What Are Defra Approved Stoves?
These stoves, also known as Defra Exempt Stoves or Smoke Control Approved Stoves are designed to burn smokeless fuels that have been approved by Defra such as Anthracite Ovals. However, they won't be suitable to use with wood.
To qualify as Defra exempt, a stove must be tested in a laboratory for air controls and flue draught. These tests may differ from the actual conditions.
Clean Burn Technology
A DEFRA-approved stove is a wood-burning or multifuel stove that has passed a rigorous test designed by the UK Government Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. The test confirms that the stove is able to burn approved smokeless fuels, such as logs or briquettes, in smoke Controlled Areas. This type of stove isn't just better for the environment and the environment, but it's more beneficial for your neighbors too as it will reduce nuisance smoke.
These DEFRA stoves are equipped with an exclusive combustion system that allows them to sleep longer or rest longer than other stoves. This means that they can burn any approved smokeless fuels efficiently and in a safe manner while retaining the required heating output for your home. This is accomplished by limiting the oxygen supply to the firebox. The fuel will then be burned at a lower rate until it is completely consumed.
Defra stoves are often called smoke-free or SE stoves. They come with a label or badge with the DEFRA logo on it. They may be labeled as Ecodesign compliant 2022 to indicate they will meet the new Ecodesign emission limits when they become effective next year.
There are many aspects to take into account when buying a DEFRA. Included in this are the model of stove, fuel types that can be burned, and the amount heat it is capable of producing. You may also want to consider some other features, such as a remote control system that is easy to use or an air wash system.
There are many styles of DEFRA woodburning stoves and multi-fuel stoves available. There are many traditional models to choose from when you are looking to install stoves into an existing fireplace or inglenook. However, there are also contemporary and modern options that look great without a mantel or surround. You will also have to consider what fuel you wish to use. There are DEFRA approved stoves and wood burners which are exempt from regulations.
Smoke Controlled Areas
Smoke Control Areas are defined in the majority of UK towns and cities. If you live in such an area you'll need a DEFRA-exempt wood stove or multifuel stove. These stoves are made to conform to the Clean Air Act regulations, and have been tested for smokeless combustion.
The main characteristic of the DEFRA approved stove is that they have been designed with Clean Burn technology, which is how they are able to be smoke free. This is done by pushing oxygen into the combustion chamber continuously until the fuel is consumed. This means that the fire cannot be shut off like a traditional stove, and it will continue to burn at a low level until the fuel is completely consumed and the flue gases are exhausted.
This allows stoves to be used legally in a Smoke Control Area that uses 'authorized fuels'. This includes wood and manufactured smokeless fuels such as anthracite, smokeless briquettes, and firelogs. This is different to stoves that are not Defra approved, and are only allowed to be used in a Smoke Control Area provided they've been equipped with a specific Smoke Control Kit.
It is possible to install the Smoke Control Kit on a wood burning stove that is not exempt from DEFRA however this is not recommended. You could put your family members at risk from inhaling toxic gases and toxins which can cause lung damage. The use of a non DEFRA exempt wood burning stove in a Smoke Control Area may result in large fines.
Stovax offers a wide range of wood-burning multi-fuel, fireplaces and stoves that are all DEFRA-exempt and may be used within smoke controlled areas. Our dealers are eager to assist you in finding the ideal DEFRA approved stove for your home. Simply put in your postcode here to find your nearest dealer.
It is important to remember that all new stoves must be installed by registered HETAS installers to ensure they're fitted in a safe manner and conform to current building regulations. A DEFRA-approved stove that can be used in Smoke Control Areas helps reduce emissions, leading to a decrease in the amount of sulphur dioxide emitted into the air. From 2022, the EU-wide Ecodesign regulation will establish minimum efficiency, NOX and OGV ceilings and emissions limits which appear to be more stringent than the current requirements for Defra Exempt stoves.
Smokeless Fuels
When selecting a stove that uses smokeless fuels, there are many things to consider. The stove must be DEFRA-approved to be used in smoke-controlled areas. This means that the appliance has passed rigorous tests to make sure that particulate emissions are reduced. There are stoves that are smokeless which burn more efficiently than traditional coal. This is healthier for the environment as well as your neighbours.
Smokeless fuels are usually anthracite based and come in the form of briquettes. They are designed to be greener than traditional coal, and they can last 40% longer. In addition, smokeless fuels produce more heat than traditional coal, and they don't release more carbon dioxide.
They are more expensive, yet they have numerous advantages for you and your family. They are much easier to ignite and do not produce as much soot or ash. The glass screen and the stove grate will need to be cleaned less often. They also create a more lively flame and don't emit as much nuisance smoke.
It is important to remember that if you live in a smoke control zone, you are allowed to only burn authorised fuels and wood in your stove. You could be fined if you burn fuels that are not approved. If you decide to use a wood burner that is not DEFRA approved then you will create smoke that could cause trouble for your neighbours.
This is why it's important to purchase an DEFRA exempt stove that permits you to use smokeless fuels inside your home. All stoves in this category have gone through rigorous testing to ensure that they are in compliance with DEFRA regulations and that they do not produce nuisance smoke. This is accomplished by making sure that they use the latest combustion technology which prevents part-burned combustibles from escaping into the air.
The Right to Rent
DEFRA stoves are wood-burning or multi fuel stoves that are approved for use in Smoke Control Areas. They have been subjected to rigorous testing to ensure they are high-quality and efficient burning, low emissions, and optimal performance. They are available in a variety of different styles to complement the style of your home.
Defra Approved Stoves are known in the market under a variety of different names, including Defra Exempt Stoves, SE Stoves, Smoke Exempt stoves, Smoke Control Area Approved stoves, and Cleanburn Stoves. All of these terms refer to the same type of stove that has been verified to meet strict UK legislation which limits smoking for a certain amount of time.
The stove can only be used with approved smokeless fuels like blue flame anthracite or anthracite. If you attempt to burn anything other than approved smokeless fuels, it will produce nuisance smoke that can cause respiratory problems for those with asthma. The installer and customer are responsible for ensuring that the appliance is suitable for the property using the Defra Calculator, and ensuring that the chimney components are in good working order and adhering to the minimum distances from combustibles.
Stoves that are installed incorrectly can cause damage, leakage, and could void the warranty. The installation should be carried out by a qualified HETAS engineer to ensure the stove is safe for use and is properly installed. Consumable items such as glass doors, glass ropes, door seals, paint finishes internal lining plates, baffles and firebricks are not covered under the warranty. These parts are considered to be replacement and are readily available if required. The warranty does not cover damage caused by high humidity or salt air.
DEFRA stoves cost can not only add warmth to your home, but will also give you peace of mind knowing that you're helping protect the environment. By choosing a DEFRA approved wood burning or multi fuel stove you can be sure that you'll be enjoying your stove for years to come.