Smoke from woodfire heaters
Choosing the right heater, using the correct fuel and maintaining your heater properly can help reduce smoke and improve efficiency.
Health Impacts
For most people, brief exposure to wood smoke does not cause immediate health problems. However, smoke can have greater impacts on:
- People with heart or lung conditions
- Pregnant women
- Young children
- Older adults
Exposure to wood smoke may:
- Trigger asthma symptoms
- Worsen heart or respiratory conditions
Environmental Impacts
Woodfire smoke contributes to air pollution by releasing fine particles and gases into the atmosphere, including:
- Carbon dioxide
- Carbon monoxide
- Nitrogen oxides
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
How to Reduce Smoke from Your Woodfire Heater
If you use a woodfire heater
Follow these steps to minimise smoke and improve performance:
- Ensure your heater complies with Australian Standards AS 4012 and AS 4013.
- Test firewood moisture content using a moisture meter and aim for less than 20% moisture.
- Avoid allowing the fire to smoulder or produce excessive smoke.
- Maintain adequate airflow and avoid overloading the firebox.
- Clean the heater regularly and remove accumulated ash.
- Have the flue cleaned annually before winter.
- Ensure the flue extends above neighbouring rooflines where possible.
Be considerate of neighbours
Even when operated correctly, woodfire heaters can affect nearby residents. If your neighbours are experiencing smoke impacts, consider discussing the issue and exploring ways to further reduce emissions.
Choose the Right Firewood
Always burn dry, seasoned and untreated hardwood. This means wood that:
- Has been naturally seasoned or kiln dried.
- Contains no paints, stains or chemical treatments.
Drying your own firewood
If purchasing unseasoned hardwood:
- Store it in a covered, well-ventilated area for at least eight months.
- Stack wood to allow air circulation, such as in a criss-cross pattern.
What Not to Burn
Burning inappropriate materials can create toxic smoke and increase pollution.
Do not burn:
- Coal
- Coke (coal-based fuel)
- Driftwood
- Household rubbish
- Painted or stained timber
- Treated timber
- Green-coloured treated pine logs often used in parks and playgrounds
What Council Is Doing
Supporting households to reduce emissions
The Act and Adapt Sustainable Environment Strategy 2023–2028 includes initiatives to help residents reduce household emissions and transition to cleaner energy sources. Council also provides information and support through its electric home programs.
Council Requirements
Under the Community Amenity Local Law 2023, lighting fires in the open air or in an incinerator is generally prohibited. Exceptions include:
- Fires approved through a permit for a special event.
- Barbecues designed and used specifically for cooking food.
Regulations and Standards
The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) regulates the manufacture and supply of solid fuel heaters in Victoria. Woodfire heaters sold in Victoria must comply with:
- Australian Standard AS 4012
- Australian Standard AS 4013
These standards are intended to minimise:
- Air pollution
- Health impacts
- Amenity issues
- Environmental impacts
To find out more on smoke from woodfire heaters visit the Victorian EPA's website.