Defra Approved Log Burners
If you live in an area that is smoke-free or smoke-controlled, you'll need to make use of a defra-approved stove in order to ensure compliance with the rules of the government. This will enable you to legally burn authorized fuels, such as briquettes and authorised firewood.
These stoves are often more sustainable than older models since they utilize secondary and secondary combustion systems. This reduces the amount of smoke and so is more beneficial for your chimney, flue system and neighbours.
Clean Burn Technology
Defra Approved stoves are a must-have in Smoke Control Areas and any urban environment, generally built up locations. These modern appliances are called DEFRA-exempted stoves. They are designed to provide a clean burning and high heating efficiency, thereby saving you money while keeping your home warm. They typically have secondary and tertiary combustion systems which reduce the amount of smoke released into the atmosphere.
Most modern stoves, in the event that they are not DEFRA approved, can be converted into one with an easy kit. Defra approval is obtained by passing the stringent emissions tests conducted by the UK Government's Department of Environment Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) which restrict the amount of black smoke the stove is able to emit during all phases of normal operation.
If you reside in Smoke-Control Area in the UK, it is unlawful to make use of anything other that an approved log burner from DEFRA or an open fire. The use of a non-approved wood burning appliance can result in heavy fines. The good news is, DEFRA approved stoves allow you to use your favorite logs to burn if they are properly prepared.
We suggest that you burn hardwoods that have less than 20% to ensure the best performance and a clean burn when using an approved DEFRA stove. A Moisture Meter is a useful tool that can be used to determine the amount of moisture in your wood.
If older stoves are not properly used they could emit large amounts o nuisance smoke. This is caused by a process known as 'slumbering'. A slumbering stove will close the air intake too much, which causes the fuel to not to ignite fully. This results in a lack of heat and more smoke. The stoves that are exempt from Defra have their top air controls modified so that you are unable to shut them all the way.
Clean-burning technology is an essential factor in improving air quality in cities across Europe. We believe that encouraging the use of DEFRA-exempt stoves, and banning older, more polluting stoves is an important step in the right direction.
Low Smoke Emissions
Many people have log burners installed in their homes because of the wonderful scent they produce and the warmth they bring to an area. However, the fact is that a significant amount of pollution is caused by a wood-burning stove. The smoke is released up the chimney, which pollutes the air outside. Some of it can also be absorbed by neighbouring homes through vents and gaps around windows and doors.
In order to minimise these harmful pollutants, it's recommended to purchase an DEFRA approved stove or fire. These stoves have been specially designed to be cleaner than older models and can cut down on PM emissions by half. If you reside in an area where smoke control is in place, you will need an approved DEFRA stove. The law prohibits the use of non-approved DEFRA appliances within these areas.
You can be confident that a stove that is Defra-approved has been designed to produce a low amount of emissions. This is typically done by an additional combustion stage which recycles waste gases, and then burned again. This results in much less pollution released into the atmosphere. You should also be sure to use seasoned or kiln-dried wood as this will have a lower moisture content, and will burn more efficiently.
A Defra approved stove has also passed stringent tests to ensure that it meets the most current European emission standards. These standards are called Ecodesign and were introduced to improve the quality of air. When you buy a Defra approved stove, you'll be helping the environment!
A approved log burner from DEFRA is not just energy efficient, but can reduce heating costs as well. This is because they produce significantly less heat than other types of stoves, which means they require less fuel to operate. This makes them a fantastic alternative to gas or oil burners.
Eco-Friendly
Log burners are an eco-friendly method to heat your home. But, it is essential to select the right fuel type. The wrong fuel can cause damage to your stove, alter your chimney and possibly cause the warranty to be invalidated. Dry wood and manufactured solid fuels, such as brquettes or fire logs as well as traditional house coal produce less smoke and pollute.
Dry wood, kiln-dried, has a moisture content of 20 percent or less, and it burns much more efficiently than wet or untreated wood. Untreated, wet wood emits excessive smoke emissions that can be harmful to the human body. Even a few minutes exposure can trigger respiratory problems. It's important to keep in mind that many areas of the UK are currently smoke control zones - which means that you can only legally emit 3g of smoke per hour or face an expensive fine. The best way to avoid getting caught out is by using a certified log burner, and always ensuring that the fuel you're burning meets the required standards.
If used properly when it is properly used, a stove that is Defra-approved will also emit very low emissions. If you have one located in a smoke-free space it can reduce by half PM2.5* pollution when compared to an unefficient stove. The best way to ensure that your stove is as eco-friendly as you can is to invest in a Defra approved model and only use sustainable, locally sourced wood that has been kiln-dried to reduce its moisture content.
It's also recommended to avoid burning any kind of treated wood, such as old furniture and fence panels. These release toxic pollutants that could have a significant impact on the health of humans and the environment. To make your Defra approved stove as environmentally sustainable as you can it is important to regularly clean it and examine the flue for obstructions. Regular maintenance will extend the longevity of your appliance and ensure it operating efficiently. It is also essential to always follow the manufacturers instructions for the use and maintenance of your stove. This includes regular cleaning and sweeping of the chimney.
Neighbourly Friendly
It is vital to maintain your stove properly. Inadequate maintenance can result in harmful pollutants, like carbon monoxide (CO) that are released into your home. CO is a odorless, colorless gas that could be deadly if breathed with high concentrations.
It's worth noting that, if you live in a smoke-free area and do not have a Defra approved stove, you could be fined up to PS1,000. Appliances that are not Defra approved produce more smoke in smoke-controlled areas than is permitted. As a result, it is essential to have a Defra approved stove and only burn authorised fuels in smoke-controlled areas.
When burning wood in a Defra approved stove, it is recommended to select seasoned hardwood logs instead than softwood varieties. Hardwoods are less moist and will hold heat better. They also burn more quickly, so you won't need to refuel as frequently.
It is also essential to only use stoves that have been approved by Defra and conform to the specifications of the manufacturer. This will ensure that the stove is properly vented and it doesn't emit harmful pollution into your home.
In DEFRA compliant stoves list to not having to pay fines for using a stove that is not Defra approved in a smoke-free zone, there are a number of other advantages of using an Defra approved stove. These include:
A stove that is Defra-approved will also provide more efficient heating to your home and result in lower energy costs. This is because it is capable of heating your home using the same amount of fuel, while producing significantly lower emissions. This is the reason why more people are opting for Defra approved stoves over traditional open fires.
In addition, the Defra approved stove will come with advanced features that allow you to be neighbour friendly. Airwash systems keep the glass of your stove clean and clear and prevent it from being obstructed by smoke or dirt.