HETAS = Safe
By Wes Dodd – WD Wood Burner Installations, Poole, Bournemouth & Dorset
If you’re thinking about installing a log burner in your home, one of the most important decisions you’ll make isn’t the stove itself – it’s who installs it.
As a HETAS-registered engineer based in Poole and serving Bournemouth and Dorset, I can tell you that using a qualified installer is about much more than ticking a box. It’s about safety, compliance, efficiency, and peace of mind.
Here’s why choosing a HETAS engineer really matters.
What Is HETAS?
HETAS stands for the Heating Equipment Testing and Approvals Scheme. It’s the official body in the UK that approves biomass and solid fuel appliances, fuels, and services.
When you hire a HETAS installer, you know they have:
- Proper training in stove installation and maintenance.
- Up-to-date knowledge of building regulations.
- The ability to self-certify installations, saving you paperwork and inspection fees.
In short: HETAS engineers are the gold standard for stove installations.
Why It Matters for Homeowners
1. Safety Comes First
A poorly installed stove can cause:
- Chimney fires.
- Carbon monoxide leaks.
- Damage to your property.
A HETAS engineer ensures your installation is safe, with proper ventilation, flue setup, and fire protection in place.
2. Compliance With Building Regulations
All solid fuel appliance installations in the UK must meet Part J of the Building Regulations.
If you use a non-registered installer, you’ll need to:
- Apply for Building Control approval.
- Pay inspection fees.
- Wait for a sign-off.
With a HETAS engineer, the job is self-certified – quick, easy, and fully compliant.
3. Insurance and Property Value
Insurance companies often require proof of proper installation. A HETAS certificate provides that evidence.
If you ever sell your home, buyers and solicitors will ask for certificates for the stove. With HETAS, you’ll have the paperwork ready.
4. Efficiency and Performance
An experienced HETAS installer doesn’t just make your stove safe – they make it work at its best.
That means:
- Correct flue size and liner.
- Proper air supply for clean burning.
- Better heat output, saving money on logs.
5. Ongoing Advice and Support
HETAS engineers aren’t just installers – they’re trained to give you advice on:
- The best wood to burn.
- How to use your stove efficiently.
- When to sweep and service your chimney.
With WD Wood Burner Installations, you get local aftercare and a friendly point of contact in Dorset.
Comparison Table – HETAS Engineer vs Non-Registered Installer
| Factor | HETAS Engineer | Non-Registered Installer |
|---|---|---|
| Safety | Professionally trained, compliant setup | Risk of poor installation, hazards |
| Certification | Provides HETAS certificate | Must apply for Building Control |
| Insurance | Accepted by insurers | May cause issues with cover |
| Property value | Adds value with compliance paperwork | Can delay or affect house sales |
| Efficiency | Correct flue and air supply for best burn | Often less efficient, more fuel use |
FAQ: HETAS Installers
1. Do I legally need a HETAS installer?
No – but if you don’t, you’ll need Building Control approval, which costs time and money. A HETAS installer simplifies the process.
2. What does a HETAS certificate prove?
That your stove has been installed safely and meets all legal requirements.
3. Can any builder or handyman fit a log burner?
They could, but without HETAS registration, you risk safety issues, lack of certification, and potential problems with insurance and resale.
4. How do I know if an installer is HETAS registered?
Ask for their HETAS ID card or check the official HETAS website.
5. Does HETAS cover chimney sweeping too?
HETAS registers installers, retailers, and chimney sweeps. Always check the type of registration your engineer holds.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a log burner is exciting – but choosing the right installer is even more important. A HETAS engineerguarantees that your stove will be fitted safely, legally, and to the highest standard.
As your local HETAS-registered installer covering Poole, Bournemouth, Christchurch, Wimborne, Swanage, Wareham, and Corfe Mullen, I provide certified installations, chimney sweeping, and aftercare so you can enjoy your stove with total confidence.
👉 Contact WD Wood Burner Installations today for professional HETAS-approved installations and expert advice across Dorset.
