Choosing a DEFRA Approved Wood Burner
Many people who are looking for a new stove might be considering a DEFRA approved wood burner. These are stoves that can be used in smoke control areas as long as only Defra approved authorised fuels are burned.
The manufacturer will also alter them to limit the amount of air that can be deprived from them and could cause a smoky burning.
Clean Burn Technology
There are many different terms that get thrown around when it comes to wood burning and multi fuel stove defra approved fuel stoves. Some of the most important ones are clean burn DEFRA exempt and Ecodesign. For the average person, these may seem like advertising buzzwords that they don’t have to be concerned about, but they are worth keeping in mind when selecting your new stove.
A Defra-approved stove is one that can be used to reduce smoke in certain areas if the stove is using specific fuels. These include briquettes, logs, and low volatile steam coal. Modern stove makers use special combustion systems with secondary and tertiary airflow to lower the amount of smoke they emit. They produce less smoke as a result than older open fires or other stoves not Defra-approved.
This is part of the government’s effort to keep clean air in urban areas, and it works extremely well. A Defra-approved stove will make use of the least amount of fuel, resulting in minimal smoke. You’ll still get lots of heat and flames, however.
You can tell if you are using a Defra approved stove by examining the Defra-exempt designation or the DEFRA stoves features badge in the product’s description. If you are unsure then you can always reach the manufacturer directly or go to an expert local retailer who can assist with this.
Stoves that are exempt from defra regulations typically cost more than standard models but it is important to remember that they’ve been through extensive testing to ensure they are compliant with strict emission standards. In the long run, you will be saving money as your Defra stove will require less wood to generate the same amount of heat.
Ecodesign regulations were put into effect a year ago and all stoves manufactured after that date must be fully conforming. If you live in a Smoke Control Area you will need an appliance that is Ecodesign compliant and Defra exempt (or at least a Defra approved model that has passed the strict Defra emissions tests). Charnwood is one example. It has a selection of Defra exempt stoves that are also marked as clearSkies Level 3 which means they have achieved a high quality of pure burning.
Low Emissions
Stove manufacturers such as Arada & Stovax are continuously improving their stoves to incorporate secondary and tertiary combustion systems that reduce the amount of particles released. The result is not just a beautiful stove but one that releases very small amounts of smoke. This lets you use it in smoke-free areas without worrying about huge fines.
A DEFRA approved stove, or Defra smoke Exempt Appliance, as they are commonly called, is a wood burning or multi fuel stove that has passed the rigorous tests set by the UK Government’s Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs. These tests determine maximum levels of smoke and emissions the stove is permitted to produce.
These tests also look at the way a stove can handle smoldering flames. This happens when burning materials in a wood burner continue to burn even after the flames have been put out. These kinds of fires release large quantities of smoke when they’re not completely extinguished. DEFRA approved stoves utilize secondary combustion systems to re-burn the particulates which are released during the course of a fire.
Many people live in smoke-control zones in which it is illegal to use non-Defra certified log burners and stoves. To avoid paying a large fine, you must have a DEFRA approved stove installed. There are different types of Defra approved stoves that you can purchase. You can choose a small Defra approved wood burner for your inglenook fireplace or a larger freestanding stove that can be incorporated into the space, there is certain to be a stove that will fit your home.
There are many stoves that are Defra-approved that have a modern style and contemporary design. They are suitable for use in smoke-controlled zones. They usually have large glass doors to allow you to enjoy the fire and heat in the comfort of your living room.
Some Defra approved stoves can be modified using an accessory supplied by the manufacturer to make them more DEFRA conforming. This kit prevents air vents at the top of the stove from being closed completely. This is referred to as “slumbering” and can cause unburned combustible material to be released into the atmosphere.
Energy Efficiency
A Defra exempted stove is constructed to produce minimal smoke and deliver excellent heat. As a result, they are ideal for use in smoke controlled areas and can be used with smokeless or wood fuels. They are also more efficient and can burn logs with less smoke than stoves that are not Defra. They also have an airwashing feature that keeps your glass windows free of dust. This makes them a stylish, efficient option for your home.
Many wood-burning stove shops offer stoves that have been approved by Defra. These stoves will be called by the acronym ‘SE’ or smoke-free stoves. The reason that they can be used in smoke control zones is due to their advanced combustion systems, which employ secondary and tertiary burn systems to minimize harmful emissions. They can also be equipped with a 5-inch flue liner instead of the standard 6 inches required by building regulations.
A DEFRA exempted stove has an adjustable top air vent that can’t be closed completely. This is a very common mistake that people make and can cut off the oxygen supply to the fire and cause it to ignite and create a lot of smoke. These stoves are equipped with a built in limit which ensures that a certain amount of air is pumped to the fuel so that it won’t become starved and cause excessive smoke.
Stove manufacturers have taken this concept one step further by introducing what are called Defra plus stoves. These models have been enhanced to ensure that they not only meet the standards required however, they exceed them. The best example is the Charnwood ST2 which not only meets Defra standards but has been awarded an A+ energy rating and is a clearSkies level 5 compatible. This is an amazing feat that proves a premium DEFRA stoves-exempt stove can be extremely efficient and eco-friendly. The future looks bright for eco-friendly stoves.
Smoke Control Areas Suitable
Certain UK towns and cities have been designated as smoke control zones. If you are in a smoke control area, you can only install a stove if it is approved by DEFRA. The stove can be used to burn wood or defra Stoves Features 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 a constant supply of oxygen. This makes it possible for firewood to burn much more efficiently, minimising the production of soot and decreasing emissions.
Look for stoves that have been DEFRA-certified ready to burn a variety of manufactured smokeless fuels like anthracite and lignite Granules. These fuels are specially designed to aid the stove in burning cleanly. They should be marked with a “Ready to burn” logo, which confirms the fuel is in compliance with the minimum sulphur levels and smoke emissions.
If you decide to purchase a DEFRA approved stove, you will be able to enjoy many years of low-cost heating while helping to protect the environment. You can also keep your neighbors satisfied by not disturbing them with a noxious smoke. However, you’ll need to take care of your fireplace and maintain it in good condition by regularly cleaning the flue and chimney and having regular inspections carried out by an engineer and adhering to the manufacturer’s instructions regarding maintenance and usage.
Stoves are a centrepiece of any home, DEFRA Stoves features and can bring value and comfort to your home. It is essential to select the best stove for your home. There are a myriad of options to choose from, including designs, materials, finishes, and heat outputs. It is essential to select a DEFRA approved stove if you live in an area where smoking is controlled. Otherwise, you could be fined and violate the law. We have a great range of low-cost and high-quality DEFRA exempted stoves.