Defra Approved Multifuel Stoves
Multifuel stoves that have been approved by Defra are a great option for those who live in smoke-controlled areas. They are extremely safe and can burn wood or authorised smokeless fuels.
The Defra logo is usually visible on the appliance or in the specification to indicate that it is suitable for Smoke Control Areas. These appliances also come with a high energy rating with low emissions.
Clean Burn Technology
We offer a range of wood burning stoves which are approved by the Defra. This means that they are able to meet the strictest emission standards when used with wood or other approved fuels. This is because these stoves are built to work with a variety of different fuels and have been tested by an independent lab to ensure they don't create excessive smoke. A stove that is Defra-approved will have features like secondary and tertiary combustion which can maximize the amount of energy consumed and minimize harmful gases.
The stoves that are approved by Defra typically have an 'SE' logo (which is a distinct sign for smoke exempt) or the word SE after their name. This signifies that the stove has been independently tested and can be used in a Smoke Control Area with logs or other approved solid fuels. The testing process involves several tests to test the stove's performance in different conditions, and to verify that it produces a minimum 5 grams of particulates per kg when burning wood.
To meet this standard Defra approved stoves have a modified top air vent which prevents the user from closing it completely. Closing the top vent to much will decrease the flow of oxygen to the fire, causing it to smoulder rather than burn. If you were to do this with a non Defra approved stove, you would be breaking the law and could be prosecuted for violations of nuisance smoking.
To avoid the smoke, buy wood that has been seasoned or kiln dried. This wood has been dried for an extended period of time which has reduced the moisture content below 20%. You can check the moisture content of your wood by using an easy wood moisture meter.
You can also limit the amount of nuisance smoke that is produced by your Defra approved stove by only using dry, well-seasoned, kiln-dried, or spruce logs. You should never use damp, wet, or unseasoned wood as this will generate a lot of nuisance smoke and could lead to an infringement from the local authority.
Smoke Control Area Approval
DEFRA approved stoves comply with the strict air quality standards set by the government. These stoves can use different fuels, including wood and certain smokeless substances that are 'authorized' in Smoke Control Areas.
The smoke from burning untreated wood or other wet fuels in a fireplace that is not DEFRA approved or exempt from DEFRA will cause a lot of irritation to your neighbors. This can also cause issues with local air quality, especially if you live in an urban zone. You may be charged with a fine or even arrested when you burn fuels that are not authorized in the Smoke Control Area or use an appliance that is not made to work with smokeless fuels.
Defra approved stoves come with secondary and tertiary combustion systems which burn fuel at lower temperatures. This results in less particulate matter (PM2.5). This is accomplished by using stainless steel liners and a convection system which forces air down the chimney even after the fire has been put out. This allows stoves to burn wood more efficiently and create less emissions.
A Defra Approved Stove will also include an adjustment for the top air vent to prevent the stove from closing completely. If you cut off the air supply to the stove, it will stop burning properly, and smoulder a lot, and then start producing smoke. Defra approved stoves will allow you to close the vent just a little but not all the way so that the fire can continue to burn at a lower temperature and still be in compliance with UK regulations.
When you are choosing a new Defra approved stove, it's crucial to think about the design and style of the stove and whether it is compatible with the decor in your home. There are a variety of designs and sizes to pick from including traditional fireplace chambers and inglenooks to more modern designs that look stunning in open plan living areas.
The majority of Defra approved stoves come with a 5kW flue outlet so they can be used legally in Smoke Control Areas, which include the majority of UK cities and towns. This can also save money on installation costs as the stove only requires five" liner, as opposed to the more costly 6" liner.
Aesthetics
A multi-fuel stove doesn't need to be a utilitarian feature in your home; you can pick one that has style and appeal. There are a variety of models available in different styles that can be a perfect match for your decor, whether it's modern or traditional. They usually have cleaner lines and sleeker finishes than wood-burning stoves. This makes them a more attractive choice for any space.
When choosing a multi-fuel stove, check that it fits the intended space and is compatible with your chimney or flue system. Also, make sure that the stove's clearance to combustible materials is in compliance with local regulations. Review the instructions of the manufacturer to determine the distance you must keep combustibles like curtains, walls and furniture from your stove.
If you are looking for a multi-fuel stove you may want to consider the airwash system. This helps keep the glass windows clear so that you can enjoy your fire. Some multi-fuel stoves have a removable grate that makes it easier to switch fuel and clean the stove.
Defra approved multi-fuel stoves are designed to minimize emissions and pollution, making them an environmentally responsible option for homeowners who are concerned about their environment. They are also highly efficient and permit you to reduce the amount of fuel you use which can lower your heating costs.
Many Defra multi-fuel stoves are offered in different styles to suit your aesthetic preferences. For instance stoves that are inset, such as the Hamlet Solution 5 Compact and the Woodford Lovell C400 fit into the wall or fireplace opening for a seamless appearance. While cylindrical stoves such as the Opus Harmony or the ACR Solis are slim and round and can be placed on a hearth for a better use of space.
Many stoves have an elegant design that is a reflection of their heritage, with features like cast iron construction and intricate details. These stoves are perfect for country cottages and homes that have an old-fashioned, rustic look. Others have a modern style, featuring simple lines and materials like glass and steel. They're ideal for urban and modern homes with a more minimalist look.
DEFRA stoves cost
If you purchase a DEFRA approved multifuel stove, you can rest assured that it will meet or even surpass the most current clean air standards. The top stove manufacturers like Arada, Stovax, and Parkray have invested a lot in the latest combustion technologies that reduce the amount of smoke that is generated during the process of burning. In conjunction with the most up-to-date clean air technologies like secondary and tertiary combustion systems These modern stoves are greener than their earlier models and will help reduce your household fuel bills.
No matter if you live in an area that is governed by Smoke Control or not We have the stove you need for your home. From the stunning Danish design of the Uniq 37, to the cozy and contemporary styling on the Arundel Deluxe. There are also models with an older-fashioned design that can be installed in existing fireplaces or inglenooks.
The Defra approved multifuel stoves that we offer come with a choice of colors to match your décor including matt black and gloss black enamel to majolica brown enamel and gloss buttermilk. Many of our multifuel stoves comply with 2022 EU Ecodesign emissions reduction standards, allowing you to reduce your energy bill while creating a positive impact on the our environment.
DEFRA approve wood stoves are also available to those who reside in a Smoke Control Zone, making it easy to stay on the right side of the law. Always ensure that you use approved kinds of fuel (like'smokeless' anthracite coal) in your stove, as it's illegal to burn damp wood or any other wet fuel and you could be fined.
If you reside in the Smoke Control Area choose a DEFRA Approved Multifuel Stove with the ClearSkies mark to be sure you're complying with the laws. This means that the stove has been tested to make sure that it meets all current UK and European emissions requirements which include those for smokeless and wood fuels. On the product page of the stove you can verify its status by looking for a mark that says "DEFRA approved" or "Approved by DEFRA".