What size stove do I need?

As a rough guide, 1kW of heat will be sufficient for 14 cubic meters. E.g. Room size = 4.5m x 5m x 2.2m equals 49.5 cubic meters. Divide 49.5 by 14 = 3.5kW

Do I need a chimney?

You do require a flue for the removal of smoke and combustion gases. If you have an existing chimney this must be checked for soundness and must be swept. This could be carried out by an approved installer. If your chimney is in poor condition it can be lined with a flexible liner. If you do not have a chimney, a twin wall insulated stainless steel flue system can be installed. *All installations must comply with the latest

What about chimney sweeping?

Your chimney must be swept at least twice a year by a qualified chimney sweep. Your local phone directory should list them- alternatively the approved list is available from HETAS or NACS.
You cannot sweep your chimney through the chilli penguin stove, therefore provision must be made either with a access panel in your register plate or a connecting pipe with an access door. The latter can be purchased with your stove - see price list.

What fuels can I burn?

The chilli penguin stove is approved for burning seasoned hardwood and smokeless fuels for closed appliances from the HETAS approved list. These include Taybrite, Ancit, Coalite, Maxibrite, Phurnacite, Sunbright Doubles, Cosycoke, Pureheat, Supercoke, Jewel, Excel, Newflame, Supacite, Fireglo Ovoids.
For local suppliers of seasoned wood contact Logpile.

What size is the flue outlet?

Outlet diameter is 125mm(5") and is currently only available as a top outlet.

What is seasoned wood?

Seasoned wood means it has a maximum moisture content of 20%. This is achieved by storing it for between 12 - 18 months once cut prior to burning. This will vary from species to species. If the wood is not seasoned you will be creating a lot of smoke and steam with very inefficient combustion.

Has the chilli penguin stove been independently tested?

Yes. It has been tested by HETAS ( Heating Equipment Testing and Approval Scheme) they are the government approved body for the testing of domestic solid fuel appliances in the UK. The tests carried out were performed to the single tick specifications and relate to the non boiler version. Single tick refers to Safety and Function. The chilli penguin stove has been approved as "safe and fit for purpose".

What does "Clean Burn" mean?

This is the ability of a stove to burn off volatile gases given off by the fuel which would otherwise go up the flue and into the atmosphere. This is usually achieved by introducing additional preheated air at the top of the combustion chamber. This function gives maximum efficiency and heat output from the fuel, together with having less detrimental impact on the environment.

What type of paint is used on the stoves?

A high temperature paint specifically formulated for use on stoves is used. They have a matt finish, we offer as standard 6 choices of colour as shown on the "stove" page.
The stove will emit an unpleasant odour during the first couple of firings, this is the paint "curing off" - this is quite normal.
Aerosols matching your stove colour are readily available through us.

Will the door glass blacken?

No. The "Air Wash" vents above the door are very effective at keeping the door glass clear. If fuel is touching the glass you will get localised discolouring, this will burn off as the stove get hotter. If it doesn't burn off, you can clean it with a mixture of paste made from wood ash and water.

Who can install my stove?

It is always advised to use a HETAS approved installtion engineer. If is however the person carrying out the installtion is not on the approved list you will have to seek authority from your local 'Building Control' office. They will come out and inspect the installation. There will be a charge for this service.

The installtion must conform to the 'Building Regulations' 2000 approved Document J.