Wood Stove Exchange Program
FVRD residents are eligible to receive a $300 rebate for trading in their old uncertified wood-burning appliance for a new low emission appliance, a $500 rebate for a gas appliance, or a $750 rebate for switching to an electric heat pump.
New wood-burning appliances are proven to burn 1/3 less wood, reduce emissions by up to 70%, and significantly reduce the risk of chimney fires.
What Can You Exchange?
- A free-standing non-EPA certified “stove”
- A “homemade” or “barrel” stove
- A so-called “airtight” non-EPA certified fireplace insert or tube type heat exchanger with a faceplate and door (like the ‘Free Heat Machine’ or Welenco) that is currently installed in an open-hearth fireplace
- A non-EPA certified “wood furnace” (ducted, forced air, home heating appliance) – may only be replaced by an EPA certified wood furnace or pellet furnace
- A wood-burning cookstove
- An open-hearth fireplace (must be upgraded with a gas, propane, or electric insert)
What Qualifies as a Certified Replacement?
- An EPA certified wood, pellet, or high-efficiency gas stove or insert.
- An EPA certified factory-built fireplace – may only be accepted if it is replacing a non-EPA certified wood stove or non-EPA certified wood insert (not an existing factory-built fireplace).
- A heat pump system as approved by BC Hydro's Heat Pump Rebate.
Where Can You Find a Participating Retailer?
We have a list of retailers participating in the FVRD's Wood Stove Exchange Program. However, if you find a suitable appliance from a retailer who is not on this list, please contact the Program Coordinator to find out how to proceed. If you would like to become a participating retailer, please contact the Program Coordinator.
How Does the Program Work?
The Do-It-Yourself Kit explains how the program works and what paperwork needs to be submitted to the Program Coordinator in order to be eligible for the rebate.