What is the best brand of wood heater in Australia?
Coonara is widely regarded as one of the best wood heater brands in Australia. Known for their Australian-made quality, efficiency, and classic style, Coonara wood heaters have been a household favourite for decades. At Classic Fireplaces & Barbeques, we proudly stock the full range and offer expert advice to help you choose the right model for your home.
How much does it cost to install a Coonara?
Installation costs can vary depending on whether the unit is freestanding or inbuilt, choosing the correct sized unit for your space, and the complexity of the flue setup.For an accurate quote, get in touch with the team at Classic Fireplaces – we recommend professional installation services backed by local expertise.
How to clean a Coonara flue?
To clean a Coonara flue, you’ll need to use a flue brush or hire a professional chimney sweep. It's best done annually to maintain safe airflow and prevent creosote build-up. Our team at Classic Fireplaces & Barbeques can recommend trusted local technicians or supply the right tools.
How to clean Coonara glass?
Clean your Coonara heater glass using a damp cloth or damp newspaper and fine ash from the heater, or a commercial wood heater glass cleaner. Always ensure the glass is cool before cleaning. Regular cleaning keeps the glass clear and improves your view of the flames.
How to light a Coonara wood heater?
Start with dry kindling and firelighters at the base, stack small logs on top, and keep the air vents fully open. Light the firelighter and close the door halfway until it’s burning strongly. Once established, add larger logs and adjust airflow for a steady burn. Our showroom staff can give you a demo in-store if you're unsure!
Each Coonara model has slightly different controls, but the general steps are:
1) Load dry hardwood
2) Adjust air intake to control burn speed
3) Empty ash pan as needed
4) Clean glass and flue regularly
We offer a full run-through with every purchase at Classic Fireplaces so you know exactly how to get the most out of your heater.
Where are Coonara wood heaters made?
Coonara wood heaters are proudly made in Australia, specifically in Victoria. They’re built for Australian conditions and comply with strict efficiency and emissions standards. That’s one of the reasons we love them at Classic Fireplaces – quality gear, made local.
Can I burn treated pine in my Coonara?
No. Never burn treated pine or any chemically-treated timber in a Coonara heater. It releases toxic fumes and can damage the firebox, as well as increasing the buildup in the flue. Always use dry, seasoned hardwood to get the best performance and longest life out of your heater.
Can you cook a roast in a Coonara fireplace?
While Coonara heaters aren’t designed as ovens, many users get creative! You can cook foil-wrapped spud inside the firebox or place a dutch oven on top of some models like the Coonara Woody – just make sure you're monitoring heat and using proper cookware and adhere to safety protocols.
Does a Coonara heater add value?
Yes – a stylish, efficient wood heater like a Coonara Settler C600 or C500 Ranch or any other model from the range can add appeal and value to your home, especially in cooler climates like Geelong. Buyers love the charm and cost-saving benefits of wood heating.
How close can a Coonara be to a TV?
It depends on the model and whether it’s inbuilt or freestanding. Generally, maintain at least 1 metre clearance between your Coonara heater and a TV. Heat shields and proper installation help manage radiant heat – chat with our team at Classic Fireplaces for personalised advice.
How hot does a Coonara get?
A Coonara can reach temperatures over 200°C inside the firebox and comfortably warm large living areas. Models like the Firelite are rated for areas up to 30+ squares, making them ideal for open-plan homes.
How not to get smoke in the house with a Coonara?
Smoke issues are usually caused by poor wood, a dirty flue, or incorrect lighting technique. Always:
1) Use dry hardwood
2) Keep the flue clean
3) Start with strong kindling and keep air vents open
Need help? Our team at Classic Fireplaces can troubleshoot and advise.
How to adjust airflow on a Coonara wood heater?
Most Coonara models have an airflow controller to manage airflow. Open it fully to get the fire going, then dial it down for a longer, slower burn. We'll show you exactly how it works when you buy from us.
How to clean the fan on a Coonara wood heater?
Switch off and unplug the unit. Use a vacuum or soft brush to clear dust from the fan vents underneath or at the rear of the heater. For a deeper clean, refer to your Coonara manual or pop in to Classic Fireplaces & Barbeques – we’re happy to help.
