What is a Defra Log Burner?

The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) regulates the emission of smoke from wood burning stoves. They have rules in place that prohibit chimney smoke in Smoke Control Areas except when using an exempt device and authorized fuel.

The new regulations restrict the amount stoves can emit smoke to 3g/hour. If homeowners do not comply, they will be fined on the spot. To avoid this, you must make sure you use Defra approved log burners and only use kiln dried wood with the 'Ready to Burn' label.

What is a Defra approved stove?

A Defra approved stove is an appliance that has been passed by the DEFRA test and is exempt from laws in smoke control areas to burn wood (and other fuels that are authorised). The DEFRA approved traditional stoves logo is widely used in the industry. Stoves that have been approved by Defra are often identified with SE (Smoke-Exempt) as an easy and quick way to identify them.

Stoves that are Defra Approved must be tested by the Department of Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) to ensure that they comply with strict emission standards. These tests are intended for stoves that generate maximum heat with ultra-low levels of smoke emissions. They usually get these low emissions by ensuring that the combustion gases are re-burned in the second burn. This is important as it allows the combustion to continue in a controlled manner while reducing the amount combustibles emitted into atmosphere.

DEFRA exempted stoves are more environmentally friendly as they reduce the amount of part-burned combustibles thrown through the chimney. Contrary to some stoves that have to close the air vents in order to allow them to sleep overnight, Defra exempt stoves always keep their flue open meaning they are much less likely to send part-burnt combustibles down the chimney where they can hinder its flow.

You can buy DEFRA stoves a Defra approved wood burning stove, regardless of whether you live in a smoke controlled area or not. It will make your neighbours happy and will keep your chimney clean for longer. You can buy Defra exempt stoves in a range of styles and there are a lot of options for modern and traditional homes.

Many people prefer a Defra approved wood burning stove due to its minimalist, sleek design. These stoves are great for modern living spaces. They can be installed inside a fireplace chamber, inglenook, or be free-standing. Modern stoves such as the Aarrow I400 and the minimalist Farringdon will look fantastic in any space. You can also purchase Defra Exempt Stoves that come in traditional styled stoves like the Saxon A08E and the Arizona A08E.

What is a Defra Exempt Stove?

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

You need an Defra approved stove if you are in a Smoke-Control Area. Otherwise you won't be allowed to legally install any wood burning stove or multi-fuel stove that hasn't been approved by DEFRA. You could be facing an expensive fine for installing an unapproved stove in your home.

The combustion air system in stoves that are approved by Defra has been modified to limit the amount of oxygen that can reach the firewood during the process of burning. Modifying the top air vent is the way to do this. This means that the stove will still allow a small amount of air to pass through even if you shut off the vent completely. This stops the firewood from being depriving of air and stops it from smoldering.

From the outside of an Defra stove you will not be able to tell there is anything different from any other wood-burning stove. The combustion air adjustment is hidden under the base of the wood stove, or in the top front.

Most Defra stoves are permitted to burn wood, and certain kinds of smokeless fuels that are authorised like anthracite or Homefire brand smokeless coal. Defra stoves can be used to burn a wide variety of fuels.

You may choose a Defra Stove for many reasons, regardless whether you reside in a zone of smoke control or not. Defra stoves are more sustainable for the environment, they release less smoke and they help keep your chimney free of ash. They are also better for your home since they are more efficient in heating and less toxins in your air.

What is what is a Smoke Control Exempt Stove?

A Defra wood burning stove also called a Defra exempted stove or Defra approved smoke control stove, is a stove which has been tested rigorously by the UK Department of Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs. This test focuses on emissions levels and the amount of smoke the stove is able to produce during all phases of normal operation. Only stoves that pass the Defra tests can be placed in Smoke Control Areas (SCA) in towns and cities.

The test also confirms that the stove can be used with authorised fuels, such as anthracite and smokeless coal. Additionally the Defra log burner is more sustainable and will help to prevent neighbors from being upset by smoke emissions.

Wood burners that are Defra-approved have been able to have their combustion air control modified, usually within the firebox or at the top of the stove. This modification stops the user from closing the air control completely way, since this could cause the stove to be depleted of oxygen and cause it to emit excessive quantities of smoke.

A Defra approved stove or buy DEFRA stoves Defra exempt stove as it is sometimes referred to, should still be regularly maintained in order to keep it working correctly. This includes cleaning the flue and chimney on a regular basis, ensuring that there are no blockages, ensuring that the firebox and grate are free of debris, and keeping the airflow through the chimney free from restrictions.

It is not a requirement to own a Defra-exempt stove, but it is a smart idea to consider it especially if your house is located outside of an area designated as a Smoke Control Area. These models are more efficient and will help you save money over the long run. A Defra approved appliance can also reduce the amount of smoke and dust that are released into your home and is healthier for your health as well as your neighbors.

At Nordpeis we have a variety of DEFRA approved stoves that come in contemporary and traditional designs. To see if you live in a Smoke Control Area and buy defra stoves 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 reduced amount of dust that is blown into the air which is good for the environment as well as saving money on your fuel bills because you will are able to get more heat from the same logs. These stoves are so effective that they have reduced the need for chimney sweeps since there is less soot to be produced. As leading stove manufacturers continue to innovate their products, they have incorporated secondary or tertiary combustion systems which further reduce emissions and decrease the carbon footprint of their customers.

A Defra approved stove is not just able to be used in Smoke Control Areas, but can also be installed in a solid, well-built and insulated chimney system in any home. These wood burning and multi-fuel stoves are available in a variety of designs to suit your personal preferences. There are both contemporary and traditional options in many different colors and finishes that will complement your interior. These stoves come in a variety of sizes so you can choose one that fits your fireplace chamber or inglenook.

All Defra approved stoves have undergone rigorous testing and examination to ensure that they are in compliance with the Department of Environment Regulations and have low emissions and a high efficiency of combustion to ensure you can be assured you are burning your fuel in a ecologically responsible manner, and reducing your heating costs as well. Only using kiln dried wood that is dry and ready to burn will enhance the efficiency of your stove.

Buying a Defra Approved stove is a ideal choice when you reside in a smoke-free zone and want to enjoy the cosy warmth that only a true wood burner can provide. Many of our customers who have purchased a Defra stove are already enjoying the benefits of a cleaner atmosphere and have seen savings on their fuel bills. We suggest that your stove is professionally installed by a gas engineer who is licensed to do so. This will ensure that it meets all building regulations. Regularly checking and maintaining your stove will ensure that it performs at its best and will avoid the need for expensive repairs in the future.