Choosing a Defra Approved Wood Burner
When looking for a new multi fuel or wood burning stove, you might notice that it's described as DEFRA approved. Although it might seem like confusing stove jargon, owning a DEFRA approved wood burner is vital if you live in a smoke control zone.
Defra is the government department that handles regulations surrounding environmental, agricultural and rural issues. Defra approved stoves permit you to legally burn wood in areas that are smoke-control zones (usually UK cities and large towns).
Clean Burning Technology
Stove manufacturers have been developing their stoves with secondary and tertiary combustion mechanisms to make them more efficient in burning. This allows them to meet the stricter emission limits set by DEFRA so that homeowners in Smoke Control Areas can legally use their stoves. There is usually no distinction between a stove that is Defra-approved and a standard wood burner. However, stoves that are Defra-approved will have passed more rigorous tests and undergone a number of modifications.
Many stoves that are Defra Approved are built with Clean Burn technology which helps them to burn wood and other forms of fuel more efficiently, while producing less smoke and harmful emissions. This is achieved by introducing a new phase of combustion in which flue gases are reused and used to make the fuel to burn more efficiently. This makes your stove more energy efficient, meaning you'll save money on heating your home by using it instead of central heating systems.
Often people who want to buy a new stove will ask us whether or not a certain model is exempt from Defra. Many stoves even those that aren't Defra approved, can be used within Smoke Control Areas as long they are burning the right fuel. This includes anthracite coal and low volatile steam. However, to be Defra Exempt, the stove must be tested and been cleared by DEFRA to be used in Smoke Control Areas.
The vents for air in an approved stove by Defra are modified to prevent them from being completely closed. This prevents the stove from slumbering during night' which can send unburnt materials such as soot and tar into the air or into the chimney. Stoves that aren't exempt from Defra may also "slumber" during the day, which could release more combustibles that are not burned into the air.
Choosing a stove that is Defra-approved is great option to keep your home warm and also protect the environment. To get the most from your stove, it is essential to maintain it regularly by cleaning the flue and examining for blockages. If you take good care of your stove, it will reward you over the years with warmth and comfort.
Low Emissions
Defra-approved stoves are an excellent option for anyone who wants to make a smart choice about their heating. They offer clean, efficient combustion, with less emissions and the potential for cost savings and are available in a broad selection of styles to fit any home. Stovax offers a selection of Defra-approved wood burners that are suitable for a contemporary or traditional model.
The reason Defra approved stoves are so efficient is because they burn at an extremely high efficiency which means they emit less emissions of harmful particles and smoke. These models can produce less emissions than open fires, and up to 80 percent less than stoves that were made 10 years ago. This new law, known as Ecodesign was enacted by the government in 2022. It requires stove makers to comply with strict environmental standards in order to become Defra approved.
One of the most important requirements is to limit the amount of oxygen the fire is starved of. Stove manufacturers accomplish this by installing vents so that the stove isn't closed to the extent that it is. This causes a decrease in smoke.
The Defra-approved stoves are superior than other models because they can burn a wider variety of fuels, including smokeless coal or briquettes. Other types of stoves on the other hand, are only allowed to burn certain types of wood or logs.
If you reside in a smoke-control zone then you should consider a Defra approved gas stove is an excellent choice. You don't have to worry about hefty penalties if you use unauthorised fuel.
Remember that the effectiveness of a wood burner or multifuel is only as good as the quality of the fuel used. Therefore, if you're looking for a stove that is Defra-approved pick the highest-quality firewood available. Verify that the fuel you're using is dry and has a moisture level that is not more than 20 percent before burning.
Easy Clean Up
Defra Approved Stoves make an excellent option for those living in a UK Smoke Controlled area. These stoves are registered as DEFRA smoke exempt appliances, which means that they can be used to burn approved smokeless fuels. You will not violate the law when you burn wood in them. This means that these stoves produce less black smoke and soot than traditional open fires and log burners.
The stoves that are Defra-approved produce less smoke and soot since they have secondary and secondary systems. These systems limit the amount of air that the stove is deprived of during the combustion process. This stops the dusty, dark smoke and soot that is created by a smokey fire.
These stoves also come with airwash technology which helps to keep the glass clear and free of smoke stains. It works by drawing air in from the rear of the stove, and then accelerating it over the combustion chamber, before dropping to the glass. This keeps the glass looking crystal clean and free of smoke stains providing that the wood being burned is well-seasoned.
Ideal for Smoke Control Areas
In the UK there are a number of cities and towns that are classified as Smoke Control Areas. These areas have strict rules in place regarding how much smoke is emitted from fireplaces, stoves and wood burning fires. Appliances that are not DEFRA-approved are subject to fines for violating the rules and causing excessive pollution. To avoid this, you must to select a DEFRA-approved kitchen for your home.
If you are searching for appliances that are DEFRA-approved, look for a logo that features a smoke exempt icon on it. You can also verify the manufacturer's specifications for the stove to ensure it is suitable for use in Smoke Control Zones. The DEFRA logo is widely used in the industry by both manufacturers and suppliers. On the list of specifications of stoves that are suitable for Smoke Control Areas, SE (Smoke-Exempt) will often be mentioned after their name.
If you are not sure whether your area is a Smoke Control Area, check with your local council. They will be able to provide you with valuable information and guidance on the matter. They might be able to assist you in finding a stove suitable for your home or the environment in which you live.
The choice of a DEFRA approved stove comes with many benefits. They are also less likely to emit smoke than other stoves. DEFRA stoves near me are also safer for your chimney system as well as your neighbours.
If you have an older stove that does not conform to DEFRA regulations, you'll need to look into getting a DEFRA-approved smoke alarm or adjusting your stove to comply with the regulations. This can be expensive and is typically an option for people who are purchasing a new stove.
The fact that you can use wood legally in your home even if it is located in a Smoke Control Area is one of the primary advantages of purchasing a defra-approved wood burner. This is a huge benefit, particularly if reside in an urban location where the regulations are strict. There is a wide range of defra-exempt stoves at hardware and DIY stores as well as on the internet.