Ultiflame, Puraflame, Electriflame... What Is The Difference?

CELSI ELECTRIC FIRES use the most up to date technology to give you the most convincing real fire effect available. Celsi - not just a fireplace. It’s an experience.

Combining style with innovation, the Celsi range of  electric fires and heaters is the ultimate in high technology.

Celsi encoroprates three completely different ranges of electric fires.

The Celsi Puraflame range features LCD technology and gives you some  the most convincing real fire effect available today. A Celsi Puraflame electric heater is extremely versatile and creates a breathtaking feature virtually anywhere in your home, from your lounge to your bedroom. Celsi Puraflame is also the only electric fire to give you the astonishing look and sound of a real fire, combined with exceptional functionality. At the touch of a button you can control your roomtemperature, flame picture, flame speed, volume and brightness. Celsi Puraflame is not just a fireplace. It’s an experience.
The Ultiflame range of electric fires use innovative technology to create an ideal electric heating appliance that combines slim product depth with the appearance of an exceptionally deep fuel bed. The fascinating and highly realistic flame picture is created using LED projection technology to give the look of a full depth fire which can be viewed from any angle. Ultiflame
also benefits from a low power flame effect system which consumes 90% less energy than conventional electric fires when on the flame only setting. The heat output temperature can be adjusted between 0.75kW and 1.5kW and the brightness of the fuel bed glow can be customised too. Every model in this range can be operated by push buttons discretely hidden beneath the canopy of the fire or via an ergonomically designed remote control handset. With an overall product depth of just 3” this fire can be fitted against a flat wall with any 3” rebated surround with no requirement for an additional spacer.

The Celsi Electriflame is the latest flame effect from Celsi and features LED technology to create a unique flame effect, available in a number of different models, ranging from hang on the wall electric fires to inset electric fires. The Electriflame effect also allows 3 different brightness settings and a totally silent flame effect operation. With remote control as standard and concealed manual controls these fires can be fitted against a flat wall with any 3” rebated surround with no requirement for an additional spacer.

Ekol 'Crystal' Advanced Cleanburn Technology

The Ekol 'Crystal' range has been designed by Cleanburn Technology Experts to provide the ultimate Cleanburning Smokeless Woodburning Stoves suitable for use in all of the UKs towns and cities designated smokeless zones, including the strictly controlled Central London areas.
The Clean-Burn result of a highly advanced combustion chamber means your chimney will show a clear vapour escaping instead of black smoke associated with regular stoves and fireplaces. Switching your existing fireplace or stove to the Ultra Cleanburning effects of the Ekol Crystal can reduce asthma related symptoms and other respiratory problems, both inside the house and for those in the local area.
Officially recognised by DEFRA, making it legal to burn wood in any Smoke Control Zone area of the UK, the Ekol Crystal range showed through rigorous testing that their smoke particle emissions are as little as just one third of the amount allowed to pass the stringent DEFRA approval.

Ekol Stoves have developed a technology whereby wood can now be burned so efficiently and cleanly that it can legally over-ride this legislation - Once again people in these areas are able to burn wood legally, using an Ekol Stove. Ekol stoves are officially a 'DEFRA Exempted Appliance'.
Most of the UKs population lives within Smokeless Zones so will require a DEFRA approved stove to legally burn wood.
Ekol Cleanburn Technology is not just for those in Smoke Control areas though - any one can benefit from Ekol Stoves, and here are just a few of the advantages.......
Firstly you will notice the glass on your stove is incredibly clean even compared to other modern stoves with airwash systems - this is simply because there is no longer the same amount of smoke and tar present. Also, the pre-heated Tertiary air System ensures the gases in the stove are not allowed to solidify.
Secondly, the "Dancing Flame" effect created by the Hot Air Injection System will have you mesmerised watching the fire burn.
Less Maintenance - Because the level of combustion is radically increased, much less ash is produced so the whole stove requires less cleaning. Also, the huge reduction of smoke and solid particles from the chimney mean less chimney sweeping.
Ease of use - Woodburning with Ekol Cleanburn Technology has never been easier. With three sets of Air Supply Vents giving you maximum control, the firebox Airsupply is quickly brought up to temperature allowing the stove to rapidly get to its most efficient operating temperature making it easy to get going and to maintain and refuel the fire.

No chimney, no problem

We are probably all familiar with a traditional brick built chimney which would have been a requirement in every period property as we would have relied upon them to provide warmth from the open fire. But with the switch to gas and central heating chimneys soon started to dwindle in modern properties and the traditional inefficient open fire made way for the new high efficient gas fire. As fashions change and we progress through the decades, new things become old and old things become new we have seen a resurgence of the open fire.

Stoves have been a part of many home owners lives for a number of years, in fact the first stove was invented in 1741. But the stove largely remained in the country side where there were no smoke control laws imposed. Stoves were introduced into the more mainstream market as the demand for open fires increased and with the demand for more efficiency to meet those attained from gas fires. One of the problems being though that over the last 60 years the majority of new homes were rarely built with a traditional chimney, as they were not needed for new gas fires. Fortunately though for anybody who has a modern built home without a chimney there are a number of chimney systems available to give virtually everybody the chance to enjoy the magic of a woodburning fire. The most popular of the systems being a twin wall flue system. This is stainless steel solid pipe which is enclosed within another pipe and then insulated. This can be installed just about anywhere and is either taken through the wall and up the side of the house or through the inside of the house.

For those who don’t like the stainless steel appearance on the outside of the house then it may be possible for the flue to be supplied in virtually any colour from terracota to teal, but normally just in black. If you don’t have a chimney in your home but would love to have a woodburner installed just contact your local HETAS engineer and they can arrange a survey to run through different options and the best one for you.

The electric stove just got even more realistic thanks to the Dimplex Oakhurst

The Oakhurst with the latest Opti-myst® electric flame and smoke effect is a compact traditional style stove and the latest addition to Dimplex's award winning collection of electric fires.
With compact dimensions but all the proportions of a classic, contemporary cast iron woodburning stove, the new Oakhurst is ideal for creating an instant focal point in all types and sizes of properties.

The Opti-myst flame effect is acknowledged to be the world's most convincing illusion of real dancing flames and wisps of smoke and it's featured in a range of fires styles including stoves, insets, suites and a new basket fire with cast iron grate.

Like all Dimplex electric fires, it needs no flue and can simply be plugged in and the flame effect used independently of the heat from the concealed 2kW fan heater if required.
The flame and smoke intensity control is fully variable and a remote control gives armchair selection of on/off and the two heat settings, governed by a thermostat.

For added authenticity, the Oakhurst (model OKT20) is finished in a matt black cast iron effect with opening doors. Its dimensions are H620mm, W480mm and has a depth of just 300mm. It is also BEAB approved, for an independently tested and monitored guarantee of safety.

Dimplex Tahoe

Dimplex is extending its Display and Demonstrate range of fires with the launch of the stylish Tahoe wall fire, featuring the award-winning Opti-myst® smoke and flame effect, acknowledged to be the world’s most realistic.
The Display and Demonstrate range has been created to help drive sales directly through the independent retailer channel. All models are available at a competitive price for outlets committing to in-store displays, rather than internet sales. The range also comes with an extended guarantee, allowing retailers to offer their customers an extra edge of exclusivity. Now with an additional 2 years free warranty when purchased in store, further setting the Dimplex Display and Demonstrate fires apart from the rest.

The Tahoe’s chic black finish frame gives a stylish contemporary feel. It is one of three new wall fires from Dimplex featuring the revolutionary Opti-myst® smoke and flame effect; the first time the technology has been available as a wall-mounted design.
The open fronted design gives an uninterrupted view of the unique and amazingly realistic smoke and flame effect, and to create the right mood, the intensity of the effect is fully variable. For user convenience, a remote control gives armchair control over both ‘flames’ and heat.

The Opti-myst® smoke and flame effect is silent in operation, and can be used independently of the heat to give an instant focal point to any room. A concealed 2kW fan heater gives a fast warm-up when required, with an accurate thermostat to avoid overheating, keeping running costs down.

For the ultimate in straightforward installation, the Tahoe has been designed for wall-mounting only, and cannot be inset. A quick-fit IEC kettle-type connection ensures that the fire is ready in moments, and like all Dimplex fires the Redway is BEAB approved for an added extra reassurance of safety.
The Redway’s dimensions are 690mm high and 760mm wide, and with a total depth of just 181mm, the Redway adds contemporary style to any room, without taking up any floor space.

Hiring A Chimney Sweep

What are the benefits of hiring a professional chimney sweep?

A good chimney sweep will have the necessary training and experience to notice problems which might lead to chimney fires or inefficient burning and will be able to bring these problems to your attention.

Most chimney sweeps will also inspect your chimney for potential problems from the roof. Even if you have an idea about what to look for, it might be problematic, or even dangerous, for you to attempt this yourself. It is also unlikely that your own untrained eye would notice more subtle problems, such as signs of freeze-thaw weathering. If a problem is noticed early, it will probably be easier, and cheaper, to fix.

It is also much more convenient to hire a professional to take what will inevitably be a time consuming, physically draining and messy job off your hands. Hiring a professional would also bring you the peace of mind of knowing that problems have not been overlooked and that your chimney is safe and well-maintained.

How often should I have my chimney cleaned?

At least once a year. Chimney sweeps usually advise that chimneys ought to be cleaned after a period of prolonged disuse (over the summer for example). Many also advise that chimneys should be cleaned before the end of the heating season to ensure that the chimney is clear of animal nests and prepared for the subsequent idle period.

If a chimney is used very often, it might be necessary to sweep it more often. A professional chimney sweep would be able to advise the optimum cleaning schedule for your chimney.

Do I need to have my chimney swept if I have a gas fire?

Yes, although less frequently. Blockages in chimneys connected to gas fires can lead to a build-up of carbon monoxide and other harmful gases. A professional chimney sweep can advise how often your chimney ought to be swept.

Where can I find a good chimney sweep?

As with many things, word o

f mouth is the best means of securing a reliable chimney sweep. If you do not know anyone else who has a real coal or wood fire, chimney sweeps can be found in the Yellow Pages, and most will be more than willing to provide you with a list of references. Do not be afraid to follow these up. It is also important to ask how much experience the chimney sweep has, and whether or not he or she is fully insured.

The National Association of Chimney Sweeps website also provides an excellent means of locating a reliable chimney sweep in your area. All members of the National Association of Chimney Sweeps are fully qualified and experienced, have full public liability insurance and issue certificates on completion of their work. For additional peace of mind, all members are also required to provide references on request. If you would prefer to contact the National Association of Chimney Sweeps by telephone, you can do so on +44 (0)800 833464.

You can also contact the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps, the professional association of chimney sweeps in the UK. They train, assess and monitor their members to ensure that customers receive the best service. If you are looking for a chimney sweep in the UK, please check their database of chimney sweeps in your area.

Guide to chimney sweeping

When most people think of chimney sweeps, they conjure an image of a soot-covered child in the midst of the Industrial Revolution. Chimney sweeping is an ancient profession. Records of people earning their living by clean chimneys go back as far as the 16th century.
However,

in a world in which modern conveniences such as central heating have largely replaced the once ubiquitous coal and wood fires used to heat homes, one could easily assume that chimney sweeps no longer exist. This would, however, be a false assumption: chimney sweeps are not the anachronisms most people presume them to be, but thoroughly modern professional tradesmen. If you are one of the growing number of people who have a functioning coal or wood fire in your home, it might well be in your interests to acquaint yourself with a modern day chimney sweep.
Old-fashioned fireplaces are becoming increasingly coveted, and for good reason: a well restored fireplace can add great character to a room, and, if it is well-maintained, can be an excellent source of heat during the cold winter months. However, the benefits of having a real coal or wood fire in your home must be balanced by dedicating a little time and money to ensuring that your fireplace functions both safely and efficiently.
The National Association of Chimney Sweeps defines the primary role of the modern chimney sweep as "to aid in the prevention of chimney fires and reduce the risk of dangerous fume emissions from blocked heating appliances, flueways and chimneys." This article seeks to address some frequently asked questions, and to explain how a chimney sweep could help you to maintain a safer, more efficient fireplace.

How a fireplace works

As a fire burns in a fireplace, the air from the room goes through the grate and fuels the fire. As the fire burns, it releases numerous gases which rise, as they are lighter than the surrounding air. These gases then escape up the chimney and are released into the atmosphere. As these substances pass through the chimney, a substance commonly referred to as soot begins to accumulate on the walls. This includes a flammable substance called creosote. Over time, these deposits can begin to obstruct - and eventually completely block – the chimney.
Such an obstruction can lead to an inefficient, and potentially unsafe, fireplace. This can be explained by the fact that a well-functioning chimney is necessary not only to allow potentially harmful gases to escape from the room, but also to ensure that the fire burns efficiently. As hot air ascends in the chimney, the fire sucks in more air from the room through the grate, in order to fill the space that has been left. Without this continuous supply of air, the fire would burn itself out. Deposits of flammable substances such as creosote also have the potential to cause chimney fires. Thus, a clean chimney is also a safer, more efficient chimney.

Can't I clean my chimney myself?

If you have a day to devote to the task, lots of patience and the necessary equipment, it is possible to clean your chimney yourself. Bear in mind, however, that chimney sweeping can be a somewhat messy process! Make sure that you cover the fireplace and carpet with plastic or a dust sheet before you begin.
It is now possible to rent a vacuum cleaner specifically designed for cleaning chimneys from most DIY stores. This may be adequate if the chimney is in reasonably good condition, but it is unlikely to be of much use if the chimney has been neglected for a prolonged period or if there is a lot of impacted soot. If you cannot see far enough up the chimney to discern whether or not this is the case, or are unsure, it would probably be better to consult a professional chimney sweep than to risk overlooking an obstruction that might be a safety hazard.
It is also possible to purchase chemicals which can be put onto the fire before it is lit. When these chemicals burn, they produce a gas which breaks down most of the substances commonly deposited inside chimneys. It is worth remembering that it is inevitable that loosened soot will end up crashing down into your fireplace, so be prepared for a fairly time-consuming clean-up!
If you would prefer not to attempt either of these more modern methods, you could always hire some brushes. This takes a lot of patience and can be physically tiring. You will also need a sturdy ladder and quality footwear if you want to examine your chimney from the roof.
If you choose to maintain your own chimney, it is worth remembering that keeping the chimney clean will not be your only task; routine maintenance tasks ought not to be overlooked. For example, firebacks will inevitably become damaged by the heat of the fire, and cracks may begin to appear. It is possible to do a patch-up job on smaller cracks, but in the event of larger cracks appearing, it is best to install a replacement. Whilst it is also possible to do both of these jobs yourself with the aid of a good DIY manual, it might be more convenient to consider hiring a professional.