Wood burning stove owners in the UK have been advised to take immediate action following the announcement of the first £300 fine issued by Wakefield Council under the Environment Act 2021. The fine was imposed on a household emitting excessive smoke from chimneys in Smoke Controlled Areas. With the Met Office predicting an early winter accompanied by colder temperatures and adverse weather conditions, the importance of responsible wood burner usage has been underscored.
Reports indicate that the popularity of wood burners has been on the rise, with approximately 1.5 million homes in the UK now equipped with a wood-burning or biomass fuel stove. Each year, around 200,000 new stoves are purchased, reflecting the significant growth in the use of these heating appliances. Bruce Allen, CEO of HETAS, an organisation advocating for cleaner and safer solid fuel choices, emphasised the need for proper maintenance and operation of wood burners as the burning season approaches.
According to Allen, neglecting chimney sweeping and using uncertified or unsuitable fuel poses fire risks and contributes to excessive smoke emissions. The Ready to Burn scheme, supported by Defra since 2017, mandates that wood sold in volumes under 2m³ must have moisture content of 20% or less to prevent smoke release. Additionally, stoves purchased after January 1, 2022, must comply with Ecodesign regulations for efficiency and safety.
While chimney fires in the UK have been decreasing overall, incidents remain prevalent during peak seasons such as January to March. Regular maintenance, including annual inspections by HETAS-approved technicians and chimney sweeping, is crucial to ensuring stove longevity and safety. Allen highlighted the importance of monitoring various stove components and offered nine key tips for stove maintenance, ranging from replacing rope seals to cleaning the exterior of the stove.
In summary, wood burning stove owners are urged to remain vigilant, follow regulations, and prioritise maintenance to safeguard their homes and the environment. By adhering to best practices and seeking professional servicing, stove owners can enjoy efficient and safe heating during the upcoming winter months.