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The landscape of domestic heating is evolving constantly and we're all for finding better solutions to heat our homes. With increasing focus on air quality and environmental responsibility, smoke-control zones are becoming a fixture in urban and rural planning. At Certainly Wood, we understand the importance of staying ahead of these changes, ensuring our customers can enjoy the warmth of a real fire while adhering to stringent regulations.
An Overview Of Smoke Control Area Guidelines:
- A smoke-controlled area is a legally designated zone where substantial smoke emissions from a chimney are prohibited.
- Wood can only be burned on exempted appliances and must adhere to the Ready to Burn Scheme, such as Certainly Wood kiln dried logs.
- Non-exempted appliance users can only burn approved solid fuels; more information is below.
Understanding Smoke-Control Zones
Smoke-control zones, often designated under local authority regulations, aim to reduce particulate matter (PM) emissions from domestic combustion. These zones restrict the types of fuels and appliances that can be used in a domestic setting.
Traditional open fires and older, inefficient stoves are often prohibited, as they are deemed to contribute significantly to localised air pollution.
What appliances can I use?
Ecodesign stoves. These appliances represent a shift in wood-burning technology. They are designed to meet emission standards set by the European Ecodesign directive, which came into force in 2022. This directive mandates significantly lower particulate matter emissions, carbon monoxide, and other harmful substances.
Crucially, you MUST purchase and use a DEFRA-approved appliance to burn wood in a Smoke Control Area. These appliances have undergone rigorous testing to meet the required emission standards. You can find DEFRA-exempted appliances here.
Kiln Dried Logs: The Fuel for Defra Stoves Performance (and Compliance)
A woodburner is only as good as the fuel it burns. Using the correct fuel is essential to get the most out of your appliance and to remain compliant within smoke-control zones. You should only burn wood that adheres to the Ready to Burn Scheme (below 20% in moisture content) on Defra-exempted appliances. If you do not own a Defra exempted appliance, you are only able to burn approved solid fuels, of which you can find here.
- Low Moisture Content: Kiln dried logs should have a moisture content of below 20%. This low moisture content ensures cleaner, more efficient combustion, minimising smoke and emissions.
- Consistent Quality: The kiln drying process ensures consistent quality and moisture levels, providing predictable and reliable performance.
- Reduced Creosote Build-up: Burning dry wood minimises the formation of creosote, a flammable substance that can accumulate in chimneys and flues, posing a fire hazard.
- Fewer chimney sweeps: Kiln dried logs lead to less creosote buildup in your chimney, which means you require fewer chimney sweeps.
Why Certainly Wood?
At Certainly Wood, we are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality firewood and expert advice on kiln dried logs . We understand the importance of compliance and environmental responsibility, and we strive to offer sustainable and efficient heating solutions.
- Premium Kiln Dried Logs: Our logs are meticulously kiln dried to ensure optimal moisture content and performance. They are Ready to Burn approved . Please note, in smoke control zones, these are only to be burnt on exempted stoves.
- Expert Guidance: Our team is on hand to provide advice on fuel selection and compliance with smoke-control zone regulations.
- Sustainable Sourcing: We source our timber from sustainably managed woodlands, ensuring responsible forestry practices.
Staying Compliant and Warm
It's crucial to be aware of the penalties for non-compliance. In England, households in Smoke Control Areas may face a £300 fine under Section 19A of the Clean Air Act 1993 if their wood burner releases excessive smoke. Persistent offenders may also face criminal prosecution.
By choosing a Defra-approved stove and using kiln dried logs , you can enjoy the warmth and ambience of a real fire while adhering to smoke-control zone regulations, minimising your environmental impact and avoiding potential fines and criminal charges.
We encourage our customers to consult their local authorities for specific regulations regarding smoke-controlzones in their area.
Looking for more information?
The combination of a Defra-approved stove and kiln dried logs is the optimal setup for any homeowner looking to stay warm, in control of their heating and remain within the regulations of smoke control areas.
For more information, refer to Defra's website: https://uk-air.defra.gov.uk/sca/
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