What is a DEFRA Approved Wood Burning Stove?

If you reside in a region that is smoke-controlled, you will need to use a wood burning stove that has been approved by DEFRA. These stoves permit you to legally use authorized fuels without violating the law or causing upset to your neighbors.

The most recent Defra approved stoves feature the most recent clean burn technology using secondary and tertiary combustion systems to further reduce emissions. They can be combined with a wide range of smokeless fuels.

Defra Approved

The term "Defra-approved" stove may sound a bit complicated but it's really wood-burning stove which is exempt from UK smoke control zones. To be eligible for DEFRA approved clean burning stoves approval, a stove has to undergo rigorous tests. If it passes the test it is given the official title of DEFRA Smoke Exempt appliance.

Stoves that are Defra approved are able to only burn approved fuels and, of course wood - and they must do this efficiently and with minimal smoke. These stoves use the latest combustion technology, which prevents part-burned combustibles being able to go through the chimney and into the air. This is great for the environment, and reduces the likelihood of a blockage in the chimney.

Alongside offering a selection of the top DEFRA approved wood burners, we also have an array of contemporary and traditional multi-fuel stoves. This includes the stunning Portway Arundel XL which has an enormous, panoramic glass panel that gives full enjoyment and view of a roaring fireplace.

It is DEFRA recognized stoves-approved and comes at an estimated price of PS1,499. It also comes with an A energy rating as well as overnight log burning capabilities and a steel frame for excellent heat retention. The Bohemia X60 cube panorama Multifuel stove is another alternative to consider. This multifuel DEFRA stove has a power output of between 3 and 9 kW and an impressive A + efficiency for heating which makes it an excellent choice for those living in smoke-free areas.

For those seeking something more traditional, there's the ESSE 700 Vista. It is a Defra approved stove that offers high-quality and style. It has a great A+ rating and is able to be utilized in the DEFRA approved efficient stoves Smoke Control Area thanks to its patented twin catalytics technology. This is a top-quality stove that is also compliant with the coming Eco Design 2022 regulation.

Eco Design Ready

Eco Design regulations are an essential part of the UK government's clean air policy. These regulations were put in place to reduce harmful emissions generated by wood burning stoves in the UK. It is now illegal for a stove to be produced that is not compliant with Ecodesign regulations. Stoves that are already in the supply chain can continue to be sold, but from 2022 all new installations will need to be Eco Design compliant.

As we are a member of the Stove Industry Alliance (SIA) we carry a selection of Eco Design approved wood burning stoves that have been independently tested and proven to have lower levels of particulate matter when compared with open fires. Additionally, SIA Eco Design approved stoves have been proven to produce 80% less CO2 emissions compared to an open fire.

The testing process involves measuring particulate matter (PM), organic gaseous compounds (OGC), carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). You can be certain that an approved SIA Eco Design stove has been designed to minimize the production of these harmful chemicals.

To be deemed Eco Design Ready, a stove must have lower emission levels in all of these tests - the higher level of fuel efficiency and a reduction in the quantity of harmful byproducts created are also essential. Our Eco Design approved wood burning stoves feature the most advanced combustion technologies such as secondary air supply and catalytic convertors that help to limit the production of harmful emissions in operation.

Not only are Eco Design approved stoves better for the environment, they're also more affordable to run. This is because Eco Design stoves use less fuel to produce the exact same amount of heat. You'll save money on your energy bills. A wood-burning stove will aid in heating your home more efficiently. By using wood for your stove you can reduce the cost of electricity and natural gas.

Exempt

Exempt stoves from Defra have passed tests and exams to ensure that they are able to be legally used in Smoke Control Areas. This means you can use authorised fuels or wood (including numerous kinds of smokeless fuel) in them without breaking the law and risking the hefty penalty of a fine.

They are designed to provide the smallest amount of combustion air required for a clean and efficient burn. They produce less smoke than older open fires or wood burning stoves. They are also energy efficient and can be a great way to heat your home at a lower cost.

In addition to being an excellent option for those who live in Smoke Control Areas They are a fantastic alternative to fossil fuel heating generally. They tend to be less expensive than traditional gas or electric fires, and if you purchase your logs locally, then they are carbon neutral too.

If you live in Smoke-Control Area where only dry wood that has been seasoned can be used in your DEFRA-exempt stove. The burning of wet or damp logs could result in excessive smoke that is not legal and will result in an imposed fine.

You can contact your local authority to find out whether you're located in a smoke-free zone. These areas are usually big cities and towns where smoke pollution is a major problem for residents.

All of the DEFRA approved wood-burning stoves we stock have been independently tested and certified to meet the strict EU standards. They include minimum efficiencies as well as NOX and OGV ceilings, as well as emission limits. The new 2022 EU Ecodesign regulations will further make these requirements more stringent which is why it's important to check with your stove supplier if you are thinking of purchasing one to make sure that they meet the requirements.

Stove manufacturers are constantly improving their products by adding secondary and third-party combustion systems being utilized to reduce the emission levels of their stoves even more. With the introduction of these innovative technologies, buy DEFRA stoves stoves are becoming more eco-friendly and cost effective for homeowners who require a reliable alternative to their open fireplace or inefficient electric stove.

Smoke Control Area

A DEFRA approved stove, also known as a Defra exempt stove is a wood burning multi fuel stove that has met the rigorous UK government Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs guidelines for smoke emissions. This means that the stove is able to emit a minimal amount of smoke during all phases of normal operation. Look for the DEFRA logo or label on the stove or its packaging to identify it. In addition, most reputable stove retailers display the fact that a particular stove is DEFRA approved on their websites and in their showrooms at their stores.

If you live in an area designated as a Smoke Control Area, it is vital that you use a 5kw defra multifuel stove approved log burner or wood burner. These areas are defined local and are usually urban areas with a high density. The aim of the Smoke Control Area regulations is to ensure healthy air quality standards by limiting the amount of particulate matter released into the atmosphere from residential homes due to combustion. If you are using an unapproved stove within an area designated as a Smoke Control Area you could be subject to hefty fines.

DEFRA compliant stoves UK approved stoves do not just meet the regulations of the government but also provide additional advantages. They are also extremely efficient, resulting in a lower energy consumption and an enviable carbon footprint. They also come with advanced features which ensure their safety over open fires. They include automatic ignition systems, thermocouple sensors and automatic venting.

Stove manufacturers have also developed secondary and third-generation combustion techniques to further reduce the emissions from their stoves. This is not just good for the environment but also saves you money by reducing the cost of heating. If you're buying a new stove for a Smoke Control Area, be sure to use only dry and seasoned firewood.

In addition to the potential legal consequences, failing to follow wood stove safety and emission guidelines could jeopardize your home insurance coverage. Most insurers require homeowners to comply with the regulations to receive insurance assistance related to fire. In addition, if you are found to be in violation of these standards during an investigation or inspection, your insurer may refuse to pay for any fire-related damage that result from your stove that is not in compliance.