How do EPA certified fireplaces work as opposed to non-epa fireplaces?
In the case of EPA certified fireplaces, there are generally two air intakes on the fireplace: primary and secondary. The exhaust gases are mixed with secondary air, causing them to re-ignite and burn before going up the chimney. The result is a reduction in particulate emissions, as well as an increased burn time. Some EPA certified fireplaces also work with a catalytic converter. Instead of using secondary air, the smoke is channelled through a device that lowers the combustion temperatures of the gases. This allows gases to be consumed at lower firing. Catalytic converters need to be replaced after a certain number of operations and can be costly. Non-EPA wood fireplaces usually have only one air intake and have no catalytic converters.
