What is a Stove Defra?
Stove defra refers to a multi-fuel stove or wood-burning stove that has been approved for use in smoke-controlled areas. This is an obligation in certain UK cities and large towns.
They use the least amount of combustion air, thus producing very little smoke. They are also available in various designs and styles to suit your home's aesthetic.
Clean Burning
In the past, homeowners and businesses could burn any fuel they wanted. This led to a lot more smoke polluting our atmosphere. This caused a variety of health problems in the affected areas. Nowadays in the UK, many cities and towns are designated as Smoke Control Areas or Smokeless Zones and it is illegal to use a wood-burning stove without the DEFRA approved or SE (Smoke Exempt) approved stove.
These DEFRA stoves are constructed and designed to meet specific regulations for use in these types of zones. The air vents are typically not completely closed which prevents the stove from being stripped of oxygen during combustion. This helps reduce the amount of particulate matter that is released into the air. They also have advanced combustion systems like secondary and tertiary burning that aid in reducing emissions further.
Stoves that have been approved by Defra can be used with other fuels like anthracite. This allows you to choose more options when it comes to heating your home. However should you reside in a Smoke Control Area, it is highly recommended to only burn dry, "ready to burn" wood logs in your stove. Not only will this minimise the amount of air pollution that is produced and emitted, but it will also help to keep your chimney and flue system clean for a longer time.
The Stove Yard offers a variety of Defra-approved wood stoves and multi-fuel stoves that start at just PS420. We offer a range of stoves that will fit any budget, whether you are searching for a Defra-approved 5kW stove or a larger model with an 8kW.
There have been a lot of headlines that have been arousing concern in recent times with regards to the impact that stoves have on air quality. Some of these reports have inaccurately lumped together the emissions from modern stoves with older stoves, open-fires and other kinds of equipment and fuels used in the home. Modern stoves, such as those that are Defra-approved or Ecodesign are less polluting than other heating methods. They also play a vital role in keeping the indoor air clean.
Low Emissions
There are many common misconceptions regarding the use of wood burning stoves and their relationship to air pollution. One of the most popular myths is that wood-burning stoves are responsible for large amounts of fine particulate matter in the UK but this is completely untrue. In reality the domestic combustion of wood and solid fuels accounts for less than one third of the PM.2.5 in Britain. The government relied on inaccurate data in its studies to estimate wood stoves' contribution. However, recent research by the SIA and others suggests that the figure is closer to 13 percent.
If you reside in an area that is under smoke control, it is essential to select a DEFRA approved stove or log burner. These appliances have been tested to ensure that they meet emission standards that are designed to minimize pollution to the air. The Defra exempted stove logo has been widely adopted in the industry. If you see it on a stove or in its specifications or names, you can be sure that it has very low emissions and is suitable for use within a smoke-free area.
A DEFRA-approved appliance will also be in compliance with the EU Ecodesign Regulations that will come into effect in 2022. These new rules will significantly reduce the amount of smoke a stove can produce during the combustion process. These new guidelines are causing a lot of Defra exempt appliances to be manufactured. The SIA recommends installing an Ecodesign Ready appliance rather than a Defra Exempt one, as the particulate emission limit for Ecodesign Ready appliances is 55% less.
In addition to reducing emissions, DEFRA approved stoves are typically more efficient than traditional open fires and aid in saving money on heating costs. They are specifically designed to burn wood, coal and other solid fuels efficiently, generating maximum heat while eliminating waste. By selecting a stove that burns wood, you can reduce the amount carbon dioxide emitted through the combustion.
Smoke Control Areas Suitable
If you reside in a smoke-free zone it is essential to use a DEFRA approved stove or risk fines. These stoves are designed to burn fuel that is smokeless, which means that they emit a small amount of particulate matter and other harmful gases. They are also more energy efficient than standard stoves, and they can help you save money on heating costs. Defra stoves come in a variety of styles, so you can find the perfect fit for your home.
A DEFRA approved stove is typically referred to as an SE (smoke exempt) stove which allows you to burn fuels that are normally prohibited in smoke control areas. These fuels include logs briquettes, smokeless coal, and other types of easily obtainable smokeless fuels. It is important to remember that DEFRA approved stoves don't disqualify you from other requirements imposed by your local authority, so it is still necessary to adhere to all regulations in your region.
Defra approved stoves have undergone stringent testing to ensure that they are safe and clean to use. They usually come with secondary and tertiary system to improve efficiency and reduce emissions. The large firebox lets you to burn more fuel at once. These features make them an excellent option for homes that are located in smoke-controlled areas.
To ensure your stove is safe and efficient, it is essential to keep it in good condition. This includes cleaning the stove regularly and ensuring there aren't any obstructions in the chimney. Conducting regular maintenance on your stove can help reduce the risk of fire hazards and prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
A Defra multifuel stove can be used in smoke control areas if it is fitted with an 6" liner and you burn authorised fuels. Bowland Stoves has a wide selection of Defra multifuel stoves that come in various styles to fit your home. Our stove experts are able to answer any questions you may have.
Affordable
Defra approved stoves offer homeowners the ability to enjoy a clean burning flame, low emissions, and a cost-effective method of heating their homes. These stoves are available at a range of prices, ranging from log burners that are affordable to the most expensive wood burning stoves. They offer many advantages, including being eco sustainable and compatible with smoke control zones.
DEFRA approved wood and multi-fuel stoves are able to be used in areas with smoke control the UK. They are a practical, cost-effective alternative to gas stoves and open fires. They can use a variety of fuels including peat, logs, and solid fuels. Some are compatible with wood pellets or smokeless Briquettes. These are great options for environmentally conscious homeowners.
In addition to being an elegant and cost-effective method to heat your home, these stoves are also highly efficient, offering the best possible levels of combustion. They also have features such as secondary and tertiary air system that aid in reducing emissions and ensure optimal performance.
A DEFRA stove can be used with a 5" liner to burn dry wood, if the stove has a 5" size flue. If you purchase an appliance that's not exempt from DEFRA however, you'll have to upgrade the liner to 6". This could be expensive.
When buying a new stove there are many factors to consider. These include the size of the room, the heat demands and the kW output that the stove can provide. It is also important to be aware of the style of the stove and how it will suit your interior design. If you're installing your stove into an existing fireplace chamber or inglenook, there are plenty of aesthetically-pleasing traditional and contemporary DEFRA stoves to choose from. Additionally DEFRA list stoves will look great even without a traditional mantle or fireplace surround.