Consider a cast iron fireback to radiate heat back into the room

Any examples of this ir where we could get one. Get it fitted etc? Is this something I could fabricate myself or is there something more technical involved?

poor sheep 🐑

Try a Google search using the words “cast iron fireback” for options.

Open fires release a large amount of pollutants into our homes, causing lung disease, heart problems and strokes. In fact scientists are calling out for open fires and log burners to be banned as not only do they pollute indoors but outside too, adding to the pollution caused by cars. A much more eco type of fire is electric as long as you are on a renewable electric tariff (most energy providers have one). I don’t want to be a party pooper but open fires are just as bad as cigarette smoke.

Swap it for a log burner. You have the chimney there ready. They give off phenomenal heat, and are so much cleaner than open fires! We swapped ours a while ago, best decision we ever made

Hi Sandy

Any ecommendations?

You really need to look at the latest scientific opinions on log burners too. Scientists are suggesting people do not install them, especially if they have children. The particles emitted by log burners or open fires are very dangerous. The government are dragging their heels as usual and are just going to ban the burning of wet wood soon, but they need to do more.

A log burner is considerably cheaper, cleaner & more efficient than an open fire. I hear what you’re saying Sonia. But if installed correctly with the correct flue & one has access to dry wood then they really are more efficient than a gas or electric fire.

John - most log burners are the same & quite simple. What you need to calculate is which size kw to get. If it’s too big the room will be scorching, if too small won’t be enough heat. Make sure you get your chimney lined with a proper glue. That’s about it. You can pick up log burners for a few hundred quid, ours is a cast iron second hand but it’s fine - all you do is Chuck the wood in, light & that’s it! Cost about £600 to have it installed. Chimney cleaned & lined & proper carbon dioxide alarm

Thanks Sandy, I appreciate your advice. Nice to know an approximate price range too!