What type of stove is the most energy efficient?

When you think about how we heat our homes today compared to even 20 years ago, a lot has changed. Back then, most households relied on gas boilers with radiators, electric storage heaters, open fires, or oil boilers in rural areas.

Fast forward to now, and we have a far wider range of mainstream alternatives, from condensing gas boilers and heat pumps to biomass stoves, infrared panels, hybrid systems, and even smart heating controls that optimise your existing setup.

But for many homeowners, heating isn’t just about warmth. It’s also about style, comfort, and creating a welcoming focal point. That’s why stoves remain such a popular choice in homes across London, Essex, and Hertfordshire. They combine efficiency with ambience — a practical and aesthetic solution rolled into one. At Something Different, one of the most common questions we’re asked is: “What type of stove is the most energy efficient?”

The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, but by looking at the main stove types, we can see how they compare. We’ll explore the efficiency of each fuel type and help you understand which one works best for your needs.

Understanding stove efficiency

Before we get into the different types, it’s essential to understand what efficiency means in this context. A stove’s efficiency rating measures how effectively it converts its fuel into usable heat for your home. It’s typically expressed as a percentage. The higher the percentage, the more heat you get from the fuel you burn. This means less heat is wasted, and you get more value for your money. This is especially true for modern, Ecodesign-compliant stoves, which are designed to be cleaner and more efficient than older models.

Multi-fuel and wood-burning stoves

Multi-fuel and wood-burning stoves are a popular choice due to their classic look and the comforting experience of a real fire. The crackle of logs and the warmth of the flames create an unmatched atmosphere. But how do we rate them in terms of efficiency?

Modern wood-burning and multi-fuel stoves are now incredibly efficient, with many Ecodesign-ready models boasting efficiency ratings of 75%-85%. This is a huge improvement over traditional open fires, which are often less than 25% efficient. These new stoves feature advanced clean burn technology, which re-burns gases and particles before they leave the flue pipe, ensuring you get the maximum amount of heat from your fuel.

To get the best efficiency, you need to use the right fuel. For wood burners, this means using dry, seasoned, or kiln-dried wood with a moisture content of 20% or less. Burning wet wood is inefficient because it creates more smoke, harms your chimney, and produces less heat, which is a waste of both fuel and money. If you have a multi-fuel stove, you have the flexibility to also burn smokeless coal, which gives off a longer, more consistent heat. However, for maximum heat from wood alone, a dedicated wood-burning stove is generally the better choice, as it’s specifically designed for burning logs. It’s also worth remembering that wood, when sourced responsibly, is a more sustainable fuel choice than fossil fuels.

Gas stoves

For those who love the look of a real flame but want the convenience of modern technology, a gas stove is an excellent choice. Gas stoves offer the instant ambience of a flickering fire in just a click of a button or remote control. No manual stoking or trips to the wood shed are required.

When it comes to efficiency, gas stoves are top performers. Modern, glass-fronted gas stoves can achieve efficiency ratings of up to 85% or even higher. Because the flame is contained behind a glass front, very little heat is lost to the room’s air. The heat is instead radiated into the room, making them incredibly effective at warming your living space.

The cost of running a gas stove can often be lower than electricity, and with the high efficiency ratings of modern models, you can be sure you’re getting great value. They also offer precise temperature control, allowing you to easily adjust the heat output to your exact comfort level. This level of control and convenience, combined with high efficiency, makes them a very popular choice.

Electric stoves

If a chimney or gas supply isn’t an option for you, an electric stove offers the perfect solution. Electric stoves provide the charm and aesthetic of a traditional stove without the need for any flue, chimney, or complex installation. They are easy to set up and can be placed in almost any room.

In terms of energy efficiency, electric stoves are unique. They operate with 100% efficiency at the point of use. Meaning all of the electricity they consume is converted directly into heat. There is no waste, as there is no flue for heat to escape through.

However, as always, it’s important to consider the bigger picture. The efficiency of a stove also comes hand in hand with the cost of fuel. Electricity is often more expensive than gas or wood, so while an electric stove is 100% efficient at turning electricity into heat, the overall running cost can sometimes be higher. However, because of their convenience, ease of use and zero emissions in the home, they remain a popular choice amongst homeowners. Many models also come with advanced features like flame-only settings and remote controls, allowing you to enjoy the ambience without the heat. 

Which stove is the most energy efficient?

While an electric stove technically converts the most (every) bit of energy it uses into heat, this would suggest they are the most energy efficient. A modern gas stove, with its high efficiency and lower running costs, can also be a very economical choice. Similarly, a multi-fuel or wood-burning stove, when using the right fuel, can be a highly efficient and cost-effective way to heat your home while providing a unique atmosphere. The best stove for you ultimately depends on your unique needs, the set-up of your home, your lifestyle and your budget. An electric stove offers a simple and efficient solution to homes without a chimney or gas, with no installation fuss.

Whichever type of stove you choose, investing in modern high-quality appliances that meet the latest standards is the most important thing for efficiency and performance.

Newer stoves are designed to be more efficient and environmentally friendly than older models, ensuring you get the most from your heating system.

At Something Different, we are specialists in the design and installation of all types of fires and fireplaces. Our showroom in Chingford is home to a wide range of displays, allowing you to see and feel the difference for yourself. Whether you’re in Essex, Hertfordshire, or London, our friendly team is here to help you find the perfect, energy-efficient stove to keep your home warm and welcoming for years to come.