Solid fuel burning advice

Using open fires and wood burning stoves

Solid fuel burning in wood burning stoves and open fires is on the increase in the UK and is now the single largest source of particulate matter emissions in our country.

This type of pollutant contains tiny particles that can be harmful to your health and the health of others.

One way we can help reduce these emissions is by making small changes to how and what we burn in our stoves and fireplaces. 

Burn better, Breathe Better

The Burn Better, Breathe Better campaign encourages households to follow 3 simple steps to help reduce the negative health impact of stoves and open fires:

• check it regularly
• sweep it professionally
• feed it the right fuels

You can find more information, along with other useful resources and guidance to burn better on the UK government’s website.

Getting the most out of your stove and open fire

Using good burning habits can also help make your stove burn more efficiently, meaning it will:

• release more heat, warming your home better
• burn less fuel, saving you money
• release less smoke and particulates into your home, protecting your health
• release less smoke and particulates into the atmosphere, protecting the public and environment’s health
• release fewer chemicals, protecting our overall health and air quality

Watch burn right's video for good burning practices.

Improve your burning habits

Here are some other useful links to help improve burning habits:

• find simple steps in this practical guide on how to reduce the environmental and health impacts of wood burning stoves and open fires
• view advice leaflets about wood burning stoves, solid fuel heating and chimney or flue systems on the Hetas website
• find out more about the Ready to Burn fuel certification scheme