Masonry Magazine December 2011 Page. 16
EPA-Qualified
Fireplaces
Fine particulate emissions in wood smoke are reduced through the use of EPA-Qualified fireplaces.
THE UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (EPA) ESTIMATES that existing wood-burning fireplaces emit, on average, 12 grams of fine particulate per kilogram of fuel burned. Phase 2 Qualified fireplaces under the EPA's Voluntary Fireplace Program emit 5.1 g/kg or less, an emission reduction of more than 70 percent. To date, seven manufacturers have qualified 14 fireplaces with emission levels varying from 0.68 to 4.8 g/kg. Qualified fireplaces include those of all types of construction, including manufactured metal fireplaces, modular masonry and a site-built, brick-and-cinder block, masonry fireplace.
BY COLBY DEHOFF