As previously reported, the latest data from the National Atmospheric Emissions Inventory (NAEI), supports the fact that modern wood-burning stoves are safe, environmentally responsible and cost-effective. In the SIA’s recent blog, they look closely at the details to see what more can be learnt.
The facts about wood-burning stoves and PM2.5 emissions
One of the main concerns about wood-burning stoves is their impact on air quality, specifically regarding PM2.5 emissions. However, the main cause of concern is that certain media outlets continue to report in a reductive way and lump in the emissions of modern wood-burning stoves with those of old stoves, open fires and bonfires. They add all the emissions together and present an inflated figure which unfortunately misleads people.
However, when we take the time to examine the detailed NAEI data, we start to see huge differences between the different forms of domestic combustion:
“there was a huge difference between the PM2.5 emissions produced by an open fire compared to an Ecodesign closed stove in 2022; the former being responsible for 13.3% of total UK PM2.5 emissions, while the latter accounts for just 1.8%.1
Secondly, we can see that the type of fuel we choose to burn has a significant impact on our emissions. When looking at wood fuel only, open fires account for 9.8% of total UK PM2.5 emissions and Ecodesign stoves a much lower 1.4%.2
Furthermore, the data also shows the impact that dry wood fuel has on reducing emissions, bringing the figures above down to 1.8% of total UK PM2.5 from open fires and just 0.3% from Ecodesign compliant stove models.3
It is clear to see that when choosing a modern, Ecodesign stove and only burning dry (at or below 20% moisture content) wood fuel, PM2.5 emissions are minimal.”
For further context, the NAEI data also shows us that:
-Burning dry wood on an Ecodesign-compliant stove accounts for less than 0.3% of total UK PM2.5 emissions.
-Road transport PM2.5 emissions are 66.7 times higher than those from Ecodesign stoves burning dry wood.
-Cigarette smoking causes 4.7 times more PM2.5 emissions than Ecodesign stoves burning dry wood.
-Bonfire night generates 7.4 times more PM2.5 emissions in a single night than all Ecodesign stoves burning dry wood do in an entire year.
The data is clear, modern wood-burning stoves burning dry wood have a very minimal impact on air quality especially when compared to other common sources of pollution.
Ecodesign regulations
Since January 1, 2022, all new solid fuel stoves have had to adhere to Ecodesign Regulations, which ensures higher efficiencies and lower emissions. At Charnwood Stoves, we are proud to offer products that not only meet but often improve upon these standards. Our stoves are designed to burn wood more completely, which means less smoke, significantly fewer particulates, and more heat from less fuel.
An Ecodesign-compliant stove used correctly will emit up to 90% less emissions than an open fire and up to 80% less than many older stove models. This makes modern wood-burning stoves a very sustainable choice for heating your home.
The economic and environmental benefits of wood-burning stoves
In addition to their low emissions, modern wood-burning stoves offer several other benefits:
Cost-effective heating
The Nottingham Energy Partnership’s July 2024 data states that the price per kWh of kiln-dried logs is now 10.53p (down from 11.18p), making it significantly cheaper than electricity (28.58p per kWh) and comparable to mains gas (7.01p per kWh). This cost efficiency was particularly notable between November 2022 and June 2023 when kiln-dried wood logs were more affordable than mains gas per kWh.
Energy independence
Wood-burning stoves can provide low-carbon heat that is perfect for living off-grid. This is particularly valuable in remote areas where gas and electricity supply may be unreliable or expensive. It also offers protection from the volatile price of mains energy we have witnessed in recent years.
Sustainability
Using sustainably sourced wood reduces dependence on fossil fuels and supports local forestry management practices. Look for the Ready to Burn logo to ensure your wood logs have a moisture content at or below 20%, which is crucial for efficient and clean burning. Learn more here
Well-being
We conducted a survey of stove users to better understand the significant and unique benefits that wood-burning stoves provide their owners and family’s wellbeing. The response was phenomenal with 1227 users providing deep insight into the wider benefits of owning and using a stove.
93% replied, definitively, that their stove has a positive impact on their wellbeing. Learn more here
Our top tips to ensure safety and top performance
To maximise the benefits of your wood-burning stove, proper installation, using the right wood and maintenance are essential. Here are some key recommendations:
Professional installation
Ensure your stove is fitted by a qualified professional, such as those registered with HETAS or OFTEC. This guarantees that your stove is installed correctly and safely and will function optimally.
Use the right fuel
Ensure you use quality fuel. Look for the Ready to Burn logo to ensure your wood logs are at or below 20% moisture content. Never used chemically treated wood or burn waste on your stove.
Regular servicing
Like any heating appliance, wood-burning stoves require regular servicing. The SIA recommends NVQ qualified sweeps for ongoing annual maintenance. Chimney sweeps are also valuable sources of advice for good practice and ensuring your stove operates efficiently and safely.
Why choose us?
At Charnwood Stoves, we pride ourselves on delivering top-quality, environmentally friendly heating solutions. With over 50 years of experience, our wood-burning stoves combine exceptional craftsmanship with innovative technology to ensure maximum efficiency and minimal emissions. Our team are committed to sustainability, offering products that are both beautiful and responsible. Our dedicated customer service team is always ready to assist, ensuring you find the perfect stove to fit your needs. Choose Charnwood for reliable, stylish, and eco-conscious heating solutions that stand the test of time.
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We highly recommend that you read the full SIA article in full for the vital information that is consistently missing from mainstream media.