Choosing a DEFRA Approved Wood Burner

Many people looking for a new stove will consider a luxury DEFRA stoves-approved wood burner. These stoves can be used in areas with smoke control as long as only Defra approved authorised fuels are burned.

They are often modified by the manufacturer to limit how much they can be starved of air which would create smoke.

Clean Burn Technology

When it comes to wood-burning stoves and multi-fuel stoves, there are many different terms. The most significant terms are DEFRA exemption, Ecodesign and clean burn. For the average person, these might seem like marketing buzzwords that aren't something to be concerned about, but it's worth keeping in mind when selecting your new stove.

A stove that is Defra-approved is one that can be used to control smoke in certain areas if the appliance uses specific fuels. These include logs, briquettes, and low volatile steam coal. Modern stove manufacturers employ special combustion systems that have secondary and tertiary airflows in order to reduce their stove's emissions. They produce less smoke as a result as opposed to older open fires or other stoves not Defra-approved.

This is part of the government's effort to ensure clean air in urban areas, and it works extremely well. A Defra approved stove will provide the absolute minimum amount of combustion air, which means that there is no smoke, however you will enjoy a large amount of heat and flames from your stove's log burner.

Most manufacturers will sell the Defra approved version of their stoves and you can easily identify them by looking for Defra exempt terminology or the Defra badge on the product listing. If you're not sure, contact the manufacturer or a local expert retailer.

Stove defra-exempt stoves can be significantly more expensive than regular models, however it's important to remember they have undergone extensive testing to ensure that they meet strict emission standards. In the long run you will save money because your Defra stove will use less wood to generate the same amount of heat.

Ecodesign regulations came into force in the year 2000 and all stoves made after the date of their introduction must be fully compliant. If you live in a smoke-free zone you'll need a stove that is Ecodesign compliant and Defra-exempt (or a Defra-approved model that has passed the rigorous Defra emission tests). Charnwood offers a variety of Defra-exempt stoves that are also marked as clearSkies Level 3 which means they have reached a certain standard of clean burning.

Low Emissions

Stove manufacturers such as Arada & Stovax are continuously making their stoves more efficient by incorporating secondary and tertiary combustion methods that help to reduce the amount of particles released. The result is a stove that not only looks great but also has very low emissions, meaning you can use it in smoke-free areas without risking a hefty fine.

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 amount of smoke and emissions the stove is permitted to emit.

These tests also examine how a stove handles smouldering flames. This happens when material that ignites in a wood stove continue to burn long after the flames are extinguished. The fires can release lots of smoke if they are not completely eliminated. DEFRA approved stoves utilize an additional combustion system to re-burn the particulates that result from 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 have a DEFRA approved stove to avoid a heavy fine. There are different types of Defra approved stoves available to purchase. There is a wood burner that is Defra-approved that can be used to make an inglenook fireplace, or a bigger stove to fit a room.

There are a variety of Defra-approved stoves that have a modern design, contemporary style and can be used in zones that are smoke-free. They typically have large glass doors which allow you to take advantage of the heat and DEFRA Approved High-Quality Stoves fire from the comfortable living room.

A kit supplied by the manufacturer can be used to alter certain Defra approved appliances in order to make them DEFRA conforming. This kit stops the air vents 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 exempted stove is designed to produce very little smoke and produce great heat. They are ideal for use in smoke controlled areas and can be used with smokeless or wood fuels. They are also more efficient and burn logs with less smoke than stoves that are not Defra. They also come with an airwashing system that keeps your windows' glass clear. This makes them a stylish and efficient option for the home.

Stoves that are Defra approved will often be called "SE" or smoke-free stoves that are available from a variety of specialist wood-burning stove stores. They can be used in smoke control zones as they have advanced combustion systems that employ secondary and tertiary systems in order to reduce harmful emissions. They are also able to be equipped with a 5-inch flue liner instead of the standard 6 inches required by building regulations.

Another great feature of the DEFRA exempt stove is that they have an adjustment for the top air vent that stops it from being closed completely. This is a common error that people make, and can cause the fire to smolder. It will also produce much more smoke. These stoves have a built in limit which ensures that a certain amount of air is delivered to the fuel so that it doesn't starve and produce excessive smoke.

Stove manufacturers have taken this concept to the next level by creating what is called Defra plus stoves. These models have been upgraded to not only meet but also exceed the standards required. The best example is the Charnwood ST2 which not only is compliant with Defra standards but has been given an A+ energy rating and is clearSkies level 5 compliant. This is an impressive feat that proves a DEFRA-exempt stove can be highly efficient and green. The future is bright for eco-friendly appliances.

Smoke Control Areas Suitable

In the UK certain towns and cities are classified as smoke control areas. If you live in one of these areas you'll be allowed to install a stove only if it has been approved by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA recommended stoves). This means that the stove can be used with wood and other authorised fuels without producing excessive levels of smoke. A Defra exempt stove will generally have an air vent that is unable to be closed off completely and allows it to maintain an ongoing supply of oxygen. This allows the wood to burn more efficiently, while reducing emissions and soot.

Find stoves that are defra approved high-Quality stoves-certified as ready to burn a range of manufactured smokeless fuels like anthracite and lignite Granules. These fuels are specially formulated to aid the stove in burning efficiently, and they must be branded with the 'Ready to Burn' logo which confirms that the fuel is within the prescribed sulphur and smoke emission limits.

If you choose to buy a DEFRA approved stove and fireplace, you'll be able enjoy years of low cost heat whilst helping to safeguard the local environment and keeping your neighbors content by not causing disturbances with nuisance smoke. But, you'll need to maintain your fireplace and ensure it is in good working order by regularly cleaning the flue and chimney as well as performing regular inspections by an engineer and following the manufacturer's instructions regarding use and maintenance.

Stoves are a central part of any home and can provide value and comfort to your property. With a myriad of designs, materials, and heat outputs to consider, it's important to ensure you select the best stove for your home. If you reside in a smoke-free area, it's crucial to choose a DEFRA approved stove to avoid breaking the law and paying fines. We have a great selection of affordable and top-quality DEFRA exempted stoves.