North Yorkshire has recorded the highest number of online searches for wood-burning stoves amid rising energy costs.
The searches accounted for 47,620 queries in October, making it the top area in the Yorkshire and Humber region.
This comes amid growing interest in alternative ways to heat homes.
Steve Ferguson of Jefferson Gas said: "With energy costs as high as they are, a lot of people don’t want to turn the heating on just yet, but the idea of an open fire or a few logs in a burner might appeal a little more in terms of cost.
"But they need to be aware of the additional risks that can come with heating your home that way.
"Unlike gas and electric heating sources, burning wood as fuel creates a much higher amount of fine particulate matter (PM) and other pollutants, which can have serious effects on your health."
While using certified wood with less than 20 per cent moisture can reduce risks, Mr Ferguson warned that all wood burning releases pollutants.
He added: "Some appliances will be more efficient than others, and some wood sources may produce less pollutants, but the truth is that even when all measures are taken, burning wood is likely to create more fine particulates and other toxins than gas or electric heating."
Share