Finance for Stoves & Fireplaces

Warmth, Style, and Smarts - Funded the Right Way

The UK is rethinking home heat. Rising energy costs, tougher clean air rules, and a strong push to net zero are reshaping what we install in our living rooms and gardens. The fireplaces and stoves market is forecast to grow at around 9.4% annually from 2025 to 2031, with electric, bioethanol, and hybrid models gaining ground as cleaner, compliant choices. For many households, finance is the bridge between intention and installation.

Understanding APR is not just about percentages - it is about what you will really pay over time. With stoves and fireplaces, there are additional layers to consider: installation, flue work, electrical or gas certification, and whether the model you want meets Ecodesign standards or is DEFRA-approved for smoke control areas. The result is a purchase that blends regulatory compliance with aesthetic appeal and day-to-day running efficiency.

In recent years, ownership of wood-burning stoves has edged up, driven largely by Ecodesign-compliant units that deliver higher efficiency and lower emissions. Demand is not confined to the countryside. Urban homeowners increasingly look to DEFRA-approved stoves or low-emission electric and gas models to balance warmth with air quality. At the same time, smart fireplaces - controllable via app or integrated with home systems - are rising in popularity for their convenience, safety features, and predictable running costs.

Financing these choices can make sense. Spreading the upfront cost can help you move to a cleaner, more efficient system now, especially if you are replacing an older, non-compliant burner. It also allows room in your budget for professional installation, which is essential for safety and performance and sometimes legally required. Whether you are planning a modern electric centrepiece or a versatile multi-fuel stove, the right finance structure can support a compliant, future-ready upgrade.

Banner image idea: a contemporary UK lounge with a sleek electric fireplace, soft lighting, and natural textures, creating a calm, cosy focal point.

Who Will Benefit Most

If you are a UK homeowner or buyer looking to upgrade heating with an eye on efficiency, compliance, and design, stove and fireplace finance can help you act sooner. It suits households replacing older, higher-emission models, those in smoke control zones who need DEFRA-approved solutions, and anyone drawn to smart, low-emission electric or gas installs. Landlords planning selective upgrades for EPC and tenant appeal can also benefit. If your project involves professional installation, flue or chimney works, or an outdoor gas fire table for year-round use, finance can bundle the complete cost into manageable monthly payments while preserving savings for other home improvements.

Your Funding Choices

1. Fixed-rate personal loan via broker for full project cost.

2. Retail point-of-sale finance from the stove or fireplace retailer.

3. 0 percent promotional card for smaller purchases, if repaid on time.

4. Secured home improvement loan for larger, structural installations.

5. Green or eco-labelled finance for high-efficiency or DEFRA-approved models.

6. Buy now, pay later options with clear, short-term repayment schedules.

7. Split funding - part cash, part finance for installation and extras.

Costs, Impact, Returns, and Risks Compared

Who Qualifies and What Lenders Look For

Eligibility is typically based on UK residency, age 18 plus, and affordability checks that consider income, existing commitments, and credit history. For secured borrowing, lenders may look at property value and available equity. If you finance through a retailer, proof of ID and address with a soft credit check may start the process, followed by a hard check at approval. Many providers view stove and fireplace projects positively when the products are Ecodesign or DEFRA-approved because they align with cleaner air rules and lower emissions. Installation by Gas Safe engineers for gas, qualified electricians for electric units, and competent stove installers for solid fuel systems is often expected and can be financed alongside the appliance. As a UK-based retail finance broker, Kandoo can introduce you to multiple lenders, helping match your budget, credit profile, and project scope, whether you plan a compact electric suite, a multi-fuel centrepiece, or an outdoor gas fire table.

From Application to Installation - The Simple Path

1. Tell us your project, budget, and preferred timeframe.

2. Get matched to lenders based on your profile.

3. Compare APRs, terms, and total repayable amount.

4. Upload ID, address, and income verification documents.

5. Receive a decision and review your credit agreement.

6. Funds arranged for appliance purchase and installation.

7. Book certified installers and confirm compliance sign-off.

8. Switch on, set schedules, and monitor running costs.

Advantages and Trade-offs

Read This Before You Commit

A stove or fireplace is both a heating solution and a design investment. Start with the compliance baseline for your area, especially if you live in a smoke control zone where DEFRA approval or Ecodesign standards are essential. Size the appliance correctly to your room to avoid inefficiency and discomfort. Plan for professional installation and certification, as this is fundamental to safety and performance. If smart features matter, check compatibility with your home network and ensure remote controls, sensors, and timers are supported. Scrutinise the finance agreement: look at APR, total amount repayable, fees, and any promotional terms that change after a set period. Budget for running costs and maintenance, including sweeping for solid fuel systems and servicing gas appliances. A careful, numbers-first approach will help you achieve a warmer, cleaner, and compliant home without financial surprises.

Alternatives if Plans Change

1. Delay purchase and save, then buy during off-peak discounts.

2. Choose a simpler electric suite with lower installation costs.

3. Refurbish an existing fireplace with an inset electric unit.

4. Opt for bioethanol for ambience without flue works.

5. Portable electric heaters for occasional zoned heating.

6. Whole-home efficiency upgrades like insulation before appliances.

FAQs - Clear Answers You Can Rely On

Q: Do I need a DEFRA-approved stove in a city flat? A: If you are in a smoke control area, a DEFRA-approved or Ecodesign-compliant model is typically required for solid fuel use. Electric and gas options provide low-emission alternatives.

Q: Are smart electric fireplaces expensive to run? A: Costs depend on tariff and usage. Smart scheduling, thermostats, and zoning help keep consumption predictable and can reduce waste compared with manual operation.

Q: Can finance cover installation and certification? A: Yes. Many lenders allow the full project cost, including flue work, Gas Safe installation, and electrical sign-off, to be bundled into a single agreement.

Q: Are multi-fuel stoves still popular in the UK? A: Yes. Their adaptability to different fuels keeps them in demand, especially where flexibility and reliability are valued alongside efficiency.

Q: What about outdoor heating like gas fire tables? A: The UK market is growing quickly. Gas fire tables are easy to install, compliant with clean air rules, and can be financed for gardens, patios, or commercial terraces.

Q: Will a high-efficiency model help with regulations? A: Newer wood burners and gas stoves are designed to meet stricter eco standards, supporting compliance in urban settings and smoke control zones.

Ready to Compare Your Options

If you are considering an Ecodesign, DEFRA-approved, electric, gas, hybrid, or multi-fuel model, we can help you finance it sensibly. Kandoo connects you with a panel of UK lenders, so you can compare APRs, terms, and total repayments before you commit. Get a tailored option that matches your budget and installation plan, and move forward with confidence.

Important Information

Kandoo is a credit broker, not a lender. Finance is subject to status, affordability checks, and terms from the lender. Rates and product availability can change. Always consider total cost, including installation and running expenses, before entering a credit agreement.