For years, the comforting glow of a solid fuel stove has been the true heart of many a narrowboat, barge, and canal boat across the UK. Consequently, when you talk to seasoned boaters about stoves, one name always seems to pop up. The iconic Morso Squirrel stoves have certainly earned their reputation as a firm favourite in the boating community.
This compact, cast iron, multi-fuel heater is famous for its rock-solid reliability and efficiency. This makes it the perfect heating solution for the unique world of a UK narrowboat. With its classic Danish good looks and tough-as-nails build, it has become the go-to choice for dependable warmth on the water.
For quotes and bookings, call or email us here.
The Story Behind Morso Squirrel Stoves
The Morso tale begins way back in 1853 on the Danish island of Mors. Eventually, in the 1980s, the company started sending its fantastic stoves over to the UK. The Squirrel range then quickly became a massive hit.
Its success is certainly not an accident. It comes down to a brilliant mix of traditional cast iron craftsmanship and modern heating know-how. This blend is precisely what makes it so appealing for the tight spaces found on a canal boat. Therefore, it’s no wonder this Danish icon feels so at home on British canals. You can read more about the brand’s distinguished history here.
As certified marine heating specialists, we understand the unique challenges of life afloat. Our job isn’t just about selling you a stove. Instead, we provide a complete heating solution that’s safe, compliant, and right for you. That’s why we focus on a few key things:
- Expert Advice: First, we’ll consult with you to determine the exact Morso Squirrel model that fits your boat’s size and your usage.
- Professional Fitting: Subsequently, our qualified engineers ensure every installation meets strict Boat Safety Scheme (BSS) standards, covering everything from the hearth to the flue.
- Long-Term Support: Finally, we’re here for the long haul, offering servicing and maintenance to keep your stove running perfectly for years.
“Marine Heating Solutions installed our Morso Squirrel and the difference was night and day. Their engineer was incredibly knowledgeable, clean, and professional. The stove has never run better, and we feel so much safer knowing it was fitted by genuine experts who understand boats. I couldn’t recommend them highly enough.”
– Elsa P., Narrowboat ‘Heron’
Morso Squirrel Stove At A Glance
To give you a quick snapshot, here’s a table summarising why the Morso Squirrel is such a brilliant choice for narrowboat life.
| Feature | Benefit for Narrowboat Owners |
|---|---|
| Compact Size | Fits perfectly into the limited space on most narrowboats without feeling intrusive. |
| Cast Iron Construction | Provides excellent heat distribution, radiating steady, comfortable warmth. |
| Multi-Fuel Capability | Offers the flexibility to burn either wood or smokeless coal, adapting to fuel availability. |
| High Efficiency | A modern, clean-burning design means you get more heat from less fuel, saving you money. |
| Riddling Grate | Makes it easy to clear ash and maintain an optimal air supply for efficient burning. |
| Airwash System | Keeps the glass door clean, so you can always enjoy the view of the flames. |
| Proven Reliability | A long-standing reputation for durability means you can count on it to keep you warm through the coldest winters. |
As you can see, every feature is thoughtfully designed with the practicalities of boating in mind. This makes it a truly smart and dependable choice.
Why a Morso Squirrel Stove Is Perfect for Your Boat
Picking the right stove for a narrowboat means finding a careful balance between space, efficiency, and sheer comfort. Specifically, life on the water demands appliances that are compact but powerful. This is exactly where Morso Squirrel stoves shine. Their design is a perfect answer to the unique challenges of keeping a steel hull warm on the UK’s canals.
Space is the ultimate luxury on a canal boat, and the Squirrel’s compact footprint is a huge plus. It fits neatly into tight corners without taking over your living area. Consequently, you get to enjoy the warmth of a real fire without having to sacrifice precious space.
Engineered for Efficient Canal Boat Heating with Morso Squirrel Stoves
It’s not just about the size, though. The heat output is expertly calibrated for a boat’s interior. A stove that’s too powerful will quickly turn your cabin into a sauna. Conversely, one that’s too weak will barely make a dent in the winter chill. The Morso Squirrel provides a consistent, manageable warmth that keeps the entire boat comfortable.
The real magic of a Morso Squirrel stove is its ability to transform a functional space into a genuine home. It’s more than just a heater; it’s the comforting, reliable heart of your boat that you can gather around on a cold evening.
Timeless Design and Lasting Quality
And you can’t overlook its classic good looks. The traditional design, complete with the famous squirrel relief on the side, becomes an instant focal point. Ultimately, it adds a touch of rustic charm that just feels right on a narrowboat.
Here’s a quick rundown of what makes it so popular:
- Space-Saving Footprint: Its small dimensions are ideal for the limited space you find on canal boats.
- Optimal Heat Output: It delivers around 4-5 kW of heat, which is perfect for keeping a narrow hull cosy.
- Superb Heat Distribution: The heavy cast iron guarantees an even release of warmth for maximum comfort and efficiency.
- Iconic Appearance: The beloved design serves as a beautiful centrepiece that enhances your boat’s interior.
As specialists in marine heating, we have seen first-hand why this model remains a firm favourite. For a deeper dive into different heating options, you can explore our comprehensive guide on narrow boat stoves to find the perfect fit for your vessel. We supply and professionally install these exceptional stoves, ensuring they perform perfectly for years to come.
Our Top Picks: The Best Morso Squirrel Stoves for Your Boat
Trying to pick the right Morso Squirrel stove can feel overwhelming, especially when you need one that’s a perfect match for your boat. That’s why we’ve done the hard work for you. As specialists in marine heating, we’ve hand-picked a selection that’s ideal for UK boaters. We focus on what really matters: keeping you warm, safe, and fully compliant on the waterways.
We mainly supply and install the models that are truly suited to the unique spaces of a narrowboat. This means we zero in on units with the right heat output and compact dimensions for life afloat. Therefore, our experience ensures you get a stove that heats your boat beautifully without eating up precious cabin space.
The DEFRA-Approved Morso 1412 Stove
A real star of our collection is the much-loved Morso 1412 Squirrel stove. This particular model is DEFRA-approved. This is absolutely essential if you plan to cruise through the UK’s many smoke control areas.
So, what does that stamp of approval actually mean for you?
- Cruise Legally: It means you can legally burn wood in designated smoke-controlled zones, which you’ll find in most cities.
- Burn Cleaner: DEFRA-approved stoves are cleverly engineered to produce very little smoke, making them a much more eco-friendly choice.
- Total Peace of Mind: You can navigate the cut with confidence, knowing your stove meets tough government emission standards.
This approval isn’t just a sticker on a box. In short, it’s your ticket to warm, cosy, and unrestricted cruising, no matter where the waterways take you.
Key Features of Morso Squirrel Stoves
Beyond just being compliant, the Morso Squirrel stoves we supply are packed with features designed to make life aboard better. One of the best is the advanced airwash system. It’s a clever bit of engineering that directs a stream of pre-heated air across the inside of the glass door. This creates a barrier that stops soot from sticking, keeping the glass crystal clear. As a result, you always get that perfect, hypnotic view of the flames.
For anyone in a UK smoke control area, the DEFRA-approved Morso Squirrel 1412 is a game-changer. It lets you burn wood while sticking to strict environmental rules. The 1412 pulls this off with an enhanced airwash system that keeps the glass clean. Additionally, its impressive 83% thermal efficiency helps you hit your eco-friendly heating goals. You can discover more about these efficient stove models on midlandchandlers.co.uk.
Think of this section as your personal showroom. We don’t just shift boxes; we provide heating solutions that we’ve personally vetted. Our team is here to guide you, helping you choose the perfect Morso Squirrel for your floating home with absolute confidence.
Why a Professional Marine Installation is Non-Negotiable
A brilliant stove like the Morso Squirrel is only ever as good as its installation. This couldn’t be truer on a narrowboat, where you’re living in a unique steel environment. Therefore, safety isn’t just a buzzword here; it’s absolutely everything.
That’s why a proper marine installation isn’t a luxury you can skip. It’s a fundamental requirement for the safety of your boat and everyone on it.
Our team is made up of certified marine engineers who understand life on the water. We get the specific challenges of inland waterway boats, from managing heat in a small space to ensuring everything is fully compliant with the Boat Safety Scheme (BSS). We’re not just stove fitters; we’re marine heating specialists. In fact, that expertise guarantees your stove will run safely and efficiently for years.
Our Safety-First Installation Process
When we fit a Morso Squirrel stove, we follow a strict, safety-led process from start to finish. This isn’t just about ticking boxes. Instead, it’s about making sure every single part of the system works together perfectly, giving you complete peace of mind.
Here’s a quick rundown of the key steps:
- Hearth and Heat Shielding: First, we lay down a regulation-compliant hearth. This creates a solid, fireproof base for the stove. We then fit all necessary heat shielding to protect your boat’s structure.
- The Right Flue System: Getting the flue system right is vital. We install the correct twin-wall flue, ensuring it’s perfectly routed and sealed through a marine-grade roof collar. This stops leaks and prevents dangerous heat transfer issues.
- Ventilation and Airflow: Proper ventilation is something we never compromise on. Our engineers calculate and install the vents needed to give the stove plenty of air for clean burning, which is also your main defence against carbon monoxide.
This is why a professional setup is so important. Indeed, it directly impacts how well your stove performs.
Why Our Expertise is Your Guarantee
Choosing us means you’re putting safety and quality first. Our engineers aren’t just OFTEC certified; they’re also registered Boat Safety Scheme examiners. Consequently, this dual qualification is your rock-solid assurance that we work to the highest possible industry standards.
“Marine Heating Solutions installed our Morso Squirrel and the difference was night and day. Their engineer was incredibly knowledgeable, clean, and professional. The stove has never run better, and we feel so much safer knowing it was fitted by genuine experts who understand boats. I couldn’t recommend them highly enough.”
– Clive R., Narrowboat ‘Railay’
At the end of the day, our reputation is built on trust and real-world experience. We know that putting a solid fuel stove on your boat is a big investment in both your comfort and your safety. If you want to understand the complexities involved, our guide on how to install a boat stove highlights why professional expertise is essential.
Let our qualified team handle the complex stuff, so you can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the warmth.
Hear It Straight from a Fellow Narrowboat Owner
Of course, we can talk all day about how a professional installation makes all the difference. However, it’s hearing from someone who’s been there that really counts. The true measure of our service comes from the real-world experiences of boaters just like you.
That’s why we wanted to share the story of a recent customer. They needed to replace an old heater with one of the trusty Morso Squirrel stoves we stand by. All they wanted was dependable warmth and complete peace of mind.
“For years, I put up with a temperamental old stove on my barge. The team at Marine Heating Solutions changed everything. From the very first phone call, their advice was brilliant, helping me choose the perfect Morso Squirrel stove for my space without any high-pressure sales talk.
The installation itself was fantastic. The engineer was professional, tidy, and incredibly knowledgeable about the specific safety needs of a canal boat. He explained every step, from fitting the new hearth and flue to the final safety checks. That night, for the first time in a long time, the entire boat was filled with a steady, comfortable warmth. It’s made my boat feel more like a home than ever before. Choosing them was the best decision I’ve made for my life on the water.”
– Sarah T., Narrowboat ‘The Drifter’
Our Commitment in Action
Sarah’s story really gets to the heart of what we do. It always starts with listening to what you actually need and offering solid, expert advice. Then, our certified engineers get to work, carrying out a meticulous installation where every single detail meets the highest safety standards.
The result? A heating system that just works, bringing you the comfort and security you deserve.
That’s the standard we bring to every job. Our focus on Morso Squirrel stoves comes from a simple fact: we know they deliver the reliability our customers need. If this sounds like the kind of experience you’re looking for, learn more by reading our guide to essential boat stove maintenance. We’re here to help make your boat a warmer, safer home.
Keeping Your Morso Squirrel Stove Running Perfectly
Our job doesn’t stop once your stove is installed; in fact, that’s where our real support begins. We want to make sure you have all the know-how to get the absolute best from your investment. Specifically, this means giving you practical advice for fuelling and maintaining your Morso Squirrel stove so it performs flawlessly on your narrowboat.
Choosing the right fuel is probably the most important thing you can do. We always tell our clients to stick with properly seasoned hardwood or approved smokeless fuels. Why? Because they maximise heat output, burn cleanly, and dramatically cut down on upkeep. Ultimately, it’s the simplest way to guarantee efficient warmth all winter long.
Professional Maintenance for Lasting Performance
While you can easily handle day-to-day tasks, some jobs really do need a professional touch. The single most important part of your stove’s upkeep is getting the flue swept professionally every year. This is a crucial service our qualified engineers provide, and it’s not one to skip.
A clean flue isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about safety, plain and simple. A professional sweep clears out the dangerous build-up of creosote, which is a major fire hazard. Furthermore, it ensures there are no blockages that could cause deadly carbon monoxide to seep into your cabin.
Our expert servicing is much more than just a quick clean. We meticulously inspect the entire system, from the firebricks to the door seals, to make sure your Morso Squirrel is operating safely and at peak efficiency for years to come. Think of it as your best guarantee of safety and performance.
The Morso Squirrel stove series has been a cornerstone of UK heating since the 1980s, becoming a bestseller for a very good reason. Its compact size and solid heat output of around 4.5 to 5 kW make it a perfect match for canal boats. Additionally, it often hits efficiency ratings over 80%. This brilliant mix of classic cast iron durability and modern performance is exactly why it’s still a top choice today.
Our dedicated servicing ensures your stove continues to meet these high standards. For a deeper dive into what makes this stove tick, have a look at your Morso Squirrel stove guide for boat living.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the right stove for your boat is a big decision, and we know you’ll have plenty of questions. To help you out, we’ve put together answers to some of the most common queries we get about Morso Squirrel stoves and our specialist marine fitting service.
Our aim is simple: to give you clear, straightforward information so you can feel completely confident in your choice.
Are Morso Squirrel Stoves Right For My Narrowboat?
Absolutely. The Morso Squirrel is practically made for narrowboat life. Its compact size is a perfect match for the cosy confines of a boat. Additionally, its heat output is spot-on – powerful enough to keep you warm without turning the cabin into a sauna.
When we visit, our team will look at your boat’s specific layout to recommend the best model. In this way, we can guarantee a perfect fit that makes the most of your space while keeping you comfortable.
It’s often asked if a stove is all you need for living off-grid. While it sorts out the heating, many boaters also look into generating their own power for true energy independence. If that’s you, this comprehensive guide to off-grid solar systems is a brilliant resource.
What Does A Professional Marine Installation Involve?
Getting a stove fitted on a boat isn’t a simple DIY job. A professional installation from our certified engineers is a careful, safety-first process. We handle every detail to make sure your setup is fully compliant with inland waterway standards.
Here’s what that looks like in practice:
- First, we position the stove on a regulation-compliant hearth, making sure there’s proper heat shielding around it.
- Next, the correct insulated twin-wall flue system is installed, running through a marine-grade roof collar to keep things watertight and safe.
- Then, we ensure there’s enough ventilation to prevent any carbon monoxide build-up.
- Finally, before we leave, we do a full smoke and safety check to make sure everything is working perfectly.
We take care of all the technical stuff so you don’t have to. Of course, once it’s fitted, looking after your stove is crucial. You can learn more about how to do that in our guide to essential boat stove maintenance.
How Can I book An Installation?
For expert advice and professional installation of Morso Squirrel stoves on your narrowboat, trust the certified engineers at Marine Heating Solutions. Book a consultation today.
For quotes and bookings, call or email us here.
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