Defra Approved Log Burners
If you reside in a smoke-free area then you will need a defra-approved stove that is in compliance with the regulations of the government. This allows you to burn approved fuels for use, like briquettes and firewood that has been approved by the government.
These stoves are usually more eco-friendly than older models as they utilize secondary and secondary combustion systems. This helps to reduce the amount of smoke produced and therefore is more beneficial for your chimney, flue system and neighbours.
Clean Burn Technology
Defra Approved stoves are an essential choice in Smoke Control Areas and in any urban setting typically built-up areas. DEFRA approved wood burning stoves are also known as DEFRA-exempt stoves. They are designed to provide a efficient and clean burning efficiency, thereby saving you money while keeping your home warm. These modern appliances are equipped with secondary and tertiary systems to reduce the amount of smoke that is released into the air.
If your stove isn't DEFRA approved, you can change it by using a simple kit. Defra approval can only be obtained after passing the strict emissions tests, which are prescribed by the UK Government Department of Environment Food & Rural Affairs. These tests limit the amount of black smoke a stove will emit in all stages of normal use.
If you reside in an area classified as Smoke Control Area and you live in one, it is against the law to use any stove other than one that is a DEFRA approved log burner or open fire. Incorrectly authorised wood burning appliances can result in severe fines. The good news is that DEFRA approve stoves will allow you to continue to burn your preferred logs if they are properly seasoned.
We recommend that you burn hardwoods with an average moisture of less than 20% to ensure the best performance and a clean burning in an approved DEFRA stove. You can check the moisture content of your wood using a simple instrument called a Moisture Meter.
Older stoves, if operated improperly, can produce huge amounts of smoke that is not pleasant to breathe. This is because of 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 top air controls on stoves exempt from Defra are modified so that you can't close them completely.
Clean-burning technology is a key factor in improving air quality in cities across Europe. We believe that the removal of older, polluting stoves as well as encouraging the use of DEFRA exempt stoves is an important step in the right direction.
Emissions of Smoke are low
Many people have log burners in their homes due to the amazing scent they emit and the warmth they bring to an area. A wood-burning stove can produce a lot of pollution. The pollution rises up the chimney and pollutes the air outside, and some of it can also be absorbed into neighboring homes via vents or gaps in windows and doors.
It is best to purchase a DEFRA-approved fire or stove to lower the harmful emissions. These stoves are specially designed to be cleaner than previous models and can cut down on PM emissions by half. If you reside in an area where smoke control is in place and you need a DEFRA-certified stove. The law prohibits the use of non-DEFRA-approved appliances within these areas.
You can be sure that a stove approved by Defra has been designed to emit low levels of carbon dioxide. This is often done by the second stage of combustion which means that the waste gases are reused and then burned again, resulting in less pollution being released into the atmosphere. Use kiln-dried or seasoned wood, since it burns more efficiently and contain less moisture.
A Defra approved stove will also have been tested to ensure that it meets the most current European emission standards. These are known as the Ecodesign standards and were introduced to help improve air quality, so by purchasing a Defra approved stove, you will be helping the environment!
In addition to reducing the level of PM emissions as well as reducing the amount of PM emissions, a DEFRA approved log burner is also energy efficient and will significantly reduce your heating expenses. This is due to the fact that they generate far less heat than other types of stove, so will require less fuel to run. This makes them an excellent alternative to gas or oil burners.
Eco-Friendly
As you probably already know, using log burners to warm your home can be very green. However, it is important to only use the correct fuel type. The wrong fuel type can damage your stove and cause problems with your chimney. It could also invalidate your warranty. Dry wood and manufactured solid fuels (such as briquettes and fire logs) produce far less smoke and polluting than traditional house coal and wet wood.
Dry, kiln-dried wood has an average moisture content of 20 percent or less, and it burns far more efficiently than wet or untreated wood. Wet, untreated wood produces excessive smoke emissions that are harmful to the human body. Even a short exposure can cause respiratory problems. It's important to keep in mind that many regions 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. Make sure you use a log burner that is approved by defra, and make sure that the fuel you burn is in compliance with the standards required by law.
If used properly, a stove that has been approved by Defra will also have 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. By investing in a model that is Defra approved and burning only sustainable wood that has been kiln dried to reduce moisture content is the most effective way to make your stove as eco-friendly.
Avoid burning treated wood in any form including old fence panels and furniture. They release toxic substances that could have a negative impact on the environment and health of humans. It is recommended to clean your stove that has been approved by Defra and check for any blockages in the flue. Regular maintenance will help to prolong the life of your stove and ensure that it runs efficiently. It is also essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the use and maintenance of your stove. This includes regular cleaning and sweeping the chimney.
Neighbourly Friendly
It is vital to maintain your stove properly. Carbon monoxide (CO) and other dangerous pollutants can be released into your home if it is not taken care to maintain your stove properly. CO is a odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly if breathed in high concentrations.
It's important to know that when you live in a smoke controlled area and don't have a Defra approved stove, you could be punished up to PS1,000. This is due to the fact that non-Defra certified stoves produce more smoke than what is permitted in these areas. It is therefore crucial to use a stove that has been approved by Defra and only burn authorised substances in smoke-controlled areas.
When burning wood in a Defra approved stove, you should choose seasoned hardwood logs rather than softwood ones. Hardwoods have lower moisture content and are superior in retaining heat. They also burn more quickly and don't require to refuel as frequently.
It is also important to only use stoves that are Defra-approved and in line with the guidelines of the manufacturer. This will ensure that the stove is properly vented and doesn't release harmful pollutants into your home.
A stove that is Defra-approved has many other benefits. It will allow you to avoid fines if you are using an non approved Defra stove in a smoke-controlled area. These include:
A Defra-approved stove will also heat your home more efficiently which results in lower energy bills. It can heat your home using the same amount fuel, and produce less carbon emissions. This is the reason why more people are choosing Defra approved stoves instead of traditional open fires.
Finally it is important to note that the Defra approved stove will come with advanced features that allow you to be more friendly with your neighbors. They include airwash systems that keep the glass of your stove clear and clean, preventing it from becoming covered in grime and smoke.
