Wood Burner Problems

Installing a wood burner can bring warmth and charm to a home, but it also poses unique challenges, especially when it comes to protecting electrical wiring near the stove’s location. We’ve gathered insights from experienced individuals who’ve discussed this issue to provide you with valuable information on how to address it.

The Dilemma

Imagine you’re installing a wood burner, and the stove installers recommend removing two sockets located just 9-12 inches away from the new stove position. This situation can be tricky and potentially expensive for the homeowner, especially if rewiring to hide the cables in the ceiling is required.

Metal Blanking Plate Consideration

One suggestion that surfaced during the discussion was the use of a metal blanking plate. However, it’s crucial to understand that metal conducts heat, so a plate placed behind the wood burner will also get extremely hot. This can pose a risk to the cables and connections inside the wall.

Thermal Insulation as a Solution

To protect the electrical conductors and connections, some members suggested wrapping them in ceramic fiber wool with high-temperature resistance, approximately 1000°C. While this can help insulate the cables from direct heat exposure, it’s important to remember that this approach may reduce the cable’s current-carrying capacity (CCC) due to the insulating effect.

Practical Concerns

Others pointed out that even with insulation, the cable inside the wall behind the wood burner will still be exposed to high temperatures, potentially compromising its insulation and CCC.

The Ideal Solution

Considering the challenges, the consensus among contributors was that the most sensible solution is to reroute the electrical circuitry, relocating it well away from the wood burner’s heat zone. This approach may involve creating new routes for the cables or installing access points through ceilings or walls, allowing the cables to remain far from the stove’s heat.

Final Thoughts

Installing a wood burner is a wonderful addition to any home, but it’s essential to address electrical safety concerns effectively. While various solutions were discussed, the overarching advice is to prioritize rerouting electrical wiring to a safer location, ensuring the wood burner installation doesn’t compromise safety or electrical performance. Always consult with a qualified electrician to make informed decisions regarding your wood burner installation project.