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SFL Flues & Chimneys Supports the Stove Industry Association’s #PositiveWoodBurning Campaign

16 January 2025

SFL Flues & Chimneys are proud to support the Stove Industry Association’s (SIA) #PositiveWoodBurning campaign, a national initiative designed to raise awareness of the significant environmental and efficiency benefits of modern wood-burning stoves. The campaign encourages the use of dry wood to lower emissions from domestic wood burning, helping to create cleaner, more sustainable heating solutions for households across the UK.

 

Modern Stoves: Efficient and Environmentally Friendly
When used properly, modern wood-burning stoves provide an effective and environmentally responsible way to heat homes. The SIA’s campaign emphasizes how these stoves, when combined with dry, seasoned wood, can dramatically reduce particulate emissions compared to older, less efficient models and open fires. By promoting advanced stove technology and best practices, the SIA aims to encourage homeowners with open fires or older stoves to upgrade to more efficient, lower-emission appliances.

Andy Hill, Chair of the SIA, commented:
“We’re excited to launch the #PositiveWoodBurning campaign, which underscores the environmental and cost-saving benefits of modern wood-burning stoves. With the right fuel—seasoned, dry wood—these stoves are not only energy-efficient but also play a key role in reducing harmful emissions. Through this campaign, we hope to educate the public on how they can contribute to a cleaner environment while enjoying the warmth and comfort of wood heat.”

The campaign also highlights the often-overlooked advantages of using wood fuel, including its positive impact on forest health and biodiversity. The SIA is providing additional resources to help consumers understand the importance of using dry wood and maintaining their stoves for optimal performance.

Join the Conversation
The #PositiveWoodBurning campaign invites everyone to get involved by sharing their own experiences and insights on social media using the hashtag #PositiveWoodBurning. For more information, visit www.stoveindustryassociation.org.

SIA Top Tips for Wood-Burning Stove Owners
To get the most out of your stove while minimizing environmental impact, the SIA offers the following tips:

  1. Choose an Ecodesign-Compliant Stove
    Opt for a stove that is Ecodesign compliant, such as a clearSkies-certified appliance. Upgrading from an open fire or older stove can reduce emissions by up to 90% compared to open fires and up to 80% compared to some older models. Visit your local SIA Retail Group member for expert advice on choosing the right stove for your needs.
  2. Check for Defra Exemption if You Live in a Smoke Control Area
    If you live in a Smoke Control Area, ensure your stove is Defra exempt. All clearSkies Level 3 and above models meet these requirements.
  3. Get Expert Advice on Stove Size and Installation
    Work with your local stove retailer to choose the right stove size for your property and receive a detailed installation quote. Find your nearest SIA Retail Group member showroomhere.
  4. Hire a Qualified Installer
    Make sure your stove is fitted by a qualified professional, such as someone who is HETAS or OFTEC registered.
  5. Use Quality Fuel
    Always use high-quality, well-seasoned wood. Look for the Ready to Burn logo to ensure your wood is at or below 20% moisture content. Never burn chemically treated wood or waste materials.
  6. Maintain Your Stove and Chimney
    Regularly service your stove and have your chimney swept at least once a year. The SIA recommends using NVQ-qualified chimney sweeps for maintenance. For more information, visit the Federation of British Chimney Sweeps for a list of certified sweep associations.
  7. Follow Manufacturer Instructions
    Always adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe and efficient stove operation.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your stove operates at its best, providing warmth and comfort while keeping your environmental impact low.

 

 

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Editor’s Notes:

SFL is a leading manufacturer of flues and chimneys in the UK with well-established distribution in the USA and Far East. SFL has over 55 years of experience in flue & chimney systems across Residential, Commercial, and Industrial markets.

 

For installations in commercial buildings, SFL manufacture a range of flue systems from complex header configurations to large-diameter stacks. SFL are committed to offering industry-leading technical support services, throughout the whole process of design, manufacture, and supply.

 

SFL also provide high-quality residential flue and chimney components via a network of distribution partners. With fast delivery times and comprehensive product warranties, SFL ensure quality and reliability.

 

SFL became part of the Sphering Group in 2022, the market leader in Flue and Air Care across Europe. This new acquisition added R&D capabilities to SFL and a sixth, (UK based) manufacturing plant to the Group’s industrial capacities already operating in France, Italy, Belgium, Germany, and Poland. The Group now employs over 1000 people across Europe with a turnover of c.190 million euros, with each business renowned for expertise in the design, manufacturing and distribution of innovative, high-quality chimney and ventilation systems.

 

The Sphering Group includes Apros, Eurotip, Joncoux, Lorflex, MK, SFL and more recently EKA in Germany. As a committed company, determined to play an active role towards the environment and society, Sphering has its own R&D center: “WeLab”. This facility has allowed the group to comply with the newest European standards in terms of security, safety, and performance of their products and adopt a responsible innovation approach.

Sphering celebrated a century of existence in 2019. Faithful to its historic values implemented its CARE policy with customers, employees, secured and efficient products, environment, and society. Supported by committed local teams and backed by controlled financial stability, the Group has demonstrated its ability to carry out rapid, structured, and profitable growth.

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