Frequently Asked Questions

All questions can be answered by our experienced sales team and fitters

How do I calculate the running costs of a gas fire or gas stove?
To work out the running costs, simply multiply the gas consumption figures (heat inputs) by the cost per kWh given on your gas bill.

How do I work out the efficiency of a gas fire or gas stove?
Simply divide the maximum heat output by the maximum gas consumption (heat input).

Do I need to have my fire serviced regularly?
The Health and Safety Executive, Gas Safe, British Gas, and Manufacturers of gas appliances strongly recommend they be serviced every 12 months.

How do I decide which gas fire or stove to buy to heat my room?
As a rough guide only, measure the room and multiply the height x width x depth (in metres), and divide by 14. This will provide you with the average heating requirements for the room in kilowatts. This method is dependent on the number of windows, construction, insulation, furnishings and any double glazing in the room. We will do a full site survey before fitting so you can rest assured we will help you make the right choice.

What’s the difference between “outset” and “inset” gas fires?
Outset fires sit on the hearth outside of the fireplace opening and inset fires sit inside the fireplace opening just behind the hearth.

What type of control facility do you offer for operating gas or electric fires?
We offer a choice of control features on gas fires from different manufacturers. This varies from kneeling down to operate the fire manually; standing upright close to the fire using a top slide control; or state-of-the-art remote control operated from your armchair. With electric fires there is a choice of either manual control whilst standing upright or hand-held remote control, depending on the manufacturer of the fire.

Are living flame gas fires expensive to run and will all the heat go up the chimney?
Significant improvements have been made with regard to this type of fire since its inception many years ago. Today living flame gas fires are far more efficient than they used to be, with lower running costs and improved heat outputs into the room than ever before. Some gas fires may be more efficient and provide more heat than others depending on whether they have a convector or heat exchanger built into the fire.

Are wood or multifuel stoves economical?
Yes very much so. Cast iron stoves offer tremendous value for money when compared with other forms of home heating. Some stove manufacturers provide stoves with efficiencies in excess of 70% compared with only 15% for open fires.

Are wood and multifuel stoves easy to light and control?
Yes, stoves are generally quite easy to light with dry kindling and newspaper. Once lit simple air vents can be turned to control the intensity of the blaze and amount of heat.

Are stoves available in different sizes with varying heat outputs?
Stoves can come in all shapes, sizes and finishes. We offer a vast range with different heat outputs, so regardless of how big or small your room is there should be a stove to suit you.