Warning over log burners as rules could land people with criminal records

Wood-burning stoves are a charming addition to any room, providing warmth during the cold winter months. As many people look to cut their bills this year, it's likely that more people than ever will be relying on them.

However, there are several rules that must be followed. Under UK regulations, all newly manufactured wood-burning stoves, multi-fuel stoves and fireplaces must meet stringent new guidelines known as Ecodesign.

Installation has to comply with Building Regulations and there are also rules about the type of fuel you can burn. The HomeOwners Alliance explains that the Ecodesign mark indicates the stove has been independently tested by an approved lab and meets requirements on air quality and particulates.

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Stoves are assessed on seasonal efficiency over a year, levels of nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, particulate matter and organic gaseous compounds produced by burning fuel, the Mirror reports.

An Ecodesign stove which is correctly installed, well-maintained and uses good quality dry wood, is a low-carbon heating method using renewable and sustainable fuel, according to HomeOwners Alliance. These new regulations were introduced to reduce the pollution caused by wood burners after the Government's Clean Air Strategy 2019 found that burning stoves accounted for 38 percent of particulate matter air pollution.

If you're the owner of a log burner that doesn't meet the Ecodesign standards, you can still use it unless you live in a smoke control area where other criteria apply. A smoke control area is a legally defined zone where substantial amounts of smoke cannot be emitted from a chimney, as per Government guidelines.

Households could face fines ranging from £175 to £300 if they break this rule, and there are online maps available to check if you live near a smoke control area. It's illegal to purchase unauthorised fuel for use in these areas unless it's for an exempt appliance.

New rules enforced since May 2021 have made the sale of bagged house coal and wet wood in units under two cubic metres unlawful, following findings by the World Health Organisation that identified these as the most serious air pollutants affecting human health. Only certain types of dry wood, with less than 20 percent moisture content, are suitable for burning.

As it can be challenging to determine the wetness of wood, it's advised to invest in a moisture meter or buy from a reputable supplier.