From log burners to bonfires: Q&A special on the future of home heat

The enchanting glow, dancing flames and gentle crackle has comforted us for Millenia but the Government wants to come down hard on the pollutants emitted by open fires and log burners.

We’ve unpicked the latest announcements on the future of home heating to bring you this question and answer special.

Q. Why are open fires and log burners a cause for concern?

A. Burning wood releases nano particles into the air that are much smaller than a grain of sand. These are known as PM2.5 particulates and are described by the World Health Organisation as some of the most harmful pollutants known to man. PM2.5 particulates released into the home when burning wood can quickly enter our lungs and bloodstream.

Q. Can I get ill from my log burner?

A. Research indicates exposure to PM2.5 particulates makes heart disease, asthma, COPD and other lung conditions worse. There are also reports that exposure can increase the likelihood a child will develop asthma and even harm unborn babies.

Q. What is the Government doing to address pollutants?

A. We already have PM2.5 particulate target levels but the current UK target is more lenient than the EU’s. In January 2026, Labour announced it wanted to match the EU’s newly revised (and much lower) PM2.5 particulate target to reduce pollution and improve health.

The Government is going to create a new environmental improvement plan (EIP) in tandem with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Although in its infancy, some details have already been revealed.

Q. Will I have to rip out my existing log burner?

A. Early indications show homeowners who have an existing log burner will be able to keep it. They will, however, be encouraged to remove older, more polluting models and replace them with ecodesign versions that emit far fewer PM2.5 particulates.

Q. Will the Government ban the sale of log burners?

A. No wide-sweeping ban is proposed. It is more likely, however, that log burner manufacturers will be banned from selling old models, with only new, ecodesign burners available for consumer purchase. 

Q. Can I still burn wood?

A. That depends on where you live. If your local authority has designated your area as a smoke control zone, you will only be able to burn smokeless fuels from an authorised list – which can be found here. Smokeless fuels include anthracite, semi-anthracite, low volatile steam coal and gas. 

Q. Can you get multi fuel log burners?

A. Yes and they’re a great future proofing option if you are hoping to install a log burner. Look out for burners that can use wood, coal and smokeless fuels so you’re ready to adapt to any incoming legislation.

Q. How can I choose a log burner with minimal health hazards?

A. Look for HETAS Cleaner Choice appliances. These have been independently verified as exceeding the current requirements for UK smoke control areas for particulate matter, including PM2.5's, by 50% of that required by DEFRA.

Q. Will bonfires be banned?

A. Bonfires also release PM2.5 into the environment but the Government has said it will be respectful of cultural traditions, such as Guy Fawkes Night and Diwali, when forging ahead with its EIP. Current bonfire rules, which pertain to safety, hazards and nuisance, will remain in force.

Q. Are new homes in Scotland sold with log burners?

A. New homes built in Scotland can include a log burner after the Government backtracked on its ban. The ban was introduced in April 2024 but withdrawn in November of the same year.  

Q. Is the Government banning gas boilers?

A. The UK’s original warm homes plans wanted the sale and installation of gas boilers to be banned by 2035 but this pledge was withdrawn earlier in 2026. Gas boilers will continue to be available to homeowners but they will be encouraged to switch to greener, cleaner methods of heating. This will be achieved by a series of multi-billion pound funds open to UK residents in the form of grants and low-cost loans to fund the installation of heat pumps, solar panels and insulation.

Is a log burner, a heat pump, a new gas boiler or solar panels a must when you move? Let us know your home requirements and we can match you with suitable properties.