Wood burning stove emissions have come a long way over the years – particularly the last twenty years. In the late 1980’s the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (or EPA) regulated that all wood burning stoves must meet or exceed an emissions limit of 7.5 grams of smoke per hour. A fireplace insert or wood burning stove that you buy today with newer technologies, may even have that emission level down to between 1 and 4 grams of smoke per hour.

Using different and improved combustible technology, today’s average wood burning stoves and fireplace inserts not only clean burning but one-third more efficient than its predecessor. That means less expense and less work for the homeowner (because one third less fuel used). Although the new stoves cost more, the premium will likely be covered with smaller fuel costs within two or three seasons.

Wood burning stove emissions are often in the form of particulate matter – or smoke. New woodstoves have smoke production that is up to 90 percent less than older models. This is because the environment created inside new wood burning stoves is better for complete combustion. Fires built inside the newer stoves also start or ignite easier, producing less smoke and emissions at the outset.

Most newer stoves use non-catalytic combustion – using a baffle for gas flow, as well as pre-heated air and insulation to create prime burning conditions. Better burning means less emissions. The other type of technology is called catalytic combustion. In this type, the gas and smoke particles are passed through a ceramic honeycomb inside where they burn up before exiting the stove. Catalytic stoves are slightly more hands on and may need regular, knowledgeable maintenance to continue working efficiently.

Also, advanced wood burning stoves of both types produce less creosote. This not only reduces the chance of chimney fire, but reduces the cleaning and maintenance needed in the flue pipe and chimney. All of these factors save you time, money and the environment together.

Reducing the emissions in wood burning stoves has been made possible with the new technology stove manufacturers have adopted. Any wood burning stove purchased today will met or exceed the EPA standards, as well as save you time and money to run. Enjoy the beauty, comfort and atmosphere of a wood burning stove without all of the filthy, polluted emissions they are famous for. Contact your professional wood burning stove dealer and discuss which type is better for you. Then bask in the glowing flames of your low emission, highly efficient wood burning stove.