Wood Burning & Air QualityUK Stove Pollution Guide 2026
1.5 million UK homes have wood burners. Wood burning is now the largest source of PM2.5 pollution in the UK—more than all road traffic.
UK Wood Burning Statistics
What's in Wood Smoke?
PM2.5 Fine Particles
Tiny particles that penetrate deep into lungs and enter the bloodstream, causing cardiovascular and respiratory harm.
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
PAHs are carcinogenic compounds formed during incomplete combustion. Several are classified as Group 1 carcinogens.
Benzene & Formaldehyde
Both are known carcinogens released during wood burning. Formaldehyde also irritates eyes and respiratory system.
Carbon Monoxide
Odorless, colorless gas that reduces oxygen delivery. Can be fatal at high concentrations; CO alarms are essential.
UK Regulations
Smoke Control Areas
In Smoke Control Areas, you can only use DEFRA-exempt appliances or authorized fuels. Fines up to £1,000 for violations.
Ecodesign Standards (2022)
New stoves must meet Ecodesign emissions standards. However, even compliant stoves emit significant PM2.5—they're just cleaner than old models.
Ready to Burn Scheme
From 2021, wood sold must have less than 20% moisture content. Dry wood burns cleaner but still produces significant pollution.
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Our MERV-13 air purifiers capture pollutants from indoor sources. Lab-tested and whisper-quiet.
Reducing Wood Burning Exposure
1. Use a HEPA Air Purifier
HEPA filters capture 99.97% of wood smoke particles. Run purifiers in living areas during and after burning. Carbon filters capture some VOCs.
2. Burn Only Dry Wood
Use kiln-dried or seasoned wood with less than 20% moisture. Wet wood produces far more smoke and harmful particles.
3. Maintain Your Stove
Annual chimney sweeping and stove servicing ensures efficient combustion. Replace seals and check air inlets regularly.
4. Consider Alternatives
Electric fires, heat pumps, or improved insulation can provide warmth without combustion pollution. The health savings can outweigh costs.
Free: Indoor Air Quality Guide
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Frequently Asked Questions
How polluting are wood burners?
Wood burners can emit up to 750 times more PM2.5 than an HGV per hour. Even Ecodesign-compliant stoves emit significant particles. Indoor PM2.5 can reach 300+ µg/m³ during use—12 times the WHO safe limit.
Are wood burners legal in the UK?
Wood burners are legal but increasingly regulated. In Smoke Control Areas, only DEFRA-exempt appliances can be used. From 2022, new stoves must meet Ecodesign standards. Some Clean Air Zones restrict wood burning.
What is in wood smoke?
Wood smoke contains PM2.5, benzene, formaldehyde, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), carbon monoxide, and dioxins. Many of these are carcinogenic or toxic. The particles are small enough to enter bloodstream and organs.
Do HEPA air purifiers help with wood smoke?
HEPA filters capture 99.97% of PM2.5 from wood smoke. Activated carbon filters also capture some gases and VOCs. An air purifier helps reduce indoor exposure, but prevention (not burning) is most effective.
What are the health effects of wood smoke?
Wood smoke exposure increases risk of respiratory infections, asthma exacerbation, cardiovascular events, and lung cancer. Children, elderly, and those with heart/lung conditions are most vulnerable.
Filter Wood Smoke
HEPA + carbon purifiers reduce wood smoke particles and VOCs in your home.
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