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City of Wollongong

Smoke from wood heaters can be a hazard for people inside your home, your neighbours and the environment.

Some ways you can reduce smoke pollution from your heater include:

  • Maintain a bright flame and don’t let your fire smoulder
  • Increase the air supply if your chimney is smoking
  • Burn only dry, aged hardwood. Fresh cut wood should be stored for at least 8-12 months before it is burned.
  • Store wood in a dry, covered area that’s well ventilated.
  • Never burn treated wood, painted wood, driftwood or rubbish
  • Use several small logs rather than one large log, and stack them loosely
  • When lighting a cold heater, use lots of dry kindling
  • Have your chimney cleaned every year to keep air flowing well.

If you have questions about efficient ways of reducing wood smoke, you can call us on (02) 4227 7111 or visit the NSW EPA's website.