The Benefits Of Epa Voluntary Emission Program «Low Mass» Phase Ii - Ventus ME300 Installation And Operation Manual

2.2 The Benefits of EPA Voluntary Emission Program «Low Mass» Phase II
In the past, most conventional masonry and low‐mass, factory‐built fireplaces were not efficient at
producing usable heat. Typically, over 90 percent of the heat generated by a fireplace was lost out the
chimney. In addition, many of these fireplaces were sources of smoke, indoors and out.
In 2009, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) initiated a voluntary program for manufacturers of
decorative wood burning fireplaces to encourage manufacturers to produce clean wood‐burning appliances
that reduce air pollution. Under the U.S. EPA Low Mass Fireplace Voluntary Program, cleaner burning
fireplaces are ones that qualify for the Phase I emission levels of 7.3 g/kg (approximately 57 percent cleaner
than unqualified models) or the Phase II emission levels of 5.1 g/kg (approximately 70 percent cleaner than
unqualified models). Participating manufacturers are expected to qualify under Phase 2 by 2013. The
ME300 wood fireplace is a phase II emission level qualified model that brings you the benefits of lower
emissions.
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ME300 ‐ Installation and Operation Manual