Washington County Wood Stove Changeout


The change-outs from the Wood Stove Exchange program have resulted in the prevention of 200 TONS of wood smoke particulate matter, harmful gases, volatile organic compounds and hazardous air pollutants!

Washington County’s Office of Community Development, in partnership with Washington County Department of Health and Human Services, launched the Wood Stove Exchange Program in 2016 and so far, over 400 residents have replaced their old devices.

Through this program, qualifying residents can receive a rebate of $1,500-$3,500 when they replace their old wood stove with a cleaner heating device, such as an electric ductless heat pump, natural gas stove, pellet stove or gas furnace. Some households may qualify for a full-cost (free) replacement, depending on their income.

The Wood Stove Exchange Program is made possible through collaboration and funding support from program partners, including the American Lung Association in Oregon, Centro Cultural, City of Cornelius, City of Forest Grove, City of Hillsboro, Community Action, Intel, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, and Oregon Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association.

Visit www.WoodStoveExchange.com or call 503-846-4425 for more information.


Woodstoves featured on Local Cable TV in Washington County

Check it out on YouTube

The Tualatin Valley Cable TV Show, Community Matters, aired a segment on wood stoves and air quality rules. Check it out on YouTube. Features Tim Reed, Fireside Home Solutions. Washington County.


Washington County Air Quality, Overview

Geography, Measurement, Health Effects

The geography of Washington County creates the potential for air quality problems in wintertime air inversions. Chehalem Mountain to the south and the Coast Range to the west trap air in the valley causing air quality problems, especially in Hillsboro, Cornelius and Forest Grove. Air quality in Washington County is measured by scientific air monitors that measure the amount of particulate matter (PM) that is smaller than 2.5 microns in diameter over a 24 hour period. If a city in the county exceeds the government standard, it may be in "non attainment" status. Non attainment can be costly and expensive to all Washington County businesses. Citizens also pay a price with medical costs and many lower income people who rely on wood heat may need to convert to more expensive methods for heating their homes.

Communications

The Tualatin Valley Cable TV show, Community Matters airs this segment featuring Matt Davis, Environmental Health Program Manager for Washington County and Tim Reed, Fireside Home Solutions. Click HERE to view the video on YouTube. 

Resources and Community Information

Washington County Air Quality Web Page: Click HERE .

Contacts

Washington County: Tim Davis, Housing Rehabilitation Specialist, Office of Community Development, Wood Stove Exchange Program, 503-846-4425

 

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