Smoke from residential wood heaters contains fine particle pollution (PM) and other pollutants such as carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and benzene. Fortunately, newer, EPA-certified units burn much cleaner and are far more efficient.
The EPA first set emissions standards for wood heaters in 1988. In 2015, the EPA strengthened these standards. The new limit for particulates emissions for catalytic and non-catalytic wood heaters is 4.5 grams per hour (g/h). In five years, the limit will drop to 2.5 g/h. The rule does not affect existing woodstoves.
If you are thinking about replacing your old stove, here are a few points to consider:
Visit the EPA's Burn Wise page to learn more.
Editor's Note: Under the Trump administration's anti-regulatory agenda, the use of dangerous and highly polluting older wood stoves has been given a green light under certain scenarios--notably, where First Nation peoples are involved. Read about how older woodstoves are being pushed to Navajo tribes.