To gauge how much work may be required for the installation of a new stove, there are a few elements you may wish to consider beforehand.

1. Do you have an existing hearth?

A stove needs to sit on a slab of non-combustible material that protects any combustible materials underneath or around the stove from igniting.

2. Do you need a chimney liner?

This depends largely on the age and construction of your house but, as a general rule, properties built after 1964 will have a concrete or clay liner which will not require any additional flue liner. If your chimney doesn't have a liner, or if you do not have a chimney at all, a specially designed flue kit can be installed to comply with the relevant building regulations.

3. Are you in a smoke control zone?

Many UK towns and cities are classed as smoke control areas, which means that it is forbidden to emit smoke from a chimney unless your stove is smoke exempt.

Finally, it is important to remember that the fitting of a carbon monoxide alarm is also a building regulations requirement. 

For more information, take a look at the Approved Document J of the Building Regulations for advice on the installation of combustible appliances. For guidance on the selection and installation of flues and chimneys for stoves, take a look at this guide from The British Flue & Chimney Manufacturers Association. 

Our electric range of stoves come supplied with a standard lead and 13 amp plug for connection to UK supply and so can simply be placed and plugged in. Alternatively, you may choose to have your electric stove hardwired by a qualified electrician.

Our gas stoves are designed to work specifically with a balanced flue system, which draws air directly in to the stove and therefore, no additional air vent is required. 

The system provides for three configuration options, either directly from the rear of the stove, a higher outlet at the top of the stove or via the use of a renovating kit which enables the stoves to be connected to an existing conventional chimney. This flexibility of installation choices makes a gas stove far easier to install in most rooms.

The decision on flue should be determined by a site survey and discussion with the installer. All gas appliances must be installed by a registered Gas Safe installer. The price of the stove does not include the flue system and this will be priced as an additional item. 

To ensure that your stove continues performing optimally, you will need to undertake some small maintenance tasks.

• Check that your grate is in good condition and on multi-fuel stoves check that the riddling plate is working correctly.
• Inspect the firebricks for any damage to prevent any cracking or warping of the stove.
• Examine the fire rope seals for any signs of fraying or other damage and replace if necessary.
• Check the glass for any cracks and clean to remove any build-up of deposits.
• If you have a chimney, it is recommendable to have this swept annually to minimise the risk of soot fires, which can cause damage to the chimney.