What to look for
Selecting the right wood heater can be a big decision, and choosing the right design is a large factor to consider. Along with external designs there is also the option of a freestanding or inbuilt wood heater.
It is important to identify the size, space and layout of your home and ensure you correctly measure the area of the rooms you want to heat.
The performance of your wood heating unit relies on how well your home is insulated. A well insulated home retains the heat, while poor insulation results in heat loss through the walls, ceilings and windows.
A radiant wood heater may be a more effective style of heating for homes with poor insulation (as less heat rises in these heaters) while a convection unit is best suited to homes with good insulation and standard ceiling heights.
- Taking the time to understand how a wood heater works and your heating requirements.
- Find the best type of wood heater for you. There are two basic types of wood heaters in Australia, radiant and convection. Read more here.
- Work out the size and space you require to heat. Measure the size of the room or rooms as well as the height of the ceilings.
- Find out the level of insulation in your house. Modern houses will have wall and roof insulation, making them more efficient.
- Window glazing and furnishings are important to know to understand how much heat is lost in the house.
- The layout of your house will affect what wood heater is best for you. Where you will locate the unit, and how many levels there in the house are vital.
- The geographic location of your house is also important. Different areas of Australia require different heating needs.
- Get the correct sized unit for your house. Units that are too small or too large will be inefficient and possibly dangerous to operate.
Information from Australian Home Heating Association
