Choosing a DEFRA Approved Wood Burner

Many people who are seeking a new stove might be thinking about a DEFRA approved wood burner. They can be put in within smoke-control zones, so long as only Defra-approved fuels are used.

The manufacturer may also alter them to limit the amount of air that could be removed from them which could result in smoking.

Clean Burn Technology

When it comes to wood-burning and multi-fuel stoves, there are lots of different terms. Some of the most important ones are clean burn DEFRA exempt and Ecodesign. These may seem like marketing buzzwords to the average consumer however they are essential to think about when selecting your new stove.

A Defra approved stove is an appliance that is suitable for use in smoke control areas if it is using specific types of fuels (mostly brquettes, logs, and steam coal that is low volatile). Modern stove manufacturers employ special combustion systems with secondary and tertiary airflows to lower the amount of smoke they emit. In the end, they emit less smoke than old open fires and other stoves that are not Defra approved.

This is part of the government's attempts to keep clean air in urban areas, and it works extremely well. A Defra approved stove will deliver the minimum amount of combustion air which results in a low amount of smoke, however you will get a generous degree of flames and heat from your stove's log burner.

You can identify a affordable DEFRA stoves-approved stove by examining the Defra-exempt terms or Defra badge on the product's description. If you're not sure, you can always contact the manufacturer directly or visit an knowledgeable local retailer who will be able to assist you with this.

Stoves that are defra exempt may be more expensive than standard models, but it is important to keep in mind that they have been tested extensively to ensure that they meet strict emissions standards. You'll save money over time as your Defra-certified stove will require less wood to produce equal heat.

Ecodesign regulations were enacted a year ago, and all stoves made after that date are required to comply with the regulations. If you reside in a Smoke Control Area you will need an appliance that is Ecodesign compatible and Defra exempt (or at least a Defra approved model that has passed the tough DEFRA approved Efficient stoves emissions tests). Charnwood for instance, has a selection of Defra exempt stoves that are also classified as clearSkies level 3 which means they have achieved an extremely high standard of combustion that is clean and safe for use.

Low Emissions

Stove manufacturers like Arada & Stovax are continuously making their stoves more efficient by incorporating secondary and tertiary combustion methods that help to reduce the amount of particulates released. The result is not just a beautiful stove, but one that emits very minimal smoke. This allows you to use it in smoke-controlled areas without worrying about heavy fines.

A DEFRA approved wood stove or multi-fuel stove has passed the rigorous tests set forth by the UK Government Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs. These tests determine the maximum levels of emissions and smoke that a stove is allowed to produce.

These tests also examine how a stove deals with burning fires that are smouldering that is, the combustible substance in a log burner continues to burn even after the flames have died down. These kinds of fires release large quantities of smoke when they are not completely snuffed out. DEFRA approved stoves are made to tackle this issue by using sophisticated secondary combustion systems that efficiently re-burns the particulates released during a fire.

Many people live in smoke control zones where it is illegal to burn stoves that are not DEFRA approved and log burners. You must install a DEFRA-approved stove to avoid a heavy fine. There are a range of different types of Defra approved stoves to buy. There is a Defra-approved wood burner to fit an inglenook fireplace, or a larger stove to fit a room.

There are many stoves that are Defra-approved with a modern design, contemporary style and are suitable for use in zones that are smoke-free. Typically, they come with large glass doors that permit you to enjoy the warmth and fire from the comfort of the living room.

A kit provided by the manufacturer can be used to modify certain Defra approved appliances in order to make them DEFRA certified. This kit prevents air vents located at the top of the stove from being closed completely. This is known as "slumbering" and can cause unburned combustible materials to be released into the air.

Energy Efficiency

A Defra exempt stove is designed to give you a great amount of heat while producing very little smoke. This means they are ideal for use in smoke-free areas and can be used with smokeless or wood fuels. They are also more efficient and can burn logs cleaner than non-Defra stoves. In addition, they have an airwash system which keeps the glass window clean, which makes them a stylish and effective choice for your home.

Stoves that have been Defra approved are often called "SE" or smoke-free stoves and can be purchased from numerous specialist wood-burning stove stores. They can be used in smoke control zones as they have advanced combustion systems that use secondary and tertiary combustion systems to reduce harmful emission. They are also able to be fitted with a 5 inch flue liner as opposed to the standard 6 inches required by building regulations.

A DEFRA recognized stoves exempted stove features an adjustable top air vent which can't be closed completely. This is a common mistake that people make and it will cut off the oxygen supply to the fire and cause it to ignite and create lots of smoke. The stoves come with a limiter to ensure that a minimum amount air is supplied to the fuel to ensure it doesn't starve and produce excessive smoke.

Manufacturers of stoves have taken this idea and developed Defra Plus stoves. These models have been upgraded to not only meet, but even exceed the required standards. The best example is the Charnwood ST2 which not only conforms to Defra standards, but also has been awarded an A+ energy rating and is clearSkies level 5 compliant. This is an amazing achievement that shows that a DEFRA exempt stove can still be extremely efficient and environmentally friendly. The future looks promising for eco-friendly appliances.

Smoke Control Areas Suitable

Some UK towns and cities have been designated as smoke control zones. If you live in one of these areas you'll be permitted to install a stove only if it is approved by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). The stove is able to burn wood or other fuels approved without generating excessive smoke. A Defra exempt stove will generally have an air vent that is unable to be closed off completely, allowing it to keep the oxygen supply constant. This allows the wood to burn more efficiently, and reduce emissions and soot.

Find stoves that are DEFRA-certified as ready to burn a range of manufactured smokeless fuels such as anthracite and lignite Granules. These fuels are specially designed to help the stove burn efficiently, and they must be marked with the 'Ready To Burn' logo that confirms that the fuel is within the required sulphur and smoke emission limits.

You can enjoy many years of low-cost heat while protecting the environment and making your neighbours happy. But, you'll need to take care of your fireplace and maintain it in good condition by regularly cleaning the chimney and flue system and conducting regular inspections by an engineer and adhering to the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance and usage.

Stoves can be the focal point of any home, and they can add value and comfort. With a myriad of designs, materials, and heat outputs to consider it is essential to ensure you select the right stove for your home. You should select a DEFRA-approved stove if you reside in an area where smoking is restricted. Otherwise, you could face fines and break the law. We have a great selection of affordable DEFRA stoves and top-quality DEFRA exempted stoves.