Open fires and wood burning stoves
Tackling air pollution is a priority for the UK
Clean air is one of the most basic requirements of a healthy environment for us all to live, work, and bring up families.
As regulators for domestic biomass under the Clean Air Act 1993 we play a vital role in helping to improve air quality in local areas.
There are environmental and health impacts associated with poor burning practices.
If you have a wood burning stove or open fire:
- Only use your stove when you need to, especially if is not your only form of heating.
- Avoid burning when air quality is likely to be poor, such as in still weather.
- Don’t burn treated wood, old furniture or household rubbish on your open fire or your stove – these can release toxic pollutants into your home!
- Keep your stove well maintained and serviced regularly.
- Get your chimney swept regularly by a qualified chimney sweep (up to twice a year if needed).
If you use solid fuels for heating:
- Check before buying that the fuel is of an approved type for your area.
- If your house has an oil-fuelled boiler, get it serviced regularly, so that it operates efficiently and uses no more fuel than necessary.
The following guides have been produced to keep residents informed.
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Open fires wood burning stoves »
A leaflet guide to help you maximise efficiency - burn less fuel, reduce maintenance costs and keep chimneys good condition is available