Definition of Terms & Further Information

HETAS 

HETAS is the official body recognised by the government to approve solid fuel domestic heating appliances, fuels, and services. HETAS operates a Registration Scheme to train and approve engineers.  Our HETAS-qualified solid fuel engineers will maintain your appliance to the highest standard. Ask to see our engineer’s registration card or check for yourself on the HETAS website. 

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning 

Carbon Monoxide is a deadly gas which can cause illness, permanent health damage and far too often, death. It is formed by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. A certain amount will be formed during the normal process of burning the fossil fuel, but the gas is evacuated safety up the chimney and away. However, if your chimney is blocked, or leaking, or if your appliance airways or throat plate are not clear, then the gases will not escape into the atmosphere, but flow back into your house, or on occasion into your neighbour’s house, through a common chimney, with possible deadly results. It is also important to note that in extreme weather conditions, fumes can be forced back down the chimney. The dangers are greatest with closed appliances. If you are burning a smokeless fuel, you may not see any smoke. Elderly people are often more vulnerable because they have lost their sense of smell and although the gas is odourless, the other combustion products from the fuel are not. All cases of carbon monoxide poisoning with solid fuel are the result of a blocked or leaking chimney or poor maintenance. Follow the advice, be safe and enjoy your fire. To find out more about carbon monoxide and safety refer to the Solid Fuel Association website listed in the Links Section. 

Wood & Environment – Carbon Neutral 

All fossil fuels (coal, anthracite, oil, gas, LPG, and wood) emit carbon dioxide when they are burnt. This carbon dioxide increases the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, which contribute to global climate change. It is therefore especially important to think about ways of reducing these emissions. This can be done by ensuring that your heating system is efficient, well maintained and incorporates adequate controls. You should also undertake other energy saving measures, such as increasing the insulation in your house. Wood fuel is carbon neutral as it absorbs as much carbon dioxide in its growth as it releases when it is burnt. For this reason, the installation of wood fuel appliances is treated more favourably in Building Regulations. 

Links 

HETAS www.hetas.co.uk 

Solid Fuel Association www.solidfuel.co.uk