Low smoke fuels – a healthier heating option

The choices we make when heating our homes can impact our health, and our communities. Burning smoky fuels releases invisible toxins that damage our health and the health of those around us. It increases air pollution, which can trigger asthma and lead to serious illness. We must make sure we only use low smoke fuels if burning fuel in the home. It is important, too, to remember to clean and maintain chimneys and heating appliances at least once a year.

New Solid Fuel regulations are in place to ensure the removal of the most polluting fuels from the market, to improve the quality of the air that we breathe, and the health of the public. These polluting fuels can cost more and can produce less heat.

These regulations are removing the most polluting fuels from the market, improving the quality of the air that we breathe, and the health of the public.

Increases in the cost of some fuel products are due to a number of international economic factors, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and the impact it is having on limiting supplies of fuels available on the market. The price increases are not directly related to the new regulations.

Indeed, many of the non-compliant products are more expensive and emit less heat for less time when burned so always choose the compliant low smoke fuels.

For further information on these regulations, air quality or any other queries you may have regarding protecting the environment, please contact the Environment Section of Cavan County Council on 049 437 8486 or alternatively email environ@cavancoco.ie