Wood Burners

Wood burning can produce highly toxic smoke, which if expelled in close proximity to neigboring dwellings can cause irritation and breathing difficulties.

The emmissions from wood burners has long been overlooked and deemed relatively safe. Recent studies are now disputing those claims and strict guidelines are finally being introduced on the manufacture, installation and use of wood burners.

In New Zealand, The Ministry, partnered by Environment Canterbury and Nelson City Council, conducted a performance review of wood burners under the national environmental standards for air quality. This report details the results of 35 wood burners during May to July 2006.

Emissions and efficiency test reports revealed poor overall compliance, with:

• 37% of burners inspected passing,
• 9% undetermined and
• 54% failing*

*Review by New Zealand Home Heating Association.

A number of serious issues arose in relation to how burners are named.

In Phase 2 of the review, 10 wood burners underwent full emissions and efficiency testing. A report on Phase 2 is expected in late 2007.

The following burners passed first time in this review:

• BBQ Factory
• Kent Astron CA
• Dallas Metals Industries
• Kent Kiwi Radiant Clean Air / Milan Caldo Rustic Harmony Clean Air
• Kent Logfire Max / Milan Harmony I/B
• Milan Caldo C/A Harmony Series
• Hewitsons Enviro-Heat Ltd
• Contessa EF with Water Heating
• Lady Kitchener EF
• WH Harris
• Nestor Martin R33
• Woodsman Matai DVI – 165 Standard
• Woodsman Miami – 165
• Woodsman Pelorus – 165
  

See Energy Efficient Heating Systems For Sustainable Homes

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