Fireplace Specialist Magazine - May June Issue

6. 2022 stove sales increase points to consumers taking action to tackle heating bills

22. SIA welcomes Alternative Fuel Payment flexibility announcement 24. Chimney Sweeps dispute with HETAS continues

34. Will shift from gas to hydrogen make heating more efficient? 36. Kamado Joe strengthens position with significant in-store & exhibition display investment

Editor’s LETTER

Hello all and welcome to a new era! This is the first edition of Fireplace Specialist produced by its new owners, specialist trade magazine publisher Euromedia Associates Ltd.

After more than four decades of bringing news and features to the fireplace industry, Fireplace Specialist is now the longest running established publication in the sector. In that time, it has become recognised as the trade publication retailers subscribe to. Over the past few months we have been working hard to revamp the publication both in print and digitally.

Our aim is to raise awareness of your company and products to a much wider trade audience, so in addition our usual print run to a readership of 5,500 every two months, we will be emailing 17,000 digital copies of the magazine to the UK and Ireland database shown on our distribution page with the idea of increasing your customer portfolio and potential sales.

We also want to make the magazine an interesting read and not just purely about products so we are working with a wide range of industry bodies and associations to bring you all the news and views from across the fireplace sector as well as general business news and features that could help your firm.

We also want to celebrate all the good work going on in the industry, so I hope you will help us by getting in touch with your company updates and achievements, as the more people we can reach the better. We’re interested to hear about anything from your community or charity work to new product developments, business/retailing news, and of course, we’d love to mark any awards that you win. You can get in touch by emailing nick@euromediaal.com

Images courtesy of Adobe Stock

Piazzetta. The ultimate hand-finished wood burning stoves

Ro beys Ro beys

Introducing the brand new range of hand-finished wood and pellet burning stoves from Piazzetta. These astonishing wood burners and panoramic fireplaces are constructed to the highest standards and with amazing attention to detail. Showcased here are the new hybrid pellet, wood burning stoves and ovens. The superb Piazzetta range is available to view now under fire at our extensive showrooms in Belper and selected retailers.

Piazzetta Wood Burner -E228 M

Piazzetta Pellet Stove - P220 C

Piazzetta Pellet Stove - P220 T

Piazzetta Hybrid E228H (Wood & Pellet burning)

2022 stove sales increase points to consumers taking action to tackle heating bills

Stove Industry Association (SIA) sales data for 2022 shows an overall 43.4% increase in total unit sales compared to 2021, a trend that the UK trade association says clearly indicates that consumers are taking action to help cushion themselves against spiralling home heating bills.

Data collated from all SIA manufacturing members, which accounts for approximately 80% of total UK stove sales, shows that sales grew significantly during the period 1st April to 31st December 2022, with the last two quarters of the year seeing a 68% increase in figures compared to the same periods in 2021.

Total unit sales in 2022 were just over 195k, compared to just over 136k in 2021.*

This increase shows that consumers are recognising the benefits of using modern, Ecodesign compliant wood burning stoves to provide home heating.

Chair of the SIA, Andy Hill, commented: “With the cost for heating our homes accounting for the biggest chunk of home energy bills this winter, it is little wonder consumers are looking for alternatives to supplement their gas or electric heating.

“Couple that with growing awareness of how stretched the grid is and the increased possibility of more power cuts this winter, the option to use a highly efficient, low carbon and low emission wood burning stove to heat your main living space makes good (common) sense.”

Not only is this increase in sales good news for the savvy consumer, but it is also good news for the

environment too. Feedback from the SIA’s retail network suggests that in many cases these new sales are a replacement for an existing open fire or a much older, very basic stove. Andy added: “A modern, Ecodesign wood burning stove will emit up to 90% less PM than an open fire, and up to 80% less than many older, basic stoves. Sales of stoves during 2022

were almost exclusively Ecodesign models meaning that consumers are helping to cut carbon and particulate emissions from domestic wood burning, as well as reducing their heating costs.”

*Wood log and multi-fuel stoves. Figures do not include boiler stoves or pellet stoves.

Andy Hill, Chair of the SIA

Images courtesy of the SIA

Opus stoves

That irresistable combination of great design, top notch build quality and down to earth prices certainly accounts for their ever growing popularity but it’s the amount choice that Opus build into their range that makes them such a

go-to brand for so many merchants. As one dealer remarked “All a customer has to do is open and close an Opus door and it’s sold, because they feel the quality straight away”

For the customer wanting that contemporary look but something not too big

there’s the Aria – small but still with a big window, a stylish stay-cool handle and a really affordable price. The slightly bigger Melody is available with the choice of a log store below or else a hinged door to give it that clean, uncluttered look. Still the same stove, but taken to a whole new level, is the all-glass door model, perfect for the customer wanting that ultra-modern look. One stove in the showroom but four different looks to tempt your customer.

A stove that can be seen from all sides? Up steps the Trio, a wonderfully designed model with three glass windows. Open the stove to load it and then watch as Opus’s unique door closing system both gently shuts the door and trips the latch closed. If the customer likes

the three window look but wants it in gas then there’s the Trio Scala, ready to burst into super-realistic flames at the touch of a remote control button.

The Harmony takes full advantage of its oval shape to give an unbeatable view of the fire through its big curved glass, and the all-glass door version is simply stunning. There’s even a Harmony model that can rotate at the push of a finger so that the user never has to miss that full-flames view. Since the energy crisis people are wanting to heat water and radiators again so of course it’s Opus who have the only DEFRA Exempt boiler stove on the market. Not only does the Calypso look the part of a super efficient modern woodburner, it runs like one. With top heat exchangers and a fully bricked firebox you have a boiler stove that burns like a dry stove and with an astonishing 84% efficiency.

There’s never been a range like it - put a couple of Opus models in your showroom and you’ll be able to satisfy even the most demanding contemporary stove customer.

Contact Martin at Firepower for further information – 01803 712721 martin@firepower. co.uk www.firepower.co.uk

The Scandinavian style cylindrical stove continues to dominate the more contemporary end of the stove market but none of the brands appeal to such a broad swathe of customers as the Opus models.

Opus Calypso

Opus Melody

Opus Aria

Images courtesy of Firepower

Landmark qualifications for Sweeps and Installers

The Chimney Occupations National Occupational Standards National Working Group (CO-NOS-NWG) recently concluded its review work with the publication of the new National Occupational Standards (NOS).

The Standards outline the expected competencies required by the installer and sweep trades. The industry-

led review focused on identifying the knowledge and applied skills needed to take the sector’s trades

forward with confidence through the current and future environmental, building regulation reforms, and the technological innovations from industry. The NOS review represents a landmark for the industry’s trades in its analysis of the training needs for the sectors Education and Training providers.

The Chimney Occupations NOS published by and on behalf of the four nations outline the sector’s future identified training needs. The new NOS reflect the interests and views of the sectors Trade Associations, Competent Persons Schemes, Stakeholders, Manufacturers, and individual practitioners – including trainers, and assessors. The review provided the platform for an in-depth analysis of the present and future training needs of the workforce within the sector.

The purpose of the review was to provide industry led intelligence to support the sector in making informed decisions of how best to develop and support the workforce to meet the challenges and opportunities for higher standards of technical education and training. This included the development

of two new level two NVQs and the industry’s first level three qualification.

The key conclusions were that, while providers and those working in the sector felt their recent training development activities met some but not all the identified required skills needed, there were key areas of knowledge and applied skills that needed further development and focus.

They felt there is scope for additional training to be developed to meet the challenges the sector faces in the current climate of environmental reforms and technological innovations, with the focus on elevating standards across the sector’s two trades of installation and sweeping, and service and maintenance. The new NOS provides the industry agreed framework of required competencies for present and future training and qualifications to be referenced and mapped to.

The Chimney Occupational Standards can be viewed at: https:// www.ukstandards.org.uk/ NOS-Finder#k=chimney%20 occupations

Fireplace Specialist Magazine

Wood burners vs air quality - going beyond the headlines

With domestic wood burning taking another pounding in the mainstream press, the Stove Industry Alliance (SIA) has taken a look at the facts in order to determine what the data from air quality monitoring sites in and around London actually tells us.

By Erica Malkin - SIA Communications Manager

There’s a famous Mark Twain quote about statistics that I am sure has been uttered by many of us in the wood burning stove industry lately. I used it myself in a conversation with

a colleague after what had been a particularly busy day recently spent fielding requests from the media for comment about the release of the latest data on emissions of air

pollution by Defra.

Reading the press headlines and hearing the broadcasted debates that have followed since the Defra data went live, you could be forgiven for thinking that enjoying the warmth, comfort, and cost-effective energy security that our wood burning stoves offer is something we must never, ever confess to; especially if we live in London!

So, with Mr Twain’s words in mind, I decided to take a closer look at what air quality monitoring data tells us about what is happening in London when it comes to air pollution.

London is not short of air quality monitoring information. The London Air website, a platform run by Imperial College London, holds data from no less than 131 monitoring sites located across the capital. You can interrogate the data for each of these sites using the drop-down boxes within the monitoring section of the website with the ability to select air pollutants, including PM2.5 and PM10 particulates and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and display the data for each by individual monitoring site.

Given the headlines we have been reading lately and the campaigning by groups such as Mums for Lungs and Global Action Plan, I was keen to see if the data backs up the negative rhetoric around pollution from wood burning in modern Ecodesign stoves,

Images courtesy of HETAS

so I set about logging the annual mean values (ug/m3) recorded for PM2.5, PM10 and NO2 for all sites (where available) for 2022 and 2023.

And a very interesting picture emerged …

• PM2.5 (tiny particles caused by things like construction, road traffic, aviation and shipping, agriculture, domestic and commercial combustion, outdoor burning, and wildfires) values in 2022 at every London monitoring site that has information for last year (22 in total) were below the current UK legal limit of 20ug/m3 annual mean, without exception.

• For 2023 year to date, 41 out of 42 sites record levels below the UK legal limit, with the average being 13 ug/ m3.

• 7 out of the 42 sites monitoring PM2.5 record 2023 YTD levels as falling within the much lower previous WHO recommended limit of 10 ug/m3 annual mean.

• In 2022 the average PM2.5 level recorded across all sites was 10 ug/ m3 which means London met the WHO recommended limit (at that time) last year.

• For PM10 there is not a single monitoring site showing levels this year or last that exceed the current

UK limit of 40 ug/m3 and, again, many are within the WHO recommended limit which is HALF current UK limit at 20 ug/m3.

Taking a closer look, the 2022 average for PM10 was 19 ug/m3 (across 39 sites), and this year so far, the figure sits slightly higher 21 ug/ m3 meaning that last year the WHO recommended level for PM10 was met and that this year so far is falls only slightly short.

Turning our attention to NO2 and there is less reason to be optimistic. So far this year 19% of monitoring sites in London show breaches of the UK limit of 40 ug/m3 for NO2 –emissions mainly stemming from road transport. Of the 109 sites with data recorded for NO2, 21 sites went over, and the average across all sites is 34 ug/m3 which, while within current UK limits, falls way short of the WHO recommended level of 20 ug/m3 annual mean.

Worse still, 2023 NO2 average levels YTD are above the 2022 average of 26 ug/m3 and that’s despite Sadiq Khan’s ULEZ expansion over recent years.

It is important that we all play a part in reducing emissions, and by replacing a solid fuel open fire or older closed stove with a modern

clearSkies 4 or 5 certified stove we can reduce emissions from burning wood at home for heat significantly by up to 90%. That’s a huge reduction from a single sector.

Such a potential reduction is important news when it comes to air quality. So too is the fact that when it comes to PM2.5 and PM10 in London the data from all the monitoring sites listed on the London Air website shows that current UK limits are being met, and that last year’s average PM2.5 levels met the WHO recommended limit (at the time) of 10 ug/m3. Some of the LAQN monitoring sites even recorded annual mean PM2.5 concentration levels last year that come close to the new WHO recommendation of 5 ug/m3.

It’s not easy to find a single newspaper column inch reporting on this though.

It is easy however to find press articles telling us about the “shame” of “wood burner” pollution, but very few media commentators bother to point out the fundamental technical differences between open fires, older closed stoves and modern, Ecodesign compliant closed stoves. They rely instead on the catch-all term “wood burners” and in doing so miss important facts in their reporting.

Of course, we must all strive for better when it comes to reducing emissions. It is modern, technically advanced stoves, coupled with effective stove user education, Smoke Control Area enforcement and industry regulation, that are the key to helping us do better and reduce air pollution linked to indoor domestic combustion. As the recently published Environmental Improvement Plan points out, it is vital that we “Design and implement measures to drive a shift away from older, more polluting appliances, to newer appliances which meet our tough new emission standards.”

To effectively communicate the facts about air pollution relating to indoor domestic combustion we must not only report on domestic combustion methods accurately, but we must also look beyond the headlines and study the air quality monitoring data. That really is the only way we can ensure that valuable statistical information is not spun to suit a particular agenda but is instead presented exactly as it is.

A garden trade show for fireplace retailers?

Could you target the outdoor market at Glee?

With more fireplace retailers stocking fire pits and outdoor heating options, exhibiting at a large garden trade show could make sense.

You could also visit purely to source new exciting products and make connections with outdoor equipment manufacturers or distributors.

Taking place at the Birmingham NEC from the 27th to 29th of June, the halls at Glee will once again be home to exhibitors showcasing the latest designs in BBQs and outdoor lifestyle influences within the dedicated Outdoor Entertaining sector.

Glee’s late June timing is designed to offer significant benefits to buyers, with thousands of existing and new products exclusively launching at the show together providing the perfect opportunity for buyers to preview the latest collections and place orders for the upcoming gardening season. With summer right around the corner, Glee is also the first opportunity within the 2023 buying calendar to source outdoor furniture, garden heaters, and decorative items or finalise top-up orders for immediate delivery into store.

The power of the outdoors

There is no doubt that the outdoor living movement has exploded recently as outdoor spaces have been embraced with new interests. Gardens have become, more than ever, a place to relax, escape, work, eat, exercise, and play. Recent research by YouGov for the HTA (2021) revealed that nearly half of UK households (42%) use their gardens to entertain family or friends with garden parties and barbecues. The HTA also showed that sales in the outdoor living department at garden centres were 19.88% up in 2022 compared to 2021, indicating that this momentum is showing no

signs of stopping.

Social hotspots

Fire pits, chimineas, log burners and patio heaters have proven to be the must-have garden accessory and that trend is set to continue into next year as people enjoy their gardens for longer. According to an Amazon survey, 32% of people plan to buy a fire pit in 2023, making it a popular outdoor cooking and heating appliance.

Pinnacle Agri is a newcomer to Glee and its show stopping product is the Firestorm Patio Heaters which use eco-friendly wood pellets to create a dazzling, smokeless flame within a glass tube, perfect for those that like the modern aesthetic. Fandango Products will be bringing back its safe and easy-to-use Kindling Cracker

firewood splitters. They are also the UK distributor for Espegard’s fire pans and accessories, which with their simple and functional design for warmth and cooking will win over fire pit lovers everywhere.

Don’t miss Glee Fire, Grill & Chill

For the second year in a row, many of these outdoor heating solutions, barbeques and firepits will be in action within Glee’s dedicated Fire, Grill and Chill area. Relocated to a prime location at the front of the NEC near the Hall 6-8 and Hall 20 entrances, this area will be the go-to place for leisure buyers to source 2024 ranges, as well as provide the backdrop to the Glee Party on Tuesday 27th June, to which all exhibitors and visitors are invited.

Image courtesy of iStock

DEFRA EXEMPT ECODESIGN! A+ Rated | Highest rated system

EcoDesign Woodburning

• Available as a combined stove and chimney package.

• Schiedel twin wall compatible.

• Can be installed in Smoke Control Areas.

email: sales.uk@schiedel.com - website: www.schiedel.com/uk

Experts find mismatch between

consumer confidence in spotting unsafe gas and realworld behaviour

Retailers are being urged to encourage customers to abide by good gas safety standards.

The call comes as a third of homeowners admitted they would skip their annual gas safety check because their household budget is so stretched.

According to research carried out by the Gas Safe Register 33% of people say they are thinking of missing the check – up from 31% last year.

Gas Safe experts are stressing the importance of checking gas appliances and encouraging people to learn more about gas safety.

Nine in 10 homeowners report being confident they could spot the signs and symptoms of unsafe gas in their homes, and almost all (98%) say that their home would be up to the challenge if a gas engineer were to knock on their door and do a gas safety spot-check. But when Gas Safe Register put 2,000 homeowners through its nine-step Gas Safety Challenge, just four (0.2%) passed the test.

With an increasing number of cashstrapped homeowners feeling forced to skip annual safety checks due to pressures on household budgets, experts are urging people to get more clued up on the signs and symptoms of unsafe gas appliances and simple, free ways they can make sure their home is gas safe this winter.

Based on Gas Safe Register’s new Gas Safety Challenge, the national survey quizzed people on nine key things to know, including how flames on gas hobs should appear, flue blockages, boiler error codes and smells, sounds and sights around the

home that signal something could be wrong.

Despite the vast majority of people claiming such high levels of confidence:

• Over half (55%) of homeowners relying on gas for heating, hot water and cooking were unable to identify where to turn off the gas supply off in an emergency

• Almost half (47%) couldn’t correctly spot the signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning

• 47% don’t have a carbon monoxide alarm in their home, or, if they do, can’t be sure it works as it’s not tested regularly

48% have taken on the job of in• specting their homes’ flue – something that should only be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer – with 5% of those attempting to remove a blockage themselves

• A quarter of homeowners were unable to identify that a gas hob flame should burn a crisp blue colour

Gas incidents can be devastating, although they remain extremely rare. Provisional figures show 83 gas related incidents reported in 2021/2022, despite there being over 22 million households using gas across the country. There are measures gas consumers can take to increase their gas safe knowledge and keep themselves, their homes and families gas safe.

For example, to help avoid preventable gas incidents, Gas Safe Register has developed the Gas Safety Challenge and is inviting the UK public

to refresh their knowledge via a new short film – a tongue-in-cheek take on the Daz Doorstep Challenge from the 90s and 00s – highlighting the signs and symptoms homeowners should be clued up on, and on the lookout for, in their homes.

Bob Kerr, Gas Services Director at Gas Safe Register, said: “What’s clear from our research is that there’s a misguided confidence amongst the UK public – what they think they know and how that plays out in their homes is very different. We’re all feeling pressure on our finances at the moment but taking our Gas Safety Challenge this Winter is a fast, fun and free way to brush up on what you know and to check there are no dangers hiding in plain sight in your home.

“We’re urging everyone who has gas in their home to take the challenge so they can start off 2023 ‘better gas safe than sorry’. If your home doesn’t pass the challenge, don’t be tempted to try a DIY fix. Check the Gas Safe Register to find a local engineer who can help – it’s a legal requirement for anyone carrying out gas work to be registered.”

To refresh your knowledge on home gas safety, take the Gas Safety Challenge and watch our new video on YouTube https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=aSrzGYeD6-E, and to find a local Gas Safe registered engineer in your area, visit GasSafeRegister.co.uk or call 0800 408 5500.

Images courtesy of iStock

HETAS responds to Defra’s emissions of air pollutants statistics

The new ‘Emissions for air pollutants in the UK’ publication released on February 14 by Defra has highlighted an increase in burning wood for fuel by 124 per cent between 2011 and 2021, and a decrease in use of coal for domestic heating.

The report also highlights that emissions of particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) originate from a wide range of sources covering domestic activity, industrial activity, power generation, transport and agriculture.

Here HETAS and Woodsure group’s CEO reveals how improved consumer education will help steer homeowners towards cleaner, safer solid fuel choices.

Bruce Allen, chief executive officer for Woodsure, comments: “Acknowledging the report, we push forward in continuing to help improve the UK’s air quality. With measures already in place such as public education, Cleaner Choice, regular advice around maintenance and schemes such as ‘Ready to Burn’, we are confident that as an organisation the next report can only continue to be positive as we work hard to

educate and improve on the way the UK chooses to burn.

“Our concern though is that a portion of this good work could now be undone. While domestic burning is only part of the air pollutants problem, last year we saw an unprecedented demand for solid fuel as more people turned to it as a less expensive way to keep their homes warm.

“The plan confirms that domestic burning in England will not be banned any time soon, not while there are countless households unable to access an alternative means of heating. But education is the vital, burning issue. So long as there are homes where their only option is to burn solid fuel, we will maintain our focus in helping these individuals make greener choices with the tools they have now – and we are thankful that the government is of the same

By HETAS

mind.”

“For anyone using old open fires or stoves we strongly recommend considering a change to a modern cleaner burning appliance and being careful to buy the right smokeless fuels and dry “Ready to Burn” wood fuel. These measures will contribute to environmentally responsible burning and reduce particulate emissions and pollution. At the crux of this is educating the consumer on the best way to burn to cause as little damage to the environment as possible, for as long as they have no other means of heating their home economically.

“For this reason, our organisation welcomes the government’s call for a renewed focus on educating consumers and we support the call for action against those who burn irresponsibly. Both of these critical points are backed up by the National

Bruce Allen, Chief Executive Officer for Woodsure

Air Pollution Control Programme, published by Defra earlier this year.”

HETAS and Woodsure work independently alongside local authorities and the likes of the new Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, Defra and DLUHC to reach householders who are either unclear or unaware of the cleanest, safest ways to burn biomass or solid fuel.

Helpful resources from HETAS and Woodsure include:

The Cleaner Choice appliance scheme, offering a simple route to choosing a solid fuel, wood or biomass appliance that is even cleaner to operate than current regulations require

The Ready to Burn certification scheme, a trusted mark giving stove owners the peace of mind that the fuel they purchase is compliant with emissions regulations

The HETAS Advice Hub, hosting plenty of tips on how to get the most out of a solid fuel appliance while minimising its environmental impact

For more information about cleaner, safer choices for solid fuel use within the home, visit hetas.co.uk or woodsure.co.uk.

Images courtesy of HETAS

Sleek, modern and fussfree, their space-saving design is ideal for smaller rooms, compact living areas or for those who prefer the look of an inset design over a freestanding hearth and stove.

As well as freeing up space and complementing a contemporary interior, inset stoves also come with a high heat output and attractive window design that allows for a full view of the flicking flames inside. Eurostove has a range of modern and traditionallystyled inset stoves to suit any home and by planning for an inset stove at the start of a project, the result will combine warmth and comfort with an attractive focal point as the hub of the home.

Inset wood burning or multifuel stoves are built-in units that are installed into a chimney breast or wall, leaving only the front of the stove exposed to create maximum impact. Minimal and fuss-free, these stoves

Sleek and streamlined, extra wide inset stoves from Eurostove

are not only space efficient but they will also perfectly complement contemporary interiors and are the perfect choice for selfbuild projects, new-build developments and home extensions. Much more efficient than an open fire, an inset stove has a high heat output combined with character, warmth, comfort and a clean finish that is low maintenance and easy to use.

The Westfire Uniq 32 inset wood burning stove is a great space-saving heating solution, with a super wide 775mm door ideal to see the flickering flames within. It comes with an insulated fire chamber to reflect heat back into the room and is A+ rated for energy efficiency. It comes with easy to use air controls for a complete, cleaner burn that maximises fuel’s energy and with 5.9kW of heat, it’s ideal for all room sizes. A choice of frames offers personalisation with a clean, crisp edge. In a

metallic anthracite finish, the stove is suitable for all styles of interior and it also comes with a closed combustion adapter that allows external air to feed directly to the fire to improve its burn.

A similar inset stove from Mendip Stoves is the wood burning Christon 750 glass fronted stove, which offers a panoramic view of the flames within, via its 695mm wide glass front. A-rated for energy efficiency, the 8.7kW stove features a large insulated chamber to hold logs up to 60cm in length while the steel box-within-a-box design creates good airflow for convection heat to be evenly distributed to the room. Smooth and modern, the stove is available with a three or four-sided frame, allowing the Christon 750 to be installed on a hearth or set up high in a flush wall setting.

The Christon 750 and Uniq 32 stoves are both Defra Approved for use

in Smoke Control Areas such as our cities and large towns, and naturally conform to the new EcoDesign specifications, which can reduce particle emissions by 90% compared to an open fire and 80% compared to an old stove. Upgrading your stove to an EcoDesign model now gives peace of mind as well as helping to protect our planet.

“Inset stoves are a great way of saving space in selfbuild projects and new-build developments,” says Chris Baines, managing director of Eurostove. “As they are usually installed above the floor within the wall, they leave the floor area clear and also create a seamless, flush-fit effect, which suits contemporary living spaces beautifully.”

Westfire Uniq 32 starts at £3,250 and the Christon 750 is £2,661

Eurostove 01934 750500

www.eurostove.co.uk

From self-build projects to new-build developments and home extensions, inset stoves are the perfect heating solution.

Eurostove Ltd

tel: 01934 750 500

web: www.eurostove.co.uk

Eurostove’s new and updated iLektro collection is ideal for homes with good insulation, where heating is required but also where a focal point feature fire is desired to give a room instant wow factor and a cosy, welcoming feel at the touch of a button.

It is available in four sizes, the 950 aspect and three landscape models: 1250, 1650 and 2000. The iLektro range by Paul Agnew Designs is created for modern lifestyles with Wi-Fi capability, allowing users to operate their fire from a smartphone or tablet, both iPhone and Android.

Bring high-tech heating into the home with the iLektro electric fire range from Eurostove

SIA welcomes Alternative Fuel Payment flexibility announcement

The Stove Industry Association (SIA) has welcomed last month’s announcement by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero that the time period for evidencing the purchase of alternatives fuels, including wood and solid fuels, has been increased by three months.

It means that those eligible for the £200 Alternative Fuel Payment (AFP) will now be able to use receipts from June 2022 (previously September 2022) until May 2023 as evidence, ensuring that those households that purchased fuel in bulk ahead of the winter 2022 heating season will receive the support that they are entitled to.

The AFP is available to households not connected to the mains gas grid and that use alternative fuels as the main form of heating. It is a payment

on top of the £400 payment from electricity suppliers and covers homes heated by tank or bottled gas, LPG, oil, wood or solid fuel.

Most households that are eligible will receive the payment automatically as a credit on their electricity bill, but if not an eligibility check and application can be made here.

Andy Hill, chair of the SIA, the UK trade association for manufacturers, suppliers and retailers of solid fuel stoves and their component parts and fuel, commented: “This is a common-

sense announcement and ensures that those households that did plan ahead, buying their wood logs and solid fuel supplies in the summer months last year, will not be penalised for doing so. Wood and solid fuel heating is an essential lifeline for the many thousands of homes that are off the gas grid network, and for remote and very rural locations it is vital to ensure that a fuel supply for the winter months is sourced well in advance.”

Image courtesy of iStock

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Chimney Sweeps dispute with HETAS continues

HETAS was banned from exhibition after ‘conflict of interest’

The Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps has sparked a public dispute with HETAS after a disagreement over policies.

HETAS found itself banned from a recent trade exhibition hosted by the Guild due to “an unacceptable conflict of interest”.

The Guild board said it had taken the difficult decision to remove HETAS Ltd from its trade show after members considered the actions and objections of HETAS during the Chimney Occupations National Occupational Standards (NOS) review to be “significantly out of step with the wider industry”.

The Guild said it viewed HETAS’ policies towards chimney sweeping were now at odds with the aims and ethos of the professional chimney sweeping industry.

A statement from the Guild said: “The NOS review has concluded, and ALL of the new standards are approved by the regulator and signed off by the four UK nations.

“In addition, the introduction of the HETAS ‘Direct Route’ to their ‘Approved Chimney Sweep’ scheme by-passes traditional association training for new registrants.

“The Guild believes this Direct Route scheme is introducing people who do not generally have the same knowledge and skill set as those coming through the association training route of the Guild and others, and no longer complements our efforts to

raise standards.

“We would stress that the Guild has no issue whatsoever with any member or sweep or individual or businesses who choose to register themselves on any of the HETAS registers.

“In addition, the Guild also stresses there is no issue whatsoever with third parties who organise, host or deliver Hetas courses.

“We are unanimously supported in the decision by the members of the Federation of British Chimney Sweeps, representing over 80% of professionally registered chimney sweeps.”

Neither side offered further comment on the matter when approached by Fireplace Specialist but HETAS said it would be publishing its updated policy later this month (May).

MATT BLACK

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Featuring Solution Fires’ signature high definition, ultra realistic contoured flame effect technology and crackling fire audio for a truly authentic experience, the LUX range comes with three flame speed settings, flickering fuel bed plus a taller fire opening. New ceramic fuel bed options are available or choose a premium, fixed real wood log fuel bed which can be customised by adding your own decorative pieces. Fully ErP compliant with long-life LEDs, the LUX fires provide an incredible level of reliability and energy efficiency.

The Wow Factor

There is a fire to suit every home within the new LUX range, with models varying from the LUX75, 100, 125, 150, new LUX175 & the LUX200 for a grand centrepiece. LUX even allows homeowners to create the extra wide ‘wow factor’ fire element, which can be achieved by sitting any of the LUX range of cassette fires side by side. Front, corner or panoramic options are available, providing endless possibilities and the ability to create a visually stunning media wall.

A Bespoke Solution

Users can fine tune the LUX display with seven new pre-set illumination themes, and a choice of nine independent fuel, flame and downlight colours which can be adjusted by brightness. The flame, fuel bed and downlight illumination can even be independently turned on or off for ultimate control. The LUX electric fires are thermostatically controlled with an ultra quiet fan heater, and offer the user convenient app control to use with Alexa, and most smart phones, tablets and watches.

Optional Extras

Further customisation options include fitting LUX fires with optional anti-reflective glass, and choosing from two optional scene lighting kits which are available with 10 colour options. An optional 5-year warranty is also available for added peace of mind.

To explore the Solution Fires range, visit: https://solutionfires.co.uk/

affordable luxury with running costs from only 3p per hour, Solution Fires is proud to introduce its latest line of innovation; its brand-new, state-of-theart range of LUX electric fires, which have been specially developed using the company’s insight into customer needs and preferences.

Images courtesy of Solution Fires

affordable, luxury electric fires

premium hand decorated real log fuel beds running costs from only 3p per hour

Scan to explore the full range

Chimney Skills Training Launches New Solid Fuel and Biomass NVQs for Chimney Sweeps and Installers

Chimney Skills Training, the UK’s leading specialist CITB authorised training organisation for the chimney sweeps and solid fuel installers, in association with CITB, has launched the UK’s first level three vocational qualification in the Chimney Occupations sector.

This new qualification will help the sector to meet the future demands placed upon those tasked with the design, inspection, installation, service and maintenance of dry solid fuel and biomass heating systems.

This new level 3 NVQ has been developed in partnership with the National Occupational

Standards Working Group (NOS-NWG) which includes representatives from BFCMA, SIA, OFTEC and most of the industry’s trade associations along with many active tradespeople from across the four home nations. Further to this, two existing level 2 NVQ’s have been amended and updated to bring them into line with the current

and future skills that chimney sweeps and solid fuel installers will need to demonstrate. These three new qualifications are now listed and regulated by OFQUAL and learner registrations are now being taken.

Andy Hill, chair of the Stove Industry Association, said: “This suite of qualifications is

critical to meet the UK’s future skills needs in solid fuel and biomass domestic heating as a low environmental impact domestic heat source. It offers independence and confidence to the industry and the public in the promotion of solid fuel and biomass heating as a viable low carbon, cost effective and fuel secure

Henley Stoves is a leading manufacturer of high-quality Eco Ready Stoves, Electric Fires and Bio-ethanol Fires for homes. As part of our expansion plan, we are currently seeking new stockists to help distribute our products across the UK. If you are interested in becoming a stockist of Henley Stoves, you will be joining a growing network of dealers who offer exceptional customer service and support.

Ph. +44 1 353 698800

www.henleystoves.co.uk

Elcombe 5kW With Logstore

Berlin Bio-Ethanol

way to heat one’s home. The innovative switch to formal qualification will support the Competent Persons Scheme Operators such as HETAS and OFTEC, and further the skill and knowledge levels of installation, and service and maintenance to the sector saving consumers time and money as well as enhancing fuel efficiency whilst lowering emissions.”

The industry’s identified need for qualified tradespeople to install, service and maintain solid fuel and biomass domestic heating systems lays at the core of the development of this suite of NOS and NVQ’s. The stronger emphasis on clean air, and the innovations in technology to meet this, highlights a real need to upskill the sector in terms of training and qualifications.

Chris Geeves Director of Chimney Skills Training “We have had many of the UK’s

leading manufacturers, supply chain companies, stakeholders, trade associations, competent person schemes and practitioners involved in the development of this suite of National Occupational Standards and qualifications to ensure they meet the business needs, environmental and regulatory requirements whilst remaining highly relevant to the installer and chimney sweep trades.

This new suite of NVQ qualifications marks a milestone to the wider sector and not just the big players. The new vocational qualifications have been designed for anybody involved in the inspection. design installation, sweeping, service and maintenance of solid fuel or biomass domestic heating systems”.

Figures from the Stove Industry Association show that just under 200k solid

fuel stoves were sold during 2022, a 43% increase on the previous year and the need for qualified installers and chimney sweeps to service and maintain them is becoming even more pressing. The number of homes using solid fuel or biomass as either their main or secondary heating source is estimated at 1.9 million and all will need regular sweeping, service, and maintenance.

Sean Hayes, GQA Qualifications’ Operations Manager said: “A skills gap was identified around solid fuel and biomass inspection, installation, sweeping servicing and maintenance with the need for dedicated qualifications to support the Chimney Occupation trades as regulation, environmental issues and technological changes in products becomes ever greater

within the sector.

We’ve worked together with CITB, and the industry represented National Occupational Standards (NOS) National Working Group in partnership to help develop the new, OFQUAL Regulated, NVQ qualifications so that they meet the needs of the chimney occupational trades, the wider industry, and its stakeholders.”

Chimney Skills Training continues to strive to support chimney sweeps, installers, manufacturers, and the wider sector in developing solutionbased problem-solving initiatives in the delivery of qualifications, training and in the development of partnership with the UK’s solid fuel and biomass domestic heating industry.

www.

chimneyskillstraining.co.uk

Will shift from gas to hydrogen make heating more efficient?

The UK government has publicly submitted a series of proposals for more efficient residential heating, one of which seeks to introduce requirements for all newly installed gas boilers to be “hydrogen-ready” from 2026.

By Nick Lavigueur

The UK government has publicly submitted a series of proposals for more efficient residential heating, one of which seeks to introduce requirements for all newly installed gas boilers to be “hydrogen-ready” from 2026.

The conversion of the gas network to supply hydrogen instead of methane, could of course impact the fireplace sector, both in that it will affect the technology and potentially also the propensity of people to continue to purchase real flame fires

over other modes of home heating and cooking.

The appeal of hydrogen, unlike fossil fuels, is that it doesn’t give off CO2 when it burns, leading to hopes it could play a key role in decarbonising the economy. .

In the recently closed Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) consultation on the matter, it says: “The government’s view is that there is a strong case for the introduction of hydrogen-ready boilers as standard from this date,

provided that these boilers can meet all relevant regulatory standards, that they can reach price parity with existing gas boilers if deployed market wide, and assuming that a single market-wide definition can be agreed. “Hydrogen-ready boilers are boilers that are initially installed to burn natural gas but can be easily converted by a gas engineer in future to operate on hydrogen. The deployment of hydrogen-ready boilers from the mid-2020s is expected to deliver significant benefits should

hydrogen later be rolled-out in the gas grid, by reducing the costs associated with scrapping natural gas-only boilers before the end of their useful life.”

Five hydrogen heating trials are underway across Britain, all in partnership with major players in the gas sector. But while the powers-thatbe and big business are currently championing hydrogen as the solution to our Net Zero aims, there’s no shortage of dissenters.

Although it may be a less polluting fuel, the problem lies in its creation, scientists have found. As things stand, most hydrogen is manufactured using fossil fuels (referred to as grey hydrogen), a process which is more polluting than just using methane gas.

To produce “green” hydrogen an expensive and inefficient process of electrolysing water using renewable energy sources is the only way.

Generating electricity from wind or solar, converting it into hydrogen and then burning the hydrogen at home uses more energy than just using the electricity to directly heat a home, with a heat pump, it is claimed.

On the flip side, it is claimed that adding only small amounts of hydrogen into the current gas would make a huge difference. In the UK, only a 0.1% hydrogen blend is currently permitted to be included in the natural gas mix supplied to homes, businesses and industry.

One of the hydrogen blending trials taking place is FutureGrid – a specially-constructed hydrogen research facility that will test the feasibility of hydrogen blends at increasing concentrations up to 100% on gas transmission assets.

FutureGrid - which is financed by global players in the fossil fuel industry, says that it estimates that hydrogen blending could have the same carbon-saving effect annually as taking two million cars off the road.

This has encouraged the Energy Networks Association (ENA) to back hydrogen blending plans across the UK. It’s expected necessary upgrades to the UK’s national transmission system could deliver a 2% blend by 2024 and a 20% blend by 2027.

So with a turbulent political landscape ahead both domestically and internationally, it’s hard to predict with great confidence which way this will go.

Images courtesy of iStock

Kamado Joe Strengthens Position with Significant In-store & Exhibition Display Investment

The premium, innovative outdoor kitchen brand Kamado Joe has commissioned the services of Silverpoint Display to support the business in elevating its retail and exhibition presence with a large-scale European-wide roll out of 1000 display units and new exhibition stands.

we work with, they are an essential part of our team, their flexibility and creativity are second to none. Sean and his team are always ready to listen to my new far-fetched request and have the skills and knowledge to deliver the right solution every time.”

residential kitchen appliances and equipment for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. The highly-respected Middleby brands offer advanced innovation and sought-after design for the home kitchen.

With a phased introduction, initially throughout the UK, Netherlands and Germany and following this to other European markets, Silverpoint Display is designing, manufacturing and distributing 500 backwall displays and 500 plinths, to be positioned in garden centres, independents and multiples to showcase Kamado Joe’s latest collection of outdoor high performance ceramic grills, accessories and fuels. The displays are modular systems, designed and manufactured in the UK.

In addition, Silverpoint Display will be providing a fully bespoke design and build exhibition stand solution, to build awareness and cement Kamado Joe’s reputation as a leading luxury outdoor kitchen brand amongst key trade audiences at UK events such as Solex (July 23) and further afield such as Spoga Gafa in Cologne (June 23), as well as amongst home owners attending the myriad of consumer shows taking place this Spring and Summer across the UK. The stands will provide a fully immersive and interactive platform to really bring the Kamado Joe range to life, showcasing the ceramic grills in action, with energetic and engaging cooking demos by leading global chefs.

Ben Forte, Global Marketing Manager for Kamado Joe comments: “Silverpoint are not just a company

Sean Adams, Director at Silverpoint Display explains: “Our relationship with Kamado Joe spans over five years, supporting their initial entry into the UK market and we are thrilled to have won the competitive pitch to work together on the next step in their exciting journey. Many brands look to China for their retail display units, however we are extremely proud of our firm commitment to UK design and manufacturing to deliver quality assurance and the peace of mind it brings.

“Everything we do is unique and completely bespoke, so our design process with the Kamado Joe brief has been very in-depth, with close client contact and several prototypes being developed to ensure optimum efficiency or delays in manufacture.

“The outdoor cooking market is becoming increasingly crowded, however the brand has a compelling and highly innovative product range and story to tell. This latest investment, with its cutting-edge design and substantial distribution, will provide the brand with a solid platform to educate their target audiences and communicate their performance driven proposition which is inbuilt into each and every Kamado Joe product.”

Kamado Joe, part of Middleby Residential, is a world leader in premium,

Established in 2011 Silverpoint Display serves a national and international client base, creating outstanding bespoke visual merchandising solutions to help brands raise visibility and build reputation which inspire and deliver both in-store and at events. The agency produces, coordinates and manages events and exhibitions across the world, working with both high street names and smaller brands to assist them in maximising the opportunities to showcase their products and services.

Silverpoint Display embraces the use of sustainable and recycled materials wherever possible in order to endorse the reduction in their global footprint and those of their clients.

More information on Silverpoint Display can be found at https:// www.silverpointdisplay.co.uk/ and on Kamado Joe at https://www. kamadojoe.com/

Images courtesy of Silverpoint

New DRU Virtuo Evolve electric fire with low emissions and multiple flame pictures

DRU has launched the Virtuo Evolve electric fire in Spring 2023. Controlled by a unique app, it has multiple, projected flame pictures, brilliantly glowing embers, rustic logs and realistic, crackling sound effects.

You can operate the fire with a remote control, smartphone or tablet using Bluetooth. With a choice of 1 or 2-kW heat outputs, it can be a heating appliance or simply a decorative fire. And with almost zero emissions and a low carbon footprint, it is one of the most sustainable electric fires ever produced.

Choice of sizes and views

Virtuo Evolve is available in three sizes: 100, 130 and 180 cm widths and in single-sided or three-sided models, which provide panoramic fire views. It has a black ribcast interior that provides the perfect backdrop to the impressive flames and an authentic glowing fire bed.

DRU has designed the fire to be built into media walls, room-dividing walls or other architectural features. As well as being a luxury domestic appliance, it is also suitable for hotels, restaurants, conference centres and many other commercial environments.

National distribution and support

DRU, which has its UK HQ in Manchester, has a national network of dealers, supported by a professional customer services department and a fully qualified technical support team. DRU and its dealers also work closely with architects and interior designers to realise their clients’ visions.

In addition to the Virtuo electric fire series, DRU is a leading European manufacturer and distributor of contemporary gas fires, wood fires and stoves and bioethanol fires. For further information, visit: www. drufire.com or email: info@drufire. co.uk

Images courtesy of DRU Verwarming

Virtuo Evolve 180 3-sided model

Virtuo Evolve 180 single-sided model

Creating The Perfect Flame

The Midtherm Pyrus V is contemporary, efficient, and built to last. Our achieved efficiency ratings go above and beyond current regulations, futureproofing your stove for years to come. Sophisticated baffling and air inlet paths ensure the majority of the heat makes its way into the room, not out of the chimney.

Designed with longevity in mind, the Midtherm Outdoor range is constructed from high quality 304 stainless steel, laser cut and bent with precision using our decades of manufacturing expertise. The entire range was designed and built in-house by our hard-working team in the heart of the UK in the West Midlands.

Started in 1968 by

Ray Andrews, Midtherm has evolved under the family’s’ direction to meet everchanging manufacturing requirements. We now consist of several divisions all working in partnership under the Midtherm brand. Contact us with your enquiries now:

T: 01384 458800 E: sales@ midtherm.com W: www. midtherm.com

NEW FIREVIEW ECO VINTAGE RANGE

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Introducing our range of Fireview Eco Vintage Stoves. The new 5kW, 7kW and 9kW stoves surpass the independent ‘clearSkies’ and energy performance certification scheme. 01884 35806 woodwarmstoves.co.uk

Image courtesy of Midtherm

Your One-Stop Shop for Stunning Oak Beams

At Real Beams, we firmly believe that an oak beam can instantly transform a fireplace, adding warmth, charm, and character to any home.

That’s why we have devoted ourselves to providing our customers with stunning oak beams at amazing value. Our range of oak beams is available online, making it easier than ever to find the perfect match for your home.

We understand that every home is unique, which is why we offer a wide variety of styles and sizes to choose from. If you can’t find exactly what you’re looking for, simply drop us an email with your requirements or use our bespoke order function and we’ll work with you to create a bespoke

oak beam that perfectly fits your vision.

At Real Beams, we’re also dedicated to building strong relationships with stove installers. We recognize the vital role they play in helping homeowners choose the right fireplace and accessories for their home. Unlike many of our competitors, we offer a trade discount on top of our industry-beating prices, giving stove installers unbeatable value on our oak beams.

If you’re a stove installer, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to set up a

trade account. You’ll gain access to our exclusive trade discount, making it even easier to provide your customers with the best products at the best prices.

Our team of experts has years of experience in creating the finest oak beams, ensuring that every piece we sell meets our exacting standards of quality and craftsmanship. We take pride in our attention to detail, ensuring that every oak beam we sell is both beautiful and durable.

Buying an oak beam from Real Beams is easy, secure, and hassle-free. Our website is designed

to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision, and our customer service team is always on hand to answer any questions you may have.

So if you’re looking for the perfect oak beam for your home, or you’re a stove installer looking for unbeatable value on highquality oak beams, look no further than Real Beams. Buy an oak beam online today and experience the difference that Real Beams can make to your home.

realbeams.co.uk

info@realbeams.co.uk

03330 441 649

www.realbeams.co.uk

info@realbeams.co.uk

Images courtesy of Real Beams

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Religious observances and festivals –what are my employers’ obligations?

By Aleksandra Traczyk, Associate at Winckworth Sherwood

There are many different religious observances and festivals celebrated in the UK. These include (in no particular order):

• the Christian festivals of Easter and Christmas (normally around March or April and late December respectively)

• the Islamic festivals of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr (generally around May/ June)

• the Jewish festivals of Pesach and Hannukah (generally around March or April and late November respectively) and others;

• the Buddhist festival of Vesak (the full moon in May); and

• the Hindu festival of Diwali (generally early November).

Employers will be familiar with the issues that religious observance can give rise to in the workplace including requests for time off and fasting

requirements.

This can be a tricky area to navigate, particularly when there are different requirements between employees as well as business requirements. The Equality Act 2010 protects individuals from discrimination on the grounds of religion or belief.

Policies and practices

There are many different types of discrimination, but the most real risk employers can sleepwalk into is of indirectly discriminating against an employee. Indirect discrimination is when employer’s practices, policies or procedures disadvantage people who possess a particular protected characteristic (such as religion), unless the employer can show objective justification.

For example, scheduling important meetings on Friday evenings, which a Jewish employee

observing Sabbath could not attend are likely to be indirectly discriminatory unless the employer can give legitimate objective justification for scheduling a meeting at that time.

Requests for time off

None but the Christian festivals of Easter and Christmas are public holidays in the UK. Employers may therefore receive requests from non-Christian employees for time off during nonChristian festivals.

There is no automatic obligation to give employees time for religious holidays or festivals. Employees should therefore request time off in the usual way, namely by giving notice of at least twice the length of the requested holiday.

However, employers should be aware that refusing a request by an employee to take time

off for religious reasons can amount to indirect discrimination unless they can show objective justification. All requests should therefore be considered on an individual basis.

Employers should keep in mind that each festival will be different. In the case of Ramadan, the exact date of Eid-al-Fitr is dependent on the sighting of the moon, so it cannot be known precisely in advance (and so it will not be known until a very late stage that it will fall on one of two consecutive days).

Employers will therefore need to be prepared to receive requests for time off at short notice. Refusing to consider requests because they have been made at short notice could amount to indirect discrimination.

It may not be possible to accommodate all requests and the employer

should aways adopt a fair approach to granting leave which may include considering what cover might be required during a certain period, avoiding a first come-first-served allocation, and considering those who have worked over that religious festival (e.g., Diwali) in the previous year.

Requests for flexibility

Employees may also appreciate flexibility around religious observance. All qualifying employees can

make a request for flexible working to accommodate observance of their religious beliefs; although often employers will be better served by agreeing more informal and flexible arrangements, to support the employee.

Muslim employees may appreciate, for example, if during Ramadan they could split their lunchbreak into smaller breaks to allow them to pray, since they are not able to consume food and drink during the day in any event (unless exempt).

They may also appreciate earlier start and finish times or permission to work from home, to help with their fasting. In many cases it will be in the employer’s best interest to agree to such arrangements since employee’s energy and concentration levels are likely to be higher earlier in the day and when they have not had to commute into work (where this is possible).

Employers must also avoid penalising staff whose productivity may be impacted by the effects of fasting. In one case, an employment tribunal held that critical comments made to an employee about their reduced productivity due to fasting amounted to religious discrimination and religionrelated harassment.

Conclusion

Employers therefore need to be aware of the different types of discrimination and

train their employees to make sure it does not occur in the workplace. It may be helpful to make employees aware that they can discuss their religion or belief with their manager and/or HR department, so that they are aware when considering requests for time off and other requirements.

Employers will have a defence to an indirect discrimination claim if they can show objective justification, namely that any practices, policies, or procedures were a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim (e.g., that a meeting scheduled on Friday evening which a Jewish employee observing Sabbath could not attend was for vital business reasons and could not have been scheduled at any other time). If employers get this right, discrimination claims may be avoided in the first place.

We are specialist importers bringing Brazilian slate hearths, flagstones and large slabs at extremely competitive prices. We supply and deliver nationwide to the trade and to the public.

Images courtesy of iStock

Embracing Sustainable Heating: Hunter Stoves Group’s Innovative Eco

2022 Boiler Stoves

In response to the growing global awareness of environmental sustainability, the stove industry has been consistently adapting to satisfy the increasing demand for eco-friendly heating solutions.

As a pioneering force in this arena, Hunter Stoves Group has introduced an exclusive range of Eco 2022 approved boiler stoves, including the contemporary Parkray Aspect 14B and the soon-to-be-released traditional Herald 14B. With this diverse and distinctive selection, Hunter Stoves Group showcases its dedication to harmonising high quality engineering, efficiency, and eco-friendliness while accommodating a variety of customer style preferences.

The Parkray Aspect 14B Eco boiler stove embodies a modern, sleek, and practical heating solution, featuring an expansive glass viewing window. This sought-after boiler stove enables homeowners to

relish the sight of flickering flames while also benefiting from the stove’s effective heating capabilities, encompassing both room and water heating. Boasting a nominal heat output of 4.8kW to water and 5.5kW to the room, the Aspect 14B delivers ample heat for both purposes. As a market-exclusive offering, this contemporary boiler stove is Eco 2022 compliant and DEFRA Approved for Smokeless Zones.

Recognising the diverse preferences and needs of their customers, Hunter Stoves Group is broadening their product range further.

The forthcoming Herald 14B boiler stove has been crafted for those who desire a modern, ecofriendly boiler stove with a

more traditional aesthetic. Featuring a classic twodoor design, the Herald 14B is a fitting choice for homes with more rustic or traditional interiors.

Similar to the Parkray Aspect 14B, the Herald 14B will present the same environmentally friendly attributes and efficient heating performance, with an alternative visual appeal. This meticulous approach to product design highlights Hunter Stoves Group’s commitment to supplying a comprehensive array of customers with green heating solutions that align with their unique tastes.

Customers are increasingly seeking to maximise the heat generated by their stoves, so it makes perfect sense to

utilise this energy to heat the water in their homes as well. This approach ensures that no heat is wasted whilst their stove is burning. As a result, boiler stoves are increasingly becoming a vital component in sustainable heating systems, which often integrate multiple eco-friendly methods to achieve an environmentally responsible, cost-effective home.

As Hunter Stoves Group persists in its innovative pursuits and product expansion, customers can anticipate an even greater variety of exceptional and diverse heating solutions tailored to their preferences. By offering market-exclusive choices like the modern Parkray Aspect 14B and the traditional Herald 14B boiler stoves, the company plays an integral part in steering the stove industry towards a greener and more eco-conscious future. Homeowners can now experience the advantages of efficient, stylish, and environmentally friendly heating solutions without sacrificing their personal style preferences.

Images courtesy of Hunter Stoves

Environmental Plans Welcome As We Move Towards A Greener Planet - HETAS and Woodsure CEO

Response to new environment improvement plan set out by the government for 2023

In the new Environmental Improvement Plan 2023 set out by the government (published 31 January 2023), the legally binding actions promise an improvement of clean air and to tackle climate change.

Air quality in the UK has improved significantly in recent decades with a decrease in all five major air pollutants. Between 2010 and 2020, emissions of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) decreased by 18%; emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) decreased by 44%; sulphur dioxide (SO2) by 70%, non-methane volatile organic compounds (NMVOC) by 14%, and ammonia (NH3) by 0.2%. These reductions have produced

significant benefits for our health and environment.

Building on the 2019 Clean Air Strategy and Environment Act, announcing the plan for cleaner air, the report outlines targets and commitments to drive down emissions and improve air quality in the home.

These are as follows:

• An Annual Mean Concentration Target for PM2.5 levels in England to be 10 µg m-3 or below by 2040, with a new interim target of 12 µg/m3 by the end of January 2028

• A Population Exposure Reduction Target for a reduction in PM2.5 population exposure of 35% compared to 2018 to be achieved by

2040, with a new interim target to reduce by 22% by the end of January 2028

Further measures to reduce emissions include:

• Tighten the limits that new stoves in Smoke Control Areas must meet, reducing the limit from 5g of smoke per hour to a maximum of 3g.

• Design and implement measures to drive a shift away from older, more polluting appliances to newer appliances which meet our tough new emission standards

• Look at the option of extending the solid fuels legislation to fuels burnt outside

Welcoming the new measures to

improve air quality, leading biomass and fuel heating organisation, HETAS, will continue to work with Defra and other organisations which promote best practice in use of wood stoves and fireplaces in using cleaner and more efficient fuels, and techniques to reduce exposure to pollutants.

Bruce Allen, chief executive officer for HETAS and Woodsure, comments:

“The new plan set out by the government fits well with our organisational purpose of reducing the environmental impact caused by burning solid fuels, wood and biomass. The government is not considering a ban on domestic heating, recognising households that there are people reliant on solid fuel burning for heating, hot water and cooking. We know that many will be happy that they don’t need to make any drastic, costly changes in the near future. Many value the bit of fuel independence achieved from log burning.

“But amongst those who are currently dependent on solid fuel, some may inadvertently be causing unnecessary pollution by burning wet wood or inappropriate fuel.

“Part of our job as a not-for-profit

industry organisation is to raise awareness of and educate about the right way to burn fuel as efficiently, cleanly and sustainably as possible where fires, stoves or boilers are in place.

“Dry or seasoned wood (with a moisture content of up to 20%) emits 7.21g per tonne of PM2.5 emissions when burned. But this figure quadruples to 28.87g per tonne when the wood is wet.

“If more people burned better by simply switching to the right fuel or by using an efficient appliance, we could dramatically reduce harmful emissions and ultimately do much better for our planet.

“Last year we launched our independent Cleaner Choice Scheme for UK biomass and solid fuel appliances. The Cleaner Choice appliance scheme offers a simple way to choose solid fuel, wood, or biomass appliances that are even cleaner to operate than current regulations require.

“In fact, appliances can only be approved if they beat current emissions requirements for Defra exemption by at least 50% ensuring environmentally responsible, and

cleaner use.

“We all breathe the same air; and while we agree that the industry undoubtedly has more to do to tackle air pollution, we know that educating consumers on the cleaner, safer choices they can make when it comes to solid fuel will also have a significant impact.

Our advice for retailers to give to consumers covers three main points:

• When installing a new heating appliance, opt for a Cleaner Choice approved stove, cooker or boiler, which achieves 50% lower PM2.5 emissions than Defra exemption requirements

• When choosing fuels, look for the Ready to Burn certification mark – a DEFRA scheme (administered by HETAS and Woodsure), guaranteeing the cleanest fuels for burning at home

• Remember to book your annual sweep and services; a well-maintained appliance will burn more cleanly, efficiently and safely”

For more information about cleaner, safer choices for solid fuel use within the home, visit hetas.co.uk or woodsure.co.uk.

Image courtesy of iStock

Emberlux, a new brand from CK Fires Ltd.

The Emberlux cabinet range has been formed to offer a new way of living.

Creating a feature wall with built-in storage is a great solution for any living space and by using a variety of materials and accessories, a unique and striking look can be achieved.

Two ranges are available – the Suite Range and Modular Range. The Suite Range consists of five stunning designs available in large or medium sizing, and some even have a small option for those more compact rooms and spaces. The Modular Range has two models which have been designed to be configured in a variety of ways to suit specific needs.

All seven models come with an electric fire from Evonic Fires which provides a comfortable and attractive solution for those looking to add warmth and style to their living spaces. Different fire sizes are available from the Halo, E-series, E-lectra and Volante ranges.

Emberlux designs will certainly expand your product offering and will be delivered within four weeks from point of order and can be simply installed by your installation teams. As of 3rd May, complimentary installation, and training workshops, which will continue every Wednesday until the end of August, were started. These innovative designs will typically take 1-2 days to install without any preparatory work and will certainly turn heads in your showroom and have been created to offer customers the very best in cabinet

styling whilst maximising your profit opportunities.

A newly refurbished showroom in Stratfordupon-Avon features all the designs and is available for private viewing. We will support our stockists with a fantastic POS package ranging from brochures, a website and product POS.

Founded in 2005, CK Fires Ltd are a multi-awardwinning manufacturer. Our Evonic Fires brand is proud to produce a range of British built electric appliances and are considered as one of the most technically advanced manufacturers in the world. Our range has a heating solution to suit any interior, with a variety of styles, sizes, and flame effects to choose from.

To become an authorised Emberlux dealer or for further information please contact Andy Elliff, Commercial Manager, on 07570 715428.

Lambeth large with Valore doors in Evora Stone Graphite

The Westminster chimney breast combined with two bookcases, two glass shelf units and optional pelmet shown in Snow White

The Kingston chimney breast and fire unit with a double shelving unit and double cupboard unit shown in Graphite