Wood Burning Stoves –

You can make sure you are adding the right fuel to the fire by checking:

• The wood is dry. Invest in a moisture meter to check is below 20%
• Only buy from legitimate sustainable sourcing suppliers

If you are considering buying a new wood burning stove, it’s a good idea to consider the following:

• Ensure it has the Ecodesign standard
• Consider if a wood burning stove with an integrated hob, oven or back boiler for cooking and hot water is a possibility to maximise the wood energy usage.
• Appoint a qualified installer to ensure efficient installation to minimise emissions
• Sweep your chimney on a regular basis
• Store your wood in a sheltered store and stack to allow air circulation to ensure moisture content is below 20%

There are areas throughout the UK which have been designated as smoke control areas (see link to map in the guidance). These are areas where you cannot emit a certain level of smoke from a chimney. A financial penalty of between £175 to £300 can be issued by the council if this rule is broken.

There are currently no smoke controlled areas in Somerset.

To read more about installations and using the right fuel access practical advice on wood burning stoves and open fires.