Wood Burning Heaters

[Tadees]

Hi All.

I was at a factory where they were using wood burning heaters, which can be seen by accessing the link below.  They were using the heater with the door open.  Apart from burning one's rear:

(a) Are there any other issues with burning wood with the door open?
(b) Does anybody know off the safety precautions involved in using one of these heaters. 

Talbotts are very reluctant to release this information.  Suspicions heightened.

http://www.talbotts.co.uk/trange.htm

[wee brian]

Contact HETAS - they should be able to advise.

[Clevelandfire 3]

(a) Are there any other issues with burning wood with the door open?
(b) Does anybody know off the safety precautions involved in using one of these heaters.

(a) nope not really except it will be hot around the door open area
(b) same as any heater dont store combustibles around it and have the flu regularly cleaned

[SamFIRT]

I am not aware of any relevant legislation, (and perhaps someone involved in planning or active in FP can think of some) but in the interest of spreading a safety message……….I recently investigated a fire that I believe had its origin in the 230v ac ring main that was run within the wall immediately behind a wood burning stove to a surface mounted twin socket immediately adjacent and behind the stove. I believe the radiated heat from the stove to have degraded the insulation and caused a linear tracking fault, leading to a smouldering fire in the socket itself. So based on this I would say it would be sensible for the RA regarding the installation of such a stove to say it should be installed in a properly constructed hearth. Ensuring any cable runs are well away from the heat. As to how far you would have to consult and electrician or electrical engineer.

[wee brian]

Part J of the Building regs covers the installation of combustion appliances. The AD is mostly focused on domestic appliances but the ones you are dealing with will probably fit. Its all about chimneys and hearths.

The main risk of leaving the door open is that stuff can fall out. It's stuff that is burning so that's not great.

[kurnal]

Hi Tadees
Its difficult to say if its a problem or not, only you have seen it.

Whats near it, standards of insulation, how big, how much heat, does the fuel spit etc etc.

If it is in a steel foundry or concrete paving works its probably not an issue but if it is in a christmas cracker factory then steps may need to be taken.

[Mr. P]

Hey Tadees, how you gonna do your toast wityh the door closed? (Sorry - Had to say it)
Requirements for an appliance as such above has been well highlighted by our members replies. However in simples, size & type of appliance demands certain fresh air inlets (unless balanced flues)of decreed sizes in relation to BTU or kW input/output, and, these air vents should be within a stipulated distance from said stove.
As said, if in doubt - get a HETAS engineer to have a looksy and for a cost give certification. (Installation of a stove like this fits/comes under requirements to notify Bld control).

[nearlythere]

Important that sawdust not used as fuel especially by chucking it in from a bucket.

Was doing a FRA of a kitchen manufacturer workshop which thought it could make use of timber cut offs by installing a wood burner or two. One was installed to try it out and foreman told me that one of the workers thought it a good way of getting rid of sawdust.  

Lesson learned that it was that it is not a good idea to chuck in sawdust as it tends to flash over and removes eyebrows.  

[Mr. P]

Quick heat output return though!!!

Try dampening it down then compressing in one of those little diy jobs that can be used the same for paper bricks. Or, use small paper bags/sacks (depending on size of stove)not plastic ones obviously)).