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Wood Fireplaces

Current ordinances throughout Sonoma County prevent the installation of a wood burning fireplace that does not meet current testing standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). On Fire is proud to offer EPA Certified fireplaces manufactured by Fireplace Xtrordinair and Kozy Heat . Both models give you the enjoyment of a real wood fire but with the heating efficiency of a furnace—all while burning cleanly to meet EPA’s tough air quality standards.

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Wood Burning Fireplace Options in Sonoma County: EPA-Certified Inserts and Outdoor Burning

What are the benefits of having a wood burning fireplace?
  1. Primal, alluring feeling: A wood-burning fireplace offers a primal and alluring feeling that you won’t get with other heating elements.
  2. Cost savings: Wood fireplaces offer cost savings over gas and electric, especially if you can source free wood or use wood from your own land.
  3. Heat output: Wood fireplaces provide more heat output than electric or gas fireplaces, and create a stronger, more direct heat that spreads quickly.
  4. Environmental benefits: Burning wood is a carbon-neutral activity and produces fewer emissions than burning fossil fuels.
  5. Atmosphere: Nothing quite compares to the atmosphere that a wood-burning fire creates in your home.
  6. Health benefits: Wood burning fireplaces can help reduce stress and anxiety and even provide aromatherapy from the wood smoke.
  7. Unmatched heating capacity: A wood-burning stove is an effective way to add unmatched heating capacity that can only be offered by a freestanding wood burning stove.
  8. Efficiency: Today’s wood stoves are energy efficient, clean-burning, and great looking.
  9. Variety: There are so many choices in styles, colors, and venting options with wood stoves.

What to consider when choosing between indoor and outdoor wood burning fireplace options?

1. Wood Burning Fireplace: Efficiency and heat output

The efficiency and heat output of a wood burning fireplace can vary depending on the type of wood being burned, the amount of wood being burned and the overall design of the fireplace. Generally, wood burning fireplaces are less efficient than gas or electric fireplaces as more energy is used to boil the wood’s moisture than is used to actually burn the log, meaning a majority of the energy goes not to warming your home, but instead to just drying your firewood. Wood burning fireplaces can, however, still provide a great source of heat if the right type of wood is used and burned with caution. On the other hand, gas and electric fireplaces are much more energy efficient, as they use a fraction of the energy compared to a wood burning fireplace and have a much cleaner gas or electric flame. Gas and electric fireplaces also have the advantage of being able to be controlled remotely and provide a steady, consistent heat with no smoke or mess.

2. Wood Burning Stove: Safety and emissions

When it comes to choosing between an indoor and an outdoor wood burning fireplace, there are several safety and emissions considerations to keep in mind.

Indoor wood burning fireplaces offer more warmth and comfort and are usually more efficient than outdoor models. However, they can release smoke and other pollutants into the home, leading to poor air quality and health risks. To reduce emissions, it is important to only use clean and seasoned wood, light and refuel the fire quickly, and ideally use a combination of softwood and hardwood. Additionally, it is important to use only non-glossy white paper and avoid burning garbage, plastic, plywood, particleboard, glossy paper, colored paper, painted wood, or treated wood.

Outdoor wood burning fireplaces are generally less efficient than indoor models and offer less warmth and comfort. However, since the smoke is released into the outside air, they do not pose the same air quality or health risks as indoor fireplaces. To reduce emissions from outdoor fireplaces, it is still important to only burn clean and seasoned wood, light and refuel the fire quickly, and use a combination of softwood and hardwood. Additionally, local regulations should always be followed, as many districts have specific policies regarding wood fireplaces.

Overall, safety and emissions should be taken into account when choosing between an indoor and an outdoor wood burning fireplace. Depending on the specific regulations in your area and your individual needs, one of these options may be better suited to your needs than the other.

3. Wood Burning Fireplace: Selection of wood

When burning wood in a wood-burning fireplace, it is important to choose the right type of wood. There are generally two types of wood available: softwoods and hardwoods. Softwoods, like pine and fir, are lighter and easier to light, and they burn quickly, creating more smoke and ash. Hardwoods, such as oak and maple, burn longer and cleaner, with less smoke and ash. Hardwoods are harder to get going, so it’s best to use a bit of softwood at the beginning to ignite the hardwood. It is also important to choose only seasoned, clean wood and non-glossy white paper, as burning garbage, plastic, plywood, particleboard, glossy paper, colored paper, painted wood, or treated wood can release toxic fumes. Electric fireplaces can be a great alternative, as they do not waste energy or produce fumes by burning wood.

4. Wood Burning Fireplace: Appearance and design

When choosing between an indoor and outdoor wood burning fireplace, there are many design and aesthetic considerations to keep in mind.

Indoor wood fireplaces provide the warmth, ambiance, and style that a wood-burning fireplace can offer in the comfort of a home. Fireplaces can be custom designed to fit the style of any room from traditional to modern, or even a mix of both. Fireplaces can be designed to incorporate materials such as porcelain, brass, stainless, nickel, or copper-plated, or matte black finish. Fireplaces can also be customized with larger size models and built with exotic metal finishes and glass.

Outdoor wood burning firepits provide a more casual and rustic feel to any outdoor space. They are easy to set up and perfect for gatherings and entertaining. Firepits can be made from brick, stone, steel, or even a portable design. They provide the warmth and ambience of a wood-burning fire with a more relaxed atmosphere.

In conclusion, when selecting a wood burning fireplace, it is important to consider the look, feel, and design of the space in which the fireplace will be placed. Both indoor and outdoor wood burning fireplaces provide cozy, inviting atmospheres that can bring family and friends together to share in the warmth and ambiance of a burning fire.

5. Wood Burning Fireplace: Comfort and warmth

When choosing between an indoor and an outdoor wood burning fireplace, there are several comfort and warmth considerations to take into account.

Indoor wood burning fireplaces are great for adding ambiance and warmth to a living space, allowing for cozy gathering around the fire, and providing a unique decor element to the room. However, indoor fireplaces can also be more expensive, require more cleaning and maintenance, and can be more hazardous in tight spaces.

Outdoor wood burning fireplaces, on the other hand, are great for providing a safe, efficient and cost effective source of heat. These fireplaces are perfect for entertaining, and can provide a great way to enjoy the outdoors while staying warm. When choosing an outdoor fireplace, keep in mind that it must be safe and efficient, and also consider the size of the area you will be using it in.

Overall, both indoor and outdoor wood burning fireplaces offer great sources of comfort and warmth, but the best choice will depend on the size of your space, your budget, and how you plan to use it. By understanding the differences between the two, you can make an informed decision that will help you to enjoy your fireplace for years to come.

6. Wood Burning Fireplace: Air quality and smoke

When it comes to choosing between an indoor and outdoor wood burning fireplace, there are some important air quality and smoke considerations to keep in mind.

Indoor wood-burning fireplaces are not as efficient as other heating options, such as electric fireplaces, and can cause a lot of heat to be lost up the chimney. Burning garbage, plastic, plywood, particleboard, glossy paper, colored paper, painted wood, or treated wood can all release fumes into your home as well. To reduce smoke and air pollution, it is recommended to use hardwoods that are seasoned and clean, as well as only non-glossy white paper.

On the other hand, outdoor wood-burning fireplaces may be a more suitable alternative if the climate is suitable, as they do not produce smoke or fumes within the home. However, they still produce emissions into the atmosphere and should therefore be used sparingly and only with clean, properly seasoned wood. Additionally, outdoor wood-burning fireplaces are subject to the same state and federal air quality regulations as indoor fireplaces.

Overall, it is important to consider both air quality and smoke issues when deciding between an indoor and outdoor wood burning fireplace. There are benefits and drawbacks to each, so it is important to weigh your options carefully.

7. Wood Burning Fireplace: Chimney emissions

Wood burning fireplaces and chimneys produce a variety of dangerous air pollutants, such as particulate matter, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and volatile organic compounds. These pollutants can have negative impacts on human health, including increased risk of respiratory illnesses and other health issues. In order to reduce the amount of these pollutants emitted from wood burning fireplaces and chimneys, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) has enacted regulations that require any new building construction, additions, and remodels to install a gas-fueled, electric, or EPA-certified device.

8. Wood Burning Stove: Cleaning and servicing

Cleaning and servicing an indoor wood-burning fireplace is not a difficult process. To start, you will need to gather the following materials: a shop vacuum, a chimney brush and rods, a creosote remover, a sturdy ladder and a drop cloth.

Step 1: Put on safety goggles and a dust mask. It is also recommended that you wear gloves and a long-sleeved shirt to protect your skin.

Step 2: Place a drop cloth over the hearth and the surrounding area to catch any debris or dust that may become airborne while cleaning your fireplace.

Step 3: Use the shop vacuum to remove any leftover wood ash, soot, and creosote that may have accumulated in the firebox.

Step 4: Using the chimney brush and rods, brush any soot and creosote buildup in the chimney, beginning at the top and working your way down.

Step 5: Spray the creosote remover into the smoke chamber of the fireplace, then brush away the creosote.

Step 6: Use the shop vacuum to remove any remaining debris and dust in the firebox.

Step 7: Place a new firewood log in the firebox and replace the grate.

Step 8: Light the firewood according to manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 9: Monitor the fire and make sure it is burning properly.

By following these steps, you can clean and service your indoor wood-burning fireplace to ensure optimal performance. If you do not feel comfortable completing these steps on your own, be sure to contact a professional chimney sweep for assistance.

9. Wood Burning Fireplace: Firewood supply

When considering the availability of firewood for a wood burning fireplace, it is important to take into account the regulations and laws that vary across the state. In some districts, wood burning is only limited during the winter and other districts have banned wood-burning fireplaces or wood stoves altogether in new constructions.

Therefore, it is important to consider the availability of firewood and the regulations that are put in place in your area before installing a wood-burning fireplace. When burning firewood, it is also important to use only clean, seasoned wood and only non-glossy white paper to avoid releasing fumes into your home. Additionally, it is important to light or refuel your fire quickly, as these are the times when the fire will produce the most smoke.

In contrast, electric fireplaces are much safer and more efficient, with little to no heat loss to the chimney. They also rely on electric currents to generate heat and forgo the need for burning wood. Additionally, electric fireplaces create the same cozy atmosphere as wood-burning ones without the environmental and health effects of wood smoke.

10. Wood Burning Fireplace: Firepit options

There are several pit options available for wood burning fireplaces. These include fire pits, gas and electric fireplaces, furnaces, and space heaters. Fire pits are a great solution for those who want to enjoy the ambiance of a wood-burning fire without the environmental and health effects of wood smoke. Gas and electric fireplaces provide beautiful and functional options for heating your home. Furnaces are a great alternative for those who want to maintain the look of a wood-burning fireplace, but with improved efficiency and lower emissions. Finally, space heaters provide an efficient and cost-effective way to heat small spaces without the need for a full-sized fireplace.

11. Wood Burning Fireplace: Indoor and outdoor use

Yes, a wood burning fireplace has both indoor and outdoor use options depending on the specific model. Some wood burning fireplaces are specifically designed for indoor use, while others are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Outdoor wood burning fireplaces can typically be installed in a backyard, deck, or patio area. Additionally, some wood burning fireplace models are designed to be installed in an existing masonry fireplace or in a prefabricated metal fireplace.

12. Wood Burning Fireplace: Air intake and exhaust

When installing a wood burning fireplace, there are several key considerations to take into account for air intake and exhaust. Firstly, it is important to make sure the fireplace is installed properly, with sufficient space for proper air intake and exhaust. On the intake side, it is important to ensure that the intake ducts are open and the flue is properly sized to ensure adequate air flow. On the exhaust side, it is important to make sure that the exhaust ducts are properly sealed and insulated to prevent any heat loss within the home.

Another important consideration for a wood burning fireplace is the type of fuel used. Softwoods like pine and fir are the best for starting the fire, as they are easily lit and burn fast. Hardwoods are better for maintaining the fire, as they produce less smoke and burn for a longer period of time. In addition, it is important to use only clean, seasoned wood, as burning garbage and treated wood can release fumes into the home.

Finally, it is important to take into account current ordinances and environmental regulations, such as the Environmental Protection Agency’s testing standards. In some areas, such as the Bay Area, certain fireplaces and wood burning devices may not meet the testing standards required by the EPA and must be replaced with EPA-certified fireplaces or alternative sources of heat such as electric fireplaces.

13. Wood Burning Fireplace: Temperature control

When it comes to temperature control, there are a few key factors to consider when deciding between an indoor and outdoor wood burning fireplace. Indoor wood burning fireplaces are typically better for providing consistent, controllable heat throughout the home. As air is circulated through the fireplace, the heat it produces is evenly spread throughout the room. Additionally, with an indoor wood burning fireplace, you can more easily control the temperature of the fire with a built-in blower or adjustable vents.

Outdoor wood burning fireplaces are great for creating an atmosphere, as the heat and smoke produced by the fire are sent outside instead of into the home, but they are not as good at providing steady, controllable heat. As the fire is exposed to wind and other external factors, the temperature of the fire can be difficult to control, and the heat it produces is not as evenly spread throughout the area.

Overall, indoor wood burning fireplaces are best for providing consistent, controllable heat, while outdoor wood burning fireplaces are better for creating an atmosphere. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of the regulations in your area when it comes to wood burning fireplaces.

14. Wood Burning Fireplace: Sound and noise

When deciding between an indoor and outdoor wood-burning fireplace, there are sound and noise considerations. Indoor fireplaces use a chimney to channel smoke to the outside, whereas outdoor fireplaces have no chimney outlet and create more noise. Indoor fireplaces tend to be quieter since the chimney absorbs much of the noise made by the fire, whereas an outdoor fireplace’s noise tends to be more noticeable and audible. Additionally, indoor fireplaces use a damper to control airflow, which helps to reduce sound, while outdoor fireplaces may not have such a feature. In terms of safety, indoor fireplaces may be better since they can be contained and monitored more closely. Outdoor fireplaces, on the other hand, may be more prone to stray sparks and embers. Ultimately, the decision between an indoor and outdoor wood-burning fireplace depends on sound and noise considerations as well as other factors.

The best wood burning fireplace options in Sonoma County

1. EPA-Certified Wood-Burning Fireplace Inserts

EPA-certified wood-burning fireplace inserts are heating appliances that meet the standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in Title 40, Part 60, Subpart AAA, Code of Federal Regulations. These wood-burning fireplace inserts are designed to burn wood with an air-to-fuel ratio of 35 to one while meeting the EPA’s strict air quality standards. They come in both freestanding and built-in models, and they are certified and labeled according to EPA standards. EPA-certified wood-burning fireplace inserts are an efficient, clean, and economical way to heat your home while providing the enjoyment of a real wood fire.

2. EPA-Certified Wood-Burning Stoves

EPA-certified wood-burning stoves are wood-burning heating appliances that meet stringent environmental standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These stoves are designed to burn wood in a clean and efficient manner, helping to reduce air pollution and improve air quality. This is especially beneficial in areas prone to wildfires, such as Sonoma County, as the clean-burning stoves can provide needed heat without releasing excessive levels of air pollutants. The EPA-certified wood-burning stoves are also a great option for Sonoma County homes due to their efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Wood-burning stoves are an affordable and efficient way to heat a home, and the EPA-certified models are the cleanest and safest option available. In addition to providing clean heat, these stoves are also attractive, adding charm and ambiance to any room in a home. With the benefits of efficiency and clean burning, as well as the comforting atmosphere they create, EPA-certified wood-burning stoves are an excellent option for Sonoma County homes.

3. EPA-Certified Fire Pits

In Sonoma County, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) and the North Coast Unified Air Quality Management District have regulations that differ when it comes to the installation of wood burning fireplaces. For new building constructions, it is not permitted to install a wood-burning device. Additions and remodels can install a gas-fueled, electric, or EPA certified device, such as those manufactured by Fireplace Xtrordinair and Kozy Heat, which must be verified in the EPA Certified Wood Heater Database. Remodeling specific to a fireplace or chimney must also use a gas-fueled, electric, or EPA certified device if the total cost exceeds $15,000 and requires a local building permit. Wood burning appliances for food, outdoor fireplaces, and fire pits are allowed in both air districts and do not need to meet any emissions standards. Gas fireplaces are allowed throughout Sonoma County in both districts, but must be a direct-vent sealed-combustion type with an approved and listed appliance.

If you are looking for EPA-certified wood burning fireplaces that are allowed in Sonoma County, Fireplace Xtrordinair and Kozy Heat both offer EPA Certified fireplaces that burn cleanly to meet EPA’s tough air quality standards. Additionally, some wood-burning stoves are certified by the EPA and can be found on the EPA Certified Wood Heater Database.

4. EPA-Certified Fireplace Mantels

EPA-certified fireplaces mantels are wood burning fireplaces that have been tested and certified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to meet the current air quality standards set for the Sonoma County area. These fireplaces are ideal for new construction or remodels because they burn cleanly, efficiently, and safely. They also offer the enjoyment of a real wood fire with the heating efficiency of a furnace. EPA-certified fireplaces mantels are ideal for use in Sonoma County because they meet the local air quality standards, ensuring that the environment is not negatively impacted by the use of wood burning fireplaces. Additionally, these fireplaces are more efficient and produce fewer emissions than traditional wood burning fireplaces, which can help reduce energy costs. Furthermore, many EPA-certified fireplace manteaus are energy-star certified, meaning they use less energy and can save homeowners money on their energy bills. For these reasons, EPA-certified fireplaces mantels are the best option for homeowners in Sonoma County.

5. EPA-Certified Fireplace Screens

EPA-certified fireplace screens are a type of fireplace screen that has been tested and certified to meet the EPA’s stringent air quality standards. By installing an EPA-certified fireplace screen, you can be sure that your fireplace is burning cleanly and efficiently while not contributing to the already increasing air pollution in Sonoma County. Furthermore, EPA-certified fireplace screens are designed to prevent sparks from flying out of the fireplace opening, making them a safer choice for your home. They are also often designed with a tighter weave and are built with tougher materials, making them more durable and effective than other types of fireplace screens. Finally, EPA-certified fireplace screens are an affordable option for those looking to protect their home from the harmful emissions produced by wood burning fireplaces.

6. EPA-Certified Fireplace Bricks

EPA-certified fireplace bricks are specially designed bricks that are made to burn cleaner and more efficiently than other types of fireplace bricks. EPA-certified fireplace bricks are made from a combination of clay and ceramic, which helps them retain heat better than other types of bricks. Additionally, these bricks are designed to reduce emissions and meet EPA standards, which makes them a great option for Sonoma County. When the emissions from a fireplace are reduced, it can help reduce air pollution and meet air quality regulations set by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District. These bricks also help to conserve energy by retaining heat better, resulting in less energy consumption and lower utility bills. Finally, EPA-certified fireplace bricks can help homeowners save money since they require fewer repairs or replacements due to their durability and longevity.

7. EPA-Certified Fireplace Mufflers

EPA-certified fireplace mufflers are specifically designed to reduce the amount of particulate emissions that come out of a wood burning fireplace. These mufflers help to reduce the amount of smoke and ash produced, as well as cut down on the noise produced by the fireplace. These mufflers are a good choice for Sonoma County, as they help to keep the air clean, which is important for maintaining the health and safety of the residents of the county. Additionally, they can help to keep the noise of the fireplace from disturbing the peace in the community. By using EPA-certified fireplace mufflers, Sonoma County residents can help to improve the quality of the air, reduce the amount of noise produced, and maintain a healthy community.

8. EPA-Certified Fireplace Guards

EPA-certified fireplace guards are a great option for wood burning fireplaces in Sonoma County since they help protect against hazardous fire and smoke-related pollutants. EPA-certified guards are designed to reduce the amount of smoke created by a wood burning fireplace while still allowing the user to enjoy the heat and ambiance of a real wood fire. These guards are made of durable materials that are tested to ensure they meet EPA standards for air quality. The guards help to direct the smoke away from the user and up the chimney where it can be safely dispersed. By using an EPA-certified guard, the user is able to enjoy the warmth and comfort of a wood burning fireplace without contributing to the air pollution of the surrounding community.

FAQ

What are the best wood burning fireplace options in Sonoma County?

If you’re looking for the best wood burning fireplace options in Sonoma County, it’s important to consider the type of wood you plan to burn, the efficiency of the fireplace, and the level of safety it provides.

For the type of wood, if you’re looking at a new installation, the best option would be a pellet-fueled wood heater, an EPA certified wood heater, or a wood-burning appliance approved for use by the Northern Sonoma County Air Pollution Control District.

Remodeling a fireplace does not need to be upgraded if more than 50% of the firebox remains as part of the remodel. Wood burning appliances for food, outdoor fireplaces, and fire pits are also permitted and do not need any emissions standards.

In terms of efficiency, the best option would be an EPA-certified wood heater, as these are tested and certified to produce fewer emissions. On Fire is proud to offer EPA Certified fireplaces manufactured by Fireplace Xtrordinair and Kozy Heat. They offer the warmth of a real wood fire with the energy efficiency of a furnace and meet EPA’s air quality standards.

Finally, in terms of safety, you may also want to consider a gas fireplace. Gas fireplaces are allowed throughout Sonoma County and must be direct-vent sealed-combustion type. Gas fireplaces must also be an approved and listed appliance.

Overall, when choosing the best wood burning fireplace in Sonoma County, it’s important to consider the type of wood you plan to burn, the efficiency of the fireplace, and the level of safety it provides. EPA-certified wood heaters are the best option for efficiency and safety, and provide the warmth of a real wood fire with the energy efficiency of a furnace.

Are EPA-certified inserts and outdoor burning available in Sonoma County?

Yes, EPA-certified inserts and outdoor burning are available in Sonoma County. New installations of wood-burning devices are allowed within new building construction, additions, and remodels and must be one of the following types: a pellet-fueled wood heater, an EPA certified wood heater, or a wood-burning appliance approved for use by the Northern Sonoma County Air Pollution Control District. Remodeling a fireplace does not require upgrading if more than 50% of the firebox remains while gas fireplaces are allowed throughout Sonoma County in both districts. Outdoor fireplaces and fire pits do not need any emissions standard such as EPA Certified Wood Heater.

What safety considerations should I take into account when using a wood burning appliance?

When using a wood-burning appliance, it is important to take into account certain safety considerations. Firstly, only use clean, seasoned wood and non-glossy white paper. Avoid burning garbage, plastic, plywood, particleboard, glossy paper, colored paper, painted wood, or treated wood as these can release fumes into your home. Secondly, when starting a fire, use softwoods such as pine and fir, as they are easily lit and burn fast. Add hardwoods for a longer, cleaner burn. When refueling of lighting your fire, do so quickly as this is when the fire will produce the most smoke. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the types of wood-burning appliances that are allowed in your area. In the city of Sonoma, for example, only pellet-fueled wood heaters, EPA-certified wood heaters, wood-burning appliances approved for use by the Northern Sonoma County Air Pollution Control District, and fireplaces certified by the EPA (should the EPA develop a fireplace certification program) are allowed. Finally, it is important to consider alternatives to wood burning fireplaces, such as gas or electric fireplaces, as these are more energy-efficient and do not produce any smoke.

How do I know if my wood burning appliance is EPA-certified?

Step 1: Check the EPA Certified Wood Heater Database to verify the model and manufacturer of your wood burning appliance.

Step 2: Ensure that your wood burning appliance meets the standards in Title 40, Part 60, Subpart AAA, Code of Federal Regulations.

Step 3: Check that your wood burning appliance is certified and labeled according to the EPA regulations.

Step 4: Contact your local building division to submit documentation and obtain a permit to verify that your wood burning appliance meets the requirements of your local ordinances.

What are the regulations for wood burning in Sonoma County?

In Sonoma County, the regulations for wood burning depend on the location within the county. In the northern part of Sonoma County, the Northern Sonoma County Air Pollution Control District regulates wood burning. The requirements are as follows:

  1. Wood-burning devices are allowed within new building construction, additions, and remodels but it must be one of the following types:
  2. Pellet-fueled wood heater;
  3. EPA certified wood heater;
  4. Wood-burning appliance approved for use by the Northern Sonoma County Air Pollution Control District.
  5. Relocating a wood stove is considered a new installation and shall comply with the above types.
  6. Remodeling a Fireplace: A fireplace does not need to be upgraded if more than 50% over the firebox remains as part of the remodel.
  7. Wood burning appliances for food, Outdoor fireplaces, and fire pits are permitted and do not need any emissions standard such as EPA Certified Wood Heater. Construction plans should include permanent design details to demonstrate that an appliance is used exclusively for the preparation of food.
  8. Gas Fireplaces are allowed throughout Sonoma County in both districts. Any installed gas fireplace shall be a direct-vent sealed-combustion type. Gas fireplaces shall be an approved and listed appliance.
  9. It shall be unlawful to install, replace or reconstruct a wood-burning appliance unless it is one of the following:
  10. A pellet-fueled wood heater;
  11. An EPA-certified wood heater;
  12. A wood-burning appliance approved for use by the Northern Sonoma County Air Pollution Control District;
  13. A fireplace certified by the EPA, should the EPA develop a fireplace certification program.
  14. The conversion of a gas log fireplace to burn wood shall constitute the installation of a wood-burning appliance and shall be subject to the provisions of this chapter.
  15. Any person who plans to install a wood-burning appliance shall submit documentation to the city of Sonoma building division and shall obtain a permit to verify that the appliance meets the requirements of this chapter.

In the southern part of the county, emission requirements are regulated by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District. Any wood burning appliance must meet the following requirements:

  1. All wood-burning appliances must be EPA certified
  2. All wood-burning appliances must be installed with proper ventilation
  3. All wood-burning appliances must be inspected and approved by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District prior to installation
  4. All wood-burning appliances must be operated in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
  5. All wood-burning appliances must be regularly maintained and cleaned

Additionally, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District regulates the number of days that residents can burn wood. Residents must check the district’s website for information on burning restrictions.

What are the benefits of using a wood burning appliance instead of a gas or electric one?

What are the benefits of using a wood burning appliance instead of a gas or electric one? [Expanded list]

There are several benefits to using a wood burning appliance instead of a gas or electric one. Firstly, there is something primal and alluring about burning firewood. It is a timeless and traditional way to heat a home, and is sure to create a cozy atmosphere in any room.

Secondly, wood burning fireplaces are generally more efficient than gas or electric models. Although some of the heat is lost to the chimney, the majority of the heat generated is used to warm the home. Additionally, wood burning stoves are often EPA certified, meaning they burn clean and produce less smoke than traditional fireplaces.

Thirdly, wood burning appliances come in a range of styles, colors, and venting options. This allows you to choose the best one for your home, creating an aesthetically pleasing addition to any space.

Finally, wood burning fireplaces are an affordable and eco-friendly way to heat your home. The wood used is generally renewable, and burning wood produces fewer carbon emissions than gas or electric alternatives.

What are the installation requirements for a wood burning appliance?

Step 1: Verify that the wood-burning appliance is one of the following: a pellet-fueled wood heater, an EPA-certified wood heater, a wood-burning appliance approved for use by the Northern Sonoma County Air Pollution Control District, or a fireplace certified by the EPA (should the EPA develop a fireplace certification program).

Step 2: Submit documentation to the City of Sonoma Building Division and obtain a permit to verify that the appliance meets the requirements of this chapter.

Step 3: Ensure that the wood-burning appliance is not exempted from all provisions of this chapter (e.g., any wood-burning appliance specifically designed for cooking, any outdoor wood-burning appliances, all gas appliances, or the repair, replacement or reconstruction of wood-burning appliances located within qualified historic structures or properties).

Step 4: For new building construction, no person or builder shall install a wood-burning device (effective November 1, 2016).

Step 5: For additions and remodels, a gas-fueled, electric, or EPA certified device may be installed in an addition or the remodel of a general area (effective November 1, 2016).

Step 6: For remodeling specific to a fireplace or chimney, no person shall remodel a fireplace or chimney unless it is a gas-fueled, electric, or EPA certified device (effective November 1, 2016).

Step 7: For wood burning appliances for food, outdoor fireplaces, and fire pits, construction plans should include permanent design details to demonstrate that an appliance is used exclusively for the preparation of food.

Step 8: For gas fireplaces, ensure that the installed gas fireplace is a direct-vent sealed-combustion type and is an approved and listed appliance.

What are some tips for getting the most out of a wood burning appliance?

For getting the most out of a wood burning appliance, there are a few tips that should be followed:

  1. Use softwoods like pine and fir when starting your fire.
  2. Add hardwoods to your fire as they burn cleaner and longer.
  3. Only use clean, seasoned wood.
  4. Avoid burning garbage, plastic, plywood, particleboard, glossy paper, colored paper, painted wood, or treated wood.
  5. Light or refuel your fire quickly to reduce the amount of smoke produced.
  6. Consider switching to a gas or electric fireplace instead of a wood-burning one.
  7. Use an energy-efficient wood stove.
  8. For outdoor wood-burning appliances, make sure that the firebox opens directly to the outdoors.
What is the cost of replacing an existing wood burning appliance with an EPA-certified one?

Replacing an existing wood burning appliance with an EPA-certified one can be costly, but fortunately the Woodsmoke Reduction Program offers financial incentives for homeowners to replace their old, inefficient, and highly polluting wood stoves, wood inserts, or fireplaces. Depending on the location of the residence and the household income, some households may qualify for the full replacement cost of an EPA-certified wood burning appliance. Prices can vary, but some estimates suggest that replacing an existing wood burning appliance with an EPA-certified one can cost between $1,500 and $6,000.

What is Spare the Air and how does it affect wood burning in Sonoma County?

Spare the Air is an air pollution alert issued by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District and the Northern Sonoma County Air Pollution Control District in order to protect public health. On days when a Spare the Air Alert is in effect, it is illegal to burn wood, fire logs, pellets, or other solid fuels in a fireplace, wood stove, outdoor fire pit, or other wood-burning device. This regulation was originally implemented to protect public health and was initially only applied to the winter months between November and February. In 2019, the rule was amended to include any days year-round when a Spare the Air Alert is in effect due to high levels of fine particulate pollution.

The cause and effect of Spare the Air is that it limits the amount of fine particles in the air that can cause serious health problems. Burning wood releases fine particles into the air that can be breathed in and cause asthma, heart and lung disease, and even premature death. By limiting the burning of wood, it reduces the amount of fine particles in the air and ultimately protects public health.