The Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) is encouraging households with wood heaters to have some consideration for their neighbours and take practical steps to reduce the smoke from their heaters during winter.
Chief Executive of EPA, Lee Miezis said that reduced air quality across parts Victoria over the winter months could be, in some part, attributed to wood smoke and still weather conditions.
Mr Miezis said many of the air pollution problems associated with wood heating could be reduced by following some simple tips to make the wood heater safer, cleaner and cheaper to run.
“If possible, people with wood heaters should consider alternative heating methods, but we know that for many Victorians, wood heaters and fireplaces are a main source of heating, particularly those living in regional areas,” Mr Miezis said.
“Poorly maintained or operated wood heaters can produce a lot of smoke,” he said.
“Have your flue professionally checked and cleaned before winter begins.”
Mr Miezis said making sure flues were clean and free from obstructions would help prevent flue fires, unnecessary smoke and ensure the heater operated more efficiently.
The Chief Executive said people should also ensure they used dry, seasoned, untreated wood.
“Damp wood creates more smoke as it takes more heat to evaporate the water before the wood will burn,” he said.
“More efficient, less smoky, fires will also warm your house better.”
Mr Miezis said reducing wood fire smoke also helped to minimise any health impacts.
He said that when wood was burned, very small particles and gases were released into the atmosphere, contributing to air pollution.
“This can cause problems for people with breathing difficulties and respiratory conditions, resulting in symptoms for some people,” he said.
Mr Miezis encouraged people to reduce their use of wood heaters and fireplaces on still days and to go outside occasionally to check their chimney for smoke.
