As the popularity of wood-burning stoves has increased, so too has the number of heating and plumbing professionals joining the industry to meet demand.

For HETAS, the only specialist organisation approving biomass and solid fuel heating appliances, fuels and services, it is crucial that this influx of businesses comply with industry standards and regulations.

HETAS’ purpose is to ensure the safe and effective use of appliances and fuels giving confidence and instilling trust for both consumers and industry professionals. With backing from leading manufacturers and key organisations in the industry including the BFCMA, SFA, SIA and sweep associations (APICS, The Guild and NACS), HETAS provides the most up-to-date information and informed advice for registered installers, HETAS approved retailers and sweeps.

This past year has seen HETAS work with Defra and scientists at SuperGen Bioenergy to support developments within the solid fuel industry and help improve air quality.

Bruce Allen, CEO of HETAS comments: “The latest advancements in appliance design technology and wood fuel assurance schemes demonstrate that the solid fuel industry is very much part of the solution to better air quality solution and not the problem.  Along with EcoDesign and clean burn appliances, our Defra backed Ready to Burn wood fuel scheme has been key this year in raising awareness of the importance of burning the right fuel for heat efficiency as well as for the environment.”

Research into wood stove emissions is being led by Dr Amanda Lea-Langton from The University of Manchester: “Both particulate matter and gaseous emissions are significantly reduced by using good quality seasoned wood in comparison to wet wood,” she says. “This reduction has implications for both air quality and climate change.”

Bruce adds: “As an independent body, HETAS brings together all the different elements of the supply chain to ensure consumers benefit from best practice service and a consistent message around safety and efficiency when it comes to stove usage.”

Ben Bowers who started his own business 8 years ago and is HETAS registered said: “Customers know to look for the HETAS logo on installer vans and appliances and are definitely becoming more environmentally conscious when it comes to the fuel they burn. It’s good to be working in a regulated but helpful environment and we’re proud to be associated with an organisation that is all about raising industry standards.”

For more information on HETAS, technical support and training courses, please visit www.hetas.co.uk