Gas fires and wood burners are popular heating options for homeowners in the Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago region of New Zealand. If you are considering retrofitting a new wood burner where a gas fire is already in place then read through this helpful guide for things to consider.
Switching from a gas fire to a wood-burning stove is an increasingly popular home improvement choice. Wood burners offer a cozy, traditional feel, and can provide a cost-effective way to heat your home.
However, before you make the switch, there are several key factors to consider. This guide will take you through the steps, benefits, and potential drawbacks of replacing your gas fire with a wood burner.
1. Why Switch to a Wood Burner?
Ambience: Wood burners add a rustic, warm ambience to your home, giving you that quintessential fireplace experience.
Energy Efficiency: Modern wood burners can be more energy-efficient than gas fires, especially if you use well-seasoned wood.
Eco-Friendly Option: Burning wood, especially from sustainable sources, is often seen as a carbon-neutral option compared to fossil fuel gas.
Cost Savings: If you have access to inexpensive firewood, a wood burner can be cheaper to run than a gas fire.
2. Important Considerations Before Switching
A. Check Your Chimney/Flue
Chimney Inspection: Before installing a wood burner, have a professional inspect your chimney to ensure it is suitable. You may need to fit a chimney liner, which can cost extra.
Chimney Sweeping: You’ll need to get the chimney swept regularly to remove soot and prevent blockages, especially in the colder months.
B. Ventilation Requirements
Wood burners require sufficient airflow to work safely and efficiently. You may need to install additional ventilation in the room, especially in modern, well-insulated homes.
C. Building Regulations
In Queenstown, Wanaka, Cromwell and other parts of Central Otago any work involving a solid fuel appliance is subject to Building Regulations. Make sure you have followed through with obtaining building consent and having the fire installed by a qualified installer. Follow the links at the bottom of the article to find out what the steps are in obtaining building consent.
D. Space and Style
Consider the size of the stove and whether it will physically fit where your gas fire currently sits. The aesthetic appeal of a wood burner should also match the room’s design.
Consider the size of the space you are looking to heat and ensure it has been calculated and this is taken into consideration when choosing the wood burner. This is especially important if it will be one of your main sources of heating.
E. Flooring Type
The type of flooring in the room the wood burner will be installed is significant. A hearth is an essential part of installing a wood burner. It is important to discuss the flooring in the room with the installer to ensure it will be able to cope with the heat.
3. Costs Involved
A. Initial Costs
Wood Burner Price: Prices for wood burners range from $1,500.00 for basic models to $30,000+ for top-tier stoves.
Installation Costs: Installation costs vary depending on the size of the wood burner and whether a chimney liner or other modifications are required.
Building Consent Costs: Plans and applications for council are required.
B. Ongoing Costs
Fuel: While wood can be cheaper than gas, prices will vary based on location and availability. Make sure you have a dry, safe place to store your logs. With the high fire risk in Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes its important to store your firewood in a safe place that doesnt put your home at risk.
Maintenance: Chimney sweeping and stove maintenance are ongoing costs to keep in mind.
4. Installation Process
A. Removing Your Gas Fire
A gas fitter will be needed to safely cap off and disconnect your gas fire. This is a critical step to avoid any gas leaks.
B. Installing the Wood Burner
A qualified professional should install your wood burner, ensuring all safety measures and building regulations are followed. The process typically involves:
- Fitting a Chimney Liner: If needed, to protect against heat damage and improve stove efficiency.
- Adding a Hearth: A fireproof base for the stove.
- Connecting the Flue: Safely venting the smoke outside.
- Ensuring Proper Airflow: Installing any necessary ventilation.
5. Pros and Cons of Wood Burners
Pros:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds charm and coziness.
- Lower Running Costs: Especially if you source your own wood.
- Environmentally Friendly: Renewable resource (if sourced sustainably).
Cons:
- Higher Initial Cost: Purchase, installation, and modifications can be pricey.
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning and wood storage are required.
- Smoke and Emissions: Even though it’s carbon-neutral, wood burning does release particulates that can affect air quality.
6. Alternative Options
Multi-Fuel Stoves: If you want flexibility, consider a multi-fuel stove that can burn both wood and smokeless fuel.
Pellet Stoves: A cleaner and more automated option than traditional wood burners.
Electric Fires: For those seeking low maintenance, an electric fire provides heat and ambience without the hassle of wood or gas.
7. Legal Requirements and Environmental Impact
Clean Air Regulations: In many areas, there are restrictions on wood burning, particularly if you’re in an area known for having high air pollution. Be sure to choose a stove that complies with local regulations.
8. Conclusion
Switching from a gas fire to a wood burner can offer long-term cost savings, a rustic aesthetic, and an environmentally friendly heating option. However, careful consideration should be given to the installation process, ongoing maintenance, and legal requirements. With proper planning, a wood burner can become a beautiful and efficient focal point of your home.
Optum are Queenstown Lakes & Central Otagos recommended local experienced installers of gas fires and wood fires. We have a team of gas fitters that will safely uninstall the gas fire and replace it with a new wood fire. Please contact us if you are replacing your gas fire for a wood fire:
Call Us: 03 443 5718
Email: admin@optum.co.nz
Helpful Links:
Councils
https://www.qldc.govt.nz/services/building-services/building-consents/#fires
https://www.codc.govt.nz/services/building/installing-a-fire
https://www.orc.govt.nz/environment/air-care/
Stockists
https://www.dunedinfireplace.co.nz/