What did the University of Surrey study find about wood burners?

The University of Surrey study found that wood burners can release significant amounts of fine particles indoors, comparable to traffic pollution.

Are 'eco' wood burners safe for indoor air quality?

Research suggests that even modern 'eco' or 'clean' wood burners can fill living rooms with harmful fine particles.

What are the risks of using wood-burning stoves in winter?

Using wood stoves in winter may expose households to high indoor pollution levels, potentially causing long-term health damage.

Home / Environment / Wood Burner Warning: Indoor Air Quality at Risk

Wood Burner Warning: Indoor Air Quality at Risk

8 Dec

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Summary

Wood burners can release high levels of fine particles indoors.
Pollution levels from stoves can rival traffic or cigarette smoke.
Research monitored various wood-burning methods and fuel types.

Wood Burner Warning: Indoor Air Quality at Risk

With colder weather and high energy bills, households are increasingly relying on wood-burning stoves for warmth. However, new research from the University of Surrey's Global Centre for Clean Air Research (GCARE) highlights significant indoor air quality concerns. Studies monitored homes using various wood-burning appliances and fuels.

The findings indicate that all types of wood burning, including seasoned and kiln-dried logs, can cause short, intense bursts of indoor pollution. These pollution spikes, measured in ultrafine particles, fine particulate matter (PM2.5), and black carbon, can reach levels similar to traffic pollution, and at times, even cigarette smoke.

Experts caution that this exposure could lead to long-term health damage for residents. The research underscores the need for greater awareness regarding the potential health impacts associated with domestic wood burning, even from supposedly cleaner models.