How much does it cost to run a log burner?
Are log burners cost effective?
Log burners can be a cost-effective and cosy solution for heating your home in the winter months. According to the Stove Industry Alliance (SIA), a wood-burning stove uses about five logs to heat a space, compared to 16 for an open fire. This means that not only are log burners a more efficient way to heat your home, but they can also save you money on fuel costs as wood prices rise. While it’s important to note that a log burner may not heat the entire house, it can quickly heat the area in which it is placed and provide some lingering heat to other rooms.
What are the other benefits?
In addition to the cost savings, wood burning and multi-fuel stoves have a number of other benefits. They provide a cosy, homely atmosphere and can be a great source of ambiance during the colder months. They also offer a sense of independence and self-sufficiency, as you are not relying on external energy sources to heat your home. Plus, with the rise of certification programs like clearSkies, it is becoming easier to find environmentally friendly log burners that produce lower emissions and have a smaller carbon footprint.
See our ClearSkies certified stoves here.
Other costs to consider when buying a log burner
Of course, it’s important to consider the cost of wood when determining the overall cost of using a log burner as your main heating source. The SIA estimates that burning kiln-dried logs costs between £150 and £190 per cubic meter (loose fill). If the burner is used regularly, it may require about 3.5 cubic meters of logs in a typical heating season, which would cost between £600 and £700 per year. However, this cost can vary depending on the efficiency of your stove and the availability of local wood sources.
Log burner installation
Installation fees for a log burner should also be taken into account, as they can typically cost over £2,000, in addition to the cost of the stove itself. However, this initial investment can pay off in the long run, as log burners are a durable and long-lasting heating solution. It’s important to also have a qualified tradesperson, registered with HETAS or OFTEC, complete the installation and to regularly sweep the chimney to ensure proper maintenance.
See our list of Official Hunter Stoves dealers and installers here.
Conclusion
Overall, log burners can be a cost-effective and efficient way to heat your home, providing not only warmth but also a cosy atmosphere and a sense of self-sufficiency. While it’s important to consider the initial investment and ongoing fuel costs, the benefits of using a log burner as your main heating source are numerous.
