What is a Defra Approved Stove?
A Defra Approved Stove (also known by the abbreviation SE) is a multi-fuel or wood-burning stove that can be placed in smoke zones for control. They typically feature the Defra approved logo or are labelled as such in their specifications.
Even if you don't live in a zone that is smoke-free, these types of stove are better for the environment and will prevent you from irritating neighbours with nuisance smoke. They are also subjected rigorous testing.
What is a DEFRA Approved Stove?
When searching for wood burning stoves or multi fuel stove for your home, it's crucial to think about the kind of fuel you'll be using. This is particularly important when you live in a smoke controlled zone as this will affect the types of fuels you are permitted to use in your stove. There are a variety of fuels that can be used in wood stoves however, if you live in a smoke control area you must select one that is a DEFRA approved stove that is built to burn approved fuels without generating any smoke.
A DEFRA approved multi-fuel stove or wood burning stove has been thoroughly tested to ensure that emissions are reduced. This is achieved by making sure that the stove has a secondary combustion process which means that waste gases are burned within the stove to reduce the amount of emissions.
In addition to decreasing the amount of smoke produced by the stove, DEFRA approved stoves also offer savings in the form of greater efficiency and are designed to burn wood efficiently. This makes them an ideal option for those who want to heat their homes with a renewable energy source that is sustainable and provides an affordable way to heat their property.
There are different styles of DEFRA approved stoves available from traditional to modern. This allows homeowners to find an appliance that will blend into the decor of their home and can be fitted into existing fireplace chambers or inglenooks. They can be used in conjunction with a range of chimney liners that are compatible with natural or gas supply.
The benefits of choosing DEFRA approved stoves are not only for those who live in smoke-free areas. Anyone can benefit from their increased efficiency and low emissions. A DEFRA-approved wood stove can improve the air quality in your home and contribute to an environmentally sustainable future. This is because trees absorb carbon dioxide that is then released back into the atmosphere when they are used to heat your home.
What Fuels Can Be Burned in a DEFRA-approved Stove
A DEFRA approved stove (sometimes called a Defra Smoke Exempt Appliance) is a wood burning stove that has passed the stringent tests set by Defra to limit the amount of smoke it produces. If affordable DEFRA stoves reside in the UK city or town that is classified as a "smoke control zone" It is a legal requirement to only use a Defra-approved stove. Otherwise, you could be penalized for breaking the law. Even if you don't live in a smoke-control area or a smoke-control zone, a stove that is Defra approved is an excellent option to keep your chimney and flue cleaner for longer.
Stove makers like Arada, Burley, Parkray & Stovax have been working to develop the most modern technology for clean burning that has led to the development of Defra approved stoves that not only limit the release of harmful pollutants into the atmosphere, but also drastically reduce the amount of smoke that is produced during the combustion process. Defra approved stoves now have secondary and tertiary systems of combustion to further reduce emissions, burn fuel more efficiently and make for a much more sustainable and environmentally friendly way to heat your home.
It is important to know that although a Defra approved stove will burn manufactured solid fuel like household coal, Coal fires High Petroleum-based fuel and Petrol Coke as well as wood, you should be cautious about the kind of firewood you burn. It is not legal to burn damp or wet firewood in a DEFRA approved stove as it creates a lot of nuisance smoke that will make your neighbors angry and could create a fire risk within your home.
When purchasing wood to burn in your Defra approved stove we recommend that you only purchase dry, properly seasoned logs and splits. We also recommend using only firewood marked with the Ready to Burn logo. This confirms that the wood has been treated to have an extremely low moisture content in order to prevent excessive smoke production.
The majority of Defra approved wood burning stoves don't provide the option of burning smokeless coke. However, there are some excellent classic models that look great with or without a mantle and surround. A DEFRA-approved stove lets you to install a 5" (125mm), twin wall stainless steel chimney liner that is flexible. This is a more affordable option than the standard 6" 150mm liner and is particularly beneficial if your existing chimney has a few awkward bends.
Can I put a Non-Defra Approved Stove in a Smoke Control Area?
If you are looking to buy a new wood-burning stove it's likely you'll find DEFRA approved models. This is the term used by industry professionals that means that a stove is exempt from smoke control zones when it is used using approved fuels, such as anthracite, seasoned logs or other mineral solid fuels (DEFRA approved).
It's important to know that non-Defra stoves are able to be installed within smoke controlled areas, but they should only be used to burn approved fuels such as anthracite. If you utilize them with a range of different wood types or other solid fuels that are flammable, they may emit excessive amounts of smoke, which could cause an infringement of fire being issued against the property.
Stoves that are Defra Approved often have the Defra logo on their descriptions of the product. They may also be being referred to as SE (smoke exempt) or simply as DEFRA stoves by the manufacturers of their stoves.
To be approved by Defra the stove must meet the strict emissions and performance standards established by the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs. They have passed rigorous tests to ensure low emissions and high efficiency. The Defra-approved wood-burning, multi-fuel and wood-burning stoves can help you reduce your carbon footprint while keeping your home warm.
Another benefit of a DEFRA approved Stove is that they are usually equipped with a 5 inch chimney liner. This is an advantage since it allows you to save money on the cost of installation and comply with building regulations.
If you're not familiar with the rules surrounding the burning of wood in areas that are smoke-controlled it can be difficult to choose the right DEFRA-approved wood stove for your house. It is crucial to select a stove which has been tested and is in compliance with the UK government's standards. This will ensure you get the most enjoyable burning experience.
You should also make sure that you burn only wood that is seasoned in your stove. This wood has a moisture level of less than 20%, which will prevent excessive smoke from accumulating after it is burned. You can find seasoned wood in many local shops and through schemes such as Woodsure Ready to Burn.
What is what is a DEFRA Exempt Stove?
If you're considering buying a wood burning stove there's a lot to consider. From the style and output to the fuel type there's a lot to take in before making a final decision. If you are in a smoke-free zone and want to buy a DEFRA-exempt stove, it is one of the most important features to look for. A DEFRA approved wood stove has been independently test and has been proven to burn wood in a smoke-controlled space.
These stoves are specially designed to minimize the emission of particles from the combustion process, meaning that less pollution is generated in the air. Additionally, DEFRA approved stoves are also better for the environment and for your chimney system because they keep combustibles that have been part-burned from entering the flue and causing obstructions.
A Defra exempt stove will have the logo "DEFRA approved" on the front of the unit or in the title of the specification. The logo is easily recognizable and is a quality mark that is frequently used by stove makers. We stock a large number of wood-burning models with the DEFRA logo.
As well as in addition to Defra approval, you should always make sure that your selected wood burner or multi-fuel stove is equipped with a 5" chimney liner. This is because non-DEFRA stoves require a larger flue size than DEFRA approved models and will cause the chimney to get blocked if you are not cautious.
Please contact us if you have any queries about whether you live in a region that is smoke controlled or the rules regarding the types of fuels you can burn. We will be happy to help you. You can also go to the website of your local council to find out more about the laws in force in your area.