Wood heat is good heat. This is especially true with today’s new technology. Now, domestic wood heaters burn cleaner and more efficiently.
If you’ve ever thought of heating with wood in your home, you’ll know there’s much to think about. You’ll need expert advice to choose the right style and size of wood heater. You’ll also need advice on installation, including for safety.
Quality retailers specialising in wood heaters will walk you through all your options.
In this article, we’ll outline the qualities to consider when choosing a wood heater retailer, and share the best in Canberra.
If you have an older wood burning heater in your home that isn’t performing at the top of its game, you might have decided to switch to an efficient electric heating system. If so, check out the Actsmart Wood Heater Replacement Program. This program aims to improve the ACT’s air quality. It does this with financial incentives for removing and disposing of domestic wood burning heaters and replacing them with efficient electric heating systems. You can get $250 for removing or decommissioning a wood heater, or $750 to $1,250 for installing an electric reverse cycle system.
What makes a great wood heater retailer?
Choosing the right wood heater retailer can help fast-track your decision on what product to buy. It can also take the stress out of selecting the wrong size or type of wood heater.
It can be helpful to keep the following in mind when choosing a wood heater retailer.
- Experience. You’ll want to talk to a retailer who is an expert at wood heaters, who can explain the advantages of modern models. Today’s wood heaters are designed with advanced technology. Wood heater specialists are trained on all aspects of wood heaters. Ask if your retailer is a member of the Australian Home Heating Association.
- Range. Choice is always an advantage when selecting a wood heater retailer. So many models are on the market, in a wide range of sizes and styles. Choose a retailer with a great range and different price points.
- Communications. You’ll want a wood heater retailer who is a great communicator and can explain in plain English what you need to know. You don’t want to be baffled by technical jargon.
- Customer service. A new wood heater is an investment so you’ll want your purchase backed by quality and attentive customer service (including after-sales). Ask your retailer about a professional installer who installs in line with safety and clearance standards (AS.NZS 2918).
- Price. Wood heaters vary in price. Choose a retailer with options for your budget.
The best wood heater retailers in Canberra
RiotACT’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on RiotACT and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Barbeques Galore
When it comes to indoor and outdoor heating, Barbeques Galore has been keeping customers warm and toasty since 1977. Its large showroom, at Majura Park, has around 80 produced, freestanding indoor wood heaters, insert indoor wood heaters, radiant indoor wood heaters, and convection indoor wood heaters. All styles are covered, and indoor heating accessories are available too.
On Google, Scott Mckenzie wrote, “Friendly staff willing to help and let you make a decision without hassling you.”
Burning Log Megastore
Burning Log Megastore has an extensive range of highly efficient wood burning fireplaces. They come in many styles, shapes and sizes. With more than 30 years of experience, Burning Log Megastore excels in quality products, value pricing and knowledgeable staff. This megastore has wood burning fireplaces to suit every budget.
Greg Norris wrote on Google, “Great range of wood fires, Weber BBQs and outdoor furniture. Friendly, knowledgeable staff.”
Fyshwick Home & Heating
Locally owned and family operated, Fyshwick Home & Heating provides top quality heating options at affordable prices. As specialists in wood heaters, electric heaters and gas fireplaces, knowledgeable staff provide quality customer service. The showroom has more than 100 types of heaters on display.
On Google, Naoise Boden-Brown wrote, “This is a genuine family business … Lovely salesman who gave a perfect combustion fire 101 for dummies (without making you feel dumb).”
If you’re looking for more information on making your home comfortable, you might like our articles on the best air conditioning service providers and the best solar panel installers Canberra has to offer.
Your experience with wood heater retailers in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the wood heater retailers listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are wood heaters bad for your health?
Old wood heaters can be bad for your health, with wood smoke containing harmful pollutants. Modern wood heaters are different. Today’s wood heaters burn cleaner and more efficiently. In Australia they must meet strict standards which is why they're now a clean energy alternative for your home.
What type of domestic wood heater should I buy?
Your choice will depend on many factors. This includes the size of your home, your budget and the style of wood heater you like. Talk to your wood heater retailer about radiant wood heaters and convection wood heaters.
Are domestic wood heaters safe?
If installed correctly, run properly and maintained correctly, domestic wood heaters are safe. Talk to your wood heater retailer and installation professional about safety.
How much do domestic wood heaters cost?
Today, a wide range of domestic wood heaters are on the market at various price points. Talk to wood heater retailers about your needs and budget. Get them to show you options that suit.
Aren’t wood heaters bad for the environment?
Today’s high-tech wood heaters are environmentally friendly. Many experts say they deliver the smallest greenhouse footprint for domestic heating in Australia. Engineers and technicians have worked hard to address the environmental issues of wood burning systems. Manufacturers now use modern technology to produce combustion systems. These are efficient and comply with the most stringent world emission standards. Firewood is a renewable source of energy that, when sustainably managed, recycles carbon from the atmosphere, leading to zero carbon emissions. Read more on the Australian Home Heating Association’s website.