Defra Approved Log Burners
If you live in a region that is smoke-controlled, you will need to make use of a defra-approved stove in order to be in compliance with the government's regulations. This will enable you to legally burn authorised fuels such as briquettes or approved firewood.
These kinds of stoves are usually more environmentally friendly than older models because they utilize secondary and third-party combustion systems. This reduces the amount of smoke and consequently is more beneficial for
best Defra Stoves your chimney, flue system and neighbors.
Clean Burn Technology
Defra Approved stoves are a must-have in Smoke Control Areas and any urban area, generally built up locations. These modern appliances, also referred to as DEFRA exempt stoves, are designed to offer a clean burn and high heating efficiency - saving you money on fuel prices while keeping your home warm. These modern appliances are equipped with secondary and tertiary systems to reduce the amount of smoke that is released into the air.
If your stove isn't DEFRA approved, you can change it with a simple kit. Defra approval is obtained through the passing of stringent emissions tests conducted by the UK Government's Department of Environment Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) which restrict the amount of black smoke the stove can produce throughout its normal operation.
If you reside in an area designated as a Smoke-Control Area It is illegal to make use of anything other that an approved log burner from DEFRA or an open fire. Incorrectly authorised wood burning appliances can result in severe fines. The good news is that DEFRA approved stoves allow you to burn your preferred logs provided they have been properly prepared.
We recommend that you only burn hardwoods with less than 20% to ensure optimal performance and a clean burning in an approved DEFRA stove. A Moisture Meter is a handy instrument that can be used to measure the moisture content in your wood.
Older stoves, if operated in a way that is not done correctly, can release large amounts of nuisance smoke. This is caused by a process known as "slumbering.' A stove that is slumbering can close the air intake too much which causes the fuel to not to ignite fully. This results in a lack of heat and more smoke.
DEFRA stoves benefits exempt stoves have their top air controls modified to make it impossible to shut them completely.
Clean-burning technology is an essential factor in improving air quality in cities across Europe. We believe that banning older, polluting stoves as well as encouraging the use of DEFRA exempt stoves is a big step in the right direction.
Low Smoke Emissions
Many people choose to have log burners in their homes due to the delicious smell that they create and the warm atmosphere they provide to a space. A wood burning stove can produce a lot of pollution. The smoke rises up the chimney and pollutes the air outside, and some of it will also get into homes of neighbors through vents or gaps around doors and windows.
To reduce the amount of harmful pollutants, it is a good idea to buy a DEFRA approved stove or fire. These stoves are specially designed to be cleaner than older models and can reduce the PM emissions by half. If you live in a smoke control area then you must search for an DEFRA certified stove, as the law prohibits the use of any non-DEFRA approved appliance within these areas.
If you buy a Defra approved stove, you can be sure that the combustion process is optimized for low emissions. This is typically done by a second phase of combustion which means that the waste gases are reused and burned again, which results in less pollution being released into the air. Also, make sure to use kiln dried or seasoned wood, as it has lower moisture content and will burn more efficiently.
A stove that is Defra approved has been through rigorous tests to ensure it meets the most current European emission standards. These are known as the Ecodesign standards and were implemented to improve the quality of air and therefore by purchasing a Defra approved stove, you'll be doing your part for the environment!
A approved log burner from DEFRA is not only energy efficient, but can reduce heating costs as well. They consume less fuel as they produce less heat. This makes them a fantastic alternative to oil or gas burners.
Eco-Friendly
As you probably already know, using log burners to heat your home is very environmentally friendly. It is important to use the correct type of fuel. The wrong fuel type can damage your stove and cause problems with your chimney. It could also void your warranty. Dry wood and manufactured solid fuels (such as briquettes and fire logs) produce far less smoke and pollution than traditional household coal and wet wood.
Dry, kiln-dried wood has 20% or less of moisture percent or less and is much more efficient in burning than untreated or wet wood. Wet or untreated wood causes excessive smoke emissions that are harmful to human health. Just a few minutes of exposure can lead to respiratory problems. It's also important to bear in mind that some areas of the UK are now smoke control zones, meaning that you can only legally emit 3g of smoke per hour, or pay an expensive fine. The
best DEFRA stoves way to avoid being caught is to use a certified log burner and always checking that the fuel you're burning complies with the required standards.
If used properly If it is used correctly, a Defra approved stove will produce very low emissions. Additionally, when it is installed in a smoke-free area it will cut down on PM2.5* pollution when compared to a stove that is inefficient. The best way to ensure that your stove is as green as you can is to choose an Defra approved model and only ever burn sustainable, sourced wood that has been dried to reduce its moisture content.
It's also recommended to avoid burning any kind of treated wood, including old furniture and fence panels. They release toxic pollutants that can have a serious effect on the environment as well as human health. To make your Defra approved stove as eco green as you can, you should be sure to regularly clean it and check the flue for obstructions. Regular maintenance can help prolong the life of your stove and keep it running efficiently. It is also important to always follow the manufacturers instructions for use and care of your stove. This includes regular cleaning and sweeping the chimney.
Neighbour Friendly
While it is crucial to use Defra approved log burners and only use authorised fuels, it is equally important to ensure you maintain your stove in a proper manner. Inadequate maintenance can cause dangerous pollutants, like carbon monoxide (CO) which is released into your home. CO is a colourless and unodourless gas that may cause death if inhaled at high concentrations.
You could be fined as much as PS1,000 if you do not possess a Defra-approved kitchen appliance and live in a smoke-controlled area. Appliances that are not Defra approved produce more smoke in smoke controlled areas than is allowed. It is therefore crucial to use a stove that has been approved by Defra and only burn authorised materials in areas that are smoke-controlled.
If you're burning wood in a stove that is Defra-approved it is recommended to make use of hardwood logs that have been seasoned, rather than softwood. Hardwoods are less moist and retain heat better. They also burn faster so you won't have to refuel as frequently.
It is also important to select stoves that are Defra-approved, and in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer. This will ensure that the stove is properly vented and does not emit harmful toxins into your home.
A stove that is Defra-approved comes with many other benefits. It will allow you to avoid fines if you are using a non approved stove from Defra in a smoke-controlled area.