Defra Approved Multifuel Stoves
Multifuel stoves approved by Defra are an excellent choice for those who live in areas that are smoke-free. They are very clean and can burn wood or authorised smokeless fuels.
The Defra Logo is usually found on the appliance, or written in the specifications to indicate that it is suitable to create Smoke Control Areas. They also have a high energy rating and have low emissions.
Clean Burn Technology
A majority of the wood-burning stoves we offer are Defra approved, meaning they meet stricter standards for emissions when used with wood and other approved fuels. These stoves have been independently tested and designed to burn a range of fuels. Also, a Defra approved stove has features such as secondary and tertiary burning that aid in maximizing the amount of energy produced by the burning process and minimize harmful emissions.
Multifuel stoves that are approved by Defra typically have an SE logo or SE (which is a reference to smoke exempt) in their name. This means that the stove has been tested independently to prove it is able to be used legally in Smoke Control Area with logs and other approved solid fuels. The testing process involves a series tests to check on the stove's performance under different conditions, and to confirm that it produces at least 5 grams of particles per kilogram when burning wood.
To meet this standard Defra approved stoves come with a modified top air vent which prevents the user from closing it all the way. The air vent at the top that is closed too tightly will limit the supply of oxygen to the fire, which will cause it to smoulder instead of burning. If you did this using a non-Defra endorsed stove, you'd be in breach of the law and could be prosecuted for a number of nuisance smoke offenses.
The best method to avoid fumes that cause irritation when using a wood stove is to purchase kiln dried or seasoned wood. This wood has been dried over a long time and reduces the amount of moisture to less than 20 percent. A simple wood moisture meter can be used to determine the amount of moisture in your wood.
You can also lessen the amount of smoke produced by your Defra approved stove by only using dry, well-seasoned, kiln-dried, or spruce logs. Never burn wet, damp or unseasoned wood. This can create a lot more smoke and you could be fined by your local authority.
Smoke Control Area Approval
DEFRA approved stoves meet the strict standards for air quality set by the government. These stoves can use a range of fuels including wood and some 'authorised smokeless fuels that are permitted in Smoke Control Areas (see DEFRA's indicative interactive tool here).
Burning untreated wood or other wet fuels without having a DEFRA exempt or approved stove can result in nuisance smoke that could annoy neighbours. This can also cause issues with the quality of air in your area, especially if you live in an urban area. If you are located in the Smoke Control Area and burn unauthorised fuels or use an appliance that is not specifically designed to use authorised smokeless fuels, you could be charged with a fine or face prosecution.
Defra approved stoves come with secondary and tertiary combustion systems, which burn fuel at lower temperature. This results in less particulate (PM2.5). This is accomplished by using stainless steel liners as well as an exclusive convection system that forces air down the chimney - even when the fire has been put out. This lets the stoves burn wood more efficiently and create less emissions.
A Defra Approved Stove also features an adjustment to the top vent to prevent it from closing all the way. When you cut the air supply, a stove will cease to burn properly, smoulder excessively and start to produce smoke. Defra approved appliances allow you to partially close the vent, but not completely so that the flame will burn at a lower heat and still conform to UK regulations.
When you are choosing a new Defra-approved stove, it is important to take into consideration the style and design, and whether it is compatible with the style of your home. There are a variety of sizes and styles to choose from that range from traditional fireplaces to inglenooks to more contemporary designs which look great in open-plan living areas.
The majority of stoves that are Defra-approved have a 5kW chimney outlet which allows them to be utilized in Smoke Control Areas. This includes the majority of UK cities and towns. This will also save you money on installation costs since the stove requires only a 5" liner, instead of the more expensive 6" liner.
Aesthetics
Multi-fuel stoves aren't just meant to be functional. They can also add style and appeal to your home. Many models are available in a variety of styles to match your style and style, whether modern or traditional. They also tend to have sleeker lines and cleaner appearance than stoves with only wood burning which makes them an appealing addition to any space.
Make sure the multi-fuel stove you choose fits your space and is compatible with your chimney or flue. Make sure that the stove is in compliance with local requirements for clearance from combustible materials. 5kw multi fuel stoves defra approved can get a sense of what these are by reading the guidelines of the manufacturer which will state how far you must keep flammable materials such as curtains or walls away from your stove.
Another feature you may want to think about when looking for an all-fuel stove is the airwash feature, which keeps the glass window clear so you can enjoy the fire. Some multi-fuel stoves have a removable grate that makes it easier to change the fuel and clean the stove.
Defra approved multi-fuel stoves are designed to minimize emissions and pollution and are therefore an environmentally friendly choice for eco-conscious homeowners. They're also extremely efficient, allowing you to make use of less fuel and reduce your heating costs.
Many Defra multi-fuel stoves are offered in different styles to suit your aesthetic preferences. Inset stoves, such as the Hamlet Solution 5 Compact or the Woodford Lovell C400, can be inserted in an existing fireplace opening or a wall for a seamless appearance. Additionally, cylindrical stoves like the Opus Harmony and the ACR Solis have slim, rounded shapes that can be placed on a hearth without taking up the floor space.
Many stoves are designed to reflect the heritage of their manufacturer. They could have cast iron construction or elaborate details. These models can be perfect for country cottages and other homes with an old-fashioned, rustic look. Some models are modern with simple lines and materials like steel and glass. These models are ideal for homes that have a minimalist style such as those in urban areas or modern homes.
Energy Efficiency
You can be certain that a multifuel stove endorsed by DEFRA will meet or exceed the latest standards for clean air. Leading stove makers like Arada, Stovax and Parkray have invested in the latest combustion technology that reduces amount of smoke produced during the burning process. Combined with the latest technology for clean air, such as secondary and tertiary burners these modern stoves are much more sustainable than their previous counterparts and can lower your monthly household fuel costs.
It doesn't matter if you reside in a zone that is that is governed by Smoke Control or not, we have an appliance for your home. From the stunning Danish design on the Uniq 37, to the contemporary and comfortable design of the Arundel Deluxe. There are models that offer an older-fashioned style and are suitable for existing fireplaces and inglenooks.
The Defra approved multifuel stoves that we offer are all available with different colors to match your décor, from matt black and gloss black enamel to majolica brown enamel and gloss buttermilk. A majority of our multifuel stoves are compliant with 2022 EU Ecodesign emissions reduction standards which allows you to cut down on your energy bills while creating a positive impact on the environmental sustainability.
DEFRA approve wood stoves are also available to those who reside in a Smoke Control Zone which makes it simple to stay in compliance with the law. Be sure to use only approved fuels in your stove (such as'smokeless anthracite coal). It is unlawful to burn damp or other wet wood, and you could be penalized.
If you live in an area under Smoke Control, choose a DEFRA Approved Multifuel Stove that comes with the ClearSkies Mark to ensure that you are complying with the laws. This means that the stove was tested to ensure that it meets all current UK and European emission requirements which include wood and fuels that are smokeless. On the product page of the stove, you can check its status by looking for a label that reads "DEFRA approved" or "Approved by DEFRA".