The reduction of emission production of small heat-sources for solid-based fuels by applying control mechanisms

INTRODUCTION: Production of emissions from small heat sources burning solid fuels in households in Slovakia is relatively high. At the present time, the operation of such devices are neither controlled nor regulated properly and effectively.

OBJECTIVES: This work presents a research analysis of current monitoring and maintenance procedures and certified norms for all solid-fuel small-scale heating systems utilized in households.

METHODS: The research compared data from over 13 countries in the European Union, evaluating information regarding certified emission limits, efficiency levels, normalized monitoring procedures for both, fuel standards and heating system performance. A proposition is therefore presented for a new monitoring and inspection guide for solid-fuel heating systems in Slovak Republic households, where regulations, such as Ecodesign or the EN 305-5, were integrated.

RESULTS: Using a mathematical-statistical model, the implementation of the proposed regulations brings an emission saving of almost 140 tons per 10,000 inhabitants for both central and local heating systems.

CONCLUSION: The study demonstrated substantial opportunity in decreasing operation cost, prolongation of product lifetime, and last but not least, the reduction of health risks of local citizens.