A Handbook For Multi-Fuel DEFRA Approved Stoves From Start To Finish
Multi-Fuel DEFRA Approved Stoves
In a UK Smoke Control Area, you can burn wood and certain smokeless substances in a multi-fuel DEFRA approved appliance. They usually come with a continuous supply of secondary combustion air to stop the fuel from smouldering or releasing smoke that is a nuisance.
A Defra stove (sometimes called a DEFRA smoke exempt appliance) has been tested and passed the UK Government's Department of Environment, Food & Rural Affairs requirements for emission levels.
Smoke Control Areas
The smoke from open fires and stoves in the UK can contribute to air pollution, particularly in urban areas. Smoke Control Areas have been established where only certain kinds of fuels or home fire appliances are permitted. Clean Air Act regulations are strict to help reduce pollution. If you live in a Smoke Control Area It is crucial to only use wood-burning stoves or log burners approved by Defra. This ensures you are burning legal fuel and not causing nuisance smoke that irritates neighbors.
Stovax stoves are DEFRA approved and a lot models have secondary and tertiary systems that aid in the burning of logs efficiently. This helps reduce emissions. This allows you to have a gorgeous fire while creating less smoke.
A Defra approved stove or to grant them the full title a Smoke Exempt Appliance has been tested and approved by the UK Government's DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) law regarding the amount of smoke in Smoke Control Areas. This ensures the stove will only produce the smallest amount of smoke in normal operation. It also means you are legally able to burn certain types of wood in your stove as long as it's'ready to burn' firewood with less than 20 percent. You are not able to burn wet, damp or spruced wood in a DEFRA approved stove as it could produce smoke that is contrary to the provisions of the Clean Air Act.
When choosing the Defra approved stove, you must consider the design of the stove and how it will fit into your living space, there are many traditional Defra stoves available as well as modern options. It is also important to be aware of the kind of fuel you will be burning. Some DEFRA approved low emission stoves approved stoves can only be used with wood and do not offer the option of a multi-fuel burner.
If you plan to burn anthracite or smokeless coal or other fuels that have been approved by Defra in your stove you will need a smoke control kit. This is a possibility on non-Defra-exempt appliances. The Stovax shop has a variety of smoke control kits that work with the majority of stoves that are not Defra approved.
Coal
Multi-fuel stoves that are certified by the Defra are the most eco-friendly option. They let you relax in the warmth of your stove while reducing your impact on the planet. These stoves comply with the regulations of the government and manufacturers must conform if they wish to continue operating.
The most environmentally friendly method to heat your home is to make use of a DEFRA Stoves Ratings-approved wood burning stove. They can also burn other fuels, including coal. Coal is a non-renewable fossil fuel that was first discovered around 300 million years ago. In this time, huge swamps containing plants and ferns were common on Earth. These plants sank into the water after their death and then formed peat as they grew. This was then buried beneath layers of rock, and other materials, until it became solid coal.
When coal is burned, it releases a lot of energy in the form of heat and sulphur dioxide, which can contribute to air pollution. Sulphur dioxide is one of the major causes of acid rain. It can damage rivers, lakes as well as wildlife and crops. Due to the acid rain danger several countries, including the United States have banned the use of coal.
Although coal emits a lot pollutants, it is still an essential component of heating. It is the most widely used fossil fuel and has an affordable price when compared to other fossil fuels such as oil and natural gas. Moreover coal is a very energy efficient fuel and produces lots of heat per kilogram.
A DEFRA exempt wood-burning device, or a DEFRA approved stove as it's sometimes referred to, is a stove that is used in smoke controlled areas to burn authorised fuels like briquettes and coal. These stoves can also be used with a variety of firelogs. Firelogs are compressed sawdust or wood waste, or any other wood wastes that are sometimes mixed with paraffin to make it easier to light.
If you live in an area under Smoke Control You can avoid heavy fines by using a DEFRA-approved stove. Choice Stoves offers a range of DEFRA-approved wood-burning stoves made by major manufacturers such as Mi-fires. Contura, Stovax, and many more. We can assist you in choosing the best stove for your property and make sure it is installed by a licensed engineer to avoid any issues.
Wood
Wood stoves that have been approved by DEFRA requirements stoves are great for homeowners living in smoke-free areas. They burn clean, low-smoke gas that produces less carbon dioxide than coal and other fossil fuels. They can also provide cost-effective heating, and are available in a variety of styles to match your interior design.
Most multi-fuel stoves that are DEFRA exempt will include an additional air intake above the main air vent. The air inlet is pre-heated and used to keep ash from getting stuck on the stove glass. It also helps the burning logs to draw air. Some stoves have a secondary inlet which is heated by flue gasses as they exit. This helps ensure a more efficient flame and combustion.
You can also select a DEFRA-approved log burning device, which is designed to burnseasoned, dry hardwoods. This type of wood is locally grown and is carbon neutral. When trees are burned they release carbon dioxide, which was absorbed by the trees during their growth.
Log burners approved by DEFRA are permitted in smoke controlled areas provided that you use authorized fuels only. If you're unsure whether your home is located in a Smoke Control Area you can contact your Local Authority to find out more.
A Defra approved wood stove is an excellent alternative for those who love the appearance of a traditional log burner but would like to be able use other fuels as well. It is important to note that only DEFRA approved stoves can have a 5" liner when burning wood and is required to be installed by a licensed installer. If you prefer modern style, there are many Defra-approved stoves that can be fitted into fireplaces and inglenooks, and still look stunning. They are not equipped to burn approved fuels, like smokeless oval anthracite. This means you will need to purchase and install a separate approved woodburning stove by DEFRA to do this. This is a great option, as burning fuels that are not approved in a non-DEFRA stoves disadvantages approved stove could put you in breach of the rules and could be prosecuted.
Smokeless Fuels
Smokeless fuels are able to be used in a multifuel DEFRA approved fireplace to lower emissions and soot. The smokeless fuels are generally anthracite-based and are available in the form of briquettes. They are designed to be less polluting than house coal and offer an even flame. They are great for smoke control areas but also work for anyone who loves using an open flame or multifuel stove.
A DEFRA approved wood-burning stove comes with secondary or tertiary burn system that enhances combustion and eliminates harmful particulates and gases. These systems can also help extend the lifespan of your stove by reducing the rate of wear and tear or clogs the flue. The majority of newer stoves have DEFRA approval, but older stoves may be modified to become compliant with a kit.
The Portway Luxima is an example of wood burners that have been made DEFRA compliant. The large, warp-free door made of cast iron allows for an excellent view of the fuel bed. The stove has a stylish bevelled door design and an elegant chrome handle that contrasts with the style.
It is crucial to select the best stove for your home. This is why it's crucial to make sure your new stove is in line with the government's standards. A DEFRA-approved kitchen appliance can save you money, offer more flexibility, and keep your family warm.
At Choice Stoves, we carry a selection of the best DEFRA approved stoves from top brands including Mi-fire, Contura, Stovax, ACR, Broseley, Westfire, Hamlet, and many more. We also offer professional installation and can suggest an experienced gas safe engineer. For more information or to request a price for your home, call us now. We proudly serve customers across the UK. We are among the largest stockists of DEFRA approved stoves in the nation So you can be assured that you're getting the highest quality stove at a an affordable price. Our stoves are DEFRA approved and have passed all the tests.