Home & Kitchen

Best Wood Burning and Multi-Fuel Stoves – Buyer’s Guide and Detailed Reviews

Last updated on June 8th, 2022

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Wood-burning stoves will never go out of style as long as there are logs, coal and charcoal available to use as fuel. These stoves have been around for centuries providing heat and a peaceful ambience to many. Nowadays these wood-burning stoves have become more efficient and less harmful to the environment due to strict regulations. They are now making comeback with many people choosing to opt for real stoves rather than gas or electric alternatives.

You might be looking around to purchase the best wood-burning stove and if so, you are in luck! We have spent time looking over possible wood-burning stove models available on the market that give good value for money. The information we gathered has been compiled in the seven detailed reviews and the buying guide below. 

Before we get down to business, peek at our best pick the Lincsfire Harmston JA013S 5.5KW Multifuel Stove. This is affordable and popular with customers because of its efficiency. It is small but it kicks out a lot of heat.

We also have our runner-up the Morso 7440 Wood Burning Stove, and this one would surely start a conversation every time your friends visit thanks to its elegant looks and combinations of different bases available. 

Find out more about these products below.

BEST PICK

Lincsfire Harmston JA013S 5.5KW Multifuel Stove
Add some vintage spice to your space with this Lincsfire Harmston JA013S 5.5KW Multifuel Stove. This model is fitted with brass handles that make the stove stand out. You can enjoy the fire cosily without burning up too much fuel because it meets environmental regulations. The cast-iron stove can burn logs or charcoal depending on which fuel source is more accessible. Overall, for its price, it offers good value for money, is exceptionally well made and is perfect for smaller homes.

RUNNER UP

Morso 7440 Wood Burning Stove

Kick things up a notch with the Morso 7440 Wood Burning Stove. This cylindrical-shaped model offers a cosy ambience and an elegant design that is a conversation starter. You will need to spend a few pretty pennies to get this, but it is worth the trouble and truly is a stunning fire. The cast-iron model heats areas between 45-105m2 so is suitable for smaller rooms, although they do sell larger versions too. We really like that it offers different base options to select from to suit your needs. With a lifetime warranty in tow, you can rest easy knowing that you made the right decision.


Top 7 Wood Burning and Multi-Fuel Stove Reviews

1. Lincsfire Harmston JA013S 5.5KW Multifuel Stove

BEST PICK

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Lincsfire Harmston JA013S 5.5KW Multifuel Stove

The Lincsfire Harmston JA013S 5.5KW Multifuel Stove is made entirely out of durable cast iron that will last for many years. This stove is equipped with clean burn technology that optimises energy consumption without producing too much smoke. You can use wood or charcoal depending on what is easily accessible to you. It is important to note that this model does not burn coal.

Depending on the space you want to place your stove, you have the option to use the top or rear flue. The 5-inch diameter flue is not provided and will need to be bought independently, however, this is the case with most models from wherever you buy one. The 39.5cm(W) x32cm(D) x53cm(H) stove comes with air vent control so that you have control over the heat produced so you can just let it simmer away.

You can enjoy the view of the wood/charcoal burning by looking through the Robax glass window that can withstand high temperatures without cracking, obviously essential for a log burner. The stove features brass handles that complete the overall attractive appearance of the stove. This robust model comes with a 1-year warranty to give you peace of mind.

Pros

  • Made from durable cast iron.
  • Ideal for small rooms but still kicks out plenty of heat for its size.
  • The stove looks good and it is fitted with brass handles.
  • Provides options for rear or top flue installation.
  • Comes with a removable ash pan.
  • The CE certified stove burns wood/charcoal efficiently.
  • Fitted with durable Robax glass.
  • Accompanied by a 1-year warranty.

Cons 

  • The first few fires will remove smoke laden with a burning paint smell.

Our recommendation

It is small and it is affordable, therefore, you cannot go wrong with the Lincsfire Harmston JA013S 5.5KW Multifuel Stove and we think it’s perfect for smaller homes. The 55kg model offers an energy output of 5.5kW producing enough energy to heat small to medium-sized areas. 

Whether you are using logs or charcoal it does not matter because this model can work with both. It is an easy to use stove because it comes with a removable ash pan and it looks good.

In the end, this stove does provide value for money because it is robust and comes at a price that’s hard to beat. This is a very popular model and it’s easy to see why.

Read next: Best stove fans for getting the most out of your stove


2. Morso 7440 Wood Burning Stove

RUNNER UP

Buy from Directstoves.com

The Morso 7440 Wood Burning Stove looks amazing thanks to its elegant design with some nice bases to choose from, but more on this in a minute.

The stove utilises a convection system and an air wash system to provide maximum heating functions. This model comfortably heats areas between 45-105m2 and it features glass windows so that you can enjoy looking at the flames.

With this model, you have the option to select whether you want a low base, pedestal, or the log store base which you can see pictured above. You will have to spend more money to either purchase the pedestal or log store base, however, we think it really finishes it off. Being that it is the smallest in the module series, it measures 89.6cmH x 44cmW x 37.7cm D and it comes with a top/rear flue for easy accessibility.

Pros

  • Looks elegant and adds style to the room.
  • Made from robust cast iron.
  • Heats areas between 45-105m2.
  • Offers different base solutions whether flat, a pedestal, or a log store.
  • Easy to set up and use.
  • Provides an ash can for easy cleaning.
  • 10 year guarantee and 14 days return policy if not happy.

Cons

  • It is expensive.
  • Can only be used with wood.

Our recommendation

The Morso 7440 Wood Burning Stove offers a modern and elegant design that could easily fit into modern décor. This small log burning stove has an output of 4.3kw that is adequate to heat up small rooms effectively, although they do also have bigger models available for those with larger rooms.

It not only looks good but it is easy to use thanks to the convenient features, such as the removable ash can. 

All you have to do is put some logs in there and watch the flames dance mesmerisingly before your eyes. It is a premium-priced product, so is not comparable to cheaper models but what a stunning log burner. It’s easy to see why we decided to name this our runner-up model with a 14 days return policy and a 10 year guarantee. At least you can check it out first virtually risk-free which is important for such an expensive stove.

Read next: Best ash vacuums for cleaning out wood burning stoves


3. Lincsfire Metheringham JA031 13KW Multifuel Woodburning Stove

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Lincsfire Metheringham JA031 13KW MultiFuel Woodburning Stove

The Lincsfire Metheringham JA031 13KW MultiFuel Stove measures 65.5cm x 51.1cm x 46cm, weighing in at 118kg this is a great alternative to our ‘Best Pick’ for those who need a larger model with a higher KW rating.

This classic looking stove is made from robust cast iron that will offer service for years. The stove is fitted with Robax Schott glass that is easy to keep clean thanks to the pre-heated air wash system.

It additionally offers air vent control so that the fuel can burn through the night keeping the areas warm. The 13kw output model is fitted with top and rear flue positions so is fairly flexible depending on where you want to take the flue out.

The CE certified model is backed by a 1-year warranty and it requires a bit of assembly before use.

Pros

  • Made from durable cast iron.
  • Fitted with robust stainless steel handles.
  • Burns both wood and charcoal efficiently, optimising energy use.
  • Possesses a removable ashtray to clean the stove easily.
  • Comes with a Robax Schott glass viewing window that is easy to keep clean.
  • Offers good value for money.
  • Covered by a 1-year warranty.

Our recommendation

If you want a stove that offers a high-energy output, this Lincsfire Metheringham JA031 13KW Multifuel Stove is a great choice. This 13kw model is large and it can easily heat large areas without consuming too much fuel.

Anyone would be lucky to add this stove to their home because it is a robust model that will last for decades. It’s a good affordable alternative to our best pick for those looking for a larger model to consider.

Read next: Best stove gloves


4. Arada Holborn 7 Eco-Design Ready Wood Burning / Multi Fuel Stove

Buy from Directstoves.com

Next, we have the Arada Holborn 7 Multi Fuel Stove. It is made from stainless steel and features a cast iron door. This model burns both logs and charcoal efficiently, producing fewer emissions. The stove measures 66.5cm x 55cm x 37.1cm and it has a power output of 7kw which can heat small to medium-sized rooms, which makes it a good alternative to our best pick for those looking to invest in a premium quality stove that is backed by a lifetime guarantee.

You can relax and enjoy watching the fire burn through the glass window. The stove has an air wash system that prevents the glass from getting sooty. You have the option to adjust the height of the legs to suit your preference which is a nice feature. This model comes in different colours for your selection and as mentioned is accompanied by a lifetime warranty, which testifies to the quality of the multi-fuel stove.

It’s also worth mentioning this stove is also DEFRA Approved for use in smoke controlled zones and SIA Eco Design Ready which means the stove is very efficient and has very few emissions giving it an 81.2% efficiency.

Pros

  • Made stainless steel with a cast iron door.
  • Offers an air wash system to keep the viewing glass clean.
  • It comes with height adjustable legs.
  • Available in different colours.
  • Comes with a lifetime warranty.

Cons

  • It is expensive.

Our recommendation

The Arada Holborn 7 Multi Fuel Stove is a good option for those who want to invest in a premium stove, the type you only install once. We like that this model burns both logs and charcoal so it is up to you to select which fuel is more suitable for you. 

It would also be perfect for those who want a stove that produces little smoke because it is DEFRA approved and more and more areas are now becoming smoke controlled areas.

We like that it offers a lifetime warranty, which only goes to show that the stove is of a robust quality and it will offer a service that will last a lifetime.

Read next: How to clean the glass on a wood burning stove


5. Royal Fire 5.5kW Cast Iron Multifuel Woodburning Stove

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Royal Fire 5.5kW Cast Iron Multifuel Woodburning Stove

The Royal Fire Cast Iron Multifuel Stove is small but produces 5.5kw of energy output. This model is made from cast iron which is a durable material and is a great little fire.

This model can burn coal, wooden logs, or charcoal easily without producing too much smoke. The fuel burns efficiently because the stove has a reliable air vent system and it offers top/rear flue positions.

This 55kg stove is easy to keep clean because it possesses a removable ash pan. It also comes with a glass window that is easy to keep clean therefore you can enjoy your time by the fire. This model measures 53cm x 38cm x 33cm and it is HETAS certified.

Pros

  • Little effective stove and gives off plenty of heat.
  • Made from robust cast iron.
  • Features a removable ash pan to maintain cleanliness.
  • It is HETAS certified.
  • Offers good value for money.

Cons 

  • The size looks smaller than expected.

Our recommendation

Those in search of a small affordable stove that can burn coal, charcoal, or wood should consider this model. It has a decent energy output that will warm small areas effectively.

It looks good adding a bit of décor into the room and its price is probably one of the most affordable currently available. Many are taken aback by how small the stove actually is because the advertisement photos make it seem larger so be sure to take measurements. Other than that, there were no major complaints with this model and it’s an all round good small multifuel stove.


6. Morso 6843 Wood Burning Stove

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The Morso 6843 Wood Burning Stove is designed to suit the heating of smaller spaces and is almost identical looking to our runner-up but it does have some extra features. This wood-burning stove is made from cast iron and it comes with a cool-to-touch handle, even when the stove is lit. An interesting feature of this model is that the door is an automatically self-closing door to save you the trouble.

This 95cm H x 45.1cm W x 38.6cm D cast iron model comes with a log-store base, however, you can choose to go with the low or pedestal base if that is what you prefer. The 5kw swan-marked wood-burning stove meets industry energy requirements without being detrimental to the environment. This stove features top/rear flues for use and it comes with a 10 year guarantee.

Pros

  • Made from cast iron with an energy output of 5kw.
  • Features an automatically closing door.
  • Comes with an air wash system to keep the glass from getting sooty.
  • Offers different base options to suit the user’s preference. 
  • Fitted with a cool-to-touch handle.
  • Accompanied by a 10 year guarantee for peace of mind.

Cons

  • A tad pricey.

Our recommendation

The Morso 6843 Wood Burning Stove is another good looking model from a reputable brand. This smaller model is designed to keep smaller rooms warm by efficiently burning only wooden logs. It does not use coal or charcoal so bear this in mind before purchasing. 

We like that it comes with an automated closing door and a cool-to-touch handle to prevent any accidents. Price-wise, this model is expensive, therefore, make all the budgetary considerations beforehand, including any preferred base options.


7. Lincsfire Saxilby JA013 6.5KW Multifuel Woodburning Stove

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Lincsfire Saxilby JA013 6.5KW Multifuel Woodburning Stove

Offering a bit more energy output to work with is the Lincsfire Saxilby JA013 6.5KW Multifuel Woodburning Stove. Compared to our best pick, this model offers 1kw more energy output to effectively heat small to medium-sized areas. This model is made from cast iron, which by now we have established to be strong and heavy material.

Burning only charcoal and wood, this CE certified stove comes with top and rear flue positions. The flue is not provided hence you will have to source it yourself, however, this is the case for most models.

This good looking model is fitted with brass handles that give it an overall attractive appearance. The air wash system will keep the glass clear, allowing you to enjoy your view of the flames at any time. Measuring 46cm x 46cm x 34cm, this stove weighs 58kgs and it is accompanied by a 1-year warranty.

Pros

  • Made from cast iron and fitted with attractive brass handles.
  • The CE certified model burns wood and charcoal to produce an energy output of 6.5kw.
  • Features an air wash system to keep the glass clean.
  • Gives good value for money.
  • Covered by a 1-year warranty.

Cons

  • The ash pan fitted is a little small.

Our recommendation

The Lincsfire Saxilby JA013 6.5KW Woodburning Stove produces enough heat to keep small to medium-sized areas cosy warm. This model offers just a little bit more energy output than our best pick. It also looks good which makes it a suitable fit in both modern and traditional styled houses.

It costs a bit more than our best pick but it is worth the price. You might be surprised by how small it is, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in heat production and build quality.


Buyer’s Guide

When you purchase the best wood-burning stove or the best multifuel stove, you not only save money on electric bills, especially if you have access to cheap wood but you add a decorative piece to the space. In this section, you will find useful information to help you find a suitable wood/coal/charcoal burning stove.

Take your time so that you do not end up with the wrong model.

Power output

One needs to consider the size of the space that needs heating to determine the size and output of the stove to buy. Smaller rooms do not require much heat therefore a model with a range under 7kw is manageable. Larger rooms will require more heat and therefore the size of the wood-burning stove will need to be larger.

Manufacturers specify the power output of the model making it easier for you to know which stove will be the best fit for your house.

Fuel choice

The fuel that powers the stove will be determined by what is locally or easily available. This not only saves on costs but it ensures that you never run out of fuel, even in winter when stoves run almost 24/7. Look at the fuel options that are available whether coal, wooden logs, or charcoal and select a stove that is designed to handle such. Some models can only burn logs while some cannot be used with coal but are okay when burning charcoal.

Construction material

Most of the wood-burning stoves on the market are made of steel, cast iron, or a mix of both. Steel is lighter and easier to manufacture but it doesn’t retain heat the way cast iron does. Steel wood-burning stoves are perfect if you want to heat rooms quickly. 

Cast iron stoves are indeed heavier and they feature beautiful designs that offer a vintage elegance to the room. They are also great at keeping rooms warm for longer because the metal retains heat for longer, even when the embers have died down.

Efficiency 

To prevent the waste of energy and to regulate emissions, wood-burning stoves are required to operate at a certain efficiency level. Any model whose efficiency is below 70% is not ideal because the heat will be lost instead of warming up the entire space.

Ease of use

There are features in every product that makes life run a whole lot smoother. When it comes to wood-burning stoves there are a few convenient features to work with. The best multifuel stove will possess some of these features:

Air wash systems

Some models feature baffles that deliver air to clear any dirt that may accumulate on the glass. Stoves that have this feature are easy to keep clean and you can enjoy watching the flames without soot getting in the way.

Cool-to-touch handles

Make it easier to put fuel into the fire without having to wear protective gloves each time. Not many models offer this feature but in case you select one that does not make sure you have a good pair of stove gloves. A good example of the best log burner stove with a cool-to-touch handle is the Morso 6843 Wood Burning Stove.

Air vent control

Its important to keep the fire going for long periods of time. You can control how quickly the fuel burns by controlling the flow of air into the stove. All stoves have this feature but how efficient there are can vary.

Fuel storage space

It lets you have nearby access to the fuel, especially if your log/coal/charcoal store is located outdoors. Some of the best log burner stove models like the Morso 7440 Wood Burning Stove have the option of an onboard log store.

Removable ashtrays

Makes cleaning a simple process because all you have to do is dump the ash and return the tray to the stove. 

Installation

It is recommended to work with HETAS certified professionals, as they will be up to date with new government emission regulations.

Price

Your budget determines the size of the stove and some of the features available including colour selection. Lower budget stoves are mostly small enough to cater to smaller rooms. Models that have a larger output and size will definitely cost you more. Some stoves are also very high quality to an extent where they include a lifetime warranty.

Warranty

A long warranty is favourable when purchasing the best wood-burning stove. A long warranty goes to show that the manufacturer is confident in the quality of the product. It also acts as a safety net for the buyer in case there is something wrong with the product. To put things into perspective, some models come with a 1-year warranty while top brands, usually expensive, come with a lifetime guarantee.

Certification 

To be on the safe side it is better to work with certified products. These certifications indicate that the product complies with government regulations that are set to protect the environment and safety standards. When it comes to stoves you can look for CE, HETAS or DEFRA approved products.


FAQs

Is a wood-burning stove expensive to run in the long run?

This depends on how often you use the stove and the cost of the fuel in your area. After the initial investment of getting a wood-burning stove, it should be cheaper to run compared to installing several electric heaters/radiators. If fuel is affordable, it should not be expensive. A top tip is to buy logs in bulk from tree surgeons and then let them season over 12 months.

Is chimney installation costly?

In many cases, it is not unless there is some restructuring to do around the area to fit the stove’s operating needs. Compare different quotes from different professionals to get the best deals.

Can wood-burning stoves have automated doors?

Yes, this is possible. A good example would be the Morso 6843 Wood Burning Stove that is fitted with an automated closing door.


Final Conclusion

Finding the best multi-fuel stove should not be confusing, even when bombarded with many products because now you have all the information that you need. If you have found a worthy model, then we are glad we could be of help. 

In case you have a friend who is also looking for a reliable wood-burning stove, you can recommend our best pick the Lincsfire Harmston JA013S 5.5KW Multifuel Stove that has great energy output for an affordable price.

Alternatively, if they prefer something less traditional, the Morso 7440 Wood Burning Stove is a premium-priced model that would be suitable.

With that being said, have yourself a fantastic shopping adventure!

Last update on 2024-03-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Welcome to my site, my name is John and I have been lucky enough to work in horticultural nurseries for over 15 years in the UK. As the founder and editor as well as researcher, I have a City & Guilds Horticultural Qualifications which I proudly display on our About us page. I now work full time on this website where I review the very best gardening products and tools and write reliable gardening guides. Behind this site is an actual real person who has worked and has experience with the types of products we review as well as years of knowledge on the topics we cover from actual experience. You can reach out to me at john@pyracantha.co.uk

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