Chimeneas or patio/decking heaters

Traditionally Chimeneas were made from clay, however these are more susceptible to frost and other damage and I personally think that cast iron Chimeneas are better all round.

Chimeneas are often advertised as an alternative to BBQ s etc to cook food on but although it is perfectly possible to do so particually on this model which has a grill I think it is much better to regard them solely as heaters.

Ideally you need seasoned wood at least a couple of years old but in practice once they have been lit for a while and are well under way with a good base pretty much anything will burn in them.

As with most cast iron heaters, due to their weight, ( this one weighs nearly 100 lbs ) it comes ready to be assembled by yourself, this particular model has the advantage that unlike a lot of cheaper inferior models it has already be pre-assembled and the taken apart for packaging. This means that all the parts should fit together easily and with no missing parts.

A handy tip for anyone assembling one of these is to make sure to put in all bolts,screws etc loosely first before tightening, If you put in a couple and tighten them right up it can be very difficult sometimes to get others into the right place.

Like lighting most fires it is best to start the fire with small kindling sticks over paper or firelighters and only putting on more timber increasing in size as the fire gets under way.

The height of this particular model is worth noting as at 45 inches tall it is going to take the smoke up to a height that won't be a nusense.

This Chimenea will bring a whole new dimension to having friends round for drinks outside, as not only does it extend the time outside in the evenings it is a talking point in itself and a place to stand round chatting.