Annexe Knowledgebase

A wood burning stove offers an array of benefits, so it is no surprise that over 1 million UK homes have one. But is a wood burning stove the best heating option for your annexe?

Should I install a wood burning stove in my annexe?

Whether you dream of Christmas Eve sipping mulled wine by a soft crackling flame a wood burning stove is usually your first thought.

However, while a wood burning stove is a desirable option for many, in reality, it may not be suitable for every annexe.

Whether you live in a modern property without a chimney or the proper infrastructure for installation, or you’re concerned about the upkeep of your stove, other options may be more fitting. Luckily, this doesn’t mean your dreams of creating a cosy atmosphere can’t still be a reality, a wood burning stove alternative may be just what your annexe has been waiting for.

What are the alternatives?

When it comes to discussing wood burning stove alternatives, there are three main options: bioethanol, gas, and electric. Much like a wood burning stove, they all come with their own pros and cons. Here is what you can expect from these three options.

Gas

If you love the look of a wood burning fireplace, then a gas alternative offers the convenience of the beauty and warmth of a real fire that can be controlled from the comfort of your armchair. This option also eliminates the need to constantly fuel the fire with wood, as a gas hook up conveniently does all the work for you. A perfect option to sit back, relax, and not worry about the fire’s needs. With gas options there will be no aromatic wood smell, and while you don’t need a chimney, you still need a ventilation option.

Who should consider a gas fireplace? Anyone who wants the look of a wood fire without the maintenance, those without a chimney, and individuals that want an eco-conscious fire source.

Gas fires includes both open fronted and glass fronted stove gas fires. They have created flame patterns that are both generous and realistic, emulating the flame patterns of a real fire in combination with individually hand painted logs that produce a deep life-like glow. They utilise the latest technology, our fires incorporate features such as thermostatic room temperature control and remote adjustment of flame height and heat output.

Biothanol

A bioethanol fire offers a living flame, efficient heat output, no hazardous fumes, and a burn time of up to seven hours without the need to refuel and without the use of a chimney.

Bioethanol fires can fit into a traditional fireplace surround to provide a classic aesthetic but their versatility means that they’re also highly suited to modern spaces. Plus, some models can even be controlled from the comfort of your sofa with a smartphone, tablet, or smart home system. If you are looking for a fire that generates a lot of heat, other options are available.

Bioethanol fires are clean and convenient to install. Extracted from plants, the fuel is ecologically friendly and the only by-products released during burning are water vapour, CO2 and heat. Installation is simple; providing ventilation requirements are satisfied and an electricity supply is available, an ethanol fire can be installed in just about any location.

Who should consider a bioethanol fire? Anyone without a flue, those who value convenience and low-maintenance, or annexe looking to embrace a sleek and contemporary aesthetic.

Electric

An electric fire is a ready-to-use option that requires minimal installation time, doesn’’t need a chimney, and offers the heat and ambience of a fire, without a lot of maintenance. Not ready to give up an ambient fire in warm weather? With an electric option, you can toggle the settings to display a flame, whilst also ensuring there is no heat output.

Some electric fire baskets use ultrasonic technology to create a fine mist that is illuminated to produce unbelievably realistic flames and smoke. Combined with authentic looking logs and a glowing ash bed, the result is an electric fire basket that exceeds all expectations for realism.

Who should consider an electric fireplace? Those without a chimney and individuals who move house often, as you can always take an electric fireplace insert with you.