When you decide to change your heating system, there are many options available to you. While heat pumps are all the rage, thermal renovation can also involve choosing a stove. But which one should you choose: wood-burning stove, pellet stove, or pellet stove? What are the different advantages and disadvantages? Maisons SIC, specialist in the construction and renovation of houses in the South West, helps you see things more clearly...
Thermal renovation: Heat pump (HP) or stove?
Carrying out a thermal renovation involves choosing an efficient heating system that's suited to your home. Heat pumps and stoves are two popular, but very different, solutions.
The heat pump works by capturing calories present in the air or the ground to transform them into heat. Its efficiency is excellent: it produces more energy than it consumes. In addition, some models are reversible and allow the interior to be cooled in summer. On the other hand, its installation may prove more expensive and may require additional work, such as adding underfloor heating or new radiators.
The stove, whether it runs on wood or pellets, provides gentle, natural heat. It's a popular solution for its warm atmosphere and lower purchase cost. Its installation is simpler and faster than a heat pump, but it requires storage space for the wood and regular maintenance, including chimney sweeping. its performance is lower than that of a heat pump, some models, such as mass stoves, can accumulate heat and diffuse it over several hours.
Budget side, the heat pump represents a significant investment (between €8 and €000), while a stove costs between €15 and €000.
More the so-called “air-air” heat pump, which works like an air conditioner (blower) is not necessarily more expensive than a stove heating system, and does not require major installation work either.
Fortunately, both of these solutions benefit from financial aid such as MyPrimeRenov' or CEE bonuses, which can significantly reduce the bill.
The choice depends on the desired heating method: the heat pump ensures stable and uniform thermal comfort, while the stove is an aesthetic and economical alternative, often used as a complement.
For a successful thermal renovation and global, Maisons SIC and its experts support you in your project to find the best solution according to your needs and your budget.
- Also read : Gas, electric, wood, solar, heat pump: which heating is the most economical in a new house?
Wood stove: the authentic warmth of logs
The wood stove is a heating solution that combines tradition and performanceIt works by burning logs, producing intense and natural heat.
Its diffusion system is based on three principles : convection, which heats the ambient air, radiation, which diffuses the heat around the stove, and draft, which optimizes combustion.
One of its main assets is its ecological aspect. Wood is a renewable energy and its use helps reduce the carbon footprint of the household.
Its cost is also advantageous, Especially if you have direct access to firewood. Unlike pellets, which require a manufacturing process, logs are a raw, natural resource.
Investing in a wood stove is generally more affordable than that of a pellet stove. Its price varies depending on the power and design.
However, its autonomy is more limited : the fireplace must be regularly refilled to maintain a constant heat. In terms of comfort, it provides a unique ambiance with the sight of the flames and the crackling of the wood.
Maintaining a wood stove is simple but regular. Mandatory chimney sweeping twice a year is necessary to ensure the safety and proper functioning of the appliance.
Despite some constraints, the wood stove remains an ideal option for lovers of gentle heat and authenticity.
Pellet stove: ease of use
The pellet stove is attractive for its efficiency and ease of use. Unlike the wood stove, it works with compressed wood pellets, burned automatically thanks to a continuous feed systemThis technology allows for even and regular heating, without manual intervention.
One of its great advantages is his autonomyA pellet stove can operate for several hours, or even several days, without reloading. In addition, it can be programmable, allowing precise adjustment of temperature and heating times.
This optimized consumption management offers excellent energy efficiency, often greater than 90%.
The cost of a pellet stove is slightly higher than that of a wood stove. However, it allows energy savings thanks to its high efficiency.
Its maintenance is also simpler: pellets produce less ash and do not require frequent handling. Regular cleaning of the fireplace and annual sweeping are sufficient to ensure its proper functioning.
Only drawback: It works with electricity. In the event of a power outage, it shuts down, unlike a wood-burning stove. Despite this, the pellet stove is an ideal choice for those looking for efficient, practical, and economical heating.
The mixed stove: an interesting solution?
The mixed stove combines the best of both worlds: the authentic warmth of logs and the practicality of pellets.
This intelligent system allows the use of either fuel depending on needs and availability. It is particularly appreciated for its flexibility, as it can automatically switch from one mode to another. For example, if the wood fire goes out in your absence, the stove switches to pellet mode to ensure continuous heating.
This type of stove also offers excellent autonomyUnlike conventional log stoves, there is no need to constantly refill the firebox. The pellets take over, allowing for constant and programmable heating.
Energy efficiency is another advantage : it varies between 76% and 94% depending on the models and the fuel used. Some mixed stoves are even BBC (Low Energy Building) certified, guaranteeing optimal performance.
However, Purchasing a mixed stove represents a higher investment than a classic model. It is therefore essential to assess your actual needs before opting for this solution. Maintenance remains simple, with mandatory chimney sweeping and regular cleaning of the fireplace and ash pan.
For a successful thermal renovation, it is therefore important to choose your heating system carefully according to your lifestyle and budget.
Maisons SIC, renovation expert, accompanies you in the overall improvement of your home : insulation, window and door replacement, and much more. Choose efficient and economical heating with a team of experts at your side.
