Puget Sound Clean Air Agency

Heat Smart, Heat Healthy

If you choose to heat with wood, follow these guidelines to help maximize energy output and minimize pollution.

Scrap uncertified wood stoves

For starters, if you own or use a wood stove, find out whether it’s EPA-certified. There should be a label on the back or on top if you have a fireplace insert. Uncertified wood stoves are no longer legal to sell or purchase in the State of Washington due to the significant pollution they generate. If you have an uncertified wood stove, we strongly recommend you replace it with a cleaner-heating, more efficient alternative. See Clean Heating Choices for more information.

More reasons to make the switch:

  • During a burn ban, it is unlawful to use uncertified wood stoves.

  • Uncertified stoves release twice as much air pollution as certified stoves.

  • Since 1992, only EPA-certified wood stoves and fireplace inserts can be sold in Washington.

  • It is illegal to install an uncertified wood stove or insert in Washington.

  • It is illegal to sell, give away or exchange an uncertified wood stove unless for scrap.

  • Installing an uncertified stove can also void insurance policy coverage in some instances.

Minimize smoke, save money

Generating excess chimney smoke (defined by the Department of Ecology as 20 percent opacity or more) is not only un-neighborly, it’s against the law. Plus, it’s a sign you’re not getting the most out of your fuel. Here’s how to minimize smoke, increase the heat you get from your wood, and limit your impact on your neighbors:

  • Consider manufactured logs such as Duraflame instead of wood. They burn up to 70 percent cleaner and are free of bugs! A single log burns anywhere from two to eight hours. All are safe for open-hearth fireplaces; check the label to see which kinds are suitable for wood stoves.

  • If you burn wood, use only dry, seasoned cordwood (less than 20 percent moisture). In our northwest climate, cordwood must be kept covered for a year to season it properly.

  • Use only small amounts of paper and kindling to start the fire, give it plenty of air, and burn small hot fires.

  • Check your chimney periodically to make sure no smoke is visible. If you see smoke, your fire needs more air.

Burn responsibly

  • Know the laws that govern burning with wood.

  • Observe burn bans. During Stage I Burn Bans, it is unlawful to use fireplaces and uncertified wood stoves. Stage II Burn Bans prohibit the use of certified wood stoves and pellet stoves as well.

  • Never burn garbage – it’s against the law.

  • If you’re not sure how to properly and safely operate your wood stove or fireplace, consult a hearth-products dealer.

Educational videos

Environment Canada has produced videos that inform about good firewood preparation, good firewood practices and about the EPA-certified woodstove.

Note: These videos are in Window's Media Video format (.wmv) and Window's Media Player is recommended for playback.  A high- speed Internet connection is also recommended for viewing.