How do I Choose a Chiminea?

There are a lot of things to consider when you're buying a chiminea. Of course, if you're looking for a new chiminea to replace an old or damaged model, you'll have a good idea of what you're looking for, but it's still a good idea to look at the available options before making a decision since there are often new designs and new models available.

Firstly, what size are you looking for? Chimineas come in all shapes and sizes. If you have a large garden or patio, why not try an extra large chiminea? Even a large chiminea will be perfectly at home in a medium to large garden, or, if you just want to brighten up a corner of your patio, why not look at a small chiminea? Whichever size you decide to go for, just make sure it's clear of any overhanging greenery or awnings and that you have a firm, level (and fire-resistant) surface to put it on. If you're putting your chiminea on decking, for instance, we now stock a floor protector to prevent sparks damaging the wood.

Cast Iron, Steel or Clay? Which is Best?

Secondly, which material should you choose? Cast iron, steel or clay? Each has their own advantages and disadvantages, but do bear in mind that chimineas can be extremely heavy. If you're concerned about mobility, a steel chiminea might be the best option.

Cast iron - sturdy, durable, and an excellent conductor of heat. Cast iron chimineas perform excellently as patio heaters and are great for occasional BBQs too - many come with an integral swing-out BBQ grill. The cast iron is of the highest quality, making these chimineas heavy for their size, but the metal will store heat for a long time and is remarkably efficient. They will need to be protected from rust.

Steel - lighter than cast iron, steel chimineas are still good at radiating heat and are again good for patio heating and cooking. They tend to be more modern in design and are less prone to rust, though they should still be protected from bad weather.

Clay - the more traditional option, clay chimineas will soak up the heat of the fire and radiate it well. They are made of thick clay and will be heavy and they should be protected from bad weather, particularly in winter. They don't usually come with grills, but removable grills and cooking accessories can be purchased if you wish to use your clay chiminea for cooking. These chimineas should always be 'cured' before use.

What's 'Curing'?

It's advisable to cure your clay chiminea before you light a large fire to prevent thermal shock (hairline cracks caused by a sudden increase in temperature). Although not immediately visible, these will enlarge over time and will shorten the lifespan of your chiminea.

To start, put a layer of pumice stones in the bottom of your chiminea, then build a small paper-only fire. Let the fire burn out, then let the ashes cool completely. Then build a small fire using wood and let the clay sides of the chiminea gradually heat up. Repeat this a couple of times, letting the chiminea cool each time, and your new chiminea is ready to use.

How Large is Extra Large?

Our largest chiminea stands at 143cm. Height includes the stand or legs of the chiminea and the diameter is taken at the widest part of the bowl. Be sure to choose a chiminea with the right bowl size for you!

What Can I Burn in My Chiminea?

Chimineas are a great way of disposing of small quantities of dry garden waste (or household waste - think egg cartons, newspaper, junk mail - never plastics!), and wood is always a good choice - cedar, pine, apple and hickory are a few favourites - but make sure the wood is untreated. We now stock the Logmaker for making handy logs of your garden and household waste.

Otherwise, you can choose from our range of sustainable and recycled fuel, but please check you're buying the right sort of fuel for your chiminea. For example, charcoal releases too much heat for clay chimineas, but is perfectly fine to use in cast iron or steel chimineas.

Chimineas originated in Central America, and were outdoor hearths formed from mud and clay. They were used to bake bread and for warming the family and, if they were damaged or cracked, more clay could be plastered over the damage. Over the years, the design and shape was refined, and they were painted and shaped with patterns and designs. Now we stock chimineas inspired by traditional Mexican chimineas in that same shape and with artwork inspired by Aztec Mayan and Mexican art.

I've Read About Terracotta Chimineas. Why Don't You Stock Those?

You cannot buy terracotta chimineas. Terracotta chimineas are clay chimineas under another name.

What if it Arrives Damaged?

We will send out a replacement free of charge for any damages incurred during transit. Please see our delivery and returns policy for full details.