Wood Burners Vs Gas Fires. Which One is Best?
Making the choice between wood burners vs gas fires for your home, hut or other small space can be a tough decision. Both options offer warmth and ambiance, but they come with distinct advantages and considerations.
Key Differences of Wood Burners Vs Gas Fires.
A small stove such as our decorative, cast-iron Hobbit, provides a unique, cosy atmosphere. The crackling sound of burning logs and the natural scent of wood create a rustic atmosphere that is hard to replicate. The sight of real flames can make any room feel warm and inviting.
A gas fire offers the convenience of instant heat at the flick of a switch. While it may lack the sensory experience of a wood burner, a modern gas fire can mimic the appearance of real flames. However, the constant heat can dry out the atmosphere of a room.
Costs.
The initial cost of installing a wood burner can be significant, especially if your home requires a chimney or flue installation. However, wood burners can be very economical in the long run, with energy and gas bills staying stubbornly high and the cost of living rising, having a wood burning stove is an investment which will significantly save you money on your heating bills in the long run. Our Hobbit Stove and Little Range are also a very efficient way of heating your home, instead of burning through gas, you are burning through dried, untreated and natural wood.
Gas fires typically have a lower initial installation cost, particularly if your home already has a gas line. While they can be highly efficient, converting a large percentage of their fuel into heat, the current volatility in the energy market can mean they are more expensive to run than a stove, therefore being more of a financial burden in the long term.
Environmental Concerns.
There are many factors to consider when weighing up the environmental impact of wood burners versus gas fires. Wood is a renewable resource, and burning it is considered carbon-neutral if the wood is sustainably sourced and well-seasoned. In the past, some wood burners were highlighted as producing particulate pollution, a significant concern in areas with air quality issues. However, newer models with better combustion technology significantly reduce these emissions. Our Hobbit SE is fully compliant with the Eco Design regulations introduced two years ago, with an efficiency of over 81%, and reduced particulate and gas emissions.
The model has also passed the HETAS Cleaner Choice Scheme and has achieved clear skies level 4 certification. Meanwhile, our Little Range Cook Stove is also Eco Design approved, has passed the HETAS Cleaner Choice Scheme and has a clear skies Level 5 accreditation.
Natural gas is a fossil fuel, and while it can burn cleaner than wood in terms of particulate emissions, it does release carbon dioxide, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
Convenience and Maintenance.
A gas fire is highly convenient and requires minimal maintenance. and starting the fire is as easy as flipping a switch. Annual servicing by a professional is all that is needed to ensure safe and efficient operation.
Operating a wood burner can require a steady supply of wood. There is also the task of cleaning out ashes and maintaining the stove or fireplace. But while a wood burner needs a bit more care and maintenance, many people enjoy the ritual of tending a wood fire and feel it brings them closer to nature. If this feels like too much maintenance, alternatively you can simply buy the wood and employ a professional to clean your stove!
Wood Burner Vs Gas Fire; Which one is better?
Here at Salamander Stoves, we are understandably a little biased on this question! We believe that while gas fires are good for those seeking convenience, a beautifully-designed stove can add an extra dimension to life – offering warmth, comfort, and sustainability – and enhancing any living space for generations to come. As of July 2023, the House Price Index confirmed that having a log burner installed in your home could enhance the value of your home by up to 5%.
