Choosing a Defra Approved Wood Burner
It is possible to see that a wood burning stove or multi-fuel stove is DEFRA approved when you are looking for one. Although it might seem like confusing stove jargon, owning a DEFRA approved wood burner is vital when you reside in a smoke-free zone.
Defra is the government department which oversees regulations pertaining to environmental, agricultural and rural issues. Defra approved wood stoves allow burning wood legally in smoke control zones (usually UK cities and larger towns).
Clean Burning Technology
Manufacturers of stoves have adapted their stoves to burn more efficiently by incorporating secondary and tertiary systems. This helps them meet the stricter emission limits set by DEFRA, so homeowners who live in Smoke Control Areas can legally use their stoves. In most cases, there is no difference between a Defra Approved stove and a standard wood burner however Defra approved stoves have undergone numerous other modifications made to them and be subject to more rigorous tests to ensure they are producing more clean air.
Many Defra Approved stoves are designed with Clean Burn technology which helps them to burn wood and other forms of fuel more efficiently and producing less smoke and harmful emissions. This is done by introducing a secondary stage of combustion in which flue gas is recycled and utilized to enhance the burn of the fuel. This can also make your stove more energy efficient, meaning you'll save money on heating your home by using it instead of a central heating system.
A lot of people who want to purchase a new stove will inquire whether a specific model is exempt from Defra. Many stoves even those that aren't Defra approved, can still be used in Smoke Control Areas as long they are burning the right fuel. This includes anthracite or low volatile steam. To be Defra-Exempt, the stove must have passed a test and been approved by DEFRA to be used in Smoke Control Areas.
The air vents on an approved stove by Defra have been modified to ensure that they are not completely closed. This prevents the stove from'slumbering during the night, which can send unburnt combustibles such as soot and tar up the chimney or the air. Stoves not exempt from Defra could also "slumber" during the day, which could send more unburned combustibles in the air.
Selecting an Defra approved wood burner is an excellent option to help protect the environment while keeping your home warm. To get the most out of your stove, it is crucial to keep it in good condition by regularly cleaning the flue and examining it for obstructions. If you take good care of your stove, it will be able to reward you over the years with warmth and comfort.
Low Emissions
Defra approved stoves are a great choice for anyone who wants to make a deliberate choice regarding their heating. They provide clean, efficient combustion with lower emissions and potential cost savings and are available in a wide range of styles to suit any home. Stovax has a range of wood burners that have been approved by Defra that are suitable for a contemporary or traditional model.
The reason Defra approved appliances are so efficient is that they burn at a high efficiency. order DEFRA stoves online produce minimal dust and harmful particles. They can generate 90% less emissions than open fires and 80percent less than stoves that were manufactured 10 years ago. This new regulation, known as Ecodesign, was introduced by the government in 2022. It requires stove makers to meet strict environmental standards to be Defra approved.
One of the primary factors is limiting the amount the stove can be shut down which means how starved the fire is of oxygen. Stove manufacturers achieve this by installing vents so that the stove cannot be closed so far. This means that there is less smoke.
Another reason why Defra approved stoves are superior than other models is that they can burn a greater range of fuel types, including briquettes and smokeless coal. Other stoves however, are only allowed to burn certain types of wood or logs.
A Defra approved stove is also an excellent option for those who live in a smoke control zone since they won't have to worry about hefty fines if they make use of a fuel that is not approved.
It's important to remember that the performance of a stove can only be as good as the quality of the fuel used, so when shopping for a Defra approved wood burner or multifuel stove it is crucial to choose the highest-quality firewood you can find. Check that the fuel you're using is dry and has a moisture content of not greater than 20 percent prior to burning.
Easy Clean Up
Defra Approved Stoves are an excellent option for those who live in an UK Smoke Controlled area. These stoves are registered as DEFRA Smoke Exempt Appliances. This means that they can be used with approved smokeless fuels and you won't be breaking the law if you use wood in them. As a result, these stoves produce less black smoke and soot than traditional open fires and log burners.
The reason Defra-approved stoves do not produce as much soot and smoke is because they have secondary and tertiary combustion systems inside their combustion systems. These systems limit the amount of starved the stove is of air during the combustion process. This prevents the smoky, dusty combustion that results in dark soot and smoke.
These stoves also feature airwash technology that helps keep the glass clear and free of smoke stains. This works by drawing air from the rear of the stove and accelerating it through the combustion chamber before dropping to the glass. This keeps the glass looking crystal clear and free of smoke stains if the wood used to make the fire is well seasoned.
Smoke Control Areas Suitable
Smoke Control Areas are designated in many regions of the UK. In these areas, strict rules are in place regarding the amount of smoke emitted by fireplaces, stoves and wood burning fires. Appliances that aren't DEFRA approved could be penalized for breaking the regulations and causing too much pollution. To avoid this, you need to choose a DEFRA-approved stove for your home.
If you're looking for DEFRA-approved appliances, look for a logo that features a smoke exempt icon on it. You can also verify the specifications of the manufacturer of the stove to confirm that it is suitable for use in Smoke Control Areas. The DEFRA logo is widely used in the industry by both manufacturers and suppliers. Stoves that are suitable for Smoke Control Areas will also often have SE (Smoke Exempt) in the middle of their list of specifications.
Consult your local council if are unsure if your area is considered a Smoke Control Area. They will be able give you valuable information and guidance on the matter. They may be able to assist you in finding an appropriate stove for your home or environment.
The option of a DEFRA approved stove has many benefits. In addition to the fact that they are legal to use in Smoke Control Areas, they also produce less smoke than other stoves. They are also safer for your chimney and your neighbors.
If you own a stove that is old and doesn't meet DEFRA regulations you will need to consider purchasing a DEFRA approved smoke control kit or modifying your stove to comply with the regulations. This can be costly and is only a possibility if you are purchasing a brand new stove.
One of the most important advantages of buying a defra approved wood burner is that it will allow you to legally burn wood at your home, even in smoke control Area. This is a significant advantage, especially for people living in urban areas where the regulations are very strict. You can find a vast variety of defra-exempted stoves in DIY and hardware shops as well as on the internet.