With the cost of everything rising yet again, including the cost of heating our homes, many people are seeking out wallet-friendly ways of keeping their homes warm. Whilst a log burner might seem like an appealing option, it’s vital the financial and environmental impacts are considered.
The reality of a log burner is simple, they are inefficient, cost a lot, and contribute to air pollution. To combat this, the UK government offers grants for cleaner and more sustainable heating solutions.
The Downside to Having a Log Burner
Whilst a log burner is the perfect choice for a cosy atmosphere, when it comes to heating your home in a way that’s efficient, they fall short. This is because:
- They are very expensive to run – Buying one outright can have quite a hefty price tag and not to mention the storing of wood and fluctuation of prices seasonally.
- They cause air pollution – Burning wood releases very harmful particles into the air which contributes to poor air quality and health issues.
- They are not efficient – Log burners lose a lot of heat compared to renewable systems like heat pumps.
- There are strict regulations – The Governmnet are cracking down on emissions, meaning older models may no longer comply with legal standards.
Why is Renewable Energy Better than a Log Burner?
Homeowners are actively encouraged to switch to a cleaner heating system by being offered incentives such as energy grants. Instead of installing a log burner central heating system, here are some government-backed grants that could help:
Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)
This scheme provides those who can qualify for grants up to £7,500. With this, old boilers can be replaced with an air source heat pump. Unlike log burners, heat pumps are designed to use the air outside to heat the home, reducing carbon emissions and long-term heating costs.
Local Council Grants
Some local authorities offer funding to help those in their area install renewable energy in their homes. If you are looking for a way to save money and heat your home without constant worrying, check with your local council for grants that support solar panels, heat pumps, and even insulation improvements.
ECO4 Scheme
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is currently in its fourth phase and supports low-income households in upgrading heating systems to a sustainable alternative. Instead of log burners, you may qualify for free insulation, a heat pump, and solar panels.
Should You Avoid Having a Log Burner?
Log burner central heating may seem like a traditional and even rustic option that amplifies the look of your home, but it’s both harsh on your money and the environment. Burning wood releases harmful pollutants and creates more hidden costs over time.
With stricter government regulations on air pollution, investing in a log burner will become a burden before you know it.
Renewable heating solutions backed by government grants are a future-proof choice. Heat pumps and solar panels cost much less to run, offer higher efficiency, and a reduced carbon footprint. This will not only help you save money on energy bills, but also contribute to a cleaner world.
Now is the perfect time to explore government grants and invest in a heating system that benefits you and the planet. For more information and to check if you qualify for one of these grants, please see the information and form below.
FAQS
Wood burners heat the space around them and can provide a cosy warmth for a room but they are also used to provide hot water and for central heating.
Yes, most modern wood-burning stoves, if used in the right way, have the ability to heat an entire house.
No, it’s not likely wood burners are going be banned in the UK. However, new regulations came into effect in 2022 and saw that all wood burning stoves need to meet certain environmental standards to reduce harmful emissions.
Installing a log burner can increase home insurance premiums due to the higher risk of fire.
