Put aside your list of New Year resolutions and instead think about choosing a cast iron stove to transform your 2024. Cast iron stoves can be an incredible feature, as well as a practical addition to any home. And we are sure it will make you happier than that gym membership! But what are the benefits of a cast iron stove this New Year? And should you choose a multi-fuel stove or a wood burning stove?

What are the benefits of a cast iron stove this New Year?

Cast irons stoves are the perfect way to get that cosy feeling this winter. And with temperatures set to plummet through January and February, its a great time to think about installing one in your home. But what kind of benefits can you expect? Well, cast iron stoves are:

• strong, reliable, resilient and durable- a cast iron stove from a reputable supplier is built to last. This means that it wont warp or bend with the heat of the fire, and you wont have to worry about repairs or replacements.
• stunning design- cast iron stoves can be created to be traditional and welcoming, or contemporary and stunning so, you can choose whatever style will fit your home.

Should you choose a multi-fuel or wood burning stove?

So when it comes to cast iron stoves, should you choose a multi-fuel, or a wood burner? Well, there are advantages and disadvantages to each, but the main difference is that a wood burner is designed specifically to burn wood, so other fuel forms would not be an option to heat your home. On the other hand, the multi-fuel stove is built to burn a range of materials so you will have the full range of fuel options.

For more information, or for your multi-fuel stove installation, get in touch today, here at JMS Wood Burning and Multi Fuel Stoves. We are leading stove experts.

With big increases expected for the cost of energy across the UK in the next few months, just as the temperature plummets, there has never been a better time to install a multi-fuel or wood burning stove. But how can these be used to heat your home in winter? And what are the effective options for using a stove for winter heating?

What are the options when using a stove for winter heating?

Wood burning and multi-fuel stoves are available in both cast iron, and steel varieties. These are designed in a range of styles, from traditional to ultra-contemporary so there is something to suit any home. While cast iron stoves take a little longer to heat up, they do retain heat for longer. So if you want instant warmth when you walk in from the snow, a steel stove could be a good option. But if you want to warm your home through for the evening, without using as much wood or fuel, an iron stove could be a good choice.

Either stove you choose, you could see a big heat output, as long as you choose the right size stove for your room or home. Here at JMS Stoves, we can help you with that.

Wood burning stoves for winter heating

Wood burning stoves are designed only to burn wood, and are created with efficiency in mind so that you will get the most heat from as little wood as possible.

Multi-fuel stoves for winter heating

Multi-fuel stoves are designed to burn wood, coal and other fuel sources. This means you can choose a range of alternatives, and you wont have to rely on wood.

Coming home to a stove is a great way to relax and unwind as you thaw out. For more information or advice, get in touch with the team today, here at JMS Wood Burning and Multi-Fuel Stoves. We offer a range of stoves that could be perfect for any home.

Here at at JMS Wood Burning and Multi-Fuel Stoves, we are leading stove experts. From multi-fuel stoves, to wood-burning stoves, we have a wealth of knowledge, skills and expertise. But did you know, wood burning stoves can help you de-stress? But why are wood burning stoves so comforting and soothing? And how can you unwind and relax with a wood burning stove?

Unwind and relax with a wood burning stove

With so many log fireplace relaxation videos to choose from on YouTube, it’s clear that a lot of people share the view that nothing is more relaxing than a real fire. And it’s true. Not only is watching a fire calming, but building and stoking your small stove can help you unwind too. But how? Well, research has suggested that this is related to blood pressure.

How can wood burning stoves help you unwind and relax?

Scientists have proved that the longer people sit in front of a roaring fire, the greater the relaxing effect it has on them. This is because watching the fire actually reduces blood pressure. In fact, brain scans showed that even when the flames and noise of a small stove or fireplace are simulated in a laboratory they reduce blood pressure.

The evolution of a species

As a species, fire is something that would have been crucial to the first humans. And this prehistoric connection to fire, and all it symbolizes (light, heat, food and shelter) still has a calming effect on the humans of today, thanks to evolution.

For a stylish, efficient stove for your home this winter, why not get in touch with the team here at JMS Wood Burning and Multi-Fuel Stoves today?

While choosing a stove for your home is an incredibly practical option, the right stove will also be a stunning visual visual feature in your property. So to keep your stove looking fresh and new, there are some cleaning and maintenance steps you should take. So what are the important steps for cleaning your wood burning stove?

Important tips for cleaning your wood burning stove

To keep your wood burning stove clean, you should consider some regular cleaning and maintenance tasks, including:

• Cleaning the glass- over time the glass on your stove can become ashy, sooty or dirty. It is also a trap for fingerprints and smudges too. You can use specialist stove cleaning products for this, or just a microfibre cloth. Be sure the clean the inside and the outside of the glass for the best results.
• Cleaning the exterior- the exterior of the stove can also become dirty over time, due to ash and dust. This can be cleaned easily using a vacuum cleaner with a mouthpiece with soft brushes. You should never use a wet cloth to clean this, as this can ultimately lead to rust.
• Scratches in the paintwork- occasionally scratches can develop in the paintwork, usually as a result of accidental damage. However, these can easily be fixed with heat resistant spray paint. Simply make sure that the surface of the wood burning stove is clean and dry before you paint it.

For more information or advice, get in touch with the professionals today, here at JMS Wood Burning and Multi-Fuel Stoves? We are leading stove experts. From wood burning stoves to multi-fuel, and cast iron stoves to steel, we offer something for everyone. Get in touch today?

If you’re looking for a new stove, you may have noticed that some have catalysers, which might be something you’d expect in a vehicle, but not a stove. So what are these for in a stove? And why do some stoves have a catalyser?

What is a catalyser for in a stove?

A catalyser, also known as a catalytic converter, has been a very effective addition to some stoves, as these have the ability to improve efficiency when burning fuel, while also reducing the harmful emissions that might be emitted. 

How does a stove catalyser work?

When a stove is burning fuel, the unburned particles and gasses can be released into the air, which leads to an increase in air pollution. By opting for a stove with a catalyser, you can reduce these emissions, and make sure that more of the fuel is used for heat. This is because a catalyser initiates a secondary combustion process that converts some of these potentially harmful byproducts into more heat, and reduces the harmful emissions released. 

What are the benefits of catalysers for stoves?

There are a number of benefits to choosing a stove with a catalytic converter. These include:

• Reducing the environmental impact
• Improving energy efficiency
• Reducing creosote 

Reducing the environmental impact 

Lowering emissions of carbon monoxide (CO), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other pollutants is the main goal of a catalytic converter in a stove. These pollutants are converted into carbon dioxide (CO2) and water vapour through oxidation reactions that are facilitated by the catalytic material found inside the converter. This improves indoor air quality, lessens the impact on the environment, and makes the stove safer for users.

Improving energy efficiency 

Another advantage of choosing a stove that has a catalyser is the increase in energy efficiency that you can expect. By ensuring that more of the fuel is used for heat, this can reduce fuel wastage, and provide more heat for your home from the same amount of fuel. If you are relying on a stove for heating and cooking, this can lead to notable cost savings as well as a reduced environmental impact, and a lower carbon footprint. 

Reducing creosote 

Catalysers also help to lessen the development of creosote inside the stove and chimney. A highly combustible chemical called creosote is created when wood or other organic materials burn insufficiently. A catalytic converter minimises creosote generation by encouraging more complete combustion, lowering the danger of chimney fires and the frequency of maintenance.

For more information or advice, get in touch with the team today, here at JMS Wood Burning and Multi Fuel Stoves! We are Birmingham’s leading stove experts, so get in touch to find out more about wood burning stoves, multi-fuel stoves, catalysers and EcoDesign.

Recently, we discussed the environmental aspects of burning wood on a wood burning stove. And while this is essentially carbon neutral, and great for your carbon footprint, some older types of wood burner, and wood burners built without a filter, can create environmental issues. These include being responsible for reducing the quality of the air, and releasing larger particles into the atmosphere, contributing to greenhouse gases. This is where EcoDesign comes in. So what is EcoDesign? And what are the advantages of EcoDesign wood burning stoves?

What is EcoDesign?

So, first of all, what is EcoDesign? Well, EcoDesign is the new standard that stove manufactures should be aiming to meet. This is an award given be DEFRA to confirm that these stoves produce less smoke and particle emissions than other wood burning stoves. The Government is aiming to make all stoves DEFRA certified by 2022, which isn’t too far into the future.

What are the advantages of EcoDesign wood burning stoves?

So, why should you choose a wood burning stove that has been DEFRA certified as an EcoDesign? Well, there are a number of reasons, including:

• Protecting the environment- we are in a climate emergency, with drastic measures necessary to protect the planet for future generations. With an EcoDesign stove, you can be sure that your stove will release up to 90% less particle emissions, which is great news for the environment.
• Saving money- not only do EcoDesign stoves save the environment, they can also help you save money too. This is because they are designed to maximize the airflow into the fire, reducing the amount of smoke that is created. This helps the fuel burn much more efficiently, so that your fire burns hotter for longer, using less fuel.

For more information or advice, get in touch with the team today, here at JMS Wood Burning and Multi Fuel Stoves! We are Birmingham’s leading stove experts, so get in touch to find out more about wood burning stoves and EcoDesign.

Multi-fuel stoves are popular heating appliances that can burn a variety of fuels, including wood, coal, peat, and even certain smokeless fuels. As a result, these provide an efficient and cozy heat source, making them a popular choice for many homeowners. However, during the springtime, the sudden change in temperature can create challenges for these stoves and their chimneys. Spring chimney syndrome, also known as the “reverse chimney effect,” is a phenomenon that occurs when the weather transitions from colder winter months to warmer spring days. This condition is particularly relevant for multi-fuel stoves in UK homes.

What is Spring chimney syndrome?

As the outside temperature rises, the air inside the chimney warms up and creates an upward flow of air. This creates a vacuum effect within the stove, pulling air from inside the room and causing smoke, fumes, and potentially harmful gases to enter the living space instead of being directed up and out of the chimney. This reversal of airflow is known as spring chimney syndrome.

Guidance for Spring chimney syndrome and multi fuel stoves 

To mitigate spring chimney syndrome and ensure the safe operation of multi-fuel stoves, several measures can be taken. These include:

• Installing a chimney cowl or anti-downdraught chimney pot- These devices can help regulate the airflow and prevent the reverse chimney effect, allowing the stove to function as intended.
• Regular maintenance and chimney sweeping – This is also crucial to prevent blockages and ensure efficient ventilation. Cleaning the chimney and inspecting it for any obstructions or damages should be performed at least once a year or more frequently, depending on usage.
• Burning properly seasoned wood or approved fuels in multi-fuel stoves- Wet or unseasoned wood produces more smoke and increases the likelihood of chimney blockages, exacerbating the potential for spring chimney syndrome.
• Professional advice and guidance- Consulting a qualified chimney sweep or stove installer can provide valuable insights into the specific requirements and maintenance needs of their particular stove and chimney setup.

Here at JMS Wood Burning and Multi-Fuel Stoves, we are leading stove experts. For more information or advice, or to choose your new wood burning or multi-fuel stove, get in touch with the team today!

If you’re thinking about switching to a wood burning stove this summer, you have chosen the perfect time. In the summer months it is easier to find an installation team and it gives you plenty of time to learn how to use and maintain your new stove, before the winter steps in and you really need to rely on it. But what are the important considerations to bear in mind? And how can you be sure to achieve the right results with your new stove?

What are the important considerations when switching to a wood burning stove this summer?

There are a number of important considerations to bear in mind before switching to a wood burning stove this summer. These include:

• The suitability of your home- Consider the available space, chimney condition, and any necessary safety precautions to ensure that your home is suitable for a wood burning stove. This is because adequate ventilation and proper installation are vital to minimize the risk of fire hazards and ensure the stove functions optimally. Consulting a professional chimney sweep or installer can help determine the feasibility of installing a wood-burning stove in your home, before you make a purchase.
• Availability of a sustainable and reliable wood supply- Using responsibly sourced firewood is crucial to minimize any environmental impact and maintain your air quality. As a result, you should ensure that you have access to a reputable supplier who can provide seasoned wood with low moisture content, as this burns more efficiently and produces fewer emissions.
• Understand the maintenance requirements of a wood-burning stove- Regular cleaning, inspection, and chimney sweeping are necessary to ensure safe and efficient operation for any wood burning stove and it will be important to keep up to date with maintenance tasks. As a result, you may need to invest in appropriate tools, such as a stovepipe thermometer and cleaning brushes, to help maintain the stove’s performance and longevity.
• Local regulations and restrictions on wood-burning appliances- Some areas have specific guidelines regarding emissions, installation permits, and restricted usage during certain times of the year. Complying with these regulations will not only avoid potential fines but also contribute to reducing air pollution and protecting public health.

Here at JMS Wood Burning and Multi-Fuel Stoves, we are leading stove experts. For more information or advice, or to choose your new wood burning or multi-fuel stove, get in touch with the team today!

A new wood burning stove can make a significant impact to the visual aesthetic of your property, as well as the amount of energy you use to heat your home. But what are the important practical considerations when choosing a new wood burning stove? And how can you be sure to make the right choice for your space?

What are the practical considerations when choosing a new wood burning stove?

There are a number of practical considerations that should be taken into account when choosing a new wood burning stove, to ensure that the stove is both safe and efficient, while also complementing your interior design. These practical considerations include:

• Size and heat output: The size of the stove you need will depend on the space it will occupy and the needed level of heat production. A wood burning stove that is too small will have trouble heating a big space, while one that is too big will waste fuel and produce too much heat. As a result, you should measure the size of the room, as well as the installation location, to make sure you opt for the right size of stove for your space.
• Fuel efficiency: To ensure that more of the heat produced by the stove is delivered to the room rather than being lost up the chimney, look for a wood burning stove with a high efficiency rating. In addition to using less fuel, an efficient stove will also cost less to operate, which can save you money in the long term.
• Ventilation: For a wood burning stove to operate safely, proper ventilation is necessary. Make that the stove has a sufficient supply of air, either by natural ventilation or by using an external air vent.

Here at JMS Wood Burning and Multi-Fuel Stoves, we are leading stove experts. For more information or advice, or to choose your new wood burning or multi-fuel stove, get in touch with the team today!

If you’re thinking of purchasing and installing a wood burning or multi-fuel stove, you could make big savings on your energy bills. But the wood you choose to burn plays a big part int he efficiency and the heat produced from your wood burner. So if you want to keep you new stove in the best possible condition, which types of wood should steer away from? Well, here at JMS Wood Burning and multi-fuel stoves, we have produced this guide to the types of wood you not burn.

What are the types of wood you should not burn?

So, what are the types of wood you should not burn? Well, there are several, including:

• Pine- Pine wood is readily available and actually quite a popular choice. But it is a wood that should be avoided. This is because as it burns it releases a large amount of resin. This resin will clog up various parts of your stove system.
• Larch- Larch also has high levels of resin, but this will leave your stove with thick sticky patches, definitely not something anyone wants.
• Alder- alder wood burns very quickly which means you will need to use a lot more it to heat your home, and it wont be a very efficient process.
• Spruce- Spruce wood does not produce a lot of heat when it burns. But it does produce a lot of smoke, and it can spark and spit. This makes it quite unpredictable when you open the stove door.
• Laburnum- This is a poisonous wood so you do not want its fumes getting in your home or your lungs. It produces a horrible smell when burnt, and is simply best avoided,

The best woods for burning

So which woods are a good choice? Well there are several, including:

• Ash
• Beech
• Hawthorn

For more information or advice, or for professional stove installation and advice, get in touch with the experts today, here at JMS Stoves.