Working from a timber garden office has always been one of my favourite parts of the day—until winter arrives. For years, I relied on a plug‑in oil‑filled radiator to heat the space, but on really cold days it simply couldn’t keep up. The office was freezing, uncomfortable, and far from ideal for getting any meaningful work done.

At first, we considered fitting a traditional wood stove. The idea of a cosy fire was appealing, but because I’m constantly popping in and out throughout the workday, keeping a wood stove lit and maintained felt impractical. That’s when we started looking into pellet stoves—and everything changed.

Trying Something New: The Invicta Mirano 8 Pellet Stove

Three winters ago, we installed the Invicta Mirano 8, a straightforward and reliable pellet stove. From day one, it proved to be exactly what the office needed.

What Makes Pellet Stoves So Convenient?

✅ On/Off at the Push of a Button
You can switch a pellet stove on whenever you need warmth and off when you leave—ideal for someone in and out all day.

✅ Temperature Control
Even basic models maintain a steady, comfortable heat. More advanced versions can be controlled remotely through an app, allowing you to warm the office before stepping inside.

✅ Simple Refilling
Pellets are loaded into the top of the stove. They come in 15kg bags, easy to carry and store.

✅ Surprisingly Affordable to Run
This winter, from October onward, we used only six bags, costing around £10 each.
A total of £60 for the whole season—far more economical than electric heating.

And because our local agricultural merchant always has stock, we’ve never had to buy large quantities at once.

The Only Minor Drawback

Pellet stoves do need electricity to run the ignition system and controls. If there’s a power cut, the stove can’t operate. Other than that, it’s been entirely hassle‑free.

What I’d Choose Next Time: A Hybrid Stove

After seeing how effective the pellet stove has been, I’ve already thought about what I’d do differently in a future project. I’d go for the Invicta Akimix Hybrid—a clever stove that can run on either traditional firewood or pellets.

🔥 Wood mode for that classic stove experience
🔄 Pellet mode for convenience and instant heat

To me, that’s the best of both worlds.

Final Thoughts

Installing a pellet stove in the garden office has been one of the best decisions we’ve made. It’s warm, efficient, low‑maintenance, and incredibly cost‑effective. If you’re struggling to heat a garden room, home office, or workshop, a pellet stove is absolutely worth considering—and hybrid options like the Akimix offer even more flexibility.

A serious Creosote  build‑up in a twin‑wall flue system — and especially worrying given its proximity to a thatch property, where the fire risk is extremely high.

Severe tar accumulation inside a twin‑wall system usually happens when:

• 🔥 Wood is wet or unseasoned
• 🔥 The stove is run slumbered for long periods (low burn, poor combustion) Slumbering causes flue gases to cool and condense.
• 🔥 Flue gas temperatures stay too low
• 🔥 Air controls are starved to “make the wood last longer” slumbering.

This can lead to:

• Internal chimney fires (even without visible flames)
• Structural compromise of the flue
• Ignition of surrounding materials, especially dangerous near thatch
• Corrosion and complete failure of the liner or twin‑wall system

• How to Prevent Creosote Build up & Reduce Chimney Fire Risk

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  1. Use Only Dry, Seasoned Wood

  • Wood with a moisture content of less than 20%
  • Wood should be split, stacked, and air‑dried for 12–24 months
  • Store under cover with good airflow
  • Avoid burning: wet logs, painted/treated timber, pallets, rubbish, cardboard

  Why: Wet wood creates smoke and tar (creosote), increasing chimney fire risk.

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  2. Burn Hot, Clean Fires

  • Keep visible flames, not a slow smoulder
  • Let fires get fully established with air vents wide open
  • Use kindling first to warm the flue quickly
  • Avoid long periods of slumbering or “overnight burn” settings

  Why: Slumbering causes flue gases to cool and condense into creosote.

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  3. Maintain Proper Flue Temperature

  • Aim for 250–350°C during normal operation
  • Fit a stove thermometer to monitor performance
  • Use smaller, regular loads of wood rather than large logs that cool the fire

  Why: Hot flue gases prevent creosote condensation inside the chimney.

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  4. Finally arrange for your chimney  flue to be  Swept Regularly

   

No, Wood Burners are not being Banned

Before we dive into the details, lets clarify:

The Government is not planning to ban wood burners.

• The focus right now is on a consultation which was released on 22^nd January 2026 and the proposals come as part of the wider Environmental Improvement Plan 2025 and ongoing efforts to improve air quality across the country.
• Looking at tightening standards for new appliances placed on the market – not removing existing appliances or restricting responsible domestic burning. All proposed changes are open for public consultation for you to have your say until midday on 19^th March 2026. Extract from Gov Website* details at end of this article ( Consult on new measures that cut emissions from domestic combustion, whilst minimising the impact on those that need to burn and respecting traditional celebratory festivals such as Bonfire Night and Diwali. Responsible: Defra)
• What’s Being Proposed: A Stricter Emissions Limit for New Stoves of 1g/hour + 0.1g per 0.3kw output. The Current limit for appliances exempt in Smoke Control Areas: 5g/hour + 0.1 g per 0.3kw output.
• Around 70% of appliances tested since 2018 already meet the new proposed limit. As we already have the Eco-Design 2022 which made wood stoves much cleaner and efficient.
• Existing stoves and those already on the market would not be affected
• A 3-5 year grace period would apply if limits were adopted so stoves already on shelves would be exempt if the rule comes into force.
• Nothing changes for existing wood burner owners, but best practices include.
• Using a Hetas Registered Installer
• Following correct operation guidance
• Burning Ready to Burn Dry wood
• Avoiding slumbering and waste wood
• Regular sweeping and servicing.

Remember All proposed changes are open for public consultation for you to have your say until midday on 19^th March 2026. Extract from Gov Website Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP) 2025 - GOV.UK

Another Day and another call from somebody not being able to get enough heat out of their wood stove, I am also reading a lot of problems with heat output of stoves on social media. In the main this is generally around not getting the stove up to Temperature. i.e not enough wood, or another cause wet wood which I will cover in another article.

To ensure your stove is operating at the correct temperature use a magnetic stove thermometer that attaches to your connecting stove pipe or stove. If your stove is too cold then creosote deposits will form, if too hot then you are wasting energy.

Typical Construction: The Stove Thermometer is 2.5 inch Diameter (63mm). Its magnetic so attaches just above your stove on the stove pipe.

INSTALLATION: The stove thermometer attaches magnetically, directly to the metal flue pipe or stove top. Optimal location but not always possible is at eye level, no less than 300mm (12 inches) above the top of the stove, where you can easily see it in the room.

A wood stove thermometer is a tool designed to help you monitor and maintain the optimal temperature of your wood-burning stove. Here’s what it does:

Key Functions

1. Measures Stove Temperature
   It typically attaches to the stove’s surface or Stove Pipe (magnetic) and displays the temperature in degrees Fahrenheit or Celsius.
2. Indicates Burn Efficiency
   Most thermometers have zones marked like:
   • Creosote Zone (Too Cool): Below ~250°F, wood doesn’t burn completely, causing creosote build up in the chimney.
   • Best Operation Zone: Around 300–475°F, where wood burns efficiently and cleanly.
   • Overfire Zone (Too Hot): Above ~600°F, which can damage the stove and pose a fire risk.
3. Improves Safety & Longevity
   By keeping the stove in the optimal range, you reduce chimney fire risk and prevent overheating that can warp metal parts or crack cast iron.
4. Helps Save Fuel
   Efficient burning means less wasted wood and better heat output.

Wishing our customers old and new a Very Happy Christmas and New Year.

Continuing are local deal on supply and installation on selected wood stoves our "Winter Warmth Bundle" Contact us today to grab this fantastic deal.

A 5kw Wood Stove Eco design 2022 84% efficient up to 10 years warranty complete with 10metre 125mm flue liner, pot hanging cowl, vitreous stove pipe 500mm, co alarm, data plate and Hetas Certificate £1800.00 Call: 01392 811597 or email: [email protected] Contact - CountryHeat Direct 

Cold Flues and First Fires, as the crisp air of autumn settles in and the evenings grow darker, many of us turn to the comforting glow of a wood stove to warm our homes. But if you've ever lit your stove only to find smoke billowing back into the room, you're not alone. The culprit is usually a cold flue.

What is a Cold Flue?

The flue is the chimney or pipe that carries smoke and gases from the stove to the outside. When it's cold especially after a long period of disuse it can act like a plug, preventing the smoke from rising. Instead of drafting upward, the smoke may spill into your living space, setting off alarm.

Why it Happens

Cold air is heavy: When the flue is cold, the air inside it is denser that the warm air trying to push up. This creates a reverse draft.

Negative pressure: Modern homes are often tightly sealed, which can cause air to be pulled down the flue rather than pushed up.

Moisture and creosote: Dampness or residue inside the flue can further restrict airflow.

How to Prevent it:

Preheat the flue:  Roll up Newspaper and put into bed of stove and light it. This warms the air column and starts the upward draft.  When this dies out add more rolled newspaper and kindling.

Start small then build up. Add only small logs at first. Once you see smoke being drawn steadily up the chimney you can add larger pieces.

Crack the stove door or a nearby window: This balances air pressure and helps the draft establish more quickly.

Top-down fire method: Stack larger logs at the bottom, kindling in the middle, and firelights or newspaper on top. This burns hotter, faster and with less smoke.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using damp wood: Wet or unseasoned logs burn cooler and make it harder to warm the flue. Always used seasoned wood dried for a least 6-12 months with 20% or below moisture content.

Leaving the stove door wide open: This can cause smoke to spill into the room. Instead, leave it slightly ajar until the fire is established.

Ignoring negative pressure: In tightly sealed homes, extractor fans or dryers can pull air down the chimney. Cracking open a window helps balances this.

Note: If you consistently having issues with draft, it might be worth having your chimney inspected as there may be a blockage or air leak. 

🔥 Buying a Log Burner: What You Need to Know Before You Light the First Fire

Buying a log burner is exciting — it’s not just a heating solution, it’s a lifestyle upgrade. Whether you're dreaming of cosy evenings with a book and a blanket or hosting friends around a glowing focal point, choosing the right stove is only part of the journey.

But before you get swept away by sleek designs and roaring flames, there are a few practicalities to consider. From fuel sourcing to installation logistics, being prepared means you’ll be relaxing in front of your new fire sooner — and with fewer surprises.

Here’s a handy checklist to guide you through the process:

✅ 1. Choose the Right Stove for Your Space Woodburning and Multi-fuel Stoves

• Size matters: A stove that’s too powerful can overheat your room, while one that’s too small won’t warm it efficiently.
• Style and material: Cast iron retains heat longer, while steel heats up faster. Think about your aesthetic and heating needs. Free Standing like the Woodbridge 5 5kw Wood Stove or an Inset Stove Inset Cassette Wood / Multi-Fuel Fires  We also have stoves with heat retaining stones Thermal Mass Stoves/Heat Storage Stoves that will heat your home long after the fire goes out.
• Efficiency rating: Look for DEFRA-approved models if you're in a smoke control area.

🌲 2. Fuel Type and Supply

• Wood vs. multi-fuel: Decide whether you’ll burn logs only or want the flexibility to use coal or eco briquettes.
• Seasoned or kiln-dried wood: Moisture content should be below 20% for clean, efficient burning.
• Storage: Do you have a dry, ventilated space to store your fuel?

🛠️ 3. Professional Installation

• Certified installer: Always use a HETAS-registered professional to ensure safety and compliance. Contact
• Chimney check: Your flue may need lining or repairs before installation. www.countryheatdirect.co.uk
• Building regulations: Make sure your setup meets local requirements — especially if you're installing in a new location. Contact

🧼 4. Maintenance and Upkeep www.countryheatdirect.co.uk

• Annual chimney sweep: Essential for safety and performance.
• Stove servicing: Regular checks keep your burner running efficiently.
• Ash disposal: Invest in a metal bin with a lid for safe storage.

🛋️ 5. Final Touches

• Hearth and surround: Choose materials that complement your room and meet fire safety standards.
• Carbon monoxide detector: A must-have for peace of mind.

✨ Ready to Light Up Your Life? Contact us for a free quotation

With the right preparation, your log burner will be more than just a source of heat — it’ll be the heart of your home. So take the time to plan, with professional supply, installation and annual maintenance you’ll be enjoying crackling fires and cosy nights for years to come.

Have you been decorating and moved your CO Alarm this diagram will help put it back in the right place. Important reminder—CO alarms can be life-saving, but only if they’re properly placed. If you’ve been decorating or rearranging, it’s easy to forget they might’ve been moved or taken down temporarily.

Also worth noting: in the UK, it’s now a legal requirement to have a carbon monoxide alarm in any room where there’s a solid fuel-burning appliance—like wood-burning or multi-fuel stoves—especially in rental properties.

If you’re not sure whether yours is still in good working order, checking the expiry date and giving it a quick test is always a smart move. Better safe than sorry. For more information Contact