What size kW stove do I need?

How to choose the right size kW stove

It can be tricky to know what size kW output you need as it depends on a few factors including the size of the room, the type of property you live in, how well insulated the room is etc. We're here to help! Keep reading to calculate which output you need...

Start by measuring the room

Whether your stove will be installed into an existing fireplace or is freestanding within the room, the most important factor is how much heat it provides so you don’t get too hot. As a starting point, follow this simple calculation to work out what kW is recommended:

Measure the room volume (width x length x height) in metres
Divide the result by 14

From our smallest 4kW stoves, such as the Lagom 4 or Solution 4, to over 10kW like our Farringdon Large stoves, Arada offers a wide variety of stove sizes, models and colours to suit your home.

Type of room and property

Not only is the size of the room important, but the level of insulation, furnishings and draught also play a role. For example: For older properties which tend to be draughty due to single-glazed windows and wooden floors, a larger kW output might be required as more heat will naturally escape out of the room as it isn’t well insulated.

In a newer property or a home which has recently undergone refurbishment that is well-insulated, has central heating, double glazing and potentially carpet, a smaller kW stove will likely be required as the heat is better trapped in the space.

For open-plan living rooms with staircases, the heat from the stove will naturally be drawn away from the immediate area, so opt for a larger heat output.

Ensure enough ventilation

All stoves require proper ventilation to ensure they burn efficiently, safely and correctly. Any wood burner which is over 5kW must have a permanently open ventilation kit or air brick installed in the room to ensure adequate air flow to the stove. This is especially the case for new build or airtight properties which tend to be very well insulated and therefore require a permanent air vent which is open to the outside.

We do hope this guide has been helpful! If you are planning to move ahead with installing a stove, always speak to a qualified installer who will be able to advise on the best options for you. Find your nearest Arada stove retailer here.