You may have seen headlines suggesting that “burning wood indoors could cause damage akin to cigarette smoke.” We take air quality seriously and welcome research that helps people heat their homes cleanly and safely. However, by failing to distinguish modern, Ecodesign-compliant stoves from open fires and older appliances, and by comparing stove use to cigarette smoking, these headlines mislead the public and ignore the major advances in how today’s appliances are designed and used.  

What the headlines miss 

The SIA explains that the comparison with smoking is inaccurate and misleading. Cigarettes deliver concentrated toxins directly into the lungs many times a day, whereas modern Ecodesign stoves are sealed appliances that vent emissions outdoors through a chimney. When used correctly, indoor emissions are minimal. Modern stoves are designed and tested to operate under negative pressure, drawing air and smoke up the flue, not into the room. They cannot be equated with cigarette smoke exposure. 

•The UCL study cannot prove causation. It was based on self-reported “solid fuel use” and did not distinguish between open fires, old stoves, and modern Ecodesign models. It also did not measure actual indoor air quality. These results cannot be generalised to show proof of harm from today’s appliances.

•Modern stoves are low emission. Independent testing shows that an Ecodesign stove can reduce particle emissions by up to 90% compared to an open fire. They are one of the cleanest solid fuel options available. 

•Indoor air studies show minimal risk. A comprehensive 2022 review by Dr Amanda Lea-Langton of Manchester University found no scientific evidence of adverse health impacts from exposure to indoor air typically associated with modern enclosed stoves.

•Regulation is already in place. Since 2022, all new stoves sold in the UK must meet strict Ecodesign standards for emissions and efficiency. Using correctly seasoned or Ready to Burn certified wood logs, correct installation, and regular appliance maintenance and chimney sweeping keeps emissions low.

The SIA’s position: Modern Ecodesign stoves, used responsibly, are a renewable, low-emission heating option. We support ongoing research, clear regulation, and consumer education — but sensational comparisons to smoking are misleading and unhelpful. 

How to burn well at home 

•Choose a modern Ecodesign stove

Look for clearSkies certification and, in Smoke Control Areas, a Defra-exempt model. Your local Charnwood stockist can size the stove correctly for your space to optomise efficiency and encourage good burning.

•Install and maintain properly

Use a qualified installer, sweep the chimney regularly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Good maintenance is an essential part of clean burning and protecting your investment.

•Use dry fuel only

Select Ready to Burn logs at ≤20% moisture. Store them off the ground and under cover, with good ventilation. Never burn treated wood, waste or wet fuel.

•Use good stove practices
 

Use the top down jenga stacking method. Dry kindling stacked on top of medium sized dry logs. Let the appliance reach working temperature before turning down.  

Read more essential wood stove tips here. 

Smarter control for lower emissions and lower bills 

For those who want the cleanest and simplest day-to-day experience, our cutting edge Aire Intelligent stoves use iBlu technology to manage airflow through the burn automatically. The result is steady, efficient heat with a clear view of the fire. Many users report using up to 50% less wood compared with manual operation when using properly seasoned logs (≤20% moisture) and allowing the stove to run in automatic mode.  

Our commitment 

At Charnwood we have spent more than 50 years designing, innovating and building stoves that respect both people and the environment. We support sensible standards, clear guidance and honest discussion. We also believe households deserve practical options that deliver cost-effective warmth, energy resilience and low emissions in the real world. Modern stoves, when used properly, are very much part of that solution. 

If you would like help choosing the right model or learning the best way to burn, visit our Where to Buy page to find an approved Charnwood stockist.