What is a Defra Log Burner?

The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs regulates the release of smoke from wood-burning stoves. There are regulations that prohibit chimney smoke from Smoke Control Areas, unless you are using an exempt appliance or authorised fuel.

The new rules limit the amount the stove can emit of smoke to 3g/hour. If homeowners do not adhere to the new rules, they could be fined immediately. To avoid this, you must make use of Defra approved log burners, and only burn dry wood that has been kiln-dried and has the "Ready to Burn" mark.

What is a Defra certified stove?

A stove that is Defra-approved that has passed the DEFRA test. This means that it is exempt from the smoke control laws in areas where wood (and other authorised materials) are allowed to be burned. The Defra logo is well-known and is widely used by the industry. Stoves that are Defra approved usually have SE (Smoke Exempt) after their name, as an easy way to recognize them.

The Department of Environment, Food & Rural Affairs must test stoves that have been Defra approved to ensure that they meet the strict standards for emissions. These tests are intended for stoves that generate maximum heat, while producing extremely low levels of smoke emissions. These low emissions are usually attained by ensuring that combustion gases are reburned in the second burning. This is crucial because it allows the combustion to continue in a controlled manner while reducing the amount of combustibles emitted into atmospheric air.

DEFRA exempt stoves are more eco-friendly than other wood burners as they are less likely to release part-burnt combustibles being released into the chimney. Contrary to some stoves that have to close the air vents to allow them to sleep over the night, Defra exempt stoves always keep their flue open, meaning they are much less likely to discharge part-burnt combustibles down the chimney, where they may stop it from getting there.

You can purchase a Defra-approved wood burning stove whether you reside in a smoke-free area or not. It will keep your neighbors satisfied, and help keep your chimney in good condition for longer. You can buy Defra exempt stoves in a variety of designs and styles, and there are plenty of options for traditional and contemporary homes.

The sleek minimalist design is an important factor when selecting a DEFRA recognized stoves approved wood burning stove. These stoves are perfect for modern living spaces and can be incorporated into a fireplace chamber, inglenook or be freestanding. Modern stoves like the Aarrow I400 and the minimalist Farringdon are perfect for any space. You can also get Defra Exempt Stoves in traditionally styled stoves such as the Saxon A08E or Arizona A08E.

What is an Defra exempt stove?

A Defra approved or exempt stove is a wood-burning stove that has been tested and approved by the government's DEFRA Department to be installed in Smoke Control Areas. The Defra stoves have been developed to produce a minimum amount of smoke and harmful emission while also producing the highest degree of heat to your home.

The main reason that you need a Defra stove is that if your house is located in a Smoke Control Area then you won't be able to legally install a wood-burning or multi-fuel stove that isn't approved by DEFRA. Installing a stove that's not approved by DEFRA in your home could result in a significant penalty.

Defra approved stoves have had their combustion air system adjusted to limit the amount oxygen that can reach the wood during the burning process. This is accomplished by altering the top air vent. This means that the stove will still allow a tiny amount of air to pass through even if you shut the vent completely. This stops the firewood from being deprived of air and keeps it from smoldering.

From the outside of the exterior of a Defra stove, you won't be able to discern that it's different from any other wood-burning stove. The adjustment for the combustion air is concealed under the base of the wood stove, or in the top of the front.

The majority of Defra Stoves are allowed to burn wood or certain types of smokeless fuels, such as Homefire brand smokeless charcoal, anthracite, and so on. Defra stoves can burn a wide range of fuels.

You can pick a Defra Stove for many reasons regardless of whether you live in a zone of smoke control or not. Defra approved stoves are better for the environment, create less smoke and help to keep your chimney clear of any deposits. They are also better because they produce more heat and emit fewer pollutants into the air.

What is what is a Smoke Control Exempt Stove (SCE)?

A Defra stove, also known as a Defra exempt stove or Defra smoke control approved wood burning stove, is a stove that has passed a strict test developed by the UK government's Department of Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs (Defra). The test focuses on the amount of smoke and emissions that the stove is able to produce in all phases of normal operation. Only stoves that pass the Defra test are able to be used within Smoke Control Areas in cities and large towns.

The test also ensures that the stove is able to be used with authorized fuels, such as anthracite and smokeless coal. A log burner that has been certified by Defra is also more sustainable and helps avoid annoying neighbours with nuisance emissions.

The control of the combustion air for wood burners that have been endorsed by Defra has been altered. This is typically carried out inside the firebox or on top of the stove. This modification prevents users from closing the air control completely, since this could cause the stove and make it release excessive amounts of smoke.

To keep a Defra approved or Defra-exempt stove operating properly, it must be maintained on a regular basis. This includes cleaning the flue and chimney on a regular basis and ensuring there are no blockages, DEFRA Legislation stoves making sure that the grate and firebox are free of debris, and keeping the airflow through the chimney free from restrictions.

While it isn't an obligation under the law to own a Defra exempt stove, especially in the absence of an area designated as a Smoke Control Area It is recommended to purchase one since they are much more efficient than non-Defra models and will help you save money on fuel costs over the long term. Additionally the fact that an Defra approved stove will reduce the amount of dust and smoke that gets into your living space which makes it a better choice for your health and the health of your neighbors.

Nordpeis offers a range of DEFRA-approved stoves, both in traditional and modern designs. To see if you live in a Smoke Control Area and want to discuss your options, call your local Varde retailer.

What is a Clean Burn Technology Stove?

Clean Burn Technology offers a superior quality of combustion and is the future of fireplaces and stoves. This means a lesser amount of airborne dust which is beneficial for the environment and can save money on fuel costs because you will get more heating from the same logs. The stoves are so efficient that they have lowered the necessity for chimney sweeps as little soot is produced. As top stove manufacturers continue to develop their products, they have added secondary or tertiary combustion systems which further reduce emissions and reduce the carbon footprint of their customers.

A Defra approved stove is not only suitable for use in Smoke Control Areas however, it can also be installed in a solid, well-built and lined chimney system for any home. These wood-burning and multi-fuel stoves come in a range of designs that will suit your personal preferences. There are modern and traditional options, available in many different colors and finishes to complement your decor. These stoves come in various sizes, so you can choose one that is suitable for your fireplace or inglenook.

All Defra approved wood stoves have been put through rigorous tests and examinations to ensure that they comply with the Department of Environment Regulations, have low emissions and high combustion efficiency. This means you can rest assured that you are burning your fuel in a responsible manner and saving money at the same time. Making sure you use only dry kiln dried wood that is ready to burn will further enhance the efficiency of your stove, and also help to reduce the emissions it produces.

The purchase of a Defra Approved stove is a excellent option when you reside in a smoke-free zone and want to experience the cozy warmth only a genuine wood burner can offer. Our customers who have purchased a Defra Stove are already enjoying the benefits of a healthier environment and saving money on costs for fuel. We recommend that you get your stove installed by a qualified gas engineer to ensure that the installation meets the necessary building regulations. Regularly examining and maintaining your stove will ensure that it is operating at its peak and will avoid the need for expensive repairs in the future.