Choosing a Defra Approved Wood Burner
If you are looking for a brand new wood burning or multi fuel stove you may notice it is described as DEFRA approved. While it could be confusing stove jargon, owning a DEFRA approved wood burner is vital for those who live in a smoke control area.
Defra is a department of the government that oversees agricultural, environmental, 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
The stove manufacturers have designed their stoves to be cleaner by incorporating secondary and third-party systems. This allows them meet the stricter emission limits set by DEFRA which means homeowners living in Smoke Control Areas can legally use their stoves. In most cases, there's no difference between a Defra approved stove and a regular wood burner however Defra approved stoves have undergone numerous other modifications made to them and have been through more stringent tests to ensure they are creating more clean air.
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 accomplished by introducing a second stage of combustion in which flue gases are recycled and utilized to help the fuel burn better. This makes your stove more energy-efficient, meaning you'll save money on heating your home by using it instead of a central heating system.
Many people who wish to buy a new stove will ask us whether a specific model is Defra Exempt. Recommended Web page , even those that aren't Defra approved, can be used in Smoke Control Areas as long as they burn the right fuel. This includes anthracite coal and low volatile steam. To be Defra Exempt the stove must be tested and have been cleared by DEFRA for use in Smoke Control Areas.
The air vents on an approved stove by Defra have been modified to prevent them from being completely closed. This stops the stove from'slumbering during the night, which can release unburned combustibles like soot and tar up the chimney or the air. Stoves that are not exempt from Defra could also "slumber" during the day, which can emit more unburned combustibles into the air.
Choosing a wood burner that is Defra-approved is a great option to keep your home warm and protect the environment. To get the most benefit of your stove, it is important that you maintain it regularly by cleaning the flue and examining it for blockages. The more you take care of your stove, it will reward you for many years of warmth and comfort.
Low Emissions
Defra-approved stoves are an excellent option for anyone who wants to make a smart choice regarding their heating. They provide efficient, clean combustion with reduced emissions and potential cost savings and are available in a broad selection of styles to fit any style of home. Stovax has a range of Defra-approved wood burners that are suitable for a modern or traditional design.
The reason Defra approved appliances are so efficient is that they burn at a high level of efficiency. This means they produce minimal dust and harmful particles. These models can produce less emissions than open fires, and up to 80% fewer than stoves made 10 years ago. The government will introduce this new law in 2022, called Ecodesign. It requires that stove manufacturers adhere to strict environmental standards to be Defra approved.
One of the primary criteria is limiting how much the stove can be 'closed down by how deficient the fire is of oxygen. Stove manufacturers accomplish this by installing vents, so that the stove cannot be closed completely that it produces little smoke.
Another reason why Defra approved stoves are better than other models is because they are able to burn a larger range of fuel types, including smokeless coal and briquettes. Certain stoves are only permitted to burn a specific type of wood or logs.
If you reside in a smoke-control zone, a Defra approved gas stove is a great option. You won't need to worry about hefty penalties if you use unauthorised fuel.
Remember that the effectiveness of a wood burner or multifuel is only as good the quality of fuel that is used. So, when you are looking for a Defra-approved stove pick the highest-quality firewood available. Make sure the fuel you're using is dry and has a moisture level that is not greater than 20 percent prior to burning.
Easy Clean Up
Defra Approved Stoves are the perfect option for those living in a UK Smoke Controlled area. They are certified as DEFRA smoke exempt appliances, which means they can be used to burn approved smokeless fuels. You won't break the law if burning wood in them. These stoves produce less soot and black smoke than traditional open fires and log burners.
Defra approved stoves produce less smoke and soot because they have secondary and tertiary systems. These systems reduce the amount of air the stove is deprived of during the combustion process. This prevents the dusty, dark smoke and soot that is created by a smokey fire.
These stoves feature airwash technology that helps keep the glass free of stains from smoke. This works by drawing air into the stove from a low to the rear and racing it up over the combustion chamber before returning to the front of the stoves glass, forming curtain. This keeps the glass looking clear and free from smoke stains if the wood that is being burned is well seasoned.
Ideal for Smoke Control Areas
Smoke Control Areas are designated in many regions of the UK. In these areas, strict rules are in place regarding the amount of smoke released by fireplaces, stoves and wood burning fires. Non-approved stoves may be penalized if found to be in violation of the regulations and causing too much air pollution. To avoid this, it is important to choose a DEFRA-approved stove for your home.
You can locate DEFRA-approved cooktops by looking for a logo with a smoke exempt symbol on it or by examining the specifications of the manufacturer to confirm that the stove is safe to be used in a Smoke Control Area. The DEFRA logo has been widely adopted in the industry by both manufacturers and suppliers. On the list of specifications for stoves suitable for Smoke Control Areas, SE (Smoke-Exempt) is often listed next to their name.
If you're unsure whether your location is a Smoke Control Area, check with your local council. You'll get valuable information and advice from them. They may also be able to help you to locate a stove that is suitable for your home and environment.
The option of a DEFRA approved stove comes with many advantages. They are also less likely to produce smoke than other stoves. This means that they will be more considerate to your neighbors and will also be better for your chimney and flue system.

If you have a stove that is older and doesn't meet DEFRA regulations you will need to consider getting a DEFRA approved smoke control kit or modifying your stove to meet the regulations. This can be expensive and is typically an option for people who are buying a new stove anyway.
One of the main reasons to buy a defra-approved wood burner is that it permits you to legally burn wood in your home even in a Smoke Control Area. This is a significant benefit, especially for those living in urban areas where the regulations are very strict. You can find a large range of defra-exempt stoves at DIY and hardware shops and online.