Environmentally friendly stove

The Government has introduced a certification for stoves that meets green standards. These appliances, soon to be the only available in stores, are labelled with an “eco-design” sticker and have improved air circulation that burns more cleanly.

As well as looking for this sticker, check the efficiency rating and emissions level on your stove. If you live in a smoke-controlled area, like London, the only stoves you can legally buy are DEFRA-approved smoke exempt ones, which have been tested for emission levels during all stages of normal operation.

Upgrade to an eco-friendly model  

If your stove is 10 years old or more, you should seriously think about replacing it as it may not meet environmental standards set in the future.

Stoves available on the market now release 90% fewer emissions than open fires and 80% fewer than the stoves of 10 years ago. Newly designed stoves are also 80% efficient, increased from 60% in 2008, meaning new owners get more heat for their money.

Install a filter

Electrostatic filters can cut emissions of fine particles by up to 92%, according to recent research. Filters ionise particulates to attract them to the flue wall. Rather than escaping into the atmosphere, they stay in the flue and can be swept away when you clean the chimney.

Very important: Burn dry wood 

There are a couple of measures you can take if you already own a stove to make wood-burning more environmentally friendly.

The best thing to do if you have a stove is to ensure you’re burning dry wood, it will cut the emissions and give you more heat,

Garage forecourts, garden centres and DIY stores have started selling Government-approved “ready-to-burn” wood, which contains just 20% water. Soon, this could be the only wood available.

Can we help?

If you require assistance, please do make contact and one of our fully qualified (HETAS registered) fitters will be happy to help.