How Much Can You Save with a Wood Burning Stove in Hampshire?

As energy prices continue to climb across the UK, many homeowners in Hampshire are seeking more cost-effective and sustainable ways to heat their homes. One of the most popular alternatives today is the wood burning stove. Known for their charm and efficiency, wood burning stoves have become a household staple not just for their cosy appearance but for their ability to reduce heating costs significantly.

So, how much can you truly save with a wood burning stove in Hampshire? Let’s break it down.

Why More Households in Hampshire Are Switching to

Wood Burning Stoves

There’s been a noticeable rise in stove installations across Hampshire. From quaint cottages in Alresford to new builds in Basingstoke, wood burning stoves are now seen as both a functional and stylish addition to the home.

What’s driving this trend?

• Lower Heating Bills – With gas and electricity rates soaring, a log burner can offer a more affordable way to heat frequently used spaces.

• Sustainable Heating – Wood is a renewable fuel. When sourced responsibly, it’s an environmentally conscious choice compared to fossil fuels.

• Timeless Aesthetic – Whether it’s a classic or contemporary design, fireplaces and stoves add warmth and character to any living space.

Real-Life Savings: The Fareham Family Example

Let’s look at a real-world example. A family in Fareham decided to switch from gas central heating to a high-efficiency log burner. The initial cost included fireplace installation, chimney repairs, and a HETAS qualified engineer to ensure a compliant setup.

The results?

• Heating costs dropped from £2,700 to just £700 annually.

• Estimated annual savings of over £2,000.

• Their home remained warm throughout winter, even during power outages.

By using bulk-seasoned wood sourced locally and heating just the main living areas, they optimised both comfort and savings.

Factors That Influence How Much You Save

The savings from using a wood burning stove depend on several important factors:

1. Size of Your Property

Larger homes tend to benefit more from “zone heating.” Instead of warming the entire house, the log burner can focus heat where it’s most needed.

2. Stove Type

High-performance models like those from Hunter stove installations offer better heat retention and fuel efficiency, leading to higher long-term savings.

3. Fuel Cost and Storage

Buying wood in bulk during off-peak seasons can cut fuel costs. Storing it properly ensures it stays dry and burns efficiently. If you have space for a log store, the savings add up even more.

4. Professional Installation

A HETAS qualified installer ensures safety and compliance. They’ll also identify any necessary chimney repairs and ensure the best placement for heat distribution.

Comparing Heating Costs: Wood Burner vs Other Systems

Here’s a simplified breakdown of typical annual heating costs in the UK:

Heating Method	Average Annual Cost
Gas Central Heating	£1,500 – £2,500
Electric Radiators	£2,000 – £3,500
Wood Burning Stove	£700 – £1,200

Even after accounting for fuel and maintenance, a wood burner proves to be the most budget-friendly choice over time.

More Hampshire Case Studies

Southampton Retirees

A retired couple in Southampton installed a stove in their bungalow's main sitting room. Before, their electric heating bills were nearing £3,200 per year. After a stove installation, they cut that by more than half. Now they pay under £1,300 yearly, saving close to £1,900.

Winchester Renovation Project

A property developer in Winchester added wood burning stoves and fireplaces in two homes during a renovation project. The energy rating improved, and property values increased by nearly 7%, proving that stoves are not just about savings—they can be an investment too.

Other Benefits of Wood Burning Stoves

Beyond cost savings, there are plenty of advantages to installing a wood burner:

• Energy Independence – Reduce your reliance on gas and electricity suppliers.

• Emergency Heating – Stay warm even during winter power cuts.

• Home Value Boost – Properties with fireplace installation and stoves are often more attractive to buyers.

• Sustainability – Reduce carbon emissions by using clean, seasoned wood from trusted Hampshire suppliers.

Is a Wood Burner Right for Your Home?

Before investing in a wood burning stove, think about:

• Do you have chimney access?

• Can you store wood properly?

• Is your room layout suitable for zone heating?

• Are you comfortable maintaining it regularly?

If the answer to most of these is yes, a log burner might be the perfect fit.

Maximise Efficiency & Comfort

To get the best results, follow these expert tips:

• Use only seasoned wood (under 20% moisture).

• Clean the stove’s interior weekly during winter.

• Schedule annual chimney inspections and sweeping.

• Install a stove thermometer to avoid over-burning or fuel waste.

• Work with a HETAS qualified installer for peace of mind.

Conclusion

Installing a wood burning stove in Hampshire can lead to impressive savings—some families cut over £2,000 from their annual bills. With the added benefit of a more sustainable, cosy, and attractive home, it’s no surprise so many Hampshire residents are making the switch.

Whether you’re looking for a Hunter stove installation, chimney repairs, or full fireplace installation, ensuring your system is set up by a qualified professional is key. Combine smart fuel use, proper maintenance, and good installation, and your wood burning stove can be one of the smartest long-term investments for your home.