HOW DO INDOOR WOOD FIRES COMPARE TO OTHER HEATING OPTIONS
Indoor wood fires have been a cornerstone of home heating for centuries, and are loved across New Zealand as one of the most traditional ways to bring warmth and comfort to a home. More recent heating systems try to outperform wood fires on measures from efficiency to environmental impact. In many cases they fall short when viewed from the bigger picture.
Here we explore five key advantages of using an indoor wood fire: cost-effectiveness, health benefits, environmental sustainability, energy independence, and aesthetic appeal. We also compare these benefits to other indoor heating options like gas and electricity.
COST-EFFECTIVENESS
One of the primary advantages of indoor wood fires is their potential for significant cost savings over time. Unlike traditional heating systems that rely on fossil fuels or electricity, wood is often a more affordable fuel source in NZ (and renewable). A bonus is that it is less subject to price fluctuations.
Installation and Maintenance:
The initial installation of a freestanding wood burner or wood-burning fireplace can be more expensive due to the need for a chimney and proper ventilation, costing approximately $3,000 to $5,000. This initial investment can be offset by the long-term savings on fuel. Moreover, homeowners with access to their own wood supply can further reduce ongoing costs.
Fuel Costs:
In many regions of NZ firewood is relatively inexpensive, especially if sourced locally. A cube of firewood might cost $150 (https://treeremovalbop.co.nz/firewood/) and a bulk order of six cubes can be delivered for under $1000. Across six months of heating this can work out at a monthly heating bill around $150.
In contrast, gas heaters, while efficient, can have varying operating costs depending on regional pricing structures, typically around 10 to 16 cents per kilowatt-hour. The costs can also be compounded when lazy teenagers leave them running all night and day!
HEALTH BENEFITS
Beyond the fact they offer a dry warmth that can permeate the whole home, especially when utilising a ducted heat transfer system, indoor wood fires offer several health-related advantages:
Stress reduction and relaxation:
Studies in the US (https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268230174_Hearth_and_Campfire_Influences_on_Arterial_Blood_Pressure_Defraying_the_Costs_of_the_Social_Brain_through_Fireside_Relaxation) have shown the ambiance of a crackling wood fire can reduce stress and promote relaxation. The soothing sounds and sights can create a calming environment, enhancing mental well-being.
Physical activity:
The process of collecting, splitting, and stacking firewood encourages physical activity, which can improve cardiovascular health and overall fitness. Engaging in these tasks provides regular, moderate exercise, contributing to a healthier lifestyle. For many Kiwi families there are annual traditions of finding pinecones and also loading and unstacking firewood that become beloved family time.
ENVIROMENTAL SUSTAINIBILITY
In the early 2000s there was a stigma attached to burning wood and how it could contribute to climate change. Local councils implemented bylaws about the types of wood fires that could be used, and proactive companies reduced emissions on models of clean air approved wood burners (https://kent.co.nz/product/ruapehu-wood-fire/). When viewed from a macro level, utilising wood as a heating source can be more environmentally friendly compared to fossil fuels:
Renewable resource:
Wood such as radiata pine is a renewable energy source, especially when harvested sustainably. Using locally sourced firewood reduces transportation emissions and supports local forestry management practices (also supporting small
businesses in many communities).
Carbon Neutrality:
When burned, wood releases the carbon dioxide it absorbed during its growth, making it a carbon-neutral energy source. This cycle helps in maintaining a balanced carbon footprint, unlike the burning of fossil fuels, which introduces additional CO₂ into the atmosphere.
While wood is renewable, burning it can produce particulate emissions. However, using seasoned, dry wood and modern, efficient wood burners and stoves can minimize these emissions. Gas heaters emit fewer particulates but rely on non-renewable natural gas, while electric heaters produce no onsite emissions but depend on the energy mix of the electricity grid, which may include fossil fuels.
ENERGY INDEPENDANCE
Something that is not always realised is that using an indoor wood fire or log burner can enhance a household’s energy independence and provide stability in natural disasters:
Off-grid heating:
Wood fires do not depend on electricity or gas supplies, making them a reliable heating source during power outages or in remote areas without access to utility services. This independence ensures consistent heating regardless of external infrastructure issues, and is an important safety factor when natural disasters strike during cooler months.
Many models of wood burner also have a cooking plate (https://kent.co.nz/product/cardrona-wood-fire/), which provides cooking options during power outages as well.
Resource Availability:
In rural areas of countries like New Zealand and Australia people often have access to farms, forestry lots and fallen timber which provide a free or low-cost fuel source. This self-sufficiency reduces reliance on external energy providers and can lead to substantial cost savings over time. In 2024 New Zealand saw uncertainty with natural gas supply for some businesses, and while there was no risk to households, it still caused anxiety for some.
AESTHETIC AND AMBIANCE
The presence of a wood-burning fireplace adds a unique charm and ambiance to a home that simply can’t be replicated. Anyone who doesn’t own a wood fire loves being invited to watch the rugby at a home that has a blazing fire – there’s nothing like it! Log burners aren’t restricted to country cottages, modern wood fires have stylish designs and look great in new homes. Key aspects include:
Visual Appeal:
The sight of dancing flames creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of living spaces. This ambiance is often associated with comfort and homeliness, making gatherings more enjoyable and being a focal point for the family.
Sensory Experience:
The distinctive crackling sounds and the natural aroma of burning wood contribute to a multi-sensory experience that modern heating systems try to replicate. This sensory richness can enhance your mood and provide a sense of well-being.
As with any heating choice, it’s important to assess your individual circumstances including local fuel availability and council environmental regulations to determine the best fit for your home. At Kent we have been designing and selling innovative wood fires for Kiwi homes (https://kent.co.nz/shop/?filters=product_cat%5Bindoor-wood-fires%5D) that are efficient and conform to local rules, so one might be the right choice for your home too.