New legislation, The Air Quality (Domestic Solid Fuels Standards) (England) Regulations 2020, which comes into force from May this year will mean an end to the sale of wet wood and house coal. The reasons behind this are to lower pollution from domestic burning.
Woodsure has been appointed by Defra to run it’s Ready to Burn certification scheme for firewood. From May onwards, wood sold in volumes of up to 2m³ will need to be certified as having a moisture content of 20% or less.
Dangers of burning unseasoned “wet” wood:
- Increases polluting particulate emissions
- Increases congestion/tar in your flue
- Increases risk of a chimney fire
- Poor heat output
- Excessive smoke
Woodsure is a non-profit organisation, which has been increasing awareness of the importance of dry wood. As a company, it’s something we’ve been behind from day one. People need to be made aware of the vital importance of only burning dry wood and take a responsible role in helping contribute to a cleaner, greener environment for all. Woodsure works closely with suppliers and retailers to improve the quality of domestic firewood.
What about manufactured solid fuel?
Solid fuels will also need to demonstrate that they meet smoke emissions and sulphur content standards through the scheme. A “manufactured solid fuel” refers to a fuel manufactured from coal, wood, plant-derived materials, waxes or petroleum products with other ingredients for combustion in domestic premises in England.
The Rules of Burning Solid Fuel:
1. Allow adequate ventilation – Check the stove requirements and ensure existing vents are not covered or blocked.
2. Sweeping and cleaning – The ash pan on a multi-fuel stove should be cleaned each day of use. Boiler flues once a week. The throat plate of a fire should be removed and cleaned fully every month when in use. As mentioned, the chimney should be swept at least twice a year.
3. The Right Fuel – Only use well-seasoned wood with a moisture content below 20%. If you are using coal ensure the coal is from an approved coal merchant. You will be able to find an approved coal merchant from the Coal Merchants Federation.
View our wide range of Ecodesign Ready wood burning stoves here.
