What is a Defra Log Burner?

The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs regulates the emissions of smoke from wood-burning stoves. There are regulations that ban chimney smoke in Smoke Control Areas in the event that you use an exempt appliance or fuel with a valid license.

The new rules limit amount of smoke that a stove can emit to 3g an hour and homeowners are subject to hefty penalties on-the-spot in the event of non-compliance. To avoid this you must use 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 Approved Stove?

A Defra-approved stove is one that has passed the DEFRA test. Therefore, it is exempt from 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 are usually marked with SE (Smoke Exempt) after their name, as an easy way to identify them.

Stoves that are Defra Approved have to 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 can produce the highest heat, while producing extremely low levels of smoke emissions. They typically achieve these low emissions by ensuring that combustion gases are re-burnt in the second burn. This is crucial because it allows the burning to continue efficiently whilst decreasing the amount of partially burned combustibles that are emitted into the atmosphere.

DEFRA exempted stoves are more environmentally friendly as they reduce the amount part-burned combustibles sent down the chimney. Contrary to some stoves that have to close the vents for air to allow them to rest over the night, Defra exempt stoves always keep their flue open meaning they are much less likely to release part-burnt combustibles into the chimney, where they may hinder its flow.

If you live in a Smoke Controlled Area or not, an approved Defra wood burning stove is a good idea as it will keep your neighbors happy and will ensure that your chimney stays clear for a longer time. You can buy Defra exempt stoves in a variety of styles and there are lots of options to suit both traditional and contemporary homes.

Many people opt for a Defra approved wood burning stove because of its sleek, minimal design. These stoves are perfect for contemporary living spaces and can be incorporated into an inglenook, fireplace chamber or free standing. Modern stoves like the Aarrow i400 and the minimal Farringdon are perfect for any space. You can also get DEFRA recognized stoves Exempt Stoves in traditionally styled stoves, such as the Saxon A08E and the Arizona A08E.

What is an Defra Exempt Stove?

A Defra Exempt or Defra Approved Stove is a wood-burning stove that has been inspected and approved by the government's DEFRA department to be installed in Smoke Control Areas. The Defra stoves have been designed to emit a minimal amount of smoke and harmful emissions while also producing a high degree of heat for your home.

You need an Defra approved stove if you are in Smoke-Control Area. If you don't you won't be able legally to install a wood-burning stove or multi-fuel stove that has not been approved by DEFRA. Installing a stove that isn't DEFRA-approved in your home could lead to a substantial penalty.

Defra approved stoves have been able to have their combustion air system modified to limit the amount of oxygen that can get to the wood burning process. This is accomplished by altering the air vent on top. This means that the stove will still allow a tiny amount of air to flow through, even if you close the vent all the way. This stops the firewood from being starved of air and prevents it from smouldering.

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

The majority of Defra Stoves are allowed to burn wood or certain types of smokeless fuels such as Homefire brand smokeless charcoal, anthracite, etc. However there are a few of Defra stoves that are multi-fuel-approved and these can be used to burn a range of different fuels.

You may choose a Defra Stove for various reasons regardless of whether you live in a smoke-free zone or not. Defra approved stoves are more sustainable for the environment, generate less smoke and help to keep your chimney free of any deposits. They also are better for your home because they offer more heat and less toxins in the air.

What is an Smoke Control Exempt Stove?

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 rigorous test developed by the UK government's Department of Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs (Defra). The test examines the levels of emissions and the amount of smoke the stove can produce throughout all phases of normal operation. Only stoves that pass the Defra tests can be placed in Smoke Control Areas (SCA) in cities and towns.

The test also confirms that the stove can be operated with approved fuels such as smokeless coke and anthracite. Additionally to that, a Defra log burner is more eco-friendly and can help avoid upsetting neighbours with nuisance smoke emissions.

Wood burners that are Defra-approved have been able to have their combustion air control altered, typically within the firebox or at the top of the stove. This modification prevents the user from closing the air control completely way, DEFRA approved stylish stoves as this can starve the stove of oxygen and cause it to release excessive amounts of smoke.

A Defra approved stove or Defra exempt stove as it is sometimes referred to it, must be maintained regularly to ensure it's functioning correctly. This includes cleaning your chimney and flue regularly. You should also make sure that there aren't any obstructions, that the firebox is clean and that the grate is clear of any debris.

Although it's not an obligation under the law to own a Defra exempt stove, particularly when you are not in a Smoke Control Area it is recommended to get one as they are much more efficient than models that are not defra Approved stylish stoves approved and will reduce your fuel costs over the long term. Additionally, an Defra approved stove can reduce the amount of smoke and dust that is emitted into your living space which makes it an ideal choice for your health and the health of your neighbors.

At Nordpeis, we have a wide range of DEFRA approved stoves in traditional and contemporary designs. To determine 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 higher quality of burn and is the future of fireplaces and stoves. This reduces dust levels in the air which is better for the environment. It also saves money on fuel costs because you get more heat out of the same logs. These stoves are so effective that they have eliminated the necessity for chimney sweeps as little soot is produced. As the top stove manufacturers develop their products they have incorporated secondary and tertiary combustion systems that further reduce emissions from the stove and reduce the carbon footprint of their customers.

A stove that is approved by Defra can be used in Smoke Control Areas but also in a well-constructed chimney that is insulated and built to last in any home. These wood-burning and multi-fuel stoves are available in a variety of styles to match your personal preferences. There are numerous options for both traditional and contemporary stoves in a variety of colours and finishes that match your decor. These stoves come in different sizes, so you can find one that will fit in your fireplace chamber or inglenook.

All Defra approved wood stoves have undergone rigorous testing and examinations in order to ensure that they comply with the Department of Environment Regulations, have low emissions and high efficiency in combustion. This means you can rest assured that you are burning your fuel responsibly while you are saving money while doing it. Only using kiln dried wood that is dry and ready to burn will enhance the efficiency of your stove.

If you live in a smoke-free zone and you still desire the warmth of a wood stove then a Defra Approved Stove is a good choice. Many of our customers who have bought a Defra stove are already reaping the benefits of a cleaner atmosphere and have seen savings on their fuel bills. We suggest that your stove be professionally installed by a gas engineer who is licensed to do the job. This will ensure that it is compliant with all building regulations. It is important to have your stove inspected and maintained on a regular basis to maintain optimum performance and to avoid the need for costly repairs in the future.