Why stove installation matters
Installing a wood-burning stove is more than just choosing a stylish centrepiece — it’s about safety, efficiency and compliance. Since 2022, all new stoves sold in the UK must meet EcoDesign standards, aimed at reducing emissions and improving air quality. Getting it right at installation sets you up for cleaner, safer heating for years to come.
Choose an EcoDesign Ready stove
EcoDesign is a European directive that limits harmful emissions such as particulates (PM2.5), CO and nitrogen oxides. Since January 2022, it’s illegal to sell new stoves in the UK that don’t meet these standards. Always check that your stove is EcoDesign Ready — this means:
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It’s independently tested and certified
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It produces fewer emissions
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It burns wood more efficiently
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It helps you stay compliant with local and national clean air rules
Most major brands now offer EcoDesign Ready models. Look for stoves also listed as DEFRA approved for use in smoke control areas.
Plan your location carefully
Installing a stove isn’t a one-size-fits-all job. Work with a qualified HETAS-registered installer to assess the right placement in your room and ensure the setup complies with building regulations. Consider:
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Minimum distances from combustibles (furniture, walls, floors)
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Floor protection using a hearth
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Adequate air ventilation
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Correct flue size and routing
A good installer will also help with required notification paperwork, so your installation is legal and insurable.
Use the right fuel
The type of fuel you burn makes a huge difference to how cleanly your stove runs. To comply with EcoDesign and DEFRA rules, your wood must be:
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Ready to Burn certified
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Below 20% moisture — ideally under 15% for maximum efficiency
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Clean, untreated and chemical-free
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Hardwood logs, not softwood or house coal
At The Logsmith, all our firewood is ultra kiln dried to below 15% moisture, delivering more heat with fewer emissions. We’re certified under the Ready to Burn scheme and never sell softwood or smoky, low-grade fuels.
Size matters: match the stove to the space
A common mistake is buying a stove that’s too powerful or too small for the room. A 5kW stove is ideal for an average-sized living room (about 70–90 m³). If the stove is too big, you’ll end up running it at low temperatures, causing incomplete combustion, more tar, and more pollution.
Your installer can run a heat loss calculation to help size it correctly.
Flue and chimney considerations
A clean, properly fitted flue is essential. Your chimney may need:
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A liner for safe draft and combustion
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A register plate to block off unused chimney space
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Regular sweeping to prevent soot build-up and risk of chimney fires
Most stoves require a flue with a minimum height (usually 4.5m total) and proper capping for safety. Always follow HETAS or building control guidelines.
Improve efficiency with good habits
EcoDesign compliance isn’t just about the stove — it’s how you use it:
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Burn with the air vents open during ignition
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Use kiln dried logs under 15% moisture
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Don’t smoulder or slumber burn overnight
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Use kindling and natural firelighters for a clean start
Using a moisture meter to test logs at home is also a great way to stay within guidelines.
Stay legal and clean with every burn
Smoke Control Areas exist across many parts of the UK. In these zones, only DEFRA approved stoves burning Ready to Burn fuels are permitted. Check your postcode on your local council website if you’re unsure.
When installed and used correctly, an EcoDesign Ready stove is one of the cleanest ways to heat your home with wood — and it's compliant for years to come.
Need the right fuel? We’ve got you covered
The Logsmith supplies ultra kiln dried hardwood logs, briquettes, kindling and natural firestarters — all packaged plastic-free and certified Ready to Burn. Whether you’re installing a stove in your home, holiday let or business, we help you get the most from every fire.