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If you are considering buying a new wood burning stove, you have probably come across the term Ecodesign. But what does this actually mean, and what does Ecodesign involve for wood-burning stoves? You will find out on this page.

What is Ecodesign?

Let’s start by explaining what Ecodesign is. Ecodesign is an initiative of the European Commission aimed at designing and developing products in the cleanest way possible, in order to minimise environmental impact. To achieve this, the Commission sets requirements to ensure that products, for example, use less energy, operate more efficiently, emit fewer harmful substances (such as fine particles and CO₂), and are suitable for reuse.

Ecodesign requirements exist for a wide range of products. In addition to wood-burning stoves, there are also regulations for ovens, hobs, LED lamps, computers, and televisions. Both products manufactured within the European Union and those imported into the EU must comply with the applicable Ecodesign requirements.

These regulations also apply to the UK market. All new solid fuel space heating appliances, under which wood burning stoves, offered for sale in the UK from January 2022 onward must satisfy the Ecodesign requirements if they are to be placed on the UK market.

Current Ecodesign rules for wood burning stoves

At present, new wood burning stoves must comply with the Ecodesign 2022 regulations. These set out the following requirements:

• Wood-burning stoves must achieve a minimum efficiency of 75%.
• The following maximum levels apply for emissions of harmful substances:
  • Fine particles (PM): 40 mg/m³
  • Carbon monoxide (CO): 1500 mg/m³ (~0.12%)
  • Organic compounds: 120 mg C/m³
  • Nitrogen oxides (NOₓ): 200 mg/m³
• New stoves must be EN 16510 certified. In addition, they must carry a CE mark and an energy label.

It is important to note that these requirements only apply to new wood burning stoves, not to older models you may already have at home. Still, in that case it is worth considering investing in a new stove. Not only is a modern stove better for the environment, but also for your wallet. While a wood burning stove from 20 years ago might only reach an efficiency of around 20%, a new stove must achieve at least 75%. Most new Leenders stoves even reach efficiencies of over 80%. Feel free to browse our retailers in Europe.

What does the future hold?

The European Commission is working on tightening emission standards for wood burning stoves based on WHO guidelines. These are currently expected to be introduced around 2030