Purchase Costs

The price of a stove varies significantly depending on its size, design, and whether it’s a basic model or a premium, high-efficiency unit. As a rough guide:

• Entry-level stoves: £400–£800
• Mid-range stoves: £800–£1,500
• Premium designer or large stoves: £1,500+

Eco-design compliant models tend to be more expensive but usually pay back in lower running costs over time.

Installation Costs

Installation is often the single largest expense. Costs depend on whether you already have a suitable chimney or need a new flue system:

• Simple installation (existing chimney): £500–£1,000
• With chimney liner fitted: £1,000–£2,000
• Full twin-wall flue system (no chimney): £2,000–£3,500+

Always factor in building regulation compliance and HETAS-certified installation, which may add to the cost but ensures safety and legality.

Running Costs

Fuel costs vary by type, supplier, and region:

• Seasoned logs: £100–£120 per cubic metre (typically lasting 6–8 weeks of regular use).
• Kiln-dried logs: £120–£160 per cubic metre (burn hotter and last longer).
• Smokeless fuels: £15–£20 per 25kg bag.

On average, heating a medium-sized home with a stove can cost £500–£800 per year in fuel, depending on usage. This compares favourably with gas and electricity in many cases, particularly during price spikes.

Maintenance & Hidden Costs

Ongoing costs should also be considered:

• Chimney sweeping: £50–£100, recommended once or twice a year.
• Spare parts: Rope seals (£10–£20), fire bricks (£20–£50 each), replacement glass (£50–£150).
• Accessories: Fans, thermometers, gloves, and log storage (costs vary).

Though modest, these costs are essential to ensure your stove remains safe and efficient.

Potential Savings

The savings depend heavily on your existing heating system and energy prices:

• Switching from electric heating can save hundreds of pounds per year.
• Using a stove alongside central heating can reduce reliance on gas or oil, especially during peak price periods.
• For households with access to cheap or free wood (e.g. from land or tree surgery), savings can be substantial.

In addition to monetary savings, many homeowners value the independence from energy suppliers and the resilience of having a reliable backup heat source.

Payback Period

Factoring in purchase and installation, many stoves pay back their costs in 5–10 years, depending on usage, fuel prices, and savings achieved. Eco-design models with higher efficiency typically reach payback sooner thanks to lower running costs.