Air Pollution

Woodsmoke

During winter, wood and solid fuel heaters can be convenient way to heat your home, however excessive smoke from wood heaters that aren't correctly installed and operated contribute to air pollution and poor air quality.

These pollutants can cause breathing difficulties, especially for people suffering existing respiratory conditions, such as asthmatics, and for children and frail older people. Information on how to select, install and operate your wood or solid fuel heater correctly is available on the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) website.

Council officers can investigate concerns about excessive smoke and help to ensure that wood and solid fuel heaters are operating appropriately.

Consider heating alternatives

Before installing a new heating system you need to ensure your home retains the heat you put into it.

A home heating package should include:

  • Insulating ceilings, walls and floors where possible
  • Sealing off draughts
  • Effective window coverings
  • Zoning living and sleeping areas
  • Choosing an appropriate heating system for your home and using it wisely and efficiently. For example a gas fire place, they are less labour-intensive, affordable, more efficient and reduces the impact on the environment and your neighbourhood.

Excessive smoke

Council officers can investigate concerns regarding smoke from wood and solid fuel heaters and if necessary, issue a direction to help ensure that excessive smoke is not emitted from the chimney or flue.

The NSW EPA has produced the comprehensive Guidelines on Selecting, Installing and Operating Domestic Solid Fuel Heaters, which is available from EPA Publications.

 

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