Shed Wood Burner - Safety Considerations
If you have a shed or log cabin, or an off grid dwelling, you might want to install an electric stove inside. But, there are many things to consider before you do this.
It's important to make sure your cabin or shed is properly insulated to minimize heat loss and reduce fuel costs. Insulation also reduces dampness and increase the safety of fire.
Size
A shed log burner can be used to heat a summerhouse or shed. It is crucial to select the correct stove for your space and ensure that it meets the safety standards required. A stove that is too big isn't capable of properly venting and also will quickly build up the flue. A stove that is too large isn't able to heat the room effectively.
The first step is to determine the size of your shed and then determine the best location for the stove. Once you've determined the location you'll need to construct a hearth for the stove to sit on. The hearth must be at least 12mm in thickness and constructed of a non-combustible material. The distance between a single wall flue pipe and the combustible material is 3x diameter of the pipe. However, this distance could be reduced if you use an insulative panel to shield.
Install the stove after you have constructed the hearth. Depending on the stove you choose you might need to purchase an oven door, a stovepipe or a damper. You'll also have to install carbon monoxide detectors in your cabin or shed in these places, since they are smaller than homes and can be filled with CO gas that is dangerous very quickly.
If you're installing a stove in a shed, then you'll require a flue liner to protect yourself and to prevent condensation. Flue liners are available at a wide range of hardware stores and can be cut to the right length. Utilize tin snips to cut off the lid and bottom of the can. Be sure to bend any sharp corners within.
Safety
Shed wood burning stoves are effective and cozy, but they should be installed with care. This includes ensuring that you have the proper installation and use of the stove, a carbon monoxide detector, and a fire extinguisher. It is also essential to keep pets and children away from the stove in order to reduce the risk of accidents.
It is recommended to use a HETAS certified installer to install your stove in your shed. They can ensure that the installation is done in accordance to building regulations. This includes relevant distances from a wall that is combustible. This may avoid the need for a building control certificate which could save your time and money in the long in the long.
Only burn wood that has been dried kiln and well-seasoned in your shed stove. Do not try to burn treated off-cuts, since this could result in chemical emissions in the flue gas that could pollute the air and lower the quality of the air. You will also need to ensure that you have a properly sized chimney. In most sheds, a single wall flue is sufficient, but 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, elderly people and even the young. It is also harmful for people with asthma, COPD or heart diseases, and it can affect pets and dogs as well.
It is essential to install a fire guard screen to safeguard children and pets from sparks and hot coals. A book of fire logs should also be kept nearby in case of emergency. You should also avoid using gasoline or charcoal starter fluid near the stove in your shed. These substances are highly flammable and could result in an explosion or flare-up if you make an error.
Based on the region you live in, you could be in a smoke-control area, and this will affect the stove you can install. You'll need to select an appliance that is part of the DEFRA (External link) approved list of appliances.
Installation
Having 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 isn't possible with a normal fire in the home. A log burner in your shed or garden can be a great place to gather with family and socialising. It also allows you to take in the beautiful outdoors in the comfort of your home.
It is also important to determine whether you are in a zone of smoke control and if there are any local planning laws that might affect your installation. You will also need to consider if you are in a smoke-free zone and if there are any local planning laws that might affect your installation. It is recommended to consult a registered HETAS installer to help you with planning and installing.
If you decide you'd like to install a wood burner for your shed, the first thing you'll have to do is find out what size flue pipe your shed will accommodate. The supplier of your stove is likely to be able give you some tips on this. Once you have determined the size of the flue pipe you can begin to search for shed-specific log burners for your summer home or shed.
After you have selected the right stove for the shed or summerhouse you need to prepare the area for installation. This will involve removing all flammable materials, and ensuring there is at least 1m between the shed and the front edge of your chimney stack. It is also recommended to ensure that the stove is at least 2m from the closest wall that is combustible and that any combustible items inside the shed are covered with fire boards or covered with insulation.
You'll then have to install a hearth, that should be constructed of non-combustible materials and at minimum 12mm thick. You can use any type of stone or concrete for instance, but you must be careful not use sand, because it could impact the performance of your stove and lead to an issue with the chimney. You'll also require two twin wall flue pipes, class D air vent and chimney cowl.
Maintenance
Shed wood burners are generally safe to use provided that there is adequate ventilation and a smoke alarm installed. If you are planning on installing a wood stove in your shed, make sure that the electrical installation has been approved by a registered electrician and ensure that any materials that are flammable are well away from the stove.
It is essential to clean the glass and flue of your shed log burner. Make use of a small amount vinegar to clean the inside of your stove's glass. Be careful not to spill vinegar on the burner. You can also wash the outside of the glass log burner using a mild solution made of washing liquid and paper towel.
Keep in mind that shed log heaters are designed to make use of dry seasoned firewood. The moisture content of the logs should be less than 20%. Utilize a wood moisture gauge to determine the moisture content of your logs. Store your wood in a place that is well ventilated. Keep best woodburners as curtains and furniture out of the shed. It is also a good idea to get the chimney swept at least once a year.