What is a DEFRA Exempt Wood Burning Or Multi Fuel Stove?
It is crucial to take into consideration whether you reside in an area with smoke control laws when choosing a wood stove or multi-fuel. If you do, you will need a defra exempt stove.
They are also known as SE stoves. (SE is for smoke exempt). They have passed the UK government's strict test criteria for emission levels and are able to be used in smoke controlled areas.
What is a DEFRA approved stove?
A DEFRA-approved stove is a multifuel or wood-burning stove that has passed the smoke emission test developed by the UK Government Department of Environment, Food & Rural Affairs. The tests ensure that the stove produces very low levels of smoke when it is used with the appropriate fuels like wood. Stoves that have been endorsed by Defra can be installed in Smoke Control Areas and will usually have the DEFRA approval logo or have the term SE (for smoke exempt) added to their name.
Most towns and cities are classified as Smoke Control Areas and so if you live in one these areas, then you'll need to use a DEFRA Approved Stove for when you plan to burn wood or other DEFRA approved fuels. Stoves that have been approved by Defra will have had their manufacturers modify them to reduce the amount of air they starve during combustion, which can create black smoke.
Defra approved stoves also have secondary and tertiary combustion systems that help to burn any unburned matter from the fire into gas which is then blown out of the chimney. This helps keep your stove and flue clean for longer, and reduce overall emissions.
There are numerous aspects to take into consideration when purchasing an appliance. It is easy to be overwhelmed by all the information available. You might hear terms such as DEFRA and smoke controlled zones. If you are in the market for a new stove this can be very confusing.
If you are buying an entirely new stove for your home, it's crucial to choose the DEFRA approved model, as the majority of large towns and cities are Smoke Control Areas and if you install a stove that isn't approved, you could face a hefty fine. Fortunately, the majority of the stoves we stock here at Grate Expectations are all DEFRA approved, which means you can shop with confidence knowing that you are getting the best quality woodburning stove or multifuel stove for your home.
Can DEFRA approved contemporary stoves install a non-DEFRA Approved Stove in a Smoke Controlled Area?
When you are looking for a new wood burning stove, you will come across some terminology that can be confusing. One word you might hear is DEFRA exempt or Defra approved, these simply indicate that the stove passed a test that complies with the UK governments smoke control laws.
The main benefit of buying an exempt DEFRA stove is the fact that you can use it in smoke-free areas without worrying about being fined. This is due to the fact that the stove is designed to reduce the amount of smoke it releases. This is done by closing off a certain amount of air during the combustion process and thus depriving the fuel of oxygen and preventing excessive amounts of smoke from being generated.
To be DEFRA approved, a stove must be able to pass a series of tests set by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. Typically, a Defra exempt stove will bear the word SE which stands for Smoke Exempt.
It is a good idea even if you don't live in a smoke-free zone to purchase a DEFRA-approved stove. This is because a DEFRA approved stove will burn much more efficiently than a non-DEFRA certified stove, which means you will get more heating output from your appliance and it is less likely to emit part-burned combustibles to the air.
There are people who opt to install a non DEFRA approved stove in their home because they like the appearance of it or simply because they don't reside in a smoke-free area. It is crucial to remember that should you live in a smoke-controlled area and you install a non DEFRA approved stove, you could be subject to an imposed fine from your local authority. It is therefore advisable to purchase a DEFRA exempt stove to reduce the risk.
Can I burn fuels that aren't DEFRA approved in a DEFRA approved stove?
A DEFRA approved wood burning stove, also known a DEFRA exemption wood burning stove or smoke-free multi fuel stove, is a stove that can be legally used within UK Smoke Control Areas. It has passed a stringent test developed by the UK's Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. This guarantees that it emits very low levels of emissions during combustion. It is able to burn a variety of fuels without releasing smoke, making it an excellent option for homeowners living in urban areas.
A DEFRA approved multi-fuel stove or wood burner will often be marked with the Defra Approved Logo or described as a DEFRA Exempt Stove. Sometimes, an SE may be added to the stove's title, which indicates that it is able to be used in smoke-controlled areas. This logo is widely adopted in the industry and is easily recognized.
If you're not sure if your stove is approved by DEFRA, you can contact the manufacturer or review the specifications online. Even even if your DEFRA stove is branded with the logo or is described as such, you may still be prosecuted if you don't use it properly in an area where smoke control is enforced.
Using your DEFRA approved stove properly is simple and requires making sure you have plenty of seasoned dry wood and that it is well lit before you start to burn it. It is essential to keep the stove clean and have a water tank close to the stove in case of any problems or emergencies.
A DEFRA stove is more efficient and produces less smoke than traditional open flames, electric or gas stoves. This is better for your surroundings and your neighbors. DEFRA stoves usually feature a second phase of combustion, which reduces the amount of pollution being released into the atmosphere.
What is the Difference Between the DEFRA Approved Stove and a Non-DEFRA Approved Stove?
When it comes to wood burning stoves and multi-fuel stoves, there are a variety of terms that are frequently used. These terms can be confusing to new buyers who may not understand what they refer to. One of the terms you may have encountered is a DEFRA exempt or DEFRA approved stove. This might appear like a lot of jargon but it has a very basic meaning.
A DEFRA approved stove is a wood-burning or multi fuel stove that has been tested and has been accepted for use in a smoke control zone. The Department of Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs also known as Defra is the entity that grants DEFRA approval.
The DEFRA approval allows the stove to be used with authorized fuels such as anthracite and certain manufactured smokeless fuels. This means that the stove can be used in a smoke-control area without creating excessive quantities of black smoke. Defra approved stoves will usually be labelled with the Defra approved logo or have SE (smoke exempt) in their name.
In order for a stove to be DEFRA approved it must meet certain requirements, including emissions testing. This test is performed to ensure that the stove doesn't produce excessive amounts smoke when burning approved fuels.
There are also some additional tests that the stove has to undergo in order to qualify for the DEFRA approval. This includes ensuring that the stove is equipped with secondary and tertiary combustion technology. This allows the stove to burn fuel more efficiently and with less smoke.
There are many manufacturers that offer stoves that are DEFRA approved. These stoves will often have the Defra approved logo or will be described as a DEFRA approved stove on their website or catalogue. They will be identified as having Clean Burn Technology, which reduces the amount of smoke produced by burning approved fuels.
It is a good thing to own a DEFRA-approved stove in smoke-controlled areas. Not only will this assist to prevent any fines levied against the owner and their property, but it can also ensure that the stove is more efficient and produces an even, cleaner burning. This is not only better for the environment, but it's also beneficial for the chimney as well as the flue system of the stove.