Energy-efficient homes become hot topic for Stanley stoves

A STOVE manufacturer, forced to put half its workforce on a three-day week, hopes new energy-efficiency laws will be an invaluable lifeline for the plant.

Seventy-five workers at Waterford Stanley have begun short-time working, due to a seasonal drop in demand.

But the indigenous Irish manufacturer hopes new energy ratings for households will spur demand for its stoves — cast-iron, home heating hubs, which are far more efficient than open fires and increase a home’s energy rating and value.

Energy efficiency and renewable energy are no longer the realm of those with an eco-passion. It’s now the law. From January 1, 2009, all buildings, whether new or second-hand, will require a energy rating if they are to be sold or rented. Energy-efficient heating sources have become hot topics and Stanley says that installing a stove is a simple yet effective way of increasing a home’s energy rating.

Independent research shows stoves are three times more efficient than open fires. While up to 70 % of heat from an open fire goes straight up the chimney, Stanley stoves retain as much as 70% heat in the home.

Waterford Stanley technical director Michael Stack said while stoves are a great focal point and provide a powerful, attractive flame, most homeowners investing in stoves are doing so for environmental reasons. Not only are they more efficient than most other heat sources, they also boost a home’s BER (Building Energy Rating).

Stove converts say the fuel they burn lasts much longer and seems to burn at a higher temperature. And because stoves burn fuel right down to a very fine ash, disposing of the byproduct is also less harmful to the environment.

Stoves featuring integrated boilers also double up as secondary heating sources, capable of powering up to 10 radiators throughout the typical home.

“Consumers in Ireland are now beginning to recognise the value of burning fuel efficiently. Under the dwelling energy assessment procedure set down by Sustainable Energy Ireland, open fires have an efficiency of 30% while stoves have an efficiency of 60%. The efficiency of Stanley stoves which have been third party tested yield efficiencies up to 79%,” said Mr Stack.

“Using high efficiency Stanley Stove improves the overall building energy rating of a home, increasing its value under the new energy rating system now compulsory for all new home builds. The annual saving on the fuel bill is dependent on the end user but a fuel saving of up to 60% can be achieved using a Stanley stove while giving a much more comfortable and warmer room.”

Conor Falvey of MD O’Shea & Sons in Ballincollig, Cork, said while there were imitations on the market, Waterford Stanley stoves are still the leading seller.

“We would always recommend Waterford Stanley products to our customers. The brand is synonymous with quality, reliability and efficiency and we know we can stand over everything in the Stanley range we sell.”