Shed Wood Burner - Safety Considerations
If you have a shed or log cabin, or an off grid dwelling, you might decide to put an electric stove inside. There are some things to consider before you do so.
To reduce fuel costs and heat loss, it's vital that your shed or cabin be properly insulate it. Insulation also reduces dampness and increase fire safety.
Size
A shed log burner can be used to heat a summerhouse or a shed. However, it is important to select the correct stove for your space and make sure that it meets all of the safety standards required. A stove that is too big isn't able to vent effectively and can also cause the flue to smear. On the other hand, a stove that is too small won't be in a position to heat the room adequately.
First, you need to determine the size of your shed and then decide where to position the stove. Once you've decided on the location then you'll need to build a hearth for the stove to rest on. The hearth should be at minimum 12mm thick and constructed of a non-combustible substance. The distance between a single wall flue pipe and non-combustible materials is 3 times the diameter of the pipe. However, this can be reduced by using an insulative panel as shielding.
Once you've created the hearth, you can then put in the stove. Based on the type of stove you want to install you may have to purchase an oven door, a stovepipe or a damper. Install an alarm for carbon monoxide in your cabin or shed, as these are smaller spaces than homes and are able to quickly fill with CO gas.
If you're installing a stove in the shed, you'll have to install an air liner to ensure safety and to avoid condensation. Flue liners are available at a wide range of hardware stores and can be easily cut to the correct length. Use tin snips for removing the lid and the bottom of the can. Make sure to bend any sharp corners inside.
Safety
Shed wood burners can be extremely efficient and cosy, but you should take into consideration the safety aspects of the installation. This includes ensuring the correct installation and use of the stove, as well as a carbon monoxide detector, and a fire extinguisher. It is also important to keep children and pets away from the stove in order to reduce the risk of accidents.
Installing your shed stove by a HETAS-registered installer is a good idea. They can ensure that the installation is carried out in compliance the current building regulations, which include relevant distances from walls that are combustible. This can save you from the requirement for a formal building control certificate.
Only burn wood that has been kiln dried and well-seasoned in your stove for your shed. Don't attempt to burn treated off-cuts, since this could result in chemical emissions in the flue gases that can cause pollution and reduce the quality of air. You will also have to make sure that your chimney is of the proper size. In most sheds, a single wall flue is sufficient however if your shed is fitted with a double wall stove, you'll require a larger chimney.
The smoke from a wood burning stove is a risk, especially for new or expectant mothers, children and the elderly. It is also harmful for people with asthma, COPD or heart diseases and can be harmful to pets and dogs as well.
It is crucial to use a fire guard screen to safeguard pets and children from sparks and hot coals. A log book for fires is also recommended to keep close in case of emergency. You should also be wary of using charcoal or gasoline starter fluid close to your shed stove. These substances are extremely flammable and could result in an explosion or flare-up should you make a mistake.
You could be living in a smoke-control area. This can affect the type of stove you can put in. You will need to choose an appliance that is part of the DEFRA (External link) approved list of appliances.
Installation
A log burner in your summer house or shed is a fantastic idea and can really bring you closer to nature in a way that can't be achieved with a regular fireplace in your home. Having a log burning stove in your garden or shed can also serve as an ideal place to socialize and gatherings with your family, as well as providing you with the chance to enjoy the great outdoors without having to leave the comfort of your own home.
When installing a wood burner in a shed you'll need to think about the size of your shed or summerhouse and the amount of output you require from the stove to adequately heat it. Also, you'll need to consider whether you reside in a smoke-control zone and if there are any local planning regulations that could affect the installation. Ideally, you should consult with a HETAS registered installer to help you plan and installation.
You'll need to determine the size of the flue pipe that your shed can handle before installing a wood stove for shed. This is usually easy enough and the supplier of your stove will be able to guide you on this. Once you know what size flue pipe you'll need and you are able to look for log burners for your shed that are suitable for your shed or summer home.
Once you have chosen the best stove for your shed or summerhouse you need to prepare the area for installation. This includes removing any materials that could ignite and ensuring that there is an adequate distance of 1m from the shed to the front edge of the chimney stack. It is also recommended to ensure that the stove is at least 2m away from the closest wall that is combustible and that any combustible materials inside the shed are covered with fire boards or lined with insulation.
You'll then have to fit a hearth, that should be constructed of non-combustible materials and at least 12mm thick. You can make use of any type of concrete or stone, for example, but you should be cautious not to use sand because it could affect the stove's performance and cause a chimney fault. You'll also need a pair of twin wall flue pipes, class D air vents and a chimney cowl.
Maintenance
Shed wood burners are generally safe to use, provided that there is adequate ventilation and a smoke alarm installed. If you're thinking of installing a wood stove in your shed, be sure that the electrical installation is approved by a licensed electrician. Also, ensure that wood burning fire are well away from the stove.
It is crucial to regularly clean the glass and flue of your shed log burner. Use a small amount vinegar to clean the inside of the stove glass. Be cautious not to spill vinegar on the burner. You can also clean the outside of the glass log burner with an easy solution consisting of paper towel and washing liquid.
Be aware that shed log heaters are designed to use dry seasoned firewood. The logs' moisture content should be less than 20%. Utilize a wood moisture gauge to determine the moisture content of your logs. Place your wood in a place that is well ventilated. Keep flammable items such as furniture and curtains away from the shed. It is recommended also to have the chimney cleaned at least yearly.