Wood heating remains the top source of fine particle pollution in the Spokane region, which is why Spokane Clean Air is working with homeowners to replace their old, inefficient and higher-polluting wood stoves.
Last year, 91 Spokane County homeowners decided to replace their old wood heating devices and, in doing so, improved the air we all breathe. These 91 changeouts collectively saved 6,310 pounds of fine particle (PM2.5) pollution from being released to the air every year. The PM2.5 reduction is equivalent to removing about 136,000 diesel trucks from the roads in Spokane County for one day each year!
Replacing old wood-burning devices is made easier with grant funding secured by Spokane Clean Air from the Washington State Wood Smoke Reduction Grant. Homeowners can choose to stay with a wood-burning device or switch to pellet, gas, or electric devices, or ductless heat pumps. Current incentives range from $500 for electric to $2,500 for ductless heat pumps.
“In addition to saving money by heating with a much more efficient device, homeowners are also improving air quality in their homes and in their neighborhoods, and cleaner air benefits us all,” stated Lisa Woodard, Spokane Clean Air communications manager.
To be eligible for the incentive, which come in the form of instant discount provided by participating hearth retailers, an applicant must own a home in Spokane County (incorporated or unincorporated) whose occupants use a wood burning stove or wood burning fireplace insert that is either non EPA certified (e.g. a homemade device) or a certified device that is 20 years old or older.) Rentals qualify, but the owner must apply. According to industry sources, stoves that were manufactured over 20 years ago emit two-and-a-half to three times more smoke and burn roughly one-third more wood than newer technology stoves.
Applying is easy – a short application form is available online or at local participating hearth retailers. Once approved, applicants receive a voucher and a list of participating home heating businesses that honor the voucher by providing an instant discount off the purchase and installation of the new device.
The program is popular with both businesses and residents alike. According program participant, Jeanie Tomlinson, “The program is very easy and fast. Within days of applying online, I received my discount voucher and list of participating businesses. I chose to replace my old wood burning stove with a gas stove and I am very happy with the results. The installer from the local stove shop I worked with was very professional. My old stove was removed and my new gas stove was installed within a couple of days. My husband and I are very happy that we participating in the program and we highly recommend it for anyone who is unhappy with their exiting, old wood stove.”
In addition to the discount-based program, the grant funding provides additional assistance for homeowners on a limited income. Spokane Clean air partners with the Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners for the income-based program.
For additional information, please visit Wood Stove Changeout webpage or call (509) 477-4727, extension 114.
