November 20, 2022, 12:20 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
A cozy fire in the fireplace not only creates a warm, comfortable atmosphere but also provides heat and can replace a heater. Especially during the current energy crisis, this is a reason for many to consider getting a stove this winter.
The demand for wood-burning stoves has significantly increased in Germany due to the sharply rising energy prices. “We currently have 60 to 75 percent more consultation requests this year than in previous years,” says Andreas Walburg, spokesperson for the Federal Association of Chimney Sweeps. “This is simply because gas, oil, and electricity prices have skyrocketed.” However, everyone must calculate for themselves, as wood prices have also risen significantly.
Homeowners Seek Alternatives
Like many others, homeowners and apartment owners are also driven by another concern. “Many are afraid of a blackout and therefore want more alternatives to heat their homes so they don’t end up in the cold this winter,” says Walburg.
According to the association, there are about 11.3 million individual room fireplaces for solid fuels across Germany, including wood-burning stoves, fireplace inserts, open fireplaces, and heating stoves. Most are operated with a closed firebox. Open fireplaces, which were popular in the 1970s and 1980s, are now rarely used. Today, they are considered “energy guzzlers.”
Up to Six Months Delivery Time
If you want to have a wood-burning stove installed this winter, it might be tight. “Some stove studios have up to six months delivery time. The manufacturers can’t keep up,” reported Walburg, who is also a district chimney sweep. However, he strongly warned against buying a used stove at flea markets or online platforms. “You often don’t know if the fireplace is still approved.”
Related: Why you shouldn’t burn old newspapers in the fireplace
Recently, the Chimney Sweep Guild of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern offered tips for the right wood. In general, it should be ensured that the firewood has been stored and dried for two to three years. Hardwood such as beech, oak, or birch is best suited. The logs should also always be adjusted to the fireplace and the size of the firebox and cut to the correct length.
With material from dpa