What wood burner size fits me?

Choosing the right size wood burning stove for your home requires careful consideration. Not only do you have to consider the style, burner type, and location for your burner, you also need to consider how large it needs to be.

A common error that many people make when selecting a wood burner is to purchase one that is too big. What appears the ideal size in the showroom often feels much larger in a smaller household environment.

Cast iron stove Contura 51L and Masonry stove Contura i51T

4 Key Factors To Consider

Burners that are too big or too small for your room impact on the efficiency and performance of the stove. This is why it is important to invest some time thinking about your size requirements. Below, we outline some key points for you to follow.

1. The size of the room

Be sure to measure the approximate width, length, and height of your room with a tape measure. It is possible to calculate the cubic area of the room by multiplying the width, length, and height. Then just divide the cubic area by 14 to get the kW output.

If the figure is between 4kW and 6kW, you need a small log burner. If the figure is between 7kW and 9kW, then a medium-sized wood burner will suffice. If the figure is higher, such as between 10kW and 15kW, then you need a large wood burner.

2. Ensure suitable airflow

Wood burners with an output of 5 or more kilowatts (kW) require reliable ventilation. A ventilation kit is one option, but a basic air brick is also suitable. Even if you have a small room with a small stove, it is always good practice to ensure good ventilation.

3. Consider the location

Choosing the right size of wood burner is key to high performance and energy efficiency. But it is also important to consider where the stove will be situated. Stoves that are too large may increase the risk of fire. Always consider nearby hazards, such as flammable materials like wallpaper, curtains, furniture, and similar.

Building regulations state that you need at least a 950mm distance from flammable materials. There should also be at least a 225mm gap at the front of the burner and a 150mm gap between the sides. Always ensure a non-flammable wall area or hearth.

4. Efficiency and heat output

Wood burning stoves work best at their optimal performance level. If the heat output is less than ideal, the stove will not work as efficiently. You can increase the efficiency by ensuring good home insulation and the correct type of ventilation.

Visit Contura for Scandanivan-style wood burners

Contura supplies stylish and feature-rich Scandinavian wood burning stoves and fireplaces. Our high-quality range of log burners brings sophistication and warmth to any home, plus has innovative features and superb safety credentials.

We feature a variety of burner sizes and designs, including freestanding and wall-mounted. For more information on our range and to see the full collection, visit our website.