What Are Defra Approved Stoves?
These stoves, also known as Defra Exempt Stoves or Smoke Control Approved Stoves are designed to burn fuels that are smokeless and approved by Defra such as Anthracite Ovals. They are not suited for use with wood.
To qualify as Defra exempt, a stove has to 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 multi-fuel stove that has passed a rigorous test developed by the UK Government's Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). This test guarantees that the stove is able to burn approved smokeless fuels like briquettes and logs in Smoke Controlled Areas. This kind of stove isn't just more eco-friendly and the environment, but it's better for your neighbors since it will lessen the nuisance smoke.
These DEFRA stoves have a special combustion technology that permits them to slumber or 'sleep' for longer than other stoves. This means that they will burn any smokeless fuels that are authorised efficiently and in a efficient manner while still sustaining the required heating output for your home. This is achieved by limiting the oxygen supply to the firebox. The fuel will burn at a lower temperature until it is completely consumed.
Defra stoves will often be referred to as SE stoves or smoke-free stoves. They will also sport an emblem or label with the DEFRA Logo on it. They may also be labeled as ecodesign 2022 compliant which means they will meet the new Ecodesign emissions limits when they enter into force next year.
When it comes to buying a DEFRA stove there are a variety of aspects that you have to consider. Included in this are the type of stove, the fuel types that can be used and the amount heat it is capable of producing. There are also some additional features you may want to think about, like a simple remote control system or an air-washing system.
When choosing the right DEFRA woodburning or multi-fuel stove, it's crucial to consider the style of decor that you would like to have in your home since there is various styles to choose from. There are numerous traditional models available for those who want to incorporate the stove inside an existing fireplace or inglenook. However, there are also contemporary and modern models that look stunning without a surround or mantle. You should also consider the fuel that you'd like to use since there are DEFRA exempt wood burners as well as many specifically Defra approved stoves that allow for the usage of smokeless fuels that are approved by the government.
DEFRA approved stoves are defined in most UK towns and cities. If you reside in one of these areas, you will need a DEFRA-exempt wood stove or multifuel stove. These stoves are designed to comply to the Clean Air Act regulations, and have been tested for smokeless combustion.
A DEFRA approved stove has been developed with Clean Burn Technology, which is the reason they are 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 as in a traditional stove and therefore it will continue to burn at a low level until the fuel is consumed completely and the flue gases are exhausted.
This allows stoves to be used legally in a Smoke-Control Area, with authorized fuels. This includes wood as well as manufactured smokeless fuels like anthracite and smokeless briquettes and firelogs. This differs from non-Defra approved stoves which are only permitted to be used in a Smoke Control Area when they are fitted with a special Smoke Control Kit.
It is possible to install a wood burning stove that is not exempt from DEFRA with the correct Smoke Control Kit, this is not recommended as you could put your family members at risk of breathing toxic gases and toxins that could cause lung damage. Additionally, the use of an exempt stove that is not DEFRA-compliant within a Smoke Control Area can result in hefty fines.
Stovax offers a broad selection of wood-burning and multi-fuel fireplaces, stoves and fires that are all DEFRA exempt and can be used in areas with smoke control. Our dealers are more than eager to assist you in finding the perfect DEFRA approved stove for your home, just enter your postcode here to find the nearest dealer.
It is crucial to remember that all new stoves should be installed by registered HETAS installers to ensure they're fitted safely and comply with current building regulations. A DEFRA-approved kitchen appliance that can be used in Smoke Control Areas can help reduce emissions, leading to a reduction in the amount of sulphur dioxide emitted into the air. From 2022, the EU-wide Ecodesign regulation will set minimum efficiencies OGV, NOX and NOX ceilings and emission limits that look to be stricter than those currently required for Defra Exempt stoves.
Smokeless Fuels
There are a variety of aspects to consider when choosing the right stove for you that utilizes smokeless fuels. The stove must be DEFRA-approved for use in smoke-controlled areas. This means that the appliance has undergone rigorous tests to ensure that particulate emissions are reduced. In addition there are a variety of stoves that utilize specially-designed smokeless fuels that are more efficient than traditional coal. This is better for the environment and your neighbours.
Briquettes are typically made from anthracite, which is a smokeless fuel. They are greener and last up to 40% better than traditional coal. Additionally, smokeless fuels produce more heat than traditional coal and they don't release more carbon dioxide.
They cost more than traditional coal, however they come with a number of advantages for you and your family. They are less difficult to light and do not create as much soot or ash. This means that the stove's grates and glass screen will not need cleaning as frequently. They create an elongated flame and release less smoke.
It is important to remember that if your home is located in a zone of smoke control it is only allowed to use wood or authorised fuels to heat your stove. You may be penalized if you burn unauthorised fuels. If you decide to use a wood stove that isn't DEFRA approved, then you will create smoke that can upset your neighbours.
This is why it's essential to purchase an DEFRA exempt stove that allows you to use smokeless fuels inside your home. All stoves in this category have been tested thoroughly to ensure that they are in compliance with DEFRA regulations, and do not emit harmful smoke. This is achieved by ensuring that the stoves have the latest combustion technologies which stop part-burned combustibles from being released into air.
Warranty
DEFRA stoves are multi fuel stoves that have been approved for use in Smoke Control Areas. They have been subjected to rigorous tests to ensure that they offer clean and efficient combustion, low emissions and optimum performance. They also come in a variety of styles to fit your home and aesthetic.
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 are referring to the same type stove that has been proven to be in compliance with strict UK legislation which limits smoking for a certain amount of time.
The stove should only be used with approved smokeless fuels such as blue flame anthracite or anthracite. If you try to burn other than approved smokeless fuels, it will create a nuisance smoke that could cause respiratory problems for those with asthma. It is the responsibility of the installer as well as the customer to check that the appliance is appropriate for their property by using the Defra calculator, ensuring all chimney parts are correct, ensuring minimum distances to combustibles have been adhered to and the hearth's size is suitable for the stove being installed.
Stoves installed incorrectly may cause damage, leakage, and could void the warranty. Installation must be done by a HETAS-certified engineer to ensure that the stove is safe and properly installed. Consumable items like glass doors, glass ropes, door seals, paint finishes internal lining plates or firebricks and baffles are not covered by the warranty. These are considered as customer replaceable parts and can be purchased from us should you require them. Damage to the stove by salt air or high humidity environments is not covered by the warranty.
The purchase of a DEFRA stove is an investment into your home, not only for the warmth it provides you with but also for the peace of mind knowing that you are doing what you can to help protect the environment and your neighbors too. You can rest assured that the DEFRA-approved wood burning or multi-fuel stove will last many years.