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Are wood burners going to be banned?
No, wood burners are not being banned in the UK. However, the government is tightening regulations to reduce air pollution, which means only modern, efficient, and low-emission stoves are being approved for sale. You can continue to use your current stove if it meets safety standards and local smoke control rules. If you’re upgrading, choose a DEFRA-approved model to stay compliant and environmentally friendly.
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Can I install a fireplace myself?
It depends on the type of fireplace. You can usually fit an electric fire yourself, but gas or solid-fuel installations must legally be carried out by a qualified professional, Gas Safe for gas and HETAS for solid fuel. Incorrect installation can be dangerous and may invalidate your warranty or home insurance. For peace of mind and safety, it’s always best to use a certified installer.
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Can I still have a fireplace if my house doesn't have a chimney?
Yes, absolutely. Many modern fires are designed for homes without chimneys, such as balanced flue gas fires, electric fires, or flueless gas models. For wood or multi-fuel stoves, a twin-wall flue system can be fitted instead of a traditional chimney. We can advise on the best and safest option for your property during a home survey.
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What types of wood can I burn?
You should only burn seasoned or kiln-dried hardwood, such as ash or oak, with a moisture content below 20%. These woods burn efficiently and produce less smoke. Avoid burning damp wood, treated timber, or any painted or processed wood — they release harmful fumes and can damage your stove. Using the right wood keeps your fire clean, efficient, and safe.
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What types of fuel can I burn?
Always use fuels approved for your specific appliance. For multi-fuel stoves, that usually means a mix of seasoned logs and authorised smokeless fuels. Never burn household rubbish or unsuitable materials. Using the right fuel helps your stove perform properly, keeps emissions low, and ensures you stay within local regulations.
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Can I still use my old wood burner?
Yes, you can keep using your existing stove as long as it’s safe and meets local smoke control rules. Older models can be less efficient and more polluting, so many people choose to upgrade to a cleaner, DEFRA-approved version. Before continued use, have it inspected and the chimney swept. Using properly dried wood will also make it burn more efficiently.
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Do I need a Flue liner?
In most cases, yes. A flue liner ensures your stove or fireplace draws correctly, protects your chimney, and meets Building Regulations. If you’re fitting a new stove into an old chimney, it’s likely a new liner will be needed. Your installer will check the flue condition and advise the best option during your survey.
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Where do you install?
We install fireplaces and stoves across our local area and surrounding regions. Just let us know your postcode, and we’ll confirm whether we cover your location. All our installers are fully qualified, experienced, and work to the latest safety and building standards.
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Do I need an air vent for my fireplace?
Some fireplaces do need an air vent to work safely, especially wood and multi-fuel stoves. This ensures the fire gets enough oxygen for proper combustion. Many modern room-sealed gas fires don’t need one, but your installer will confirm during your survey. Never block an existing air vent, it’s there for safety.
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Do you offer any kind of guarantee?
Yes, all our products come with a manufacturer’s warranty, and our installation work is covered by our own workmanship guarantee. The details vary depending on the appliance and the job, but you’ll always receive full documentation. Keeping your appliance regularly serviced will help maintain your warranty cover.
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I don't have mains gas, can I still have a gas fireplace?
Yes, you can. Many gas fireplaces run on LPG (bottled gas) instead of mains gas. You’ll need a Gas Safe registered engineer to carry out the installation safely. If LPG isn’t suitable, we can suggest stylish electric or bioethanol alternatives.
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Can I put a TV over my fireplace?
Yes, but it must be done carefully. Heat from the fireplace can damage electronics if the TV is mounted too close. We can advise on safe distances, heat shielding, and mantel designs to protect your TV. A professional installation ensures both your fire and television stay safe and still look great.
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I live in a smoke control area, can I still have a multi-fuel stove?
Yes, you just need to choose a DEFRA-approved (exempt) appliance or burn only authorised fuels. Using non-approved fuels or appliances in a smoke control zone can result in fines. We’ll help you choose a compliant stove that meets all local regulations.
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Do I need a carbon monoxide detector?
Yes. A carbon monoxide (CO) alarm is required by law in any room with a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers). It’s a vital safety device that alerts you if CO levels become dangerous. CO alarms should be installed and tested regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. We can fit one as part of your installation for complete peace of mind.
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Can I convert my log burner into a gas fireplace?
It’s possible, but it’s treated as a new installation rather than a simple conversion. The gas fireplace must be installed by a Gas Safe engineer, and the flue or chimney may need modification. In most cases, it’s safer and easier to replace the log burner with a new gas model designed for your space. We’ll be happy to assess your options.
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How often should I get my fireplace serviced?
We recommend an annual service for all fireplaces and stoves. Regular servicing keeps your appliance safe, efficient, and compliant with warranty requirements. Chimneys and flues should also be swept at least once a year if you burn solid fuel. Always use qualified engineers for any inspection or maintenance work.
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How do I know what size fireplace I need?
The right fireplace depends on your room size, insulation, and heating needs. A qualified installer can calculate the correct heat output (in kW) to warm your space efficiently. Choosing the right size ensures comfort without overheating or wasting fuel. We offer free advice and home surveys to help you pick the perfect model.
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Are gas fireplaces safe?
Yes, when installed and serviced by a Gas Safe registered engineer, gas fireplaces are very safe. They’re fitted with built-in safety features and require only basic annual servicing. Always keep your carbon monoxide alarm in working order and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Regular maintenance keeps your fire running safely and efficiently.
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Is cleaning a gas fireplace the same as cleaning a wood fireplace?
No, they need different care. Gas fires mainly need the glass and burner area cleaned and checked during servicing. Wood stoves require regular ash removal and chimney sweeping to prevent soot and creosote build-up. Always have your appliance serviced by a qualified professional each year to keep it safe and efficient.
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Can wood stoves be placed directly on the floor?
In most instances, no, wood stoves must be installed on a non-combustible hearth that protects your flooring from heat and sparks. The hearth must be the correct size and thickness to meet Building Regulations. Your installer will advise on the best hearth design for your room and stove.
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Are electric fires energy efficient?
Yes, electric fires convert 100% of the electricity they use into heat, so they’re very efficient at the point of use. They’re ideal for quick, zone heating and are easy to control. Running costs depend on electricity prices and usage, but they’re a clean, low-maintenance choice for most homes.
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Can I have a fireplace installed in a new-build home?
Yes, fireplaces and stoves can be installed in most new builds, but the work must meet Building Regulations and the home’s design requirements. Some developments have restrictions on wood-burning appliances, so always check with your builder or local authority first. We can work with your developer to ensure everything is compliant and fits perfectly with your new home.
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What is a media wall fireplace?
A media wall fireplace combines a stylish, built-in fire (often electric or gas) with your TV and shelving into one sleek feature wall. It’s a great way to create a modern focal point while keeping cables hidden. Proper ventilation and heat protection are essential to protect your electronics. We design and install fully bespoke media wall systems.
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Do you have a fireplace showroom?
Yes, we have a showroom in our shop in Aldridge where you can view a range of wood, gas, electric, and multi-fuel fireplaces. You can see live displays, explore finishes, and get expert advice from our team. Please check our opening times and book an appointment if you’d like a one-to-one consultation.
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How much does it cost to install a fireplace?
The cost depends on the type of fire, flue work, and the complexity of the job. A simple electric fire installation may take a few hours, while a full wood stove with chimney work will cost more and take longer. We offer free surveys and written quotes with clear pricing before any work begins.
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Do I have to have a qualified fitter to install a gas fire?
Yes, by law only a Gas Safe registered engineer can install or work on a gas fire. This ensures the installation is safe and fully certified. Always check your engineer’s Gas Safe ID before work begins. Using an unqualified fitter is illegal and extremely dangerous.
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How long does it take for a fireplace installation?
It depends on the type of fireplace and any additional building work needed. A simple electric or gas inset fire might be fitted in a few hours, while a full stove and flue system could take a couple of days. We’ll provide a clear timescale and keep you updated throughout the process.
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What does multi-fuel mean?
A multi-fuel stove can burn both seasoned logs and approved smokeless fuels, giving you flexibility in how you heat your home. It has features such as a raised grate and ashpan to suit different fuels. If you live in a smoke control area, you’ll need to use a DEFRA-approved model or stick to authorised fuels.
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Can I burn other things on a log-burner?
No, only burn seasoned wood or authorised fuels. Burning household waste, treated or painted wood, or plastics is unsafe and illegal in many areas. It can damage your stove, pollute the air, and void your warranty. Stick to clean, dry wood for the best performance.
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Does my fireplace need regular servicing?
Yes, it does. Regular servicing keeps your fireplace safe, efficient, and compliant with warranty and insurance requirements. We recommend a yearly service by a qualified engineer, and if you burn solid fuel, have your chimney swept regularly. It’s the best way to prevent problems and extend the life of your appliance.
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How do I know if my home is in a smoke control area?
You can find out if your home is in a smoke control area by checking with your local council. Most councils have an online postcode checker or an environmental health department that can confirm this quickly. Smoke control areas are common in towns and cities and are designed to help reduce air pollution. If you do live in one, you’ll need to use a DEFRA-approved stove or burn authorised smokeless fuels.