Wood-burning stoves and log burners are a hallmark of cosy Cumbrian homes. But despite their popularity, a host of myths still surround their use. At SGS Lakeland, our Hetas-certified engineers see these misconceptions all the time, and they’re more than just trivia. Misunderstandings can affect performance, safety, and satisfaction. Let’s clear the smoke and debunk seven common myths.
1. Myth: “Any wood burns just fine.”
The truth: Moisture matters, a lot. Seasoned logs with under 20% moisture are essential for clean, efficient, and safe burning.
Wood should contain below 20% moisture to minimise smoke, creosote build-up, and inefficiency
Seasoned firewood typically has 20% or less moisture, and higher levels waste heat as energy is spent evaporating water, not warming your home
Wood with under 20% moisture can be twice as efficient as wood with over 45% moisture
Local insight for SGS clients: In Cumbria’s damp winters, proper storage is key. Stack your firewood off the ground, under a covered yet ventilated shelter. Season for at least six months, or consider locally sourced kiln-dried logs to ensure optimal performance before the cold sets in.
2. Myth: “Bigger fires always mean more heat.”
The truth: Controlled combustion delivers more warmth than overloading your stove.
Over-stoking can smother airflow and burn fuel too fast, reducing efficiency. A steady, well-fed fire with proper air control burns cleaner and stays hotter longer. While top-tier models of stoves, focus on regulating airflow and combustion, user technique remains paramount.
SGS Lakeland approach: We install modern, compliant stoves and guide customers on burn techniques, highlighting how better airflow and staged loading can outperform simply piling on more logs.
3. Myth: “All ash must be removed before relighting.”
The truth: A fine layer of ash can actually aid combustion, acting as an insulator and stabilising flames.
Contrary to the belief that ash is waste, keeping a thin base can protect the grate and maintain heat consistency.
SGS tip: When servicing your stove, we’ll advise leaving a base layer of ash, just enough to support efficient burning, without blocking air inlets or obscuring gaskets.
4. Myth: “Eco-friendly stoves are just marketing hype.”
The truth: DEFRA/Ecodesign stoves are demonstrably cleaner, more efficient, and officially endorsed for new builds.
Ecodesign stoves reduce particulate emissions by up to 90% compared to open fires, and are approved as secondary heat sources under the UK’s Future Homes Standard.
Agreed by government in 2024, these stoves align with efforts to cut emissions in homes by 75–80% by 2025.
Why this matters to you: When you choose a Ecodesign installation, you're investing in both performance and compliance, getting the warmth you want while staying on the right side of regulations.
5. Myth: “Installation is a DIY job, I can save money doing it myself.”
The truth: Wood-burning stove installation should always be handled by Hetas-certified professionals.
DIY installs can lead to improper flues, poor drafts, dangerous smoke leaks, or compliance failures. We emphasises the necessity of professional installers for safety and legality.
SGS assurance: All our engineers are Hetas-certified. From on-site surveys to tailored flue-fitting and smoke-testing, every step is managed with safety, quality, and regulations in mind.
6. Myth: “One chimney sweep and I’m covered forever.”
The truth: A single annual sweep isn’t enough, stove systems need ongoing care to stay safe and efficient.
Even with clean combustion, seals, glass, baffles, and firebricks degrade. SGS Lakeland’s servicing covers all those areas: we clean interiors, inspect baffles and seals, replace worn parts, run smoke tests, and coordinate chimney sweeps as part of a whole maintenance routine.
Why that matters: Proactive service prevents hazards like carbon monoxide leaks, maintains efficiency, and extends your stove's lifespan, especially under Cumbria’s heavy-use winters.
7. Myth: “Log burners are always bad for the environment.”
The truth: When used properly, clean fuel, and regular maintenance, wood-burning can be carbon-balanced and locally sustainable.
Plus, wood is renewable when sourced responsibly, especially locally, reducing transport emissions and supporting local forestry economies.
SGS stance: We support a sustainable approach: recommending seasoned wood, eco models, and regular service routines to optimise both performance and environmental impact.
Why This Info Matters to You (SGS Lakeland Customers)
Performance & Comfort: Avoid smoky starts, uneven fire, and soot buildup. With the right fuel and techniques, your stove heats better and lasts longer.
Efficiency & Savings: Save on fuel by burning drier wood and using efficient stoves. Seasonal price hikes make this especially vital.
Safety & Maintenance: Proper seals, clean chimneys, and professional installation reduce risks and protect your home.
Regulatory Peace of Mind: Hetas-certified services keep you within legal guidelines, especially as new home standards evolve.
Sustainable & Local: Supporting Cumbria’s forestry ecosystem and reducing your carbon footprint is a win-win.
Trust the Experts
At SGS Lakeland, you get more than installations, you get expertise. Whether it’s your first multi-fuel stove or a routine service, we bring technical know-how, local insight, and genuine care to every visit. Let’s leave these myths behind and keep your home warm, efficient, and safe.
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