Newsletter October 2010 by Rockford Chimney Supply

Ten Tips from the EPA's Burn Wise Program

Burn the Right Wood, the Right Way, in the Right Wood-Burning Appliance

Did you know that by changing the way you burn wood you can save money, reduce air pollution and protect your health? Here are a few simple tips to make your fire burn hotter, keep your wallet fatter and keep your local air cleaner and healthier.

• Season all firewood. All firewood should be split, securely covered or stored, and aged for at least six months. Seasoned wood burns hotter, cuts fuel consumption and reduces the amount of smoke your appliance produces.
• Choose the right firewood. Hardwoods are the best. Never burn trash or treated wood which can emit toxic air pollutants.
• Clean ashes from your wood-burning appliance. Excess ashes can clog the air intake vents reducing efficiency. Be sure to dispose of ashes in a metal container away from the house or any flammable material to reduce the risk of fire.
• Don't let the fire smolder. Many people think they should let a fire smolder overnight. But reducing the air supply does little for heating and increases air pollution.
• Keep your chimney clean. A clean chimney provides good draft for your wood-burning appliance and reduces the risk of a chimney fire. Have a certified professional inspect your chimney once a year.
• Upgrade to cleaner equipment. EPA certified wood stoves and fireplace inserts burn cleaner and burn wood more efficiently emitting less particle pollution than older models.
• Be a good neighbor. Follow best practices for burning wood and always remember to comply with state and local codes.
• Start it right. Use only clean newspaper or dry kindling to start a fire. Never use gasoline, kerosene, charcoal starter, or a propane torch.
• Follow instructions. Operate your woodburning appliance according to the manufacturer's instructions and follow all maintenance procedures.
• Size matters. Choose the right-sized appliance for your needs. If your woodburning appliance is too big for your room or house, the fuel will smolder and create more air pollution.

Burn Wise Program of U.S. EPA
For more information on how to burn wise, go to www.epa.gov/burnwise

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