Defra Approved Log Burner
The Defra approved log burner is among the most popular stoves used by homeowners. This is mainly due to the fact that they provide better combustion and more control over heating costs.
You can also burn wood legally in Smoke Control Areas, which is an enormous benefit because it lets you avoid the fines levied on those who are using stoves that are not regulated. They are available in a variety of different styles to suit every home.
Clean Burn Technology
Clean burn technology is employed in log burners that have been defra-approved to reduce the amount and type of smoke and particles emitted. It has been shown that this technology has the potential to reduce the negative health effects of poor air in urban areas. This is especially applicable to fireplace or wood-burning stove. Bergen is a prime example. The city realized the importance of implementing measures to improve air quality. This is why stoves that are not cleanburn have been removed from the city. This trade-in scheme was a success, with Bergen ranked fifth out of the 320 European cities for their air quality in 2021.
To achieve this, stoves that are Defra-approved are designed to ensure that the fire always has enough oxygen to ignite and burn fuel. This is accomplished through having an additional or tertiary air intake that allows additional combustion air to be injected into the appliance in addition to the primary and/or the main air intake. A secondary air supply is usually located behind the appliance and is usually located either underneath or inside the fire box.
These modern, Defra exempt stoves have been through rigorous tests in order to legally burn wood in Smoke Control Areas. This is only possible in the event that the stove is used with wood that has been seasoned and dried at a temperature of less than 20% moisture.
A Defra approved stove has been tested and is able to emit no more than 3g of smoke per hour which is the legal limit for most UK cities and towns. If a stove emits excessive emissions, the owner could be punished to the tune of PS300.
A Defra approved stove will be branded as an approved product on the product and will also bear an Ecodesign mark, which was put into effect in 2022. To be Ecodesign certified, stoves must undergo strict emissions tests and have an efficiency level of 72%. A stove with more efficiency will help to further reduce the amount of air pollution produced by the stove, while also saving money on heating costs.
Smoke Control Areas Suitable
The government of the United Kingdom has imposed strict emissions limits on fireplaces and stoves. They are designed to keep the country a cleaner and healthier living space. Many cities and towns homes are located within Smoke Control Areas, where the production of dark smoke could be a source of irritation for residents. If you have an older wood-burning stove or open fire and you live in a smoke control area, it is vital to upgrade your appliances to Defra-approved Log Burners.
These are more environmentally friendly than the traditional log burners and have the most modern technology for clean burning. Leading manufacturers like Arada, Burley, Parkray & Stovax continue to develop their products and are currently developing models that have secondary and third-party combustion systems that further reduce emissions. These advanced burners are more efficient than their competitors and could save you money on your fuel costs in the long run.
DEFRA approved, or Defra exempt are terms that indicate the stove has passed an UK Department for Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs test. This test assures that the stove is safe used in smoke-free areas. Defra Exempt is a term that is applicable to certain models which have passed the test. These models are suitable to burn approved smokeless fuels that are listed in a list supplied by Defra. These fuels do not include wood.
If you have an older non-DEFRA approved stove and you are using it in a smoke controlled area, you could be fined for violating the law. You can check whether you are in a zone of smoke control by visiting the official Defra website. In related webpage to avoid a fine, only burn dry seasoned wood and Defra approved smokeless fuels and not logs or any other wet woods.
There are a variety of DEFRA Approved Log Burners on the market. The Dovre product pages show this logo when the model is suitable for Smoke Control Areas. Visit the official Defra website to learn more about DEFRA-approved stoves, fireplaces and fires.
Easy to Clean
Clean your log burner to ensure it is operating properly. This will also help reduce the buildup of harmful creosote that can cause chimney fires. Regular cleaning can also ensure that your stove glass stays clean and clear so that you can enjoy the view of your stunning fire without having to worry about obstructions.
You might require a range of tools to maintain your wood stove. They include a cleaning brush and ash vacuum cleaner and polish for your stove. Clean your stove once it's cool and wear gloves that are heat-resistant.
First, employ the grate brush to take away any ash that's been accumulating on the bottom of the stove. Be sure to reach all corners and crevices. You can then utilize your ash cleaner to remove any remaining ashes from the stove and dispose of them in a metal container. Once your stove has been thoroughly cleaned then you can apply a soft cloth to apply an oven cleaner. Be careful not to get your hands on the hot surface.
It is crucial to burn quality, seasoned wood on your defra approved log burner to ensure you aren't producing high levels of particulates. Look for the Woodsure Ready to Burn Logo or use a moisture meter to make sure that the moisture content of the wood is below 20%. Seasoning your own logs is also an option, however it can take as long as two years for the moisture to evaporate.
It is best to avoid burning painted, stained or treated with chemicals (this includes pallets, MDF and Medium Density Fibreboard). These materials emit dangerous chemical when burned, and should not be burned on a log stove.
The correct installation of your log burner is essential to maintaining its performance and effectiveness. Make sure that it's installed by a qualified professional and placed in a well ventilated space where it won't be subject to drafts. Incorrectly installing a stove can lead to problems with safety, damage and higher costs.
Energy efficient
Log burners that are Defra-approved are generally more efficient than counterparts. The reason for this is because they have passed the tests to ensure that the proper amount of air is provided to the wood or fuel burning stoves during combustion. This reduces the amount of smoke and it also reduces emissions and heat losses from the stove.
You can rest assured that a defra-exempted wood burner is safe to use in conjunction with your chimney, since it has a chimney diameter of 5" (150mm). Non-Defra-approved stoves have a larger chimney outlet, which can cause issues when installing a chimney liner. At The Stove Yard we can offer a range of 5" chimney liner for your wood stove or multi fuel stoves that are defra exempt.
The Stove Yard sells a variety of stoves that are Defra approved and feature the latest in clean burning technology. Many of our models have secondary and tertiary feeds for air to ensure fuel combustion. This increases the efficiency of the stove and decreases the amount of smoke produced.
Another benefit of the Defra approved log burner is that it permits you to legally use it in a Smoke Control Area. UK cities and large town are classified as Smoke Control Areas. To comply with the law, you must make use of a DEFRA-approved appliance when burning wood and smokeless coal.
You can even buy a defra-approved stove that has been certified by clearSkies in order to prove that it meets the latest Ecodesign emissions standards that came into force one year ago. If you live in an area that is a Smoke Control Area then this will be the best choice for you as it will make your stove eco-friendly and in compliance with the laws. The ESSE 700 Vista, a elegant and efficient Defra Approved Log Burner, has the option to include the smoke control kit, if required.