Out With The Old: Funding For High-Efficient Wood Stoves in Lakes District

November 22, 2011
Out With The Old: Funding For High-Efficient Wood Stoves in Lakes District

VANDERHOOF – Under the wood stove exchange program the Bulkley Valley Lakes District Airshed Management Society will receive $19,000 in provincial funding to encourage homeowners to trade in their smoky old wood stoves for a new high-efficiency appliance.

Why this matters:

New high-efficiency wood stoves are proven to burn one-third less wood, reduce emissions by up to 70 per cent and significantly reduce the risk of chimney fires.
The funding allows the Bulkley Valley Lakes District Airshed Management Society and other participating communities to offer a $250 rebate on the purchase of a new wood stove, insert, pellet stove or gas stove/fireplace.
The approximately 116,000 older model stoves currently in use around the province can affect the health of homeowners, their neighbours and overall air shed health.

Quotes:

“This is just another step in the direction of environmental responsibility by this government. Not only will this reduce emissions, but it will also provide health benefits for those moving away from a traditional wood burning stove.”
-Nechako Lakes MLA John Rustad

Additional information:

Wood smoke contains tiny particles called particulate matter (PM). Particulate matter that is 2.5 microns or less in diameter, called PM2.5, is small enough to be breathed into the deepest parts of the lungs. It is associated with all sorts of health problems, from a runny nose and coughing, to bronchitis, asthma, emphysema, pneumonia, heart disease and even premature death.
Earlier this year, the Province provided $200,000 to the BC Lung Association to continue and expand the successful wood stove exchange program into 2012. Dealers, manufacturers and suppliers may also offer additional discounts.

Quick Facts:

Following good burning techniques is just as important as using a high-efficiency model of wood stove.
Dry, seasoned wood burns best. Firewood should be seasoned by splitting and stacking it in the spring. Woodpiles should be protected from rain and snow, but still have good air circulation.
Burn only clean, dry wood. Never burn green, wet, painted or treated wood - including plywood. Never burn household garbage.
Create small, bright fires by using small pieces of kindling to start the fire and keep it moderately hot, adding larger pieces of split wood as required. Do not damper down the fire more than necessary because that produces more smoke.
Watch for signs of incomplete burning, such as visible smoke coming from the chimney or long, lazy flames in the firebox. Opening the dampers will allow more air into the stove and improve the fire’s efficiency.
Where possible, avoid burning on poor air quality days.

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