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Renovating DIY Fireplaces

How to reduce heat loss while using open fire

3 years ago

We have an open fire that has a is approximately 50 cm wide, 60 cm high and maybe 30 cm deep. We put a sheep in it when it's not in use but we would like to use it more. We lose a LOT of heat whole the fire is on and would like it to be more efficient when burning wood, enough to heat the room and possibly the house.
What can be done?

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Comments (10)

Jonathan
3 years ago
Consider a cast iron fireback to radiate heat back into the room
Jon Bull
Original Author
3 years ago
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?
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User
3 years ago
poor sheep 🐑
Jonathan
3 years ago
Try a Google search using the words “cast iron fireback” for options.
Sonia
3 years ago
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.
1sandyh
3 years ago
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
Jon Bull
Original Author
3 years ago
Hi Sandy

Any ecommendations?
Sonia
3 years ago
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.
1sandyh
3 years ago
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
Jon Bull
Original Author
3 years ago
Thanks Sandy, I appreciate your advice. Nice to know an approximate price range too!

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