Shed Wood Burner - Safety Considerations
Installing a stove in an outdoor shed, log cabin or an off grid residence is a fantastic idea. There are a few things to think about before doing so.
It's crucial to ensure your shed or cabin is properly insulated to minimize heat loss and save on fuel costs. Insulation can also reduce dampness, and improve the safety of fire.
Size
A shed log burner is an ideal way to heat a shed or summer house. It is crucial to select the best stove for your space and make sure that it meets the required safety standards. A stove that is too big won't be able to properly vent and can also rapidly soot up the flue. A stove that is too big isn't able to heat the room adequately.
You will need to first determine the size of the shed and then decide on the location of the stove. Once you've identified the spot you'll need to construct an area for the stove to sit on. The hearth needs to be at least 12mm thick, and constructed from non-combustible materials. The distance between a single wall flue pipe and non-combustible materials is 3 times the diameter of the pipe. However, this can be reduced by using an insulative shielding panel.
Once you've created the hearth, then install the stove. Based on the type of stove you want to install you may have to purchase the stove door, a stovepipe, or damper. You'll also have to install a carbon monoxide detector in your shed or cabin because these areas are much smaller than houses and can be filled with dangerous CO gas very quickly.
If you're installing a stove in an outdoor space, then you'll have to install an air liner to ensure safety and to stop condensation. Flue liners are available at a wide range of hardware stores and they're typically easy to cut to the proper length. Use tin snips for removing the bottom and lid of the can. Make sure you bend any sharp corners within.
Safety
Shed wood burning stoves are efficient and cozy, but they must be installed safely. This includes making sure you are using the correct installation and use of the stove, as well as a carbon monoxide detector, and a fire extinguisher. It is also essential to keep pets and children away from the stove to reduce the chance of accidents.
Installing your stove in a shed by an HETAS registered installer is a good idea. They will be able to make sure that the installation is done in accordance with current building regulations, including the necessary distances from combustible walls. This can eliminate the requirement for an official building control certificate, which will save you time and money in the long time.
Only burn wood that has been kiln dried and well-seasoned in your stove in your shed. Do not try to burn treated off-cuts, as this will produce chemicals in the flue gas that could cause pollution and decrease the quality of air. You will also have to make sure that your chimney is of the appropriate size. A single wall flue system is ideal for most sheds, but if are planning to install a double wall stove in your shed, this will require a bigger chimney.
Smoke from a wood-burning stove can be dangerous, particularly to children, pregnant women, and the elderly. Smoke from a stove that burns wood could be harmful to those suffering from asthma, COPD, heart disease, and even dogs and cats.
It is essential to install a fire-proof screen to safeguard children and pets from sparks and hot coals. A book of fire logs is also recommended to keep close in the event of an emergency. It is also recommended to avoid using charcoal or gasoline starter fluid near your shed stove. These substances are highly flammable and could result in an explosion or flare-up should you make a mistake.
Depending on the area you reside in, you may be located in a smoke control area, and this will affect the stove you can choose to install. You will need to choose the type of stove that is part of the DEFRA (External link) approved appliance list.
Installation
A log burner in your summer house or shed is a great idea that will bring you closer to nature in a way that cannot be done with a standard fireplace in your home. A log burning stove in your garden or shed can also be an ideal location for socializing and family gatherings as well as giving you the opportunity to take in the beautiful outdoors without having to leave the comfort of your own home.
When installing a wood burner in a shed you'll need to think about the size of your summerhouse or shed and the output you'll require from the stove to adequately heat it. You should also be aware of whether you are located in a zone of smoke control and whether there are local laws governing planning that could impact your installation. You should seek out a HETAS-registered installer to assist you with planning and installation.
You'll need to determine the size of the flue pipe your shed will be able to support before you can install a wood stove for shed. The stove's manufacturer will be able to offer you some tips on this. Once you've decided on the size of the flue pipe, you can begin to search for shed log burners suitable for your summer home or shed.
Once you have chosen the best stove for your summerhouse or shed, you will need to prepare the area for installation. This will involve clearing away any materials that could ignite and ensuring that there is a minimum distance of 1m from the shed to the front edge of the chimney stack. It is also essential to make sure that the stove is at least 2m away from the nearest combustible walls and that all combustible material within the shed is covered with fire board or the shed is insulated.
The hearth must be constructed of non-combustible material and at least 12mm thick. You can make use of any type of concrete or stone for instance, but you must be cautious not to use sand, as this could affect the performance of your stove and cause an issue with the chimney. Also, you'll need a pair of twin wall flue pipe as well as a class D airvent 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're thinking of installing a wood stove in your shed, make sure that the electrical installation has been approved by a licensed electrician. Also, ensure that any flammable materials are well away from the stove.
You should clean the chimney and glass of your shed log heater on a regular basis. Make use of a small amount vinegar to wash the inside of your stove glass. Be cautious not to get vinegar inside the burner. You can also clean the outside of the glass log burner using mild solutions made from paper towel and washing liquid.
Remember that shed log heaters are designed to make use of dry seasoned firewood. The logs' moisture content should be less than 20%. The best way to check the level of moisture in your logs is to use a wood moisture meter. Place your wood in a ventilated shed, and make sure to keep combustible items like furniture and curtains from the shed. It is recommended also to have the chimney cleaned at least every year.