Wood burning stove safety advice

[Kintyre Forum News]

Wood burning stove safety advice

Argyll and Bute Council has received a number of complaints about the installation of wood burning stoves.

The Installation of wood burning stoves is not restricted to HETAS* approved installers in Scotland as it is in England and Wales.

The safety of the installation of the stove relies on the installer ensuring they comply with the minimum distance to combustible materials stated on the ratings plate of the stove’s installation instructions.

The minimum distances apply to the stove and flue pipe and can only be reduced if appropriate heat shielding is present.

If minimum distances or insulation requirements are not followed this can result in the heat from the stove or flue igniting nearby combustible materials in your home.

Consumers who have concerns about the installation of a wood burning stove should register their complaint with the Citizens Advice Service on 0845 404 0506.

All complaints are then forwarded to the local trading standards team in your area.

If you have had a wood burning stove installed and are looking for advice on fire safety, including fitting of appropriate carbon monoxide or smoke alarms, you should contact Fire Scotland on 0800 0731 999.

*HETAS is the official body recognised by government to approve biomass and solid fuel domestic heating appliances, fuels and services, including the registration of competent installers and servicing businesses.