With the cooler months approaching, Wingecarribee Shire Council is reminding residents to check their wood heaters before they light up.
“Faulty and incorrectly used wood fire heaters are a major contributor to winter air pollution,” said Council’s Environment and Sustainability Manager, Mr Barry Arthur.
“Apart from the obvious health and community benefits of a properly burning fire, owners may also find their fireplaces run more effectively and economically if they follow a few simple steps,” he said.
Simple steps to do before you light up your wood heater that will help you run your wood heater hotter and cleaner include:
- Give your wood heater and flue an annual clean to help reduce smoke and the risk of chimney fires. A chimney sweep service can carry this out for you.
- Keep wood dry by storing it undercover in a shed, garage or even under a tarp.
- Only burn good dry seasoned hardwood sourced from a reputable supplier. Freshly cut wood needs to be stored for at least eight to twelve months. Unseasoned wood has lots of moisture, which causes a fire to smoke.
“It’s the responsibility of all owners to ensure their wood heaters are working correctly and they’re doing their bit to minimise the harmful effects of smoke pollution on the environment and their neighbours,” Mr Arthur added.
