant approvals or legislation.
DEFRA Approved Stoves
Wood-burning or multi-fuel stove that has been tested and approved by the UK’s Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) for use in Smoke Control Areas. These stoves are specially designed to burn fuel more cleanly and efficiently, producing fewer emissions and particulates.
DEFRA approval means the stove meets strict air quality and emissions standards, allowing you to legally burn wood in areas where it would otherwise be restricted. These stoves help reduce environmental impact while still offering high heat output and performance.
Distance to Combustible Material
Refers to the minimum safe clearance that must be maintained between a stove (or its flue pipe) and any material that can scorch, burn or catch fire, such as wood, plasterboard, fabric or TV. This distance is crucial to prevent overheating and reduce fire risk.
The required clearance varies depending on the stove model, flue type, and certification, but it's typically specified in the manufacturer's installation manual.
Document J
The Government issue an Approved Document which contains practical guidance on ways of complying with the Requirements of the Building Regulations. Document J outlines a detailed set of recommendations showing how combustion appliances and their associated flues can be safely installed.
Door Seal (Fire)
The stove door is sealed with a ceramic rope seal to ensure an airtight fit. If the seal becomes worn or damaged, it can lead to air leakage, which disrupts the stove's combustion process and often results in increased soot build-up on the glass. Regularly check the door seal to maintain efficiency and keep the glass clean.
Door
The stove door is a crucial component that forms an airtight seal between the door and the stove body. This seal prevents excess air from entering the stove and stops smoke from escaping, ensuring optimal combustion control and performance. For safety and efficiency, always keep the door closed while the stove is in use.
Door Handle
The stove door handle and locking mechanism are designed to ensure an airtight seal, helping to maintain efficient combustion and giving you better control over the amount of fuel being burned. If any part of the handle or locking mechanism is damaged or not functioning properly, it can allow excess air into the stove, leading to increased fuel consumption and a higher risk of smoke entering the room.
For safety, always use a stove glove when opening or closing the stove door, as the handle can become extremely hot during operation.
Some of the new Mazona Stoves have a threaded bar handle that allow more air into the stove whilst it is locked.
Draught & Draw – Chimney
Draught or draw refers to the movement of smoke and air through the stove's flue, necessary for proper combustion. It is caused by the pressure difference between the bottom (stove) and top of the chimney. The height of the chimney plays a key role, as taller chimneys create a stronger draw due to lower pressure at the top. A tall chimney makes lighting a fire easier, while a short or obstructed chimney weakens the draw. Additionally, warm indoor air is less dense than cooler outdoor air, which helps the smoke rise. This is why lighting a fire is easier on cold days. Once the fire is established, the chimney’s height becomes less critical, but maintaining a good flue temperature is essential for efficient draw. In older homes, installing a smaller diameter, insulated flue liner can help improve the draw and overall stove performance, as most stove issues are linked to poor draught.
Draught Stabiliser
A draught stabiliser is a device fitted to the flue system that helps regulate the flue draw. It allows the stove operator to increase or restrict airflow through the flue pipe, ensuring consistent combustion and preventing excessive draught that can lead to over-firing or inefficient burning. They would not be particularly common.
Eco Design / Eco Design Ready / Eco 2022
Eco design is a Europe-wide initiative aimed at reducing the environmental impact of products, both during their use and throughout their manufacturing process. In the UK, Eco design regulations came into effect in early 2022, setting strict efficiency and emissions standards for all new solid fuel appliances.
Our Eco design Ready stoves offer:
- Up to 90% less particulate emissions than an open fire
- Around 80% less than older, non-compliant stoves
- Compliance with PM emission limits that are 55% lower than those required for DEFRA-exempt stoves
Choosing an Ecodesign Ready stove means better air quality, higher efficiency, and a cleaner, more environmentally responsible way to heat your home.
Efficiency
Efficiency measures how much of the energy from burning fuel is retained by the stove and used to heat the room, instead of being lost up the flue. For example, if a stove is 80% efficient, 20% of the energy is lost up the chimney. Most modern stove efficiencies will be between 75-80%.
External Air / Outside Air
For a stove to operate safely and efficiently, there must be a sufficient supply of combustion air into the room where it is installed. This is especially important in well insulated airtight homes and home with heat recovery.
Most stoves feature a single 80mm rear air port that supplies all the necessary combustion air when the door is closed. This port can be connected directly to an external air supply using an 80mm pipe, allowing the stove to draw air from outside rather than from the room—improving efficiency and maintaining room air quality, especially in well-sealed homes.
Emissions
Stove emissions refer to the by-products released during the combustion of solid fuels such as wood or coal.
Modern, Ecodesign Ready and DEFRA approved—are designed to significantly reduce emissions compared to older models or open fires. These stoves feature advanced combustion systems (such as cleanburn and secondary/tertiary air systems) that ensure more complete burning of fuel, resulting in:
- Lower emissions
- Improved efficiency
- Cleaner air indoors and outdoors
Extractor Fan
Ideally, an extractor fan must not be installed in the same room as a stove. Extractor fans can create negative pressure, which may draw smoke and fumes back into the room from the stove instead of allowing them to exit safely through the flue. This poses a serious safety risk and can compromise the stove’s performance. If there is an extractor fan in the vicinity, then the stove needs to be installed with an External Outside Air.
Fire Box
The chamber inside a stove where the fuel is burned.
Fire Back
Also known as a Fire Chair, Chair Brick, or Milner Brick, the fire back is a curved brick structure that forms the rear wall of an open fireplace. Its primary function is to protect the back wall of the fireplace and to help direct exhaust fumes and smoke efficiently up into the chimney. It also helps reflect heat back into the room, improving the fireplace's overall performance.
Fire Brick
A stove fire brick is a heat-resistant block used to line the interior of the stove’s firebox. Typically made from vermiculite, fireclay, or refractory ceramic, these bricks help protect the stove’s metal body from intense heat and improve combustion efficiency by reflecting heat back into the fire.
Fire bricks are considered consumable parts, meaning they may crack or wear over time, especially with frequent use or improper fuel loading. Regular inspection and timely replacement help ensure the stove continues to operate safely and efficiently.
We manufacture all sizes and profiles of vermiculite stove fire bricks and baffle throat plates on-site, ensuring a perfect fit for a wide range of stove models. In addition to custom-cut components, we also supply full vermiculite sheets (900mm x 600mm) for bespoke applications or replacements as required.
Fire Cement
Fire cement is a high-temperature clay or putty used for sealing and repairing areas exposed to intense heat. Common applications include sealing joints in vitreous enamel single-wall stove pipes, repairing fireplaces, and filling gaps around flue connections or within the stove body.
It sets hard when exposed to heat and is typically rated to withstand temperatures of around 1000°C, making it ideal for use in solid fuel and wood-burning stove installations.
Fire Guard
A fire guard is an essential safety accessory used to prevent accidental contact with a stove, especially when it is in operation and surfaces are extremely hot. It is strongly recommended in households where children, elderly, or vulnerable individuals are present. A properly fitted fire guard helps reduce the risk of burns and enhances overall safety around the appliance.
Fire Rope
Fire rope is a heat-resistant seal, typically made from glass fibre, used around the inside edge of the stove door to create an airtight seal between the door and the stove body. This seal is essential for maintaining proper combustion and stove efficiency.
Over time, the rope may compress, harden, or deteriorate, leading to air leaks that can affect the stove’s performance and increase fuel consumption. Regular inspection and timely replacement of worn fire rope are crucial for safe and efficient stove operation.
Fireplace Surrounds
A fireplace surround is the decorative framework that encases and enhances the appearance of the fireplace. It is typically made from materials like stone, wood, marble, cast iron, or concrete and serves both an aesthetic and functional role.
The surround is designed to frame the opening of the fireplace, providing a finished look while also helping to protect the surrounding wall and materials from the heat generated by the fire. Fireplace surrounds come in a wide range of styles, from traditional to contemporary, to complement different home interiors.
Flexible Flue Liner
A flexible flue liner (also known as a chimney liner) is a flexible, stainless steel pipe that is dropped down an existing chimney to connect to the stove. It serves multiple purposes:
- Condenses the heat within the chimney, thereby, heating the chimney faster than a traditional clay chimney. A hotter flue allows the stove to work better.
- Improves stove efficiency by ensuring the correct draw of air and smoke, which optimizes combustion.
- Enhances safety by containing and directing the flow of gases, preventing them from leaking into the building.
- Protects the chimney from damage caused by corrosive gases, helping to extend the lifespan of the chimney.
- Prevents damp and moisture build up inside the chimney. It also helps to dry out damp chimneys over time.
Flexible flue liners are particularly useful when upgrading an old chimney to accommodate a new stove, as they can be easily fitted without needing extensive renovations.
Flexible flue liners come in 2 main types - either 316 Grade or 904 Grade. The 904 Grade is quite a bit more expensive than the 316 and has a longer warranty period. That said, both flexible flue liner grades will last if the correct fuels are burnt and the chimney is swept as per requirements.
Flexible Flue Liner is made from 2 layers of steel that sometimes overlap during manufacture, leading to some brands referring to it as Twin Wall / Double Skin Flexi Flue.
Flue Diameter
Flue diameter refers to the size of the pipe that carries smoke and gases from the stove to the chimney. The diameter is typically 5" [125mm] for smaller, cleaner-burning stoves, while most larger stoves require a 6" [150mm] diameter flue to accommodate the increased volume of smoke and gases produced.
Front Fire Bar
Also known as a Log Guard, Log Retainer, or Coal Catcher, the front fire bar is designed to increase the height of the stove's firefront, allowing for a larger load of fuel to be added to the firebox.
It serves several important functions:
- Prevents fuel from falling onto the stove’s glass, which could obstruct the view of the flames or cause excessive dirt buildup.
- Stops fuel from falling out of the stove when the door is opened, ensuring that the burning material stays safely within the firebox.
Flexi Fuel - Arada
The Flexi Fuel System by Arada offers the flexibility to easily switch between a wood-burning stove, solid fuel stove, or multi-fuel stove, allowing you to use the fuel of your choice without compromising on heat output or efficiency.
The unique crucible-shaped grate bars are designed to provide an ideal foundation for the fire, ensuring consistent fuel feeding to the center of the fire. This helps to prevent unburnt fuel and promotes a more efficient burn, optimizing both performance and fuel use.
Flue
The flue is a general term used to describe the duct or passage that carries combustion gases and smoke from the stove or fireplace to the outside of the building. This can refer to:
- The flue pipe (often used in stove installations)
- The chimney itself
- Flexible or rigid chimney liners
- External flue systems or ducting
A properly installed flue is essential for safe and efficient stove operation, ensuring that harmful gases are effectively removed from the living space.
Flue Collar
The flue collar is a crucial component that attaches to the top or rear outlet of the stove, providing the connection point between the stove and the flue or stove pipe. It ensures a secure and sealed link to direct combustion gases safely into the flue system.
The flue collar is typically used in combination with a blanking plate, which covers the unused flue outlet, depending on whether the installation is top- or rear-exiting.
Free Standing Stove
A free-standing stove is a stove that stands on legs or a base, rather than being built into a fireplace. It can be placed in a fireplace opening with a small gap around it, or positioned freely in a room, away from any fireplace. The alternative to this is an inset or insert stove, which is designed to be installed directly into a fireplace.
Fuel
Stove fuel refers to the type of material burned in a stove to generate heat. The most common stove fuels include:
- Seasoned hardwood logs – Ideal for wood-burning stoves; they must be well-dried (usually below 20% moisture) to ensure a clean, efficient burn.
- Smokeless coal – Approved for use in multi-fuel stoves, especially in smoke control areas.
- Wood pellets – Used in pellet stoves, offering a clean and highly efficient burn with minimal emissions.
- Eco logs or briquettes – Compressed wood or biomass products, often made from recycled materials; suitable for many wood or multi-fuel stoves.
The correct type of fuel is essential for optimal stove performance, fuel efficiency, and reduced emissions. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure you're using fuel that’s compatible with your specific stove model.
Glass
Stove glass is a high-temperature, heat-resistant ceramic glass fitted into the door of a wood-burning or multi-fuel stove. It allows you to enjoy a clear view of the flames while containing the intense heat and preventing smoke and fumes from escaping into the room.
Many modern stoves feature an airwash system that directs a stream of pre-heated air over the glass to help keep it clean. However, over time, soot and tar may still build up, especially when burning poor-quality or damp fuel.
Cleaning Tips
Only clean the glass when the stove is completely cool.
- Use a specialist stove glass cleaner or a damp cloth with fine wood ash (make sure it’s clean ash to avoid scratching the glass).
- Avoid using harsh abrasives or scrapers.
Note: Stove glass is tough, but it can still crack if exposed to extreme thermal shock or if logs are loaded too forcefully against it.
Gas
LPG stands for Liquefied Petroleum Gas. If your property uses bottled gas or a large gas tank, you should choose an LPG model for your stove.
Natural gas is supplied directly to your property through a pipeline from a gas supply company, and it is the most common gas source in the UK.
Glass Clips & Screws
These replacement stove glass clips and screws are specifically designed to secure the stove glass panel in place, ensuring an airtight seal for optimal stove performance, efficiency, and safety.
It is important to not over-tighten the clips and screws. The glass must be allowed to expand naturally when the stove is in use. Over-tightening can result in the glass cracking due to heat stress.
Glass Gasket
A stove glass gasket is a heat-resistant sealing rope or strip that sits between the stove door glass and the metal door frame. It ensures an airtight seal around the glass, preventing excess air from entering the firebox and helping to maintain efficient combustion and proper stove performance.
Grate
The stove grate is the raised base inside the stove firebox on which the fuel burns. It is typically made from cast iron for durability and heat resistance. The grate is designed to sit elevated above the bottom of the firebox, allowing air to flow up from beneath, which aids combustion and improves efficiency.
As the fuel burns, ashes fall through the grate into the ash pan below, where they can be easily collected and removed.
Regular cleaning of the grate and ash pan is important for maintaining good airflow, efficient burning, and overall stove performance.
Grate - Adjustable
An adjustable grate is a feature commonly found in multi-fuel stoves that allows you to open or close the grate depending on the type of fuel you're burning.
When burning coal, the grate is typically opened to allow air to flow freely beneath the fuel, which is essential for coal combustion. However, when burning wood, the grate should be closed to ensure optimal burning conditions.
Grate – Fixed Static
A static grate is a fixed, non-moveable grate found in many wood-burning and multi-fuel stoves. It features air slots or openings designed to allow adequate airflow from beneath the fire, supporting efficient combustion of the recommended fuels.
Grate – Riddling
The riddling grate is used as a fuel bed in multi fuels stoves. Solid fuels need a supply of air from below to burn effectively. A riddling grate is a moveable grate that when operated allows the ash to fall through the grate and so keep the air supply constant.
Grate – Centre Grate
This circular centre grate sits inside the outer frame grate in some stove models.
Grate – Outer Frame Grate
The outer frame grate is a square / rectangular shape and houses the circular centre grate.
Hearth
A hearth is a fireproof surface situated directly in front of a fireplace or stove. Made from non-combustible materials, it serves as a protective barrier to prevent hot embers, ash, or debris from falling onto the floor or carpeting. The hearth helps to preserve the surrounding flooring and ensures safety during activities like refuelling or de-ashing the stove.
In addition to its protective function, the hearth also contributes to the aesthetic of the room, offering a defined space around the stove or fireplace.
Heat Output
Maximum Output – the maximum output of the stove or appliance.
Nominal Output – the average output of the stove or appliance.
HETAS
HETAS is the official body recognized by the government to approve biomass and solid fuel heating appliances, fuels, and services. It also oversees the registration of competent installers and servicing businesses, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations in the installation and maintenance of such systems.
Heat Shield
A heat shield is fitted to a wood burner or multifuel stove to allow a stove to be installed closer to non-combustible surfaces such as walls.
Hotplate
A stove hotplate is a cast iron plate typically installed on top of a stove, designed for cooking or heating purposes. It provides a flat, durable surface where pots or pans can be placed to cook food using the heat generated by the stove.
Insert Stove
An Inset (or Insert) Stove is designed to be installed into an existing or new hole or opening in a wall or fireplace. The stove's face typically sits flush or slightly proud of the wall, offering a clean and neat finish. This type of stove is ideal for those who want a stove that doesn't take up additional space in the room while still providing efficient heating.
Insulated Flue
An Insulated Flue typically refers to Twin Wall Insulated Flue Pipes, which are used to create a chimney system in homes without a brick chimney or in properties where the original chimney has been removed. These flue pipes have insulation between two walls, helping to maintain the temperature of the flue gases and improve the efficiency of the stove. They are commonly used in modern installations to safely channel smoke and gases outside the home.
Installation
The installation of your appliance should always be carried out by a competent, experienced heating engineer. This ensures the appliance is installed correctly, safely, and in compliance with all local regulations. A professional installation helps guarantee optimal performance, safety, and adherence to the manufacturer’s warranty conditions.
kW
Kilowatt [kW] per hour, is the standard unit for measuring power, with 1 kW equalling 1000 watts. It is commonly used to indicate the heat output of heaters and stoves. For example, a small electric fire typically produces around 1-2kW of heat, while a small wood-burning stove may have a rated output of about 4-5kW. An open fire has approx. 2Kw output, however, the actual heat output can vary depending on the type, amount, and quality of fuel being used.
Lintel
A lintel is a horizontal support used above a fireplace or stove opening to bear the weight of the building materials above it.
Log Size
Refers to the maximum length of firewood that can comfortably fit inside the stove's firebox. It's often listed in the stove’s specifications—for example, a compact stove might take logs up to 10 inches (250mm) long.
If space allows (especially with free-standing stoves), opting for a wider model can accommodate longer logs. This can be more convenient, reducing how often you need to refuel and how much effort is needed to chop wood down to size.
Non Combustible Material to Stove
Not allowing for sufficient clearance between or around your stove and non-combustible materials (such as brick work or masonry) will not only damage the stove body over time but also reduce radiant heat into the room, reducing the stove's overall effectiveness.
Maintenance and Servicing
To ensure the safe and efficient operation of your stove, it is important to have it serviced by a registered dealer once a year. Regular checks should include:
- Stove and Flue Pipe Connection
Have the stove, flue pipe connection, and chimney inspected by a qualified engineer to ensure they are functioning properly and safely. - Chimney Inspection
Before relighting your stove after an extended period of non-use, the chimney should be checked for blockages to prevent any hazards. - Insulating Fire Bricks
The fire bricks should be checked for wear. Replace them if necessary to maintain proper heat retention and stove efficiency. - Door and Ashpan Rope Seals
The rope seals around the door and ashpan should be replaced annually to prevent air leaks, which can reduce efficiency and cause safety concerns. - Glass and Glass Clamps
Regularly check the glass to ensure it is correctly positioned and in good condition. Also, inspect the glass clamps to ensure they are secure and functioning correctly.
Manufacturers Guidelines
Refer to the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of a product, such as a stove or heating appliance, regarding its proper installation, use, maintenance, and safety precautions. These guidelines are essential for ensuring the appliance operates efficiently and safely, adhering to legal and regulatory requirements.
Key components of manufacturer guidelines typically include:
- Installation Instructions: Detailed steps on how to properly install the appliance, including recommended materials, spacing, ventilation, and connections to chimneys or flue systems.
- Operation and Usage: Information on how to safely and efficiently operate the appliance, such as fuel recommendations, air control settings, and temperature management.
- Maintenance and Cleaning: Recommendations for regular cleaning and servicing to maintain the appliance's performance, including chimney sweeping and replacing consumable parts like seals or glass.
- Safety Considerations: Warnings and advice on how to prevent hazards, such as carbon monoxide poisoning, over-heating, or fire risks, and how to ensure proper ventilation and air supply.
- Warranty Information: Details on the warranty coverage, including which parts are covered, duration of the warranty, and conditions under which the warranty may become void.
- Regulatory Compliance: Assurance that the appliance complies with local building codes, emissions standards, and environmental regulations.
Following the manufacturer's guidelines ensures the appliance is used correctly and helps maintain its efficiency, longevity, and safety.
Media Wall Fires
A media wall fire is an electric or gas fire integrated into a custom-built unit, often with space for a television. These fires are typically landscape-oriented and have a sleek, modern design, making them a popular choice for contemporary living spaces.
Multi Fuel
Multi Fuel Appliances burn a range of fuels including wood, coal, smokeless, turf, and briquettes.
Overnight Burning
To keep your stove burning overnight and maintain steady heat:
Overnight burning involves allowing your stove to burn through the night, maintaining a steady, low heat without needing to reload.
- Use the Right Fuel: Choose well-seasoned hardwood (oak, ash, beech) or coal/anthracite (for multi-fuel stoves).
- Control Airflow: Minimize air intake without completely shutting it off.
- Set the Stove Correctly: Fill the firebox, adjust air control to low, and seal the door.
- Avoid Overloading: Don’t overfill the stove; this can cause inefficient burning.
- Use the Right Stove: Multi-fuel stoves with a riddling grate or overnight features work best.
- Morning Check: Add fresh fuel and adjust air supply in the morning.
- Chimney Maintenance: Clean the chimney regularly to avoid soot buildup.
- Safety: Install a carbon monoxide detector and ensure proper ventilation.
By following these steps, overnight burning will efficiently heat your home while ensuring safety and stove performance.
Over Firing
Over-firing occurs when the stove is operated beyond its design capacity, which can cause damage. Watch for signs of over-firing, such as any part of the stove glowing red. If this happens, immediately adjust the controls to lower the temperature. Never leave the stove unattended for long periods without ensuring it’s set to a safe level. Always manage the air supply carefully to avoid over-firing and protect the stove’s longevity.
Operating Tool
A stove operating tool is a long-handled tool used to adjust and control various elements of your stove, such as opening and closing the door, adjusting air vents, or moving fuel around.
Output
Heat output refers to the amount of heat a stove emits into the room. Essentially, the heat you receive from the stove depends on how much fuel is burned and how efficiently the stove converts that fuel into heat. The higher the heat output, the more warmth the stove will provide to the space.
An example; an open fire is 2kw output approx.
Riddling
Riddling refers to the process of shaking or moving the grate bars in a stove, especially when burning solid fuels like anthracite or coal. The purpose of riddling is to allow the ash produced by burning fuel to fall through the grate and into the ash pan below. This process helps maintain the airflow through the fuel bed, ensuring efficient combustion and preventing the grate from becoming clogged with ash.
Roof Flashing
Used externally to seal twin wall or balanced flue pipes when passing through the roof of a building.
Rosette
This is a black finishing trim that is placed around the stove pipe as it disappears up through a Closure / Register Plate.
Single – Flexi Adaptor
An adaptor to flex is used to connect a black vitreous stove pipe to a stainless steel flexible chimney liner. It is available in two types: screw-fix and push-fit, allowing for secure and easy installation depending on your preference.
Slumbering
Slumbering occurs when the air supply to a stove is deliberately reduced—usually by closing the stove's air vents—to slow down the rate at which the fuel burns. This creates a longer-lasting, lower-temperature burn, often used overnight to keep the fire going.
While it’s useful for maintaining heat without frequent refuelling, it can lead to increased soot buildup in the chimney, requiring more regular cleaning.
Smoke Control Areas
If you live in a town or city, the chances are that you live in a Smoke Control Area. To meet the smoke emission standards for these areas, you will need to burn authorised smokeless fuels only on a multi-fuel appliance. A list of authorised smokeless fuels can be found by visiting the DEFRA website. If you wish to burn wood, your appliance must be suitable for use in Smoke Control Areas.
Stove Beam
Add a finishing touch to your stove install. Available in Wood & Wood Effect options.
Stove Chamber
Provide a cost-effective solution to line the sides & rear of the stove chamber recess area.
Stove Paint
Stove paint is a special type of high-temperature paint used to coat the outer surfaces of a stove. It is designed to withstand the extreme heat generated during the stove's operation while maintaining its appearance.
Stove Pipe
Connects the stove to the chimney. Can connect to the bottom of a chimney adaptor, flexible flue liner or twin wall system. A stove pipe is designed to remove smoke and gas from the stove and direct it to the chimney, ensuring proper venting of combustion gases.
The Stove Industry Alliance (SIA)
Established in 2008, represents stove manufacturers, fuel suppliers, flue and glass producers, and testing bodies like Kiwa. Its main goal is to promote the benefits of wood-burning and biomass stoves. The SIA acts as the official voice of the stove industry, working closely with government departments such as Defra, BEIS, the Scottish Parliament, and the Welsh Government, which now regularly consult the SIA on industry matters.
Steel Stoves
Steel is a common alternative to cast iron for stove construction. Steel stoves are made from large sheets that are laser-cut, folded, and welded into shape, making them airtight and with excellent heat control.
Steel stoves heat up faster than cast iron but also cool down more quickly once the fire goes out, as they don’t retain heat as long.
Stove Spare Parts
Stove spare parts refer to the individual components that may need replacing over time due to wear and tear or damage. Common spare parts include fire bricks, baffle plates, grates, ash pans, stove rope, door glass, clips and screws, handles, knobs, and air control mechanisms. Keeping your stove in optimal condition often means replacing these consumable parts as needed to maintain efficiency, safety, and performance. Always ensure replacements are compatible with your specific stove model.
Summertime & Periods of Non-Use
If the stove is left unused for a prolonged period, it should be thoroughly cleaned to remove ash and unburned fuel residues. To prevent condensation and potential damage, leave the air controls fully open to ensure good air circulation through the appliance.
Twin Wall Flue / Insulated Flue
A twin wall flue is a chimney system designed to clip together without the need for adhesives or sealants. The components simply slide into one another, and a locking band is added to secure them, providing a secure and efficient flue system.
Vitreous Enamel
Refers to the most common type of pipe used to connect the stove to the chimney. See Stove Pipe…
Wall Ventilation
The stove requires a permanent and adequate air supply in order for it to operate safely and efficiently. In accordance with current Building Regulations the installer may have fitted a permanent air supply vent into the room in which the stove is installed to provide combustion air. This air vent should not under any circumstances be shut off or sealed.
Warranty
All appliances have some form of warranty to ensure that the appliance will function as intended and cover potential defects or issues. The specifics of a each warranty vary between manufacturers.
Wood Fuel
To ensure efficient and safe burning in your stove, always burn well-seasoned wood. Logs should be stored in a dry, sheltered area with good air circulation and left to season for at least a year. This prevents issues like tar buildup and chimney fires. Use an electronic moisture meter to check that the wood has a moisture content below 20%. Ideal woods for burning include beech, birch, elm, hawthorn, hazel, and oak, as they burn longer and more efficiently. Avoid burning unseasoned wood, as it can cause excessive smoke, inefficient combustion, and dangerous tar buildup.
Wood Pellets
Wood pellets are a type of compressed biomass fuel made from sawdust, wood chips, or other wood waste materials. They are typically used in pellet stoves and boilers, offering an efficient, environmentally-friendly heating option. Wood pellets have a low moisture content, which helps them burn efficiently and produce consistent heat. They are a convenient alternative to traditional firewood, as they are easy to store and handle.
