Danish homebuyers must replace their old wood burning stoves

If you buy a home in Denmark where a wood burning stove from before 2003 is installed, you are required as the new homeowner to remove or replace the stove with a new one no later than one year after the change of ownership.

An old wood burning stove releases up to five times more particles than a new one

The change in legislation was introduced with the aim of improving air quality and reducing particle pollution from heating appliances in Denmark:

“We must fight air pollution both in the large cities and in residential areas across the country. Therefore, we are now looking at older wood burning stoves, because they emit up to five times as many particles as a new stove. The intention is to phase out the oldest stoves while making the process manageable — when buying a new home, you already need to make decisions about replacements,” said former Danish Minister for the Environment, Lea Wermelin.

In 2003, a new European standard was introduced that tightened the requirements for particle emissions from wood burning stoves, which is why the limit has been set at 2003.

DAPO supports the ownership transfer scheme for wood burning stoves

Association of Danish Suppliers of Fireplaces and Wood Burning Stoves (DAPO) acknowledges the issue of particle pollution from old stoves and supports the change in legislation.

“Since 2005, there has been significant technological development, making Danish wood burning stoves among the most environmentally advanced in Europe. A modern wood burning stove today emits 70% fewer particles than a modern stove did in 2005. Therefore, removing the oldest stoves from use — and ideally replacing them — will have a meaningful environmental impact,” said DAPO Chairman Carsten Bach when the proposal was introduced.

Thanks to product development and stricter regulations, a wood burning stove today may only emit 4 grams of particles per kilogram of wood burned.

Proper firing is essential for optimal combustion

You can also help reduce particle emissions by firing your stove correctly. It is essential to light the fire properly, use well-dried wood, and ensure sufficient air supply when burning. Read more about how to light and operate your stove efficiently here.

If you are looking for a new stove, you may benefit from choosing a model with automatic air control, ensuring the correct airflow for efficient and clean combustion. You can also look for environmental certifications when selecting a stove.

How to check the age of your stove

1. Label: The production year is usually stated on a label on the back of the stove. A simple rule: If there is a label (with or without a year), the stove is typically from 2003 or later. If there is no label, the stove is likely from before 2003.
2. No label or year: Contact the manufacturer or your chimney sweep, who can help determine the age.
3. If the age is uncertain, a declaration from the chimney sweep must be obtained.