The Best Woodburners

The relaxation and blood pressure-reducing benefits of a wood burner have been well-documented. But what about the tiny sooty particles that they release into the air?

Luckily, new stoves are built with the EcoDesign directive in mind. You can have cozy and warm home, without compromising your environmental responsibilities.

1. Ekol Edge

The Ekol Edge wood burner is simple in appearance, but doesn't compromise on performance. It is a great choice for those who live in smoke-controlled areas, since it comes with ClearSkies Level 5 certification. This means that it can be used to burn dry and seasoned wood logs or approved solid fuels. The high output of heat makes it a great option for larger spaces and the large fire glass offers a beautiful view of the flames.

It has a modern steel frame which means it can be used in both traditional inglenooks and freestanding areas. It features an air wash system that keeps the glass clean and helps prevent the accumulation of soot. The stove is a great seasonal efficiency, which means that a high percentage of the heat produced is transferring to your home rather than being lost up the chimney.

The recent criticism of wood burners has increased, because it was found that they could contribute to the creation of microscopic sooty air particles called PM2.5. These particles have been associated with lung and heart issues. However, modern models that meet the Eco design Regulations are much less likely to generate these particles. They are just a small part of the overall pollution generated by burning fossil fuels such as gas and coal, but there is no doubt that wood burners are a source of this pollution.

It is important to choose the right wood burning stove outdoor for the stove to ensure the best heat output and combustion. There are many types of wood that can be burned such as eucalyptus, ash, hazel and beech. Eucalyptus is an excellent choice due to its rapid burning and produces a lot of heat, however it must be seasoned. Beech is a different option, but its vicious thorns make it difficult to handle with protective gloves.

The Ekol Adept is designed to comply with the new regulations. It's Defra-exempt and ClearSkies-rated, so you can use it so it is if you follow the guidelines. It is a heavy-duty sturdy burner with a 10-year Body Warranty and a strong construction. Its heating capabilities are also impressive.

2. Arada Holborn 5 Widescreen

Wood burning stoves continue to be popular despite the confusing directives that surround the use of these stoves. In fact, some campaign groups are calling for stricter restrictions, and even a complete ban on log burners, so it's worth checking out our guide on stove pollution and regulations prior to you buy an updated log fire or multifuel burner.

Arada Stoves is one company that is doing its part to ensure that woodburners remain popular. They have released a widescreen version for their popular Holborn Multifuel/Wood Burning Stove. It's a DEFRA approved, SIA 2022 Ecodesign Ready woodburner with a large glass door that provides an amazing flame image. There is also an airwash system which prevents the accumulation of soot.

The stove is easy to use and has a a heat output rating of 4.9kW. The curving lines and classic design makes it ideal for traditional and contemporary style. This model can be easily incorporated into smaller recesses due to its flat back design. It is also easy to install direct air systems using this model, which will increase the efficiency.

Another excellent aspect of this stove is the built in ash dump which makes it very easy to clean up and remove ashes on a regular basis which reduces the chance of odours and dust escaping into the room. You can choose between two types of flue adaptors dependent on the chimney type. It is also available with wireless remote control.

While the debate continues about whether wood-burning stoves are good for your health, we can all agree that they provide a wonderful ambience in our homes. However, it is important to be aware of the negative effects of particulate matter and how burning wood and other kinds of fuels can affect the quality of indoor air as well as health. If you're installing an appliance that burns wood, it is recommended that you close the door when you are not interacting with the fire. Also, you should regularly clean the stove to ensure that the air as healthy as possible.

3. Go Eco 5kW Plus

It's relaxing watching the flames flicker and can reduce blood pressure. However, it's not without its problems however, studies have revealed that older stoves can cause harm because they release tiny particles of soot that end up into your respiratory system. New regulations have been put in place to ensure that stoves have higher standards. This helps to cut down on creosote leakage, smoke accumulation and, most importantly - harmful gases such as carbon monoxide.

New woodburners have to comply with a new standard and this is where the Go Eco 5kW Plus stands out, this multi-fuel stove not only meets, but surpasses the new standards. The stove comes with a widescreen viewing glass that lets you see the flames clearly. It is also kept clean thanks to an air-washing system that is powerful. The stove boasts an impressive 80% energy efficiency rating and is DEFRA exempt meaning that it is able to be used in smoke-free areas. It is also SIA Ecodesign-ready, which means it is already in compliance with European emissions restrictions for wood-burning stoves that will be in effect in 2022.

As if that wasn't enough the stove comes with an air venting kit for free making it simpler than ever to install. This is a robust unit that's made from high-quality steel. The finish is a classic matte black and it's easy to keep clean because the body is coated in an enamel that is able to repel dirt and grime.

The clearSkies label on this stove indicates that it has been independently tested and verified to be sustainable and efficient, this is above and beyond the basic requirements set out by Ecodesign. This is one of a few stoves in our list that have the full five-star clearSkies rating.

4. Chilli Penguin Defrost

Chilli Penguin is a feisty Welsh wood burner brand Best Woodburners that has a maverick style that shouldn't be missed out on. Chilli Penguin is known for its small multi-fuel stoves that come with various features and sizes. This 4.7kW model is a prime example of their focus on brand, and also shows that they are able to provide the best quality product at a cost that won't cost you a fortune. This DEFRA approved woodburner can be used in Smoke Control Areas and is fully compliant to the current emission limit of 5g/hr. It also has ClearSkies level five credentials. It's the ideal choice for those who aren't sure where the directive will go and want to feel secure that their log burners will remain free of smoke control regulations.