01527 857814
The Science

How Ecco Stove Works

Discover the innovative silicon carbide technology that delivers warmth throughout your home from a single source.

The Silicon Carbide Advantage

The Ecco Stove combines the best of both worlds: the high combustion efficiency of a modern wood burner with the exceptional heat storage of a traditional masonry heater.

Our proprietary silicon carbide body absorbs intense heat from the fire, then heat continues radiating for up to 12 hours (model dependent) as gentle warmth that travels through your home.

Ecco Stove Hybrid Technology

Contraflow Channels

Our larger models feature an ingenious internal heat exchanger system: contraflow channels. Before spent combustion gases can exit through the flue, they must first travel through 4-6 metres of winding passages within the stove body.

As these hot gases navigate the channels, they transfer their remaining heat energy into the thermally efficient silicon carbide body. This captures heat that would otherwise be lost up the chimney, dramatically increasing overall efficiency.

4-6m
Of internal channels
110-180°C
Typical flue gas temp
220°C
Maximum flue temp
2x
Seasonal cleaning

Model Note: The EC645, EC678, EC730 and E850 feature full contraflow channel systems. The EC580, being our most compact model, uses a triple baffle system instead to maximise heat retention within its smaller footprint.

Contraflow channels diagram showing how hot gases wind through the stove body

Why Silicon Carbide Heats Differently

Birmingham University research confirmed the remarkable difference in how heat travels from silicon carbide versus traditional stoves. Understanding this science explains why Ecco Stoves heat homes so effectively.

Read the Birmingham University Report

Traditional Stoves

  • Produces high-frequency heat waves that heat surfaces quickly but energy dies rapidly
  • Heat doesn't travel far from the appliance – typically only the immediate room
  • Surface temperatures of 500-600°C – too hot to touch safely
  • Heat dissipates quickly once the fire goes out

High frequency = short, sharp waves that lose energy into surfaces

Ecco Stove Silicon Carbide

  • Produces low-frequency, shallow, flat heat waves that travel through air
  • Heat moves around surfaces rather than losing energy into them
  • Surface temperature 150-200°C – warm to touch, not dangerous
  • Heat continues radiating for up to 12 hours after the fire goes out

Low frequency = long, gentle waves that travel through air to warm entire spaces

Three Stages of Superior Heat

Understanding how the Ecco Stove transforms wood into lasting warmth throughout your home.

01

High-Temperature Combustion

Wood burns at 900-1000°C within the silicon carbide combustion chamber. This creates optimal combustion efficiency, extracting maximum energy from each log while producing low particulate emissions.

02

Heat Absorption

The silicon carbide body rapidly absorbs heat energy from combustion. Our proprietary mineral blend stores this thermal energy far more effectively than traditional materials, holding it for extended release while maintaining a safe outer temperature of 150-200°C.

03

Radiant Distribution

Heat is released slowly over up to 12 hours (model dependent) as low-frequency radiant waves. These waves travel through air rather than dissipating into surfaces, creating natural circulation that warms your home throughout – losing approximately just 1°C per room from the stove. (Room layout dependent.)

The Flash Fire Method

Unlike traditional stoves that require constant tending, the Ecco Stove uses a "heat charge" approach. Build a vigorous fire to bring the combustion chamber to 900-1000°C, then close the ash pit door and simply walk away.

The silicon carbide body absorbs this intense heat energy, storing it for gradual release for up to 12 hours (model dependent). No feeding, no adjusting, no monitoring required.

900-1000°C
Combustion Temperature
Up to 12 Hours
Heat Release
2 Burns
Minimum in 24 Hours

Heat Much More of Your Home

The Ecco Stove is one of the finest masonry heaters for heat distribution, functioning as far more than just a room heater. It delivers balanced warmth throughout your home via a single source.

Ecco Stove Heat Distribution Diagram

Home Heating

Heat flows naturally through open spaces and doorways

Room Control

Simply open or close doors to direct heat where needed

No Ducting

Natural air circulation without complex installations

Even Temperature

Balanced warmth in every room, no hot or cold spots. (Room layout dependent.)

Thatch Safe

Ideal for Thatched Properties

The Ecco Stove is uniquely suited for thatched properties – a significant consideration for owners of traditional British homes where insurance and safety are paramount concerns.

The dramatically lower flue gas temperatures and unique safety features address the two main causes of thatch fires: heat transfer and spark escape.

Traditional Stoves
350-550°C
Flue gas temperature
Ecco Stove
110-220°C
Flue gas temperature
  • 60-70% lower flue temperatures dramatically reduce risk of heat transfer to thatch material
  • Contraflow channels collect sparks and embers safely in the stove base, eliminating chimney escape
  • Outer body temperatures much lower than traditional stoves – safer for all surroundings
  • Compatible with Eldfast Ceramic Lining for additional chimney protection
Ecco Stove in Thatched Property
Insurance Friendly
Designed with thatched property requirements in mind

Why Choose Ecco Stove?

The unique way heat is released by the silicon carbide body creates and generates natural air circulation within your home – all from a single source, without complicated systems.

  • No Plumbing RequiredHeat your home without radiators, pipes or water-based systems
  • No Electrics NeededOperates completely independently – ideal for rural locations
  • No Ducting or VentsNatural circulation means no fans, ducts or maintenance
  • Up to 12 Hours Heat RetentionWarmth continues long after the fire has gone out
Ecco Stove Benefits
Perfect For
Rural homes without central heating

Order and Installation

Choose your model, colour and options. We'll arrange delivery and advice for your installer if required or our expert team will install the stove at your property (subject to a site survey).

Get in Touch

Prefer to talk?

Call us on 01527 857814

We Care

To ensure you get the most from each log while producing the least emissions, Ecco Stoves have undergone testing to the highest standards worldwide.

Our stoves are so efficient they produce less carbon dioxide during combustion than a tree decomposing naturally. Please ensure you play your part in a cleaner future by burning fuel responsibly.

EcoDesign Compliant
DEFRA Exempt
Carbon Neutral
85%
Peak Efficiency
Low
Particulate Emissions
10yr
Warranty

Ready to Transform Your Home?

Request your free info pack and discover how an Ecco Stove could heat your home from a single source.