The Solid Fuel Association is the official body representing the solid fuel industry in the UK. We are funded by the solid fuel producers (including wood fuel), fuel distributors, appliance manufacturers and retailers. Our key aims are to promote greater awareness of the benefits of solid fuel heating among the general public and to encourage both safety in use and best installation practice for the domestic solid fuel and wood burning sector.
We are responsible for protection of the consumer through the Approved Coal Merchant and Approved Wood Fuel Merchant Schemes and our advice services are freely available to both consumers and the trade.
Operating as a centre of expertise, the Solid Fuel Association has become the recognised authority on all matters concerning solid fuels both for domestic consumers and professionals such as heating installers and architects. In order to continue to provide our unique service, we are grateful for the support of our members.
APICS is a friendly organisation, recognising that chimney sweeps are independent and should be allowed to get on with their daily work without interference.
APICS was formed in April 2002 and our logo was registered in June 2002. We formed to keep our members independent and to set standards chimney sweeps must reach to become a member. Thus improving the knowledege and safety of chimney sweeps across the UK. Thereby giving customers a better service and a name they can recognise and trust.
HETAS is the official body recognised by Government to approve biomass and solid fuel domestic heating appliances, fuels and services, including the registration of competent installers and servicing businesses.
HETAS have provided a series of guidance leaflets which can be viewed here.
I am a temporary member of APICS whilst complete my training and consolidation. Once I complete the assessment I shall become a fully registered APICS member and then work towards a HETAS qualification.
I provide these links for information and interest only.
The National Association of Chimney Sweeps (NACS) formed in 1982 as a professional Trade Association, promoting high standards for the sweeping, inspection and maintenance of chimneys.
The central source of technical information about domestic heating and cooking using coal, wood and other solid fuels in Britain and Ireland.
Among other things, Soliftec has got...
An index to useful books, papers and reports in The Library
Information on Standards and CE Marking
A widely respected, Fuel Costs indicator.
... and just some Fascinating Facts
NACS have produced a safety Leaflet which can be viewed here
The Solid Fuels Association have produced some information about solid fuels which can be viewed here