Nordsyn ecodesign task 2 report: Analysis of technical measures to reduce emissions from solid fuel space heaters

Several technologies can reduce emissions from solid fuel space heaters (SFSH). Automatic combustion control (ACC), a primary measure, adds €700–€2,000 to costs but can lower PM, CO, and OGC emissions in lab tests, though real-life proof is limited. Secondary measures include electrostatic precipitators (ESP, €1,500–€3,000, 40–80% particle reduction) and catalysts (€250–€1,000, ~50% CO and 25% VOC reduction), both requiring maintenance and, for catalysts, replacement every 5–10 years. However, reported benefits mainly stem from lab or industry data. Real-world effectiveness depends on correct fuel, moisture content, and usage, highlighting the need for improved certification, long-term field studies, and possibly user guidance technologies.