Whether you will buy a stove or not is something you need to decide alone. You need to put different factors into consideration, but your overall budget is certainly the main one. However, in case you decide to buy a stove, then a few more problems will appear.
Logically, the biggest problem of all is which stove will meet your requirements and expectations more. People often hesitate in the same way. They are not pretty sure whether a multi-fuel stove or wood-burning stove is going to be better for them.
Giving a precise answer to that question is impossible. Both types of stoves are good in a unique way. Because of that, we will let you decide on your own. To do that properly, we prepared a list of differences between multi-fuel and wood-burning stoves. Those tinny differences that may not be visible at first are those that make you hesitate. Because of that, let’s find them out together!
Overview of Wood Burning Stoves
Let’s start with wood-burning stoves as they may be a bit more popular in today’s world and they certainly have a long tradition and history. As you already know, they only have one purpose – burning the wood logs. If you are not a big fan of other forms of fuel, then this can be a good characteristic for you.
Anyway, the way wood-burning stoves function is pretty easy to understand. They have a flat base where all the logs are burnt. However, the flat base is also the place where the ash collects. The collected ash can aid in combustion. Things function a bit differently when we talk about multi-fuel stoves, but we will describe that later.
The process is going to be the same for all the wood-burning stoves. However, the type of wood you will use is something that requires additional research. For example, Yew and Hawthorn as well as Cherry can be good options. All the types that we mentioned burn pretty slow and the heat they produce is going to be amazing during the entire winter.
Speaking of reasons why people do not purchase wood-burning stoves, there is one that we need to highlight. Some people do not want to do that as they live in a smoke control area. However, purchasing this form of burning stove is not prohibited. All you have to do is to find those stoves that are DEFRA-approved. Fortunately, a lot of them are, so there are no limits that you can’t cross.
Overview of Multi Fuel Stoves
The name of this type of stove actually says the full story. For the production of the heat, these stoves are using a bit more things than just wood. Without any doubt, they can burn logs as well. However, other materials such as coal, anthracite, turf briquettes, and a bunch of smokeless fuels can be used as well.
Just like in the previous case, if you live in a smoke control area, then smokeless fuel is going to be the perfect solution. On the other hand, if you decide to burn wood, then you have to buy those multi fuels stoves that have approval from DEFRA.
The way multi-fuel stoves are designed is a bit different than the design of wood burners. For starters, the riddling grate is actually located above the floor of the stove. In that way, the airflow will not have the problem to combust the fuel. Despite that, the ash is collected directly in the ashpan. That means that you won’t struggle to clean the ashpan whenever you want.
Speaking of ashpan, there is one additional tip that we have to share with you. Cleaning the ashpan regularly is a mandatory thing. If you do not do that, the airflow will not be at the highest level. Because of that, the wood or any other type of material that you place inside will have the problem to burn well enough. Logically, the amount of heat your multi-fuel stove will produce is not going to be enough to keep the rooms warm.
Just like with wood-burning stoves, there are many places online where you can find DEFRA-approved multi-fuel stoves. If you struggle to find the supplier that will offer you good products, you may want to check out www.stoves4life.co.uk after reading this article. That is the place where you can find a bunch of amazing options
So, Which One Is Better for Me?
To find an answer to that question, you will have to put into consideration different factors. We will highlight some of the most important in this comparison below. Let’s go!
Price
As mentioned at the beginning of this article, you will have to put into consideration your overall budget. However, the price difference between wood-burning stoves and multi-fuel stoves is not that big. Both types can offer you some affordable options, but some luxurious models can cost you even a few thousand dollars.
On the other hand, the amount of money you will spend on fuel also depends on the quality of the stove. Generally speaking, multi-fuel stoves can allow you to save a bit more money as you can use some cheaper materials for burning.
Simplicity of Usage
Speaking of simplicity, multi-fuel stoves have a small advantage. You do not have to be a genius to use these stoves. However, finding the necessary material is going to be much easier for multi-fuel stoves. You will be a bit limited if you decide on wood burners as finding a good local firewood supplier is not easy.
Design
Functionality is probably the first thing that matters to you. However, immediately after that, design becomes the most essential feature. The good news is that you won’t have a problem finding something you like with both types of stoves. The market offers a wide range of sizes and styles perfect for every homeowner. For instance, you can find double-sided and inset stoves, stoves with modern and traditional designs, etc.
Final Thought
Finding different types of material easily is the only reason why multi-fuel stoves can be a better choice. However, we are pretty sure that finding a good firewood supplier won’t be difficult a lot. Choose the design that matches your interior and makes winter days comfortable and warm.