Aspect 4 Eco Wood Burning Stove vs Aspect 4 Compact Eco Wood Burning Stove: Which Should You Choose?
Choosing the right wood burning stove is essential for efficient, eco-friendly home heating. In this detailed comparison, we explore the Aspect 4 Eco Wood Burning Stove and the Aspect 4 Compact Eco Wood Burning Stove from Hunter Stoves, both available at National Flues. We analyse their heat output, size, efficiency, and design features to help you determine which model suits your home best. Whether you have a smaller room or require a striking centerpiece, our guide offers practical insights and installation requirements to ensure your chosen stove performs optimally.
Overview of the Aspect 4 Eco and Aspect 4 Compact Eco Wood Burning Stoves
The Aspect 4 Eco and Aspect 4 Compact Eco stoves are modern, highly efficient wood burning options designed to meet stringent UK environmental standards. Both stoves boast Eco Design 2022 approval and are exempt from smoke control regulations, making them versatile for use in urban and rural areas alike. With cleanburn technology, airwash systems, and options for direct air kits and grates, each offers a blend of performance and style.
Key Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Aspect 4 Eco Wood Burning Stove (PA04R1A) | Aspect 4 Compact Eco Wood Burning Stove (PA04C1) |
|---|---|---|
| Nominal Heat Output to Room | 4.5kW | 4.5kW |
| Heat Output Range | 3.5 - 5.5kW | 3 - 5kW |
| Energy Efficiency Rating | A+ | A+ |
| Efficiency on Wood | 81% | 81% |
| CO Emissions at 13% O₂ | 0.12% | 0.12% |
| Max Log Length | 280mm | 280mm |
| Flue Outlet | 5" Top or Rear | 5" Top or Rear |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 515 x 400 x 377 mm | 515 x 400 x 327 mm |
| Weight | 56 kg | 52 kg |
| Eco Design 2022 Approved | ✔ | ✔ |
| Smoke Control Exempt | ✔ | ✔ |
| Cleanburn Technology | ✔ | ✔ |
| Airwash for Glass | ✔ | ✔ |
| Direct Air Kit Option | ✔ | ✔ |
| Grate Option | ✔ | ✔ |
Detailed Comparison
Heat Output and Efficiency
Both the Aspect 4 Eco and Aspect 4 Compact Eco provide nominal heat outputs of 4.5kW, suitable for medium-sized rooms or living spaces. The Eco's range of 3.5 to 5.5kW offers a slightly higher upper limit compared to the Compact's 3 to 5kW, making it marginally better for spaces requiring more heat. Both stoves achieve an impressive 81% efficiency rating and maintain low CO emissions, ensuring both models deliver sustainable warmth with minimal environmental impact.
Size and Design
The main design difference lies in depth: the Aspect 4 Eco is deeper at 377mm versus 327mm for the Compact. This affects the footprint and is an important consideration for smaller rooms or tight installations. Both stoves share the same height and width (515 x 400 mm), enabling placement in similar wall or recess spaces. Each model features a large viewing window that maximises the visual appeal of the flames, with clean lines suitable for modern UK homes.
Features and Customisation
Cleanburn technology and airwash systems are standard on both models, helping to reduce emissions and keep the glass clear for a beautiful view. Both stoves offer options for direct air kits—allowing air to be drawn directly from outside, improving indoor air quality—and grate kits, enhancing multi-fuel capabilities. These flexible features make either stove adaptable to varying heating needs and installation environments.
Weight and Handling
The Aspect 4 Eco weighs 56kg, slightly heavier than the 52kg Compact version, which may influence installation handling. The difference is minor but relevant if ease of installation or physical space is a concern.
Installation Requirements
Both the Aspect 4 Eco and Aspect 4 Compact Eco are wood-burning / multi-fuel stoves. UK regulations require installation by a qualified professional:
- Wood-Burning / Multi-Fuel Stoves: Must be installed by a HETAS-registered installer to comply with safety and building regulations.
Choosing a HETAS-registered installer ensures your stove is fitted correctly, optimising performance and guaranteeing safety.
Which Stove Should You Choose?
To help decide between the two, consider the following:
- Larger or More Open Rooms: The Aspect 4 Eco with its higher heat output range (up to 5.5kW) and deeper body suits spaces requiring extra warmth and less frequent refuelling.
- Compact Spaces: The Aspect 4 Compact Eco’s shallower depth (327mm) makes it ideal for smaller rooms, hallways, or tighter spaces without sacrificing heat efficiency.
- Sustainability Focus: Both models deliver high energy efficiency and low emissions, making either choice environmentally responsible.
- Visual Impact: Both feature large viewing windows to showcase the flame, but the slightly larger depth of the Aspect 4 Eco may support a larger firebox for a bolder flame display.
- Installation Flexibility: Both stoves allow for top or rear 5" flue outlet connection, offering adaptable installation options.
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