Defra Approved Multifuel Stoves
Defra approved multifuel stoves are an excellent choice for people living in areas that are smoke-free. They are very safe and can burn wood or authorised smokeless fuels.
The Defra Logo is usually found on the appliance, or written in its specification to show that it is suitable to create Smoke Control Areas. These appliances also have a high energy efficiency rating with low emissions.
Clean Burn Technology
A large portion of the wood burning stoves we offer are DEFRA approved eco design stoves approved, which means they have been tested to meet stricter standards for emissions when they are used with wood and other approved fuels. The stoves have been tested independently and are built to burn a variety of fuels. Also, a Defra approved stove comes with features like secondary and tertiary combustion which help to maximise the amount of energy in the burning process and minimize harmful emissions.
Multifuel stoves that have been approved by Defra typically have an SE logo or the word SE (which means smoke-free) after their name, which signifies that the stove has been independently tested to confirm that it can be used legally in a Smoke Control Area with logs and other approved solid fuels. The testing process includes an array of tests to check on the stove’s performance under different conditions, and to verify that it produces at least 5 grams of particles per kilogram when burning wood.
To meet this standard, stoves that are Defra-approved have a modified top air control that prevents the user closing it completely. If you close the top vent too much will decrease the oxygen supply to the fire and cause it to smoulder rather than burn. If you attempted to do this with a non-Defra-approved stove, you would be in violation of the law and may be prosecuted for a number of nuisance smoke offenses.
The best way to prevent nuisance smoke when using a wood stove is to buy kiln-dried or seasoned wood. This is wood that has been dried over many years which reduces the amount of moisture to less than 20 percent. A simple wood moisture meter can be used to measure the amount of moisture in your wood.
You can lessen the amount of smoke that is produced by a stove that is Defra-approved by making use of dry, well-seasoned logs that have been kiln dried or spruce. Do not make use of damp, wet or unseasoned wood as this will generate a lot of nuisance smoke and could lead to an infringement from the 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 such as wood and a few ‘approved smokeless fuels that are permitted in Smoke Control Areas (see DEFRA’s indicative interactive tool here).
The smoke from burning untreated wood or other wet fuels in a stove that isn’t DEFRA approved or exempt from DEFRA approved efficient stoves will cause a lot of irritation to your neighbors. This could also result in issues with local air quality, especially if you live in an urban zone. You could be fined or prosecuted when you burn fuels that are not authorized in the Smoke Control Area or use an appliance that was not designed to use smokeless fuels.
Defra approved stoves come with secondary and tertiary combustion systems that burn fuel at a lower temperatures. This means less particulate (PM2.5). This is achieved by using stainless steel liners and an exclusive convection system that pushes air down the chimney, even after the fire has been put out. This lets the stoves burn wood more efficiently and generate less emissions.
A Defra Approved Stove also features an adjustment for the top vent, which prevents it from closing all the way. If you cut off the air supply, a stove will cease to burn properly, it will smoulder and start to produce smoke. Defra approved stoves will allow you to shut the vent just a little but not entirely so the fire can continue to burn at a lower temperature and still be in compliance with UK legislation.
When choosing a new defra exempt stoves approved stove, it is crucial to think about the design and style of the stove and if it will fit in with the interior decor of your home. There are lots of sizes and styles to pick from that range from traditional fireplace chambers and inglenooks to more modern designs that look great in open living spaces.
Most Defra approved stoves come with a 5kW flue outlet so they are legal in Smoke Control Areas, which comprise the majority of UK towns and cities. This will also help save you money on your installation costs since the stove will require a 5″ flue liner instead of a more costly 6″ liner.
Aesthetics
Multi-fuel stoves aren’t just meant to be functional. They can also add style and awe to your home. There are many models that come in a variety of designs that can complement your decor, whether it’s traditional or modern. They also have sleeker lines and more polished designs than stoves that burn only wood which makes them an attractive addition to any space.
Check that the multi-fuel stove you choose will fit in your space and is compatible to your chimney or flue. It is also important to ensure that the stove’s clearance to combustible materials is in line with local requirements. You can get a sense of these requirements by reading the guidelines of the manufacturer that will specify how far you must keep combustible materials like curtains, walls, and furniture away from the stove.
When you are shopping for a multi-fuel stove you might want to consider the airwash system. This will keep the glass windows clean to allow you to enjoy your fire. Some multi-fuel stoves even include an grate that can be removed, making it easier to change the fuel and clean the stove.
Luxury DEFRA Stoves approved multi-fuel stoves are engineered to minimize emissions and pollution, making them an environmentally responsible choice for homeowners who are conscious of their environmental footprint. They’re also extremely efficient which means you’ll use less fuel and lower your heating costs.
Many Defra multi-fuel stoves are sold in a variety of styles to match your aesthetic preferences. For example stoves that are inset, such as the Hamlet Solution 5 Compact and the Woodford Lovell C400 fit into an existing fireplace or wall opening to create a seamless look. The stoves that are cylindrical like the Opus Harmony or the ACR Solis are slim and round, they can be placed on a hearth to conserve space.
Many stoves are designed in a manner that reflects the history of the manufacturer. They could feature cast iron construction, or intricate details. These models are perfect for homes with a rustic or traditional feel like country cottages. Some models are modern, with simple lines and materials such as glass and steel. They’re great for urban and contemporary homes that have an edgier look.
Energy Efficiency
If you purchase a DEFRA approved multifuel stove, you can be confident that it will meet and even surpass the most current standards for clean air. Leading stove makers like Arada, Stovax and Parkray have invested in the latest combustion technology that reduces amount of smoke generated during the process of burning. Combined with the latest clean air technologies like secondary and tertiary combustion systems these modern stoves are much greener than their earlier counterparts and can lower your monthly household fuel costs.
No matter if you’re in a Smoke Control Area or not There’s a stove ideal for your home, from the stunning Danish design of the Uniq 37 to the cosy and modern design of the Arundel Deluxe. You’ll also find models that offer more traditional design and are suitable for existing fireplaces and inglenooks.
Our selection of Defra-approved multifuel stoves is available in various finishes that match your decor. They include matte black, gloss black majolica, majolica and buttermilk gloss enamel. Many are compliant with the 2022 EU Ecodesign emission reduction standards as well, helping you to positively impact the environment while reducing your energy costs.
DEFRA approve wood stoves are also available to those who live in a Smoke Control Area which makes it easier to be on the right side of the law. Be sure to use only approved fuels for your stove (such as’smokeless anthracite’ coal). It is illegal to burn damp or other wet wood and you may be fined.
If you live in the Smoke Control Area choose a DEFRA Approved Multifuel Stove with the ClearSkies mark to be sure that you’re following the laws. This means that the stove has been tested to make sure it is in compliance with all current UK and European emission requirements, including those for wood and fuels that are smokeless. On the product page of the stove you can verify its status by looking for a label that says “DEFRA approved” or “Approved by DEFRA”.