News

Wood burning stoves offer several benefits

Wood burning stoves offer several benefits to homes, making them a popular choice for many homeowners. Lets take a look at some of the key advantages and disadvantages:

  • Cost-effective heating: Wood is a renewable resource and can be significantly cheaper than traditional heating methods like gas or oil, especially if you have access to a local source of firewood. While the initial cost of the stove itself can be high, the long-term savings on fuel bills can be substantial. Fuel is paid for upfront, no surprise price hikes.
  • Environmentally friendly: When sourced sustainably, wood is a carbon-neutral fuel source. While burning wood does release some emissions, these are generally offset by the amount of carbon dioxide absorbed by the tree as it grows. Additionally, wood burning stoves are much more efficient than open fireplaces, further reducing their environmental impact.
  • Are wood burners better than open fires: A wood burning stove will offer better fuel efficiency and a longer burn time given the same amount of fuel, compared to an open fire, this is due to the controls a stove has to regulate the rate of burning.
  • Energy independence: Unlike heating systems that rely on gas or electricity, wood burning stoves provide a reliable source of heat even during power outages. This can be a major advantage in areas prone to blackouts or for those who want more control over their heating source.
  • Improved ambience: There’s something undeniably comforting and relaxing about the dancing flames and warm glow of a wood burning stove. It can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home, adding to its overall enjoyment.

However, it’s important to consider some potential drawbacks before deciding if a wood burning stove is right for you:

  • A wood burning stove requires regular cleaning and maintenance, including:
  • Storing and moving logs, preparing kindling
  • Chimney sweeping will be required once or twice a year, depending on usage. Your sweep will advise on frequency.
  • Ash removal will be a weekly or daily task during the heating season depending upon usage, this can be messy.
  • Longer term costs: These will include replacement bricks and door seals, and for those less careful users replacement door glass.
  • Air pollution: While generally considered more environmentally friendly than other options, wood burning stoves can still contribute to air pollution, especially in urban areas. It’s important to choose an  Ecodesign stove and burn only well-seasoned wood with a moisture content lower than 20% to minimise emissions.
  • Installation costs: In addition to the cost of the stove itself, there are also higher installation costs compared to a Gas stove equivalent to consider.

Overall, wood burning stoves offer several benifits and can be a great way to heat your home.  Offering cost savings, environmental benefits, and a touch of cosy charm to a home. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons carefully and ensure you meet all the necessary regulations before making a decision.

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Gas fires can offer several advantages

Gas fires can offer several advantages for homes:

Convenience and ease of use:

Unlike wood burners, gas fires require no chopping, storing, or carrying of logs. They can be turned on and off with a switch or remote, providing instant heat and eliminating the need for constant tending.

Cleanliness:

Gas fires burn without producing ash or soot, reducing mess and simplifying cleaning. This can be especially beneficial for allergy sufferers or those who dislike the dusty residue associated with traditional fireplaces.

Efficiency:

Modern gas fires are highly efficient at converting fuel into heat, minimising energy waste and potentially lowering heating bills. Some balanced flue models can achieve efficiency ratings of up to 85%.

Cost-effectiveness:

While gas prices can fluctuate, they can sometimes be cheaper than electricity, especially when considering the high efficiency of modern gas fires.

Safety:

Modern gas fires come equipped with various safety features, including automatic shut-off mechanisms and flame failure devices, offering peace of mind for homeowners.

Ambiance and aesthetics:

Gas fires can create a warm and inviting atmosphere in a home, similar to a traditional fireplace. They come in a variety of styles and designs to complement different decors.

Versatility:

Gas fires can be installed in various locations within a home, even in rooms without a chimney, thanks to flueless options. This flexibility allows for greater design freedom.

Convenience and ease of use:

Unlike wood burners, gas fires require no chopping, storing, or carrying of logs. They can be turned on and off with a switch or remote, providing instant heat and eliminating the need for constant tending.

Cleanliness:

Gas fires burn without producing ash or soot, reducing mess and simplifying cleaning. This can be especially beneficial for allergy sufferers or those who dislike the dusty residue associated with traditional fireplaces.

Efficiency:

Modern gas fires are highly efficient at converting fuel into heat, minimising energy waste and potentially lowering heating bills. Some balanced flue models can achieve efficiency ratings of up to 85%.

Cost-effectiveness:

While gas prices can fluctuate, they can sometimes be cheaper than electricity, especially when considering the high efficiency of modern gas fires.

Safety:

Modern gas fires come equipped with various safety features, including automatic shut-off mechanisms and flame failure devices, offering peace of mind for homeowners.

Ambiance and aesthetics:

Gas fires can create a warm and inviting atmosphere in a home, similar to a traditional fireplace. They come in a variety of styles and designs to complement different decors.

Versatility:

Gas fires can be installed in various locations within a home, even in rooms without a chimney, thanks to flueless options. This flexibility allows for greater design freedom.

Conclusion:

As  you can see Gas fires can offer several advantages for homes, however it’s important to note that gas fires also have some drawbacks. Such as the need for an annual service and potential concerns about carbon monoxide emissions. It’s crucial however to ensure proper installation, ventilation, and maintenance for safe and efficient operation.

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Dimplex Vivente now at The Gasfireplace

The Dimplex Vivente now at The Gasfireplace, 215 High Street, Beckenham, Kent BR3 1BN.

We are pleased to be able to offer this stunning range of electric fires by Dimplex. The Dimplex Vivente range of electric fires, offer a unique 3D effect. Together with the sound of a crackling fire.

The Dimplex 3D Optiflame effect is incorporated into each Vivente. Providing the best effect on the electric fire market.

The Vivente electric fire defines a new range of electric fires and come in a variety of sizes. There is one for every room.

Key Features

  • Advanced Optiflame 3D LED effect
  • 8 illumination settings including one fully customisable
  • Includes 4 options of back panel
  • 1.5kW heat output with thermostat
  • Remote control and Flame Connect app available
  • Anti-reflective glass

To find out more call Nigel on 020 8663 3223

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British Fires added to our range

The Gas Fireplace is pleased to announce we have become a British Fires stockist for our local BR and CR post code areas.

The British Fires collection will enable us to bring you cutting edge electric fire technology, from this award winning company.

AIR CURTAIN TECHNOLOGY

Air Curtain Technology is the process of circulating cooler air in and dispersing warmed air back into the room via our dual-outlet system, which is discreetly placed above the glass, creating an efficiently heated space.

2020 Art of Fire Vesta Winner

The New Forest Electric Fire won a Vesta in the Art of Fire category for our LED flame technology at the 2020 HPBExpo in New Orleans.

British Fires pride themselves on quality and performance so much so that each British Fires product is applicable for a 3 year guarantee when purchased from an authorised dealer, such as The Gas Fireplace. A standard 1 year guarantee is provided on every product, but to ensure your product is covered for a further 2 years, free registration is required by completing the form below. Please note – registration is not required for the standard 1 year guarantee.

Visit us at 215 High Street, Beckenham to view this fantastic new range of fires. As with all of our range, we offer an installation service for your new fire.

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Sunningdale installation

Dimplex Sunningdale Installation

Our installation team recently finished this sunningdale installation in Beckenham.

Our part of the works was to build the false brick chimney breast and install the limestone hearth and dimplex sunningdale electric stove. Then the builders finished the room off with built in cupboards and panelling.

The Dimplex Sunningdale electric stove adds a focal point to the room. It’s realistic fuel effect and the added cracking fire sound make any room complete. Especially as the evenings draw in. This installation shows how adding a false fireplace to a plain room can completely transform the look and feel of a room.

The Sunningdale electric stove is equipped with a state of the art Opti-V fire display, this uses a video display of a real fire played over a realistic log fuel bed. It is even accompanied by the sound of crackling logs adding to the effect of a real fire in your living room. In addition to the stunning effect it also features a fan heater for heat on those cooler early Spring and Autumn evenings.

By adding the chimney breast feature, the room has gained a proper focal point. It takes attention away from the television, which has unfortunately become the main focal point of many rooms. The chimney breast gives families a chance to arrange the furniture around the relaxing fire. Adding to the sense of home and perfect for curling up on the sofa with a good book.

Call us on 0208 6663 3223 for details of current Dimplex Sunningdale offers.

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Evonic fires now available

 

Limited Time Evonic Special Offer, call Nigel on 020 8663 3223 for details

Evonic fires now available from The Gas Fireplace.

evonicfires is an award-winning brand of CK Fires Ltd, situated just outside Stratford-upon-Avon, manufacturing a range of British built electric fires that are considered one of the most technically advanced ranges in the world, with optional controllers such as e-touch and a fully integrated smart phone app available to download on both The Apple Store or Google Play.

The range is divided into four product categories;

Built-In:

Evonic built-in range of award-winning, modern day electric fires are powered by the very latest LED lighting technology. Choose from the Halo, e-series or traditional models, the simplicity of their electric built-ins enables absolute freedom to create and design individual feature fireplaces without limitations to where they can be installed. With a choice of effect styles and sizes as well as two or three sided models, offer greater scope and choice of installation.

Suites:

Evonic electric fireplace suites offer you style, choice and complete versatility, with many models to choose from either wall mounted or floor standing.

Inset Fires:

Evonic inset electric fires come in a vast choice of traditional or contemporary designs, are the perfect addition to both modern & traditional fireplaces.

Stoves:

Evonic stoves make a perfect addition to a fireplace or conservatory.

Electric fires and stoves are the perfect option for houses that don’t require a lot of extra heat. Maybe they are fully insulated, have sufficient heating or are new build. An electric fire will add a welcome feature to the room. Without the overpowering heat of a gas or real fire. Give the option for effect or effect and heat, are efficient to run, won’t create mess. Easy to install, thus saving on overall cost.

Brochure download

Why Choose Electric ?

• Low capital and installation costs

• No combustion, meaning less emissions of harmful particulates, including PM2.5

• No need for chimneys or flues

• Countless environmental & health benefits

• Low lifetime costs as there is next to no maintenance

• Reduces your carbon footprint

• No annual safety checks or inspections

• Allows users versatility when choosing a desired location as all you need is a plug

• Complete control over your fire through your smart phone or tablet

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Gas Fireplace is to re-open 15th June

stone and marble

The Gas Fireplace is to re-open 15th June 2020.

We are to re-open our Beckenham showroom from Monday 15th June 2020.

Visits will be limited to a maximum of 2 sets of clients at any time so as to ensure customers can reasonably follow 2 metre social distancing whilst in the showroom. To help us achieve this please call 020 8663 3223 for an appointment. 

No one should visit the Gas Fireplace if they are running a temperature or suffering any associated symptoms of coronavirus disease .

To prevent infection and reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19, the following measures will be in place:

  • All visitors must use our hand sanitiser station on arrival and departure.
  • Maintain at least a 2 metre distance between you and all members of staff and other customers especially if they are coughing or sneezing.
  • All visitors are encouraged to shop alone where possible unless specific assistance is required.
  • We ask all our visitors to avoid touching displays whilst browsing.
  • We regret that at this time we are unable to allow children to visit the shop.
  • Do not visit if you feel unwell.
  • All visitors are encouraged to use PPE face coverings where possible.
  • Please note, we are unable to carry out site surveys at the moment, our sales advisor will update you when you visit.

These operating procedures will be continually reviewed and updated when required. We will update this page when any changes are made and implemented. The procedures relate to guidance on various activities where persons will interact with our employees in the day to day running of business from our showroom. Our normal opening hours will be subject to change without notice during this period. To avoid disappointment please do not attend the showroom without an appointment.

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Orpington Installation Story

Orpington installation story fireplace

 

Our Orpington installation story began when Mr & Mrs Aston contacted us to help with fireplaces for their newly purchased home in Orpington.

The house a Victorian terraced had both downstairs rooms knocked through by the previous owners. The Aston’s decided the room needed a feature and set about choosing fireplaces. After much deliberation it was decided that a pair of white marble Flat Victorian surrounds with cast iron inserts, gas fires and black granite hearths would fit the bill.

The chimney breasts were bricked up by a previous owner. The job involved opening up the chimneys and testing the soundness and draw. Apart from a sweep a new cowl on one of the pots, they were in good order and ready for the new surrounds.

Over the next couple of days of this Orpington installation story our fitters ran gas to the chimneys. Installed the new fireplace surrounds, hearths and fires. Making good the walls ready for decoration by the customer, the room now has two definite focal points. The new fireplaces transformed the Ashton’s room.

White marble has traditionally been used for fireplaces. It is soft to work, making it ideal for carving. Victorians introduced cast iron inserts to improve the effectiveness of the open fire.

Do you have a house project that calls for a fireplace, stove or fire?

Give us a call 020 8663 3223

Orpington installations

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New Fire installation in Croydon

gas Fire installation in Croydon

John and Peter were looking for a new fire installation in Croydon, when they contacted us.

Peter had seen theNuFlame Energis Hole in the Wall (HIW) gas fire on our website. He hoped it would be perfect for their room. The house was newly built with a class 2 flue, so their choice of fire was restricted. They wanted an efficient gas fire to boost the heat in the Spring and Autumn months. As well as provide additional heat if required in the middle of winter. A new fire would improve the room with a proper focal point.

After a quick site survey, it was established that the fire installation in Croydon would be straight forward. Our fitter cut a hole in the plasterboard. Checked the draw in the chimney was suitable. Also that the existing termination was correct for the new fire.

On the day we cut away the plasterboard to expose the full chimney opening. Sealed the board and the cavity gap, then installed the new gas fire with the backing panel. Leaving the room ready for decoration by John and Peter.

Do you have a project that requires a new fire for fireplace?

Contact us on 020 8663 3223

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Chimney sweeping

Chimney sweeping is an essential part of owning and using a real fire or stove. A good chimney sweep is vital to keep your chimney and appliance clean and safe.

If you live locally to the shop, give us a call on 0208 663 3223 and we can arrange for a sweep to visit.

However, in times of cost cutting, the chimney sweep is often cut back on or forgotten about altogether. For years our houses were built without chimneys and the need for Chimney sweeping. However with more and more new properties being constructed with a class 1 chimney and more existing housing stock chimneys being brought back to use, the chimney sweep is once again in demand. 

They are also now part of a very professionally regulated industry, so ensure yours has the necessary qualifications to carry out the work legally. If you are amongst the growing numbers who have a coal fire or wood burning stove in your home, it is in your interests to find yourself a local chimney sweep.

Fireplaces, openfires and stoves are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason: a fireplace will add character and a focal point to a room, and, if it is well-maintained, will be an excellent source of heat during the winter period. The benefits of having a real coal or wood fire in your house must be balanced by ensuring that your chimney functions both safely and efficiently.

Details of your local chimney sweep can be obtained from a number of different organisations;

HETAS 

National Association of Chimney Sweeps 

Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps 

These websites list details of competent sweeps in your area., along with advice on chimneys and fires. 

How does a chimney work ?

As a fire burns in a fireplace, the air from the room is drawn through and across the fuel enabling combustion. As the fire burns, it releases numerous gases which being lighter than the surrounding air rise. These gases then evacuate to atmosphere via the chimney. As these gasses pass through your chimney they cool, a substance commonly referred to as soot then begins to accumulate on the walls. This includes a flammable substance called creosote. Over time, these deposits can begin to obstruct – and eventually completely block – the chimney.

Such obstructions will lead to an unsafe, chimney, and potential chimney fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. Ensure you have a working carbon monoxide detector in the same room as your fire. A well-functioning chimney is necessary not only to allow potentially harmful gases to escape from the room, but also to ensure that a fire burns efficiently. 

As hot air ascends in the chimney, the fire sucks in more air from the room through the grate, an open fire can change the air in a room as much as 12 times an hour. Without this continuous supply of air, the fire would either burn itself out, or draw its combustion air from the chimney, sucking in air via the chimney, instead of the room, this is known as down draught. 

Can I clean my chimney myself?

It is possible to clean your chimney yourself, but we would not recommend it. Bear in mind, however, that this may well invalidate your house insurance in the event of a chimney fire. 

How often should my chimney be cleaned?

At least once a year, depending upon the type fo fuel being burnt. Chimney sweeps will advise the frequency of cleaning required for your use, based on how much soot and deposits need removing. We would recommend having your chimney swept at the end of the heating season. This will enable to sweep to clean the despots before they have the down time of the summer months to harden.

If a chimney is used very often, it might be necessary to sweep it more often. A registered chimney sweep will be able to advise the optimum cleaning schedule for your chimney.

I have a gas fire do I need to have my chimney swept?

Yes, although less frequently. Blockages in chimneys connected to gas fires can lead to a build-up of carbon monoxide and other harmful gases. A chimney sweep or your gas service engineer can advise how often your chimney ought to be swept.

Where to find a chimney sweep?

Word of mouth is how most people secure a tradesman, however with requirements for this type of work to be carried out by a registered competent person, the best means is to check with the registering bodies websites. Check that the sweep is registered to carry out the work, and will be able to provide you with the correct certificate after a Chimney sweeping has been done. Chimney sweeps can be found via HETAS, National Association of Chimney Sweeps, or Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps websites. All members of the registered bodies are fully qualified to carry out a sweep, have full public liability insurance and issue certificates on completion of their work. All of these professional bodies have trained, assessed members to ensure that you as a customer receive the best service available. 

Is it Expensive to have a chimney swept ?

The cost of Chimney sweeping depends upon where you live and how much work there is to do. Prices will be based on each chimney requiring a sweep, difficult to access chimneys may incur additional costs. Your sweep will do a survey before providing an estimate/quote for the work. As a rough guide, you should expect to pay something in the region of £50 – £70 per chimney. If you live locally to the shop, give us a call on 0208 663 3223 and we can arrange for a sweep to visit.

Chimney Tips

  • Only burn hard woods DO NOT burn soft woods. Hard woods do not contain as much moisture so burn slower, they also make the fire burn hotter. Provided the wood is seasoned this reduces the amount of creosote deposited inside the chimney, helping to keep your chimney cleaner for longer. Reducing the amount of this flammable substance inside your chimney also has considerable safety benefits.
  • Do not use artificial logs containing paraffin or petroleum additives.
  • Ensure you stove is burning at maximum output for about 60% of the time in use.
  • Open all the stoves air controls before refuelling.
  • Purchase a good guard for your fireplace. 
  • Ensure the air vents in the room are not blocked.
  • Make sure your Carbon Monoxide Detector is sited correctly and in date.
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Fireplace installation in Sydenham

Amy and Claire were looking for a fireplace installation in Sydenham. They had seen some designs on our website before their visit. However they wanted to make sure they would be right. Before visiting us they filled in our information sheet. Meaning we knew exactly what would fit from the get go.

Once in the showroom, they fell in love with the clean lines of the Stanley fireplace. Once the design was chosen they decided to have it made in a Spanish  limestone. Pairing it with a high efficiency gas fire in the shape of the Verine Passion. Ensuring the room would be easy and cheap to heat. The house was a semi detached 1950’s build with an external chimney breast. So the couple had a nice flat wall without the size constraints of a normal chimney breast.

Survey completed it was all systems go and an installation date arranged. On the day of the fireplace installation in Sydenham our installers first removed the existing fireplace. Swept the chimney, ran a new hidden gas pipe supply and installed the new fireplace. Along with the Verine Passion gasfire. We finished off by making good the wall ready for decoration by Amy and Claire.

The room  now has a smart new focal point ready for the rest of the decoration to begin.

Do you have a project that requires a new fireplace or fire?

Contact us on 020 8663 3223

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Stonehenge installation in Dartford

Stonehenge installation in Dartford

The story of a Stonehenge installation in Dartford.

Faith had always hated the old tiled fireplace in the living room of her mothers 1950’s house in Dartford, but her mother quite liked it. Unfortunately for her mother a pipe burst bring down the lounge ceiling and damaging the tiles on the fireplace. One insurance claim later and Faith was helping her mother choose a fireplace and new flooring.

A visit to our showroom  a site survey a quote to the insurance company and the deal was done. A Stonehenge fireplace in Spanish limestone along with a gas fire. The gas fire had high level controls to save any bending down to light and control the flames. The fireplace needed to be made to a special size so that the power points did not need  moving. This was no trouble due to our made to measure service. Due to new flooring the hearth needed to be made and installed first. So that was made ahead of the surround. Allowing the flooring contractors to fit the flooring in the required timeframe.

Once this was complete we went back to site and completed the Stonehenge installation in Dartford. We installed the fireplace surround and gas fire on the already installed hearth. We then made good to the wall ready for decoration by the customers decorator. Unfortunately we don’t have any before pictures but the transformation was amazing.

Do you have a project that needs a fireplace or fire?

Contact us on 020 8663 3223

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Stove glass care

stove glass care

Due to the mild Autumn many people are only just starting to re-light their stoves, as the evening become cooler.

Stove Glass Care Tips

This cloudiness is caused by the presence of sulphur in the fuel. Your stove manufacturer will have given a list of suitable fuels in the instruction booklet that came with your stove. It is important that ONLY these fuels are burnt in the appliance otherwise incorrect fuels will damage the stove and glass.

 

During lighting of a stove a small amount of condensation builds up on the inside surface of the glass, this is quite normal. The sulphur in the fuel will mix with the water and sulphuric acid will form. Sulphuric acid is corrosive. As the stove heats up the moisture boils away leaving a mixture of sulphur dioxide and sulphur trioxide as a white powder. If left for any length of time it will start to etch into the surface of the ceramic glass, causing the opaque look. Wiping the glass with a wet cloth, it will first look as though the opaqueness has disappeared, but, as soon as the glass has dried, opaqueness appears again. If this is the case with your stove, we would recommend replacement of the glass panel and it’s seals so you can enjoy an uninterrupted view of the dancing flames.

 

Stove Glass Care:

Here are our tips for using your stove correctly and avoiding discolouration of your glass:

 

Leave the door slightly ajar for the first 10 – 15 minutes when first lighting the stove and have the air controls fully open. This helps get the stove going and allows more air across the glass helping to keep it clean.

When you first light the stove let it come up to temperature and burn hot for at least 45 minutes before you start to close the fire down using the air controls.

Most stoves are fitted with an air-wash system, make sure that your stove is set correctly for the air wash to operate as designed.

DO NOT let your stove ‘slumber’, avoid letting your stove tick over gently for overly long periods. 

Clean the glass after every use.

When the fire is dying down at the end of the night make sure, that you open the vents and get the fire blazing again so the fuel burns out, rather than closing the vents and letting the stove run slowly towards the end of the night as this will increase the risk of the condensation.

Use only the CORRECT FUEL stated in the user instructions.

Replacement panels of glass for your stove are available from us, call 0208 663 3223 with your appliance make / model & serial number.

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Gas fire servicing and repair

gas fire servicing and repair

Is your gas fire in need of servicing and repair ?

Gas fire servicing and repair is an important part of fire maintenance. Many people are aware of how important it is to service their gas boiler yearly. Few are aware it is just as important to service your gas fire every year.

The Gas Fireplace offer full servicing and repair using our own fully qualified GasSafe engineers. Give us a call on 02086633223 to book your service or repair. Alternatively use our contact us page to email your service request. We offer servicing as well as spare parts for a large range of different fires.

Servicing will keep your fire running efficiently. Servicing will take apart your fire and clean all the working parts. This will allow your fire to work again as new. Ensuring the fire performs as it should. With no danger of carbon monoxide spillage.

Our engineers work in the following areas:

South London, Kent, Surrey, Dulwich, Bromley, Beckenham, Catford, Greenwich, Lewisham, Croydon, West Wickham, Bexley, Bexley Heath, Charlton, Sydenham, Forest Hill, Streatham, Purley, Sanderstead, Caterham, Biggin Hill, Westerham

 

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ESSE staff complete the KBB cycle from London to Paris

esse staff bike ride

Staff from one of our stove suppliers ESSE haver just completed a cycle ride in aid of The Sanitation First charity.

Esse staff completed the charity KBB cycle from London to Paris. Riding onto the Champs-Elysees in a group of cyclists all in the same kit was the highlight.

The cycling was the fun bit but it is good when we can make a difference and raise some funds for a good cause.  If you would like to donate please help ESSE sales director Mark reach his personal fundraising target of £500. A link to his total giving page is at the bottom of this post.

Sanitation First is a small but really good charity and through their efforts and the funds our cycle raises a small village of 493 people in a third world country will have sanitation facilities which we take for granted.  The toilet block that will be built as a result of the charity effort will allow girls to go to school and receive an education.

https://www.totalgiving.co.uk/mypage/esse

Mark Blewitt,  ESSE Engineering Ltd.
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The Demographics of Kattiyankuppam

Around 260 families live in surrounding areas of this school, and the majority of the livelihoods of these families come from the agricultural industry. Due to an increase in the mechanisation of agriculture, many people cannot get work throughout the year.

The vast majority of the children who attend this school belong to the lowest castes in Indian society, which means that they are in a particularly poor economic position.

Current Sanitation Facilities

The school’s current sanitation facilities are in an unusable condition. There is also no private washroom or incinerator for the girls, which means that the female students aren’t able to privately manage their menstruation. The headmaster has told us that girls do not attend school when they are menstruating, because of a lack in facilities.

What will Sanitation First do?

Firstly, Sanitation First will be constructing two separate sanitary blocks, one for boys and one for girls. In the girls’ facility, there will be a private washroom and incinerator.
The toilets that we build in schools are always cheerful and colourful, with painted murals on the walls that tell children all about the benefits of hand-washing and clean sanitation.

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Grey is the New Black

Prima Gris Grey Limestone

When it comes to Limestone and Marble, Grey is the New Black. 2018 has seen our sales of Grey coloured materials for fireplaces and hearths overtake almost all of the other colours we supply, putting boring Beige firmly into second place.

Especially popular is our Prima Gris Limestone, this material is full of character and provides a warm feel to any room. The grey colour is the perfect foil to the dark of the stove or fire.

Grey is the new black now feature in many home decorative schemes as the tonal range variations can give a room a totally different look at different times of the day, depending upon the lighting conditions.

Why not pop into our Beckenham showroom and have a look at the new Black!

 

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Bespoke fireplace installation Bexley Heath

bespoke fireplace installation Bexley Heath

This bespoke fireplace installation Bexley Heath was just the ticket for Jonathan, who had just moved into his first house, after renting.

The lounge had a very narrow chimney breast, so required our made to measure service, as a standard size would not fit. Jonathan chose a limestone surround with polished black granite for the hearth and back panel, along with a NuFlame Energis high efficiency gas fire, complete with remote control for ease of use.

Our surveyor visited the house in Bexley Heath total measurements for the new fireplace, and to check the safety of the chimney. Once we had this information we were able to prepare a free no obligation quotation for Jonathan to consider. Our price was competitive and we were awarded the works.

The fireplace was made and a date arranged for the Bespoke fireplace installation Bexley Heath.  The day dawned and one of our installation teams were on site bright and early. The installation went without a hitch and the result was a nice new fireplace focal point to brighten up any room.

We wish Jonathan many happy years in his new home.

bespoke fireplace installation Bexley Heath

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3 problems of “traditional open fires”

3 problems of “traditional open fires”

Traditional open fires whilst nice to look at are very inefficient, a problem in todays world as we all strive to make our houses cozy but at the same time cheaper to run.

However you don’t have to resort to a stove when you want a warm, smoke-free room. Jetmaster open fire convection boxes give you advantages a stove doesn’t — the crackle of burning logs, a bigger flame, a well-warmed room more quickly. And because they light so easily and heat so quickly you don’t have to keep Jetmaster open fires going all the time. An open fire convector will also be cheaper to install as it will not require the expensive steel liner a wood stove does, or the scaffolding to install the liner

Below you can see three examples showing the benefits of a Jetmaster convector box over a traditional open fire.

1. Efficiency

TRADITIONAL OPEN FIRE

A typical open fire, like a grate in a brick fireplace, will achieve an efficiency of about 10% — perhaps as much 18% in good conditions. This directly equates to how much wood you need to burn to stay warm… lots!

JETMASTER SOLUTION

A Jetmaster is the most efficient open fire in the UK, with fuel efficiencies of up to 50% when burning wood. That’s as much as five times better than a standard firebrick opening.

2. Heat losses

TRADITIONAL OPEN FIRE

Most of the heat a traditional open fire generates goes straight up the chimney. And even when the fire is not on, warm air from the room is drawn out the house through the chimney.

JETMASTER SOLUTION

Standing air losses can are significantly reduced with a Jetmaster open fire using it’s damper mechanism. The damper closes the fire down to within 3% of the flue opening. This has great benefits in today’s highly efficient homes.

3. Smoke spillage

TRADITIONAL OPEN FIRE

Another common issue with traditional open fires is smoke spilling in to the room. As well as being inconvenient, this is unsafe and hazardous.

JETMASTER SOLUTION

Jetmaster offer a “No Smoke Guarantee” with every open fire. The proven design draws smoke through the unit and up the chimney, never in to the room.

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Made to measure Gas Fire now fitted

made to measure gas fire

Nigel,  I Thought you might like to see the made to measure Gas Fire, now fitted.

It looks really good and everybody is very pleased with it.

If you would like to use the photo for advertising purposes please feel free.

Thank you

J B
(from Blackpool)
It’s always nice to receive feedback from customers, if you have an old fireplace that needs bringing back to life, give us a call on 0208 663 3223 or fill out our made to measure quote form.
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Display and Demonstrate Dimplex Centre

Dimplex Oakhurst opti-myst electric stove

As a display and demonstrate Dimplex Centre, The Gas Fireplace can provide you with the complete range of Dimplex fire products. Enabling you to choose from the complete range of inset, wall mounted and stove electric fires.

Dimplex fires and stoves purchased through a registered Display and Demonstrate dealer such as The Gas Fireplace will provide you with additional warranty on your Dimplex product, not available through normal outlets or online providers.

Buy your new Dimplex electric fire or stove with confidence from us.

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Hunter Stoves price increase

Hunter Verona 6 gas stove

We have today been informed a Hunter Stoves price increase will come into force on the 26th March 2018.

The increase will not however affect all of the Hunter Stoves brands. If you have been considering the purchase of one of the following Hunter Stove brand appliances from The Gas Fireplace please be aware that orders placed after the 26th March will attract the price increase.

The Hunter brands affected are Avalon, Eco, Cleanburn and HS Gas Call us for more details on 0208 663 3223

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Easter Gas Fire Scrappage Scheme

easter gas fire scrappage scheme

Our Easter Gas Fire Scrappage Scheme runs from now until 30th April 2018, trade in your old Gas Fire against a brand new more efficient gas fire.

Choose from many different styles and brands of fire, all fitted with the latest technology to save you money. Take advantage of the easter gas fire scrappage scheme and be ready to save on gas bills next winter.

With efficiencies of up to 88% on some fires, not only will they be cheaper to run, they will also heat your room more effectively than your existing fire. The improved fuel matrix look just as realistic on low as they do on high, meaning you will be able to turn down the flames, keeping the good looks and saving money!

Call us on 020 8663 3223 or pop in for more details on how you can save.

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Supply areas

local areas we carry out installations

The Gas Fireplace has been supplying fireplaces locally for over 35 years, these are of some of the supply areas we cover.  So if you want a fireplace in Eltham or a gas fire in Orpington we are the place to visit.

Eltham,

Croydon

Bromley

Beckenham

Sydenham

Lewisham

Streatham

Dulwich

Orpington

In addition to being able to supply or supply and install our period and contemporary fireplaces, we can supply and install your new stove and fire. Choose from these well known makes:

Jetmaster

Parkray

Nu Flame

DiLusso

Dimplex

Dru

Evonic

Call Nigel or Carol for more information on 0208 663 3223 we provide a quality service at a price that won’t be beaten.

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Energy labelling regulations for fires and stoves

energy-labelling-regulations

The new Energy Labelling Regulations for fires and stoves will come into force on the 1st January 2018.

In the UK and across Europe, The Energy Labelling directive has been introduced to help consumers make more of an informed choice about gas, electric and solid fuel appliance efficiency.

Energy labels can already be found on domestic appliances, such as refrigerators and washing machines. Such energy labels have been in use for a number of years, and are designed to help reduce the carbon footprint of a household, and to save money. More efficient appliances use less energy, which is great for the environment, and also for household finances.

In April 2017 the Energy Labelling directive was implemented on independent boiler appliances, and in January 2018, room heater stove appliances will be required to comply with the new legislation.

All wood burning stoves will likely be categorised as an “A rating” due to the renewable and zero carbon features.

Our website will soon show these labels against each appliance, this will enable you to see at a glance which fire or stove might be the best for your home.

 

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