What Is Ecodesign?

In simple terms, the Ecodesign Regulations set new minimum seasonal efficiency and maximum emission requirements for solid fuel burning roomheater stoves, roomheater stoves with boilers and cooker appliances. Only those appliances that have been tested and verified as meeting these new limits will be able to be sold. The emission limits include those for Particulate Matter (PM), Organic Gaseous Compounds (OGC), Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Nitrogen Oxides (NOx).

Implementation dates for Ecodesign legislation in the UK:

• Independent Boilers – 1^st January 2020
• Roomheater Stoves, Stoves with Boilers & Cookers – 1^st January 2022.

The important thing to note is that legacy installations and appliances confirmed to have been placed on the market prior to January 2022 will be unaffected.

So this means, newly manufactured appliances coming off the production line and placed into the supply chain after the 1^{st of} January 2022 will be required to meet Ecodesign legislation requirements. These set new minimum seasonal efficiency and maximum emission limits for all solid fuel appliances. The emission limits relate to:

• PM – Particulate Matter
• OGC – Organic Gaseous Compounds
• CO – Carbon Monoxide
• NOx – Nitrogen Dioxide.

These are in most cases tested when the appliance is operating at its nominal heat output as prescribed by the manufacturer in their operating instructions. This is the rated output in which the appliance has been designed to operate at by the manufacturer to heat the room in which it has been installed.

DEFRA Exemption

In designated Smoke Control Areas (SCAs), you can burn authorised smokeless fuels in any appliance (as long as the appliance is designed to correctly burn them) or when wanting to burn unauthorised fuels, like wood, you can only do so in an exempt appliance so long as the conditions of the exemption specify the unauthorised fuel (e.g. wood) can be burned. The list of authorised smokeless fuels and exempt appliances can be found on the smoke control website. To find out if you live in an SCA contact your Local Authority.

Exempt appliances are tested at both the nominal and minimum air settings, and they must meet limits for Particulate Matter (PM) emissions in both settings.

Ecodesign legislation will not replace the requirements of Smoke Control Areas and remember to check with your Local Authority to find out if you’re in an SCA.

The risks of slumbering an appliance that is not designed to do so.

Understanding Slumber Mode in Stoves

What is Slumber Mode?

Slumber mode refers to a setting on certain stoves and appliances where the output is purposely reduced to a low or minimum level, typically for overnight use. This mode allows the appliance to continue burning fuel slowly, enabling it to be easily revived in the morning without the need to relight the fire. Some stoves, particularly those burning mineral fuels, are specifically designed to operate in slumber mode and have undergone CE type testing to ensure they are safe for this purpose.

User Beware: The Risks of Slumbering a Stove

While slumber mode can be convenient, it’s important to understand the potential risks associated with running an appliance at low output for extended periods. These risks are particularly pronounced if the stove is not designed for slumbering or if it’s improperly sized for the heating load. When an appliance is too powerful for the space, users may reduce its output to avoid overheating the room, leading to similar issues as those faced with non-slumbering stoves.

Problems Associated with Slumbering a Stove

1. Incomplete Combustion: Operating a stove at low output can result in incomplete combustion, especially with high volatile fuels like wood logs. This can cause the formation of sooty or dry deposits in the flue, increasing the risk of chimney fires.
2. Increased Carbon Monoxide and Particulate Emissions: Lower output can lead to higher levels of carbon monoxide and particulates in the exhaust gases, posing health risks and environmental concerns.
3. Chimney Condensation: Extended periods of low output reduce the temperature in the chimney, increasing the likelihood of condensation. This condensation, combined with acidic flue deposits, can corrode metal components in the flue lining.

Preventive Measures

If regular slumbering is part of your routine, consider using a flue lining system without metallic components to prevent corrosion. When using slumber mode, it’s also essential to follow certain practices to mitigate these risks:

• High Output Operation: After slumbering, run the stove at a high output to burn away any deposits in the flue and warm up the chimney, improving draught and reducing condensation risks.
• Avoid Overloading: Never overload your appliance, as this can lead to unsafe operating conditions and exacerbate the problems associated with slumbering.

By understanding and managing these risks, you can enjoy the benefits of slumber mode while maintaining the safety and efficiency of your stove.

The Impact of Slumbering on Flexible Liners

Understanding Flexible Liners

Flexible flue liners are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their ease of installation and replacement. These liners, however, are not intended to last the lifetime of the building. When used correctly, a flexible metal flue liner can last over 10 years, but factors like prolonged slumbering and infrequent chimney sweeping can significantly reduce this lifespan. In some cases, corrosion damage has been known to shorten the life of a flexible liner to less than five years.

The Impact of Slumbering on Flexible Liners

Long periods of slumbering—where an appliance is operated at a low output—can be particularly harmful to flexible metal liners. Slumbering can lead to the accumulation of corrosive condensates and soot deposits within the chimney. These corrosive substances, combined with the lower temperatures associated with slumbering, can aggressively attack the metal lining, leading to premature failure. This not only compromises the safety and efficiency of your chimney but can also void the manufacturer’s warranty on the liner.

Maintenance and Longevity

The efficiency and longevity of any chimney system, whether lined with metal or masonry, depend heavily on proper use and regular maintenance. While masonry and pre-cast chimney systems generally offer greater durability and resistance to corrosion, they often require more intensive installation compared to metallic systems.

Best Practices for Prolonging Chimney Life

To maximize the lifespan of your chimney and its lining, it’s crucial to:

• Regularly Sweep Your Chimney: Frequent sweeping helps remove harmful deposits before they can cause damage.
• Avoid Prolonged Slumbering: If you do use slumber mode, ensure that the appliance is periodically run at a higher output to burn off any deposits and warm the chimney sufficiently.
• Choose the Right Liner: If your appliance will be used in slumber mode regularly, consider opting for a liner system that offers greater resistance to corrosion, particularly non-metallic options.

By following these practices, you can help ensure that your flexible liner, and your entire chimney system, remains safe, efficient, and durable over time.

Carbon Monoxide, Particulates, and the Risks of Slumbering

The Dangers of Prolonged Slumbering

Prolonged use of slumber mode on a stove or appliance can pose serious risks, particularly when the appliance is starved of air for extended periods. When an appliance operates in slumber mode, the reduced airflow leads to incomplete combustion, which significantly increases the production of carbon monoxide (CO) and particulates—both of which are harmful to health.

Increased Risk of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

The Carbon Monoxide and Gas Detection Society (CoGDEM) has noted that many of the calls they receive on their helpline involve concerns about stoves being left in slumber mode for too long. A particularly dangerous practice is leaving the stove door open while slumbering in an attempt to get extra heat into the room. This not only further increases the levels of carbon monoxide but also allows it to escape more easily into the living space, posing a severe risk of CO poisoning.

Health Implications

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly even in small concentrations. Exposure to elevated levels of CO can cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and in extreme cases, can be fatal. Particulates, on the other hand, contribute to poor indoor air quality and can exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma.

Best Practices to Minimize Risks

To reduce the risks associated with slumbering:

• Limit Slumber Mode: Avoid leaving your appliance in slumber mode for extended periods. Instead, operate it at higher outputs when possible to ensure complete combustion.
• Never Leave the Door Open: Keep the stove door closed while the appliance is in operation to prevent carbon monoxide from escaping into your home.
• Ensure Proper Ventilation: Make sure your room and chimney are well-ventilated to allow for the safe dispersal of combustion gases.

By following these guidelines, you can minimize the production of carbon monoxide and particulates, keeping your home safe and healthy.

Gas Safe Register is the only official gas registration body of gas businesses and engineers in the United Kingdom, Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey. By law all gas businesses must be on the Gas Safe Register.

A gas engineer can only be aligned to a registered business and be issued with a license to undertake gas work on behalf of a registered business if they hold a valid and current qualification. This evidence of competence relates only to matters of gas safety and is obtained by every engineer through a recognised route of training and assessment (much as the DVLA issues driving licences to those who have demonstrated their competence by passing a driving test).

Registration is only given on the basis of the business having at least one gas safety qualified engineer.

The Register is not a membership body or trade association.

The Register (and all services associated with it) is operated on behalf of the relevant Health and Safety Authority for each region in which it operates– i.e. Great Britain, Northern Ireland, Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey.

Gas Safe Register replaced CORGI as the only gas registration body in Great Britain and Isle of Man on 1 April 2009 and in Northern Ireland and Guernsey on 1 April 2010.

Why do I need to use a Gas Safe registered engineer?

In the right hands, gas is safe, but badly fitted and poorly serviced gas appliances can cause gas leaks, fires, explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning. Only use a Gas Safe registered engineer to fit, fix or service your gas boiler, gas cooker, gas fire and other gas appliances. Gas Safe Register is here to help keep you and your family safe

How do I find a Gas Safe registered engineer?

It’s easy. All Gas Safe registered engineers are listed on our website Find all gas safe registered engineers You can also call 0800 408 5500 and our advisors will help you find an engineer in your area.

How do I check my engineer is on the Gas Safe Register?

All Gas Safe registered engineers carry a Gas Safe Register ID card, with their own unique licence number, showing the type of work they are qualified to do. Before anygas work is carried out always ask for the engineer’s ID card. Remember to check both sides of the ID card for: • the licence number • the start and expiry dates of registration • the security hologram • the work your engineer is registered to do • the engineer’s up-to-date qualifications. You can also check an engineer is registered by texting Gas and the engineer’s seven-digit licence number to 85080

These advice leaflets are suitable for people with wood burning stoves, solid fuel heating and chimney or flue systems. Additional information can be found on the HETAS website.

This is a popular choice for fireplaces due to its natural look & versatile nature, limestone is the most sought after material with many variations available. As a natural material it may contain natural veins, fissures, fossils & variations in colour throughout.

It’s suitable for use with Solid fuel, high efficiency, gas & electric fires and Stoves.

Granite

Durable and non-flammable, its no wonder that granite is the most popular choice for hearth. Its hard wearing, scratch resistant and choice of natural colours and markings throughout. As a Natural product it may contain variations such as fossils, fissures & variations in colour throughout.

It’s suitable for use with Solid fuel, high efficiency, gas & electric fires and Stoves.

Slate

Popular choice especially for use with stoves, Its easy to clean & the colour can be enhanced with an application of slate oil. And can be used to enhance the natural characteristics inherently found in slate. A finish described as Riven has a cleft surface which has been split by hand to create a unique piece each time. As a Natural product it may contain variations such as fossils, fissures & variations in colour throughout. No two Slabs or Hearths are the same. Variations in colour, shading and texture are to be expected.

It’s suitable for use with Solid fuel, high efficiency, gas & electric fires and Stoves.

Travertine

Its a natural Material which started out as Limestone but metamorphosis due to intense pressure & high temperatures into a beautiful material. A highly and porous material characterised by its distinctive “holes”. Its available with holes filled, giving a smooth finish. As a Natural product it may contain variations such as fossils, fissures & variations in colour throughout.

It’s suitable for use with Solid fuel, high efficiency, gas & electric fires and Stoves.

Natural Marble

Strikingly beautiful with natural colours & veining making each piece totally unique, some have been created over 200 million years ago. Natural Marble has the wow factor and is available in a large choice of colours and shades. Its softer than granite but may be better suited to compliment hole in the wall fire. As a Natural product it may contain variations such as fossils, fissures & variations in colour throughout.

It’s suitable for use with Solid fuel, high efficiency, gas & electric fires and Stoves.

Quartz

Man made product made up from quartz pigments and resin to create an artificial & uniform material given a wide range of choice of colours and finishes.

The material is only dangerous while it is being cut or drilled into. However, the production of quartz for fireplaces poses significant risks to workers, leading to the development of silicosis—a serious lung disease caused by inhaling fine silica dust—which can often be fatal.

Unsuitable for solid fuel fires and stoves.

Porcelain

Porcelain is made from natural minerals that bonded together under intense heat and pressure. This process is called sintering, and it replicates how nature creates stones.

Porcelain has the appearance of natural stones like marble. The benefits are its highly durable, heat proof, recyclable and scratch resistant.

It’s suitable for use with Solid fuel, high efficiency, gas & electric fires and Stoves.

Microgain / Micromarble / Conglomorate

Is a man made marble comprising crushed marble mixed with resin to create a uniform effect and colour. Very suitable for gas fires and electric fires

Unsuitable for solid fuel fires and stoves .

1. Greater Availability and Customization

• Less Busy Season: Fireplace companies are generally less busy in the summer, making it easier to get exactly what you want when you want it.
• Trendy Designs: Fireplaces have become key interior design elements, with certain styles often becoming highly sought after. Shopping in the summer can help you avoid long waits and potentially higher prices for in-demand designs.

2. Ideal Installation Conditions

• Open Windows and Airflow: The warmer weather allows for windows to be opened, providing better ventilation during installation. This minimizes dust accumulation and ensures good air circulation.
• Comfortable Installation Environment: Without the need to bundle up indoors, both homeowners and installers can work comfortably, making the entire process smoother and more efficient.

3. Immediate Winter Readiness

• Be Prepared: By installing a new fireplace in the summer, you ensure that it’s ready to go the moment the weather turns cold. No more scrambling to fix or replace an inefficient or malfunctioning fireplace in the middle of winter.
• Avoid the Rush: Many people wait until the cold sets in to think about their fireplaces, leading to high demand, busy companies, and potential delays in getting your fireplace installed and operational.

4. Potential Deals and Discounts

• Summer Sales: The off-season often brings opportunities for deals and discounts. You might find that perfect fireplace at a better price than during the peak winter season.

Why Choose Embers Heating Studio?

At Embers Heating Studio in Derby, we understand the importance of getting your fireplace sorted before the chill sets in. Our extensive range of high-quality fireplaces, fires, and stoves ensures you’ll find the perfect addition to your home. Our fireplace specialists are on hand to help you choose the right option for your needs and budget, ensuring a smooth installation process.

• Phone: 01332 242299
• Email: info@embersheatingstudio.co.uk
• Visit: Come by our studio to see our offerings and get expert advice.

Preparing Your Fireplace for Winter

1. Inspect and Clean the Chimney

• Clear Blockages: Ensure your chimney is free from leaves, animal nests, and other blockages that may have accumulated during the warmer months.
• Professional Chimney Sweep: Hire a professional to clean your chimney. This ensures all soot and creosote are removed, which can help prevent chimney fires.
• Install a Chimney Cap: A cap or screen can prevent future blockages and keep out rain and debris.
• Check Exterior: From ground level, inspect the chimney for overhanging tree limbs and structural damage. Ensure the chimney is upright and not leaning.

2. Examine the Fireplace Structure

• Inspect Bricks and Mortar: Check for any cracks or damage around your fireplace. If you find any, have them professionally repaired to prevent smoke leakage and ensure structural integrity.
• Clean the Firebox: Remove old ash and debris from the firebox. A thin layer of ash can help insulate the base, but too much can hinder airflow and efficiency.

3. Check the Damper

• Functionality Test: Ensure the damper opens and closes smoothly. This is crucial for controlling airflow and preventing cold air from entering your home.
• Pre-Warm the Flue: Before lighting your first fire, open the damper and light a roll of newspaper to warm the flue. This helps prevent smoke from backdrafting into your room.

4. Prepare Your Fuel Supply

• Dry Storage: Store wood or coal in a dry, frost-free location, elevated off the ground. Damp fuel is difficult to burn and produces more smoke.
• Stock Up: Ensure you have plenty of treated wood or coal to avoid running out during the peak of winter. Ready-treated wood burns cleaner and more efficiently.

Additional Tips

• Fireplace Accessories: Stock up on kindling, firelighters, and tools (stocked at Embers) to manage your fire safely and efficiently.
• Safety Equipment: Ensure you have a functional smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector near your fireplace for added safety.
• Routine Maintenance: Regularly sweep out excess ash and check for any signs of wear or damage throughout the winter season.

Expert Assistance

For those in Derby, Embers Heating Studio offers a range of exquisite fires, stoves, fireplaces, and accessories to keep your home cozy during the winter. Their fireplace specialists can advise on the best type of fire for your home and budget, as well as maintenance tips to ensure your fireplace performs optimally.

• Phone: 01332 242299
• Email: info@embersheatingstudio.co.uk
• Visit: Drop by their studio to explore their offerings and receive expert advice.

By following these steps, you can ensure your fireplace is ready to provide warmth and comfort throughout the winter, creating a cozy atmosphere in your home even as the temperatures drop outside.

Ancient Times

• Prehistoric Hearths: The earliest “fireplaces” were simple hearths used by prehistoric humans. These were basic open fires used for warmth, cooking, and protection from predators.
• Ancient Civilizations: In ancient Greece and Rome, open hearths became central to homes and public buildings. The Greeks had a god of the hearth, Hestia, while the Romans had Vesta. Fireplaces were often located in the center of the room.

Medieval Period

• Great Halls: In medieval Europe, large fireplaces were built in the great halls of castles and manor houses. These fireplaces were often massive, with wide openings and high chimneys.
• Development of the Chimney: By the 11th century, the chimney began to appear in European architecture. This allowed for better ventilation and more efficient heating.

Renaissance

• Decorative Elements: Fireplaces became more ornate during the Renaissance. Carved stone mantels, intricate ironwork, and decorative tiles were common.
• Central Heating Concept: There was a gradual shift from open hearths to more enclosed designs that could better control and direct heat.

18th Century

• The Rumford Fireplace: Invented by Benjamin Thompson, Count Rumford, this design improved airflow and increased heat efficiency. The shallow firebox and angled sides directed more heat into the room.
• Cast Iron Inserts: The use of cast iron inserts became popular. These helped to contain the fire and improve heating efficiency.

19th Century

• Victorian Era: Fireplaces became a focal point of Victorian homes. Elaborate designs with tiles, marble, and intricate woodwork were common.
• Coal Fires: With the Industrial Revolution, coal became a primary fuel source, leading to the development of coal-burning grates and fireplaces.

20th Century

• Central Heating Systems: The advent of central heating reduced the necessity of fireplaces for heating. Fireplaces became more of a decorative element.
• Modern Designs: Mid-century modern design introduced sleek, minimalist fireplaces. Materials like steel and glass became popular.
• Gas and Electric Fireplaces: These alternatives to wood-burning fireplaces became popular for their convenience and efficiency.

21st Century

• Sustainable Heating: There is a renewed interest in wood-burning stoves and fireplaces as part of sustainable living practices. Modern designs focus on efficiency and reduced emissions.
• Smart Fireplaces: Technological advancements have led to the development of smart fireplaces, which can be controlled via apps and integrated with home automation systems.
• Outdoor Fireplaces: The trend of outdoor living spaces has led to the popularity of outdoor fireplaces and fire pits, extending the usability of outdoor areas into cooler months.

Cultural Significance

• Symbol of Home and Hearth: Throughout history, fireplaces have symbolized warmth, security, and family. They are often seen as the heart of the home.
• Festive Traditions: In many cultures, fireplaces play a central role in festive traditions, such as hanging stockings on the mantel at Christmas.

Conclusion

The evolution of fireplaces reflects broader changes in society, technology, and design. From ancient hearths to modern smart fireplaces, they have adapted to meet the needs and preferences of each era while retaining their symbolic significance as a source of warmth and comfort.

Give us a call on 01332 242299, email info@embersheatingstudio.co.uk or pop in to our studio to see what we have on offer. Our fireplace specialists will be only too happy to advise you on what’s best for you, your home and your aspirations.

Steps for Safe Installation of a Wood Burner

1. Consult a Professional

• Hire a Professional: Do not attempt a DIY installation. A professional ensures the job is done safely and in accordance with local regulations.
• Choose Certified Installers: Look for installers who are HETAS or OFTEC registered. These certifications guarantee that the installers have undergone rigorous training and meet high safety standards.

2. Choose the Right Stove

• Size and Heat Output: Select a stove that is appropriate for the size of the area you want to heat. An oversized stove can overheat the room, while an undersized one won’t provide enough heat.
• Efficiency: Opt for a high-efficiency stove to maximize heating benefits and minimize fuel usage.

3. Location and Space Requirements

• Safe Clearance: Ensure that the stove has adequate clearance from walls, furniture, and other combustible materials. This prevents heat damage and reduces the risk of fire.
• Hearth Requirements: The hearth should be made of non-combustible material and extend sufficiently around the stove to catch any embers or ash.

4. Flue and Chimney Considerations

• Flue Installation: The flue pipe must be correctly fitted and insulated to ensure efficient smoke extraction. Poorly fitted flues can lead to smoke leakage or inefficient burning.
• Chimney Lining: If you’re using an existing chimney, it may need to be lined to ensure it can handle the high temperatures produced by the stove and prevent any leaks.

5. Ventilation

• Adequate Air Supply: Wood burners require a constant supply of air for combustion. Ensure there is adequate ventilation to avoid smoke buildup and ensure efficient burning.

6. Regular Maintenance

• Chimney Sweeping: Have your chimney swept at least once a year to remove soot and creosote buildup, which can be a fire hazard.
• Stove Inspection: Regularly inspect your stove and flue for any signs of damage or wear and tear.

7. Safety Precautions

• Smoke Alarms and CO Detectors: Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in your home. These provide an early warning in case of smoke or CO buildup.
• Fire Extinguisher: Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies.

Benefits of Using Certified Installers

• Expertise: Certified installers have extensive knowledge and experience, ensuring that the stove is installed correctly and safely.
• Compliance: They ensure that the installation meets all local building codes and safety regulations.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that your stove has been installed by professionals allows you to enjoy the warmth and ambiance without worrying about safety issues.

Contacting a Professional

For those in Derby, Embers Heating Studio offers HETAS-registered installers who can safely and efficiently install your wood burning stove. They provide professional services, ensuring minimal disruption during installation and offering a range of stoves to suit your needs.

• Phone: 01332 242299
• Email: info@embersheatingstudio.co.uk
• Visit: Stop by our studio to explore options and discuss your installation needs.

By following these guidelines and working with certified professionals, you can safely enjoy the benefits of a wood burning stove in your home.

1. Moisture Tester: Are you concerned that your fire should be lighting easier? Perhaps the logs are not burning as hot as they should be? Maybe you aren’t getting that glowing flame you expected?  It’s possible that your logs may be wet. Logs need a minimum moisture content of below 20%. If the moisture content is higher than this you are going to waste a lot of the logs energy boiling off excess water, this will cause the fire to become smokey and form creosote in the flue system. Moisture testers are relatively cheap and all you have to is stab the moisture tester into the log, this will give you a reading. If the reading is below 20% then its ready to burn!

2. Stove Pipe Thermometer: The stove pipe thermometer is a great addition to your wood burning stove. This simple device allows you to keep your stove running at the correct temperature at all times, which is important not only for your own comfort but also for extending the lifespan of your stove and flue liner.
It may be that the air controls aren’t being used correctly.If the temperature is too low, creosote deposits will build up, if the temperature is too high, your stove will have a poor efficiency, so it is important to be able to find out the temperature and manage it easily.

Here is a simple indicator:

475° & Higher: At this heat, you will be wasting energy, possibly overheating. While this temperature will often be reached on initial firing it is not advised for normal operation and could ignite existing chimney deposits.

230°F – 475°F: Safe operating temperature. moderate flaming combustion and best efficiency.

Less than 230°F: This temperature is too low and there will be incomplete combustion, causing smoke, soot, and hazardous creosote. Open draught and/or add more fuel. Ensure your fuel is dry enough to sustain moderate flaming combustion.

3. Heat resistant gloves: Funnily enough stoves get hot and we need to protect ourselves when handling these appliances. This is not only for our own benefit as it stops us getting burnt when we touch the handle or open the door, it means we can refuel the appliance in a safe manner. It means we can preserve the stove also, by placing logs into the burner. Throwing logs into a stove is never a good idea, it can damage the fire bricks, damage the glass, can cause the baffle to dislodge and fall onto the hot fire or could cause hot embers to spill onto the hearth, wood floor or carpet.

4. Wood store: You can buy the best quality logs in the world but if they are not stored poorly they will end up damp, rotten and no good to burn. A convenient place to store your logs, sheltered and within easy reach, slatted sides and raised floor ensure maximum air flow throughout the pile to help dry out your logs. Through efficiently drying out your logs, you can optimise the heat output from your wood fuel.

5. Stove Fan: Designed to rapidly improve the circulation of heat from the stove, and therefore reduce hot and cold spots throughout the house, stove fans aim to not only improve comfort but also improve the stove’s efficiency and reach. Instead of the heat rising vertically with a standard stove, the stove fan uses its blades to divert the warm air horizontally. This means it will heat the part of the room you are sitting in, rather than just the ceiling. The extra movement of air will help warm the whole of the room, not just the area near the stove.