Choosing a DEFRA Approved Wood Burner
Many people who are looking for a new stove should consider a DEFRA-approved wood burner. These stoves can be placed within smoke-control zones, so long as only
DEFRA stoves advantages-approved fuels are used.
The manufacturer will also alter them to limit the amount of air that can be deprived from them, which could lead to a smoky burning.
Clean Burn Technology
There are many different terms that are thrown around when it is about wood burning stoves and Multi Fuel Stove Defra Approved (
Www.Medexmd.Com) fuel stoves. The most important terms are DEFRA exemption, Ecodesign and clean burn. To the average person they may appear to be marketing buzzwords that they don't need to worry about, but it is worth keeping in mind when choosing a new stove.
A Defra-approved stove is one that is able to limit smoke in areas if the appliance uses specific fuels. These include briquettes and logs and low volatile steam coal. Modern stove makers use a special combustion systems with secondary and third airflow to lower the amount of smoke produced by the stove. This means that they produce far less smoke than older open fires and other stoves that aren't
DEFRA stoves comparison approved.
This is a part of government's efforts to keep clean air within urban areas and it is working well. A Defra approved stove will deliver the absolute minimum amount of combustion air, which results in minimal smoke, but you still enjoy a large amount of heat and flames from your stove's log burner.
You can tell if you are using a Defra approved version of a stove by looking for Defra-exempt terminology or a Defra badge on the product's listing. If you're not sure, contact the manufacturer or an expert retailer.
Stoves with defra exemptions typically cost more than regular models, but it is crucial to remember that they have been through extensive testing to make sure they meet strict emission standards. In the long run, you will save money because your Defra stove will consume less wood to generate the same amount of heat.
Ecodesign regulations came into force a year ago and all stoves made after the date of their introduction must be fully compliant. If you reside in a Smoke Control Area you will need a stove that is both Ecodesign conforming and Defra exempt (or at least at least a Defra approved model that has passed the strict Defra emissions tests). Charnwood offers a range Defra-exempt stoves that are also marked as clearSkies Level 3 which means they've reached a certain standard of clear burning.
Low Emissions
Stove manufacturers such as Arada & Stovax are continuously improving their stoves to incorporate secondary and tertiary combustion methods which help reduce the amount of particulates released. The result is not only an attractive stove, but one that emits very small amounts of smoke. This allows you to use it in smoke-free areas without worrying about huge fines.
A DEFRA approved wood stove or multi-fuel stove is one that has passed the stringent tests conducted by the UK Government Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs. These tests determine the maximum levels of smoke and emissions that the stove is permitted to produce.
These tests also examine how a stove handles smouldering flames. This happens when burning materials in a wood stove continue to burn after the flames have gone extinguished. These types of fires release a huge amount of smoke when they are not completely extinguished. DEFRA approved stoves are made to deal with this by utilizing an advanced secondary combustion system which effectively re-burns particulates that are released during a burn.
Many people live in smoke control zones, where it is illegal to burn non-Defra approved stoves and log burners. To avoid paying a large fine, you must have a DEFRA approved stove installed. There are a myriad of types of Defra-approved stoves that you can buy. There is a Defra-approved wood burner to fit an inglenook fireplace, or a larger stove that can fit in any room.
There are many Defra-approved stoves with a modern design, contemporary style and can be used within zones that are smoke-free. They typically have large glass doors that allow you to enjoy the warmth and fire from the comfort of the living room.
A kit supplied by the manufacturer can be used to modify some
DEFRA certified stoves approved appliances to make them DEFRA certified. This kit prevents air vents located at the top of the stove from being closed completely. This is known as "slumbering" and could cause combustible material that has not been burned to be released into the air.
Energy Efficiency
A Defra exempt stove is designed to give you a great quantity of heat, while generating minimal smoke. They are therefore ideal for smoke-controlled areas and can be used with wood or smokeless materials. They are also more efficient and burn logs with less smoke than non-Defra stoves. They also have an airwashing feature that helps keep your windows' glass clear. This makes them a stylish, efficient option for the home.
Stoves that have been Defra approved are usually referred to as "SE" or smoke-free stoves and are available from a variety of specialist wood burning stove retailers. The reason they can be used in smoke control zones is due to their advanced combustion systems that make use of secondary and tertiary burn systems to reduce harmful emissions. They can also be fitted with a 5 inch flue liner, as opposed to the standard 6 inches required by building regulations.
A DEFRA exempted stove has an adjustable top air vent that prevents it being closed completely. This is a common mistake that people make, and will cause the fire to smoulder. It also produces much more smoke. The stoves come with a limiter to ensure that a minimum amount air is pumped into the fuel to ensure that it doesn't get starved and produces excessive smoke.
Stove manufacturers have taken this concept to the next level by creating what's called Defra plus stoves. These models have been upgraded to not only meet but exceed the standards that are required. Charnwood ST2 is the best example. It not only is compliant with Defra requirements, but also has an A+ energy rating. It is also clearSkies Level 5 compliant. This is an amazing feat which proves that a DEFRA-exempt stove can be extremely efficient and green. The future is bright for eco-friendly stoves.
Smoke Control Areas Suitable
Certain UK cities and towns have been designated as smoke control zones. If you live in a smoke control area it is only possible to install the stove if it's approved by DEFRA. The stove can be used to burn wood or other fuels that are approved, without producing excessive smoke. A Defra-exempt stove will have an air vent which cannot be completely closed and allows the stove to have an oxygen supply constant. This allows the firewood to burn more efficiently, minimising soot production and reduces emissions.
Look for stoves that have been DEFRA-certified ready to burn a range of manufactured smokeless fuels, like anthracite and lignite granules. These fuels are specially formulated to allow the stove to burn without a mess, and should be marked with the 'Ready to Burn' logo which confirms that the fuel is within the required levels of smoke emission and sulphur.
You can enjoy many years of low-cost heat while conserving the environment and making your neighbors happy. However, you will still need to maintain your fireplace and keep it in good condition by regularly cleaning the flue and chimney, performing regular inspections by an engineer and adhering to the instructions of the manufacturer for maintenance and usage.
Stoves can be a focal point for any home and can add value and comfort. It is crucial to select the right stove to suit your home.
