Residential wood heaters, which includes wood stoves, contribute significantly to particulate air pollution. EPA has regulated wood heater particulate emissions since 1988. Wood heater model lines that are in compliance with the rule are referred to as EPA-certified wood heaters.

EPA's certification process requires manufacturers to verify that each of their wood heater model lines meet a specific particulate emission limit by undergoing emission testing at an EPA accredited laboratory.

Wood heater manufacturers must:

• maintain a quality assurance program for production-line wood heaters
• affix a permanent label to each wood heater that meets the applicable emission standard
• attach temporary label that lists:
  • the emission rate (using an EPA-approved test method)
  • the heating range of the wood heater (for correctly sizing the wood heater)
  • overall efficiency

Wood Heater Compliance Monitoring

The Wood Heater Program (WHP) is a federal program, not delegated to the states. Its purpose is to promote compliance with the requirements of the wood heater regulation. The WHP consists of a wide range of activities including:

• certification of new residential wood heaters
• approval of design change requests
• interpretation of rule language
• conducting facility inspections
• provision of public access to compliance information
• direct monitoring of compliance by accredited laboratories, manufacturers, retailers and homeowners
• response to complaints regarding violations of the rule

​EPA Contact

Rafael Sanchez (sanchez.rafael@epa.gov) or (202) 564-7028

Wood Heater Permanent Label

Wood Heater Temporary Label