Clean Air Night 2026: What Stove Owners Need to Know

On 22nd January 2026, Clean Air Night puts a spotlight on air quality and the impact of domestic heating. As a UK stove manufacturer with more than 40 years’ experience, Hunter Stoves believes this is an important conversation to have, but one that benefits most from clarity, balance and practical advice for households.

Air quality matters. And when it comes to wood burning, how you burn really does make a difference.

This article is intended to help stove owners and those considering a stove understand what actually affects emissions, and how simple, informed choices can significantly reduce their impact while continuing to enjoy the warmth and comfort of a real fire.

Not All Wood Burning Is the Same

Wood burning is often talked about as if every fire produces the same level of emissions. In reality, that simply isn’t the case.

The amount of smoke and particulate emissions produced can vary hugely depending on:

  • The type and age of the appliance
  • The quality of the fuel being burned
  • How the stove is used day to day
  • How well it is maintained

Because of this, two households can have completely different impacts on air quality — even if both are burning wood.

In recent years, improvements in appliance design, fuel standards and user awareness have already made a measurable difference. Official Defra statistics show a 17% reduction in PM2.5 and PM10 emissions from domestic combustion between 2020 and 2023.

Why Modern Stoves Are Very Different

All new wood burning stoves sold in the UK must meet strict Ecodesign emissions and efficiency standards. These regulations are designed to ensure stoves burn fuel as cleanly and efficiently as possible.

Compared with open fires or much older stove technology, a modern Ecodesign-compliant stove can:

  • Reduce particulate emissions by up to 90%
  • Use significantly less fuel
  • Deliver more heat into the room instead of losing it up the chimney

Modern stoves achieve this through advanced combustion systems, improved air controls and precision engineering — all designed to help fuel burn more completely.

Fuel Quality: One of the Biggest Factors You Can Control

One of the simplest ways stove owners can reduce emissions is by using the right fuel.

Dry, well-seasoned wood burns far more cleanly than wet or poorly stored logs. Best practice includes:

  • Burning wood with a moisture content below 20% (10–15% is ideal)
  • Looking for the Ready to Burn label when buying logs
  • Storing logs off the ground, protected from rain and with good airflow
  • Using a moisture meter to check fuel before burning

Painted or treated wood, household waste and damp fuel should never be burned, as they greatly increase smoke and prevent the stove from working properly.

How You Use Your Stove Matters

Small changes in how a stove is lit and refuelled can make a noticeable difference to emissions and performance.

Simple good habits include:

  • Using the top-down lighting method
  • Choosing the correct log size for your stove
  • Avoiding overloading the firebox
  • Opening the stove door slowly when refuelling
  • Avoiding slumbering the stove overnight

These practices help improve combustion, keep glass clearer and ensure your stove performs as designed.

The Role of Chimney Sweeping

Your local chimney sweep is one of your most valuable sources of advice when it comes to burning better.

Regular chimney sweeping helps to:

  • Keep your appliance operating safely and efficiently
  • Identify issues that may increase smoke or emissions
  • Provide guidance on fuel choice and burning habits

An annual sweep is recommended for most households and is one of the easiest steps you can take to reduce emissions.

A Regulated and Continuously Improving Industry

The UK stove industry is already highly regulated, with strict rules covering appliance design, installation and fuel quality.

Modern stoves are the result of years of regulation, independent testing and ongoing innovation — and development continues. Manufacturers are constantly refining designs to improve efficiency, reduce emissions and meet future standards.

Making a Positive Difference

Improving air quality doesn’t come down to one single action. The biggest gains come from:

  • Choosing a modern, Ecodesign-compliant stove
  • Ensuring professional installation
  • Using good quality, dry wood fuel
  • Having your chimney swept regularly
  • Understanding and following best burning practice

As Clean Air Night 2026 approaches, we encourage a practical, informed approach. With the right appliance, fuel and habits, wood burning can be enjoyed responsibly, while significantly reducing its impact on air quality.

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