Choosing a DEFRA Approved Wood Burner
Many people who are looking for a new stove might be contemplating a DEFRA approved wood burner. These stoves can be placed within smoke-control zones, so long as only Defra-approved fuels are burned.
They are also modified by the manufacturer to limit the extent to which they can be depleted of air, which could cause smoke.
Clean Burn Technology
There are a lot of different terms that get discussed when it is about wood burning stoves and multi fuel stoves. The most important ones are DEFRA exemption, Ecodesign and clean burn. These might seem like marketing buzzwords to a common person but they are crucial to consider when choosing your new stove.
A stove that is approved by
DEFRA stoves near me is one that is able to reduce smoke in certain areas if the appliance uses certain fuels. These include briquettes, logs, and low volatile steam coal. Modern stove makers use a special combustion system with third and secondary airflows to reduce the stove's emissions. In the end, they produce far less smoke than traditional open fires and other stoves that are not Defra approved.
This is part of the government's efforts to maintain clean air in urban areas, and it works extremely well. A stove that is Defra-approved will make use of the least amount of fuel and result in the least amount of smoke. You'll still be able to get a lot of heat and flames however.
You can identify a Defra-approved stove by looking for Defra-exempt terms or Defra badge on the product's listing. If you are unsure, you can always contact the manufacturer directly or visit an knowledgeable local retailer who can assist with this.
Stoves that are defra-exempt can be significantly more expensive than standard models, but it's important to remember they have been tested extensively to ensure they meet strict emission standards. You'll save money over the long term as your Defra-certified stove will use less logs to generate the same heat.
Ecodesign regulations were put into effect in the year 2000 and all stoves built after that date must be fully compliant. If you reside in a Smoke Control Area you will need a stove that is both Ecodesign compliant and Defra exempt (or at the very least at least a Defra approved model that has passed the tough Defra emissions tests). Charnwood is one example. It offers a range of Defra exempt stoves that are also branded as clearSkies Level 3 which means they have met a high quality of combustion that is clean and safe for use.
Low Emissions
Stove makers like Arada & Stovax continue to improve their stoves by incorporating secondary and tertiary burning systems that limit the amount released of particulates. The result is an appliance that not only looks beautiful, but also emits very low emissions, which means that you can use it in smoke-free areas without having to pay a significant fine.
A DEFRA approved stove, or Defra smoke Exempt Appliance as they are commonly called as, is a wood burning or multi fuel stove that has passed rigorous tests set by the UK Government's Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs. These tests determine the maximum levels of smoke and emissions that a stove is allowed to produce.
These tests also consider how a stove deals with flames that smolder which is when the combustible substance in the log burner continues to burn even after the flames have died down. These kinds of fires produce an enormous amount of smoke when they are not fully extinguished.
DEFRA approved stoves are made to combat this issue with sophisticated secondary combustion systems that efficiently re-burns the particulates that are released during a burn.
Many people reside in smoke control zones,
Defra Approved Stoves where it is unlawful to burn non-Defra approved stoves and log burners. You must install a DEFRA-approved stove to avoid a large fine. There are a range of different types of Defra approved stoves to buy. Whether you need the smallest Defra approved wood burner for an inglenook fireplace or a larger freestanding stove to fit in the room, there's certain to be a stove that will suit your home.
There are a variety of Defra approved stoves that have a modern contemporary design that can be used in smoke-controlled zones. They typically have large glass doors which allow you to enjoy the heat and fire from the lounge in the comfort of your home.
Some Defra approved stoves can be modified with an accessory supplied by the manufacturer to make them more DEFRA compliant. This kit prevents air vents on the top of the stove from closing completely. This is known as "slumbering" and can cause unburned combustible materials to escape into the air.
Energy Efficiency
A Defra exempt stove is made to provide you with a high quantity of heat while producing very little smoke. They are therefore perfect for areas with smoke control and can be used with smokeless or wood materials. They also have high efficiency and are able to burn logs with less mess than stoves that are not exempt from Defra. They also come with an airwashing system that keeps your windows' glass free of dust. This makes them a stylish, efficient option for your home.
Stoves that are Defra approved are usually known as "SE" or smoke exempt stoves. They are available from a variety of specialist wood burning stove stores. The reason that they can be used in smoke control zones is because of their advanced combustion systems that make use of secondary and tertiary combustion systems to reduce harmful emissions. They can also be equipped with a 5 inch flue liner, as opposed to the standard 6 inches required by building regulations.
A DEFRA exempted stove features an adjustable top air vent that can't be closed completely. This is a frequent error that people make and can cut off the oxygen supply to the fire and cause it to ignite and create lots of smoke. These stoves are equipped with a limiter that ensures a minimum amount air is pumped into the fuel, so that it doesn't become starved and create excessive smoke.
Stove manufacturers have taken this concept to the next level by creating what's called Defra plus stoves. These models have been updated to not only meet but also exceed the standards that are required. The best example is the Charnwood ST2 which not only meets Defra standards, but also has been awarded an A+ energy rating and is a clearSkies level 5 compatible. This is an amazing achievement which proves that a DEFRA exempt stove can be very efficient and environmentally friendly. The future is looking promising for eco-friendly stoves.
Ideal for Smoke Control Areas
Some UK towns and cities have been designated as smoke control zones. If you reside in one of these areas, you will 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 that are approved without generating excessive smoke. A Defra exempt stove will generally have an air vent that can't be shut off completely, allowing it to keep the oxygen supply constant. This allows the firewood to burn more efficiently, and reduce emissions and soot.
Look for stoves that have been DEFRA-certified as ready to burn a variety of manufactured smokeless fuels such as anthracite and lignite granules. These fuels have been specially formulated to aid the stove in burning efficiently. They should be branded with a 'Ready To Burn" logo, which signifies that the fuel is in compliance with the required sulphur levels and smoke emissions.
You can enjoy a long time of low-cost heating while also helping to protect the environment and making your neighbours happy.