Defra Approved Log Burners
If you reside in a region which is smoke-free, you will need to use a defra-approved stove to be in compliance with the government's regulations. This will permit you to legally burn approved fuels, such as briquettes and approved firewood.
These stoves are eco-friendly since they utilize third and second combustion systems. This helps reduce the amount of smoke, which is better for your chimney as well as your flue system and even your neighbours.
Clean Burn Technology
Defra Approved stoves are a great choice for Smoke Control Areas and in any urban setting, generally built up locations. These modern appliances are called DEFRA-exempted stoves. They are designed to provide clean burning and high heating efficiency, thereby saving you money while keeping your home warm. They typically come with secondary and tertiary combustion systems which reduce the amount of smoke released into the atmosphere.
Most modern stoves, if not already DEFRA approved, can be converted into one by an easy kit. Defra approval is obtained through the passing of stringent emission tests laid out by the UK Government's Department of Environment Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) which limit the amount of black smoke the stove can produce during all stages of normal operation.
If you live in an area designated as a Smoke-Control Area in the UK, it is unlawful to use anything other than a DEFRA-approved log burner, or an open fire. If you use a wood burning appliance can be punished with hefty fines. The good news is, DEFRA approved stoves let you burn your preferred logs provided they are properly seasoned.
To ensure maximum performance and clean burn of a DEFRA approved stove, we suggest you only burn dry, seasoned hardwood with less than 20%. You can test the moisture content of your wood using a handy tool called a Moisture Meter.
If older stoves are not used correctly they could emit huge amounts of nuisance smoke. This is caused by a process known as "slumbering.' A stove that is slumbering will shut the air intake too much which causes the fuel to not burn fully. This results in a lack heat and more smoke. The top air controls of Defra-exempt stoves are modified so you can't close them completely.
Clean-burning technology is an essential aspect in improving the air quality in cities across Europe. We believe that encouraging the use stoves exempt from DEFRA, and removing older, more polluting stoves is an important step in the right direction.
Low Smoke Emissions
Many people choose to have log burners in their homes because of the wonderful smell they produce and the warm feeling that they provide to a space. A wood-burning stove could cause a lot pollution. The smoke is released through the chimney, contaminating the air outside. Some of it could also be absorbed by neighbouring homes through vents and gaps around windows and doors.
To reduce the amount of harmful pollutants, it's a good idea to buy an DEFRA approved stove or fire. These stoves are designed to be cleaner than older models and reduce PM emissions by half. If DEFRA stoves cost reside in a zone of smoke control then you should choose a DEFRA certified stove, as the law prohibits the use of any non-DEFRA certified appliance in these areas.
You can be assured that a stove approved by Defra has been optimised to emit low levels of carbon dioxide. This is typically done by a second phase of combustion which means that waste gases are recycled and burnt again, resulting in less pollution being released into the air. You should also be sure to use kiln dried or seasoned wood, as it has less moisture, and will burn more efficiently.
A Defra approved stove also has been tested to ensure that it is in line with the most recent European emission standards. These are known as the Ecodesign standards and have been implemented to improve air quality, so by purchasing a Defra approved stove you will be doing your part for the environment!
A DEFRA-approved log burner is not just energy efficient, but can reduce heating costs as well. This is because they produce much less heat than other types of stoves, which means they require less fuel to run. This makes them an excellent alternative to oil or gas burners.
Eco-Friendly
As you've probably guessed, using log burners to heat your home is extremely green. However, it is important to select the right fuel type. The wrong fuel can cause damage to your stove, alter the chimney, and could invalidate the warranty. Dry wood and manufactured solid fuels (such as briquettes and fire logs) produce much less smoke and pollution than traditional house coal and wet wood.
Dry, kiln-dried wood has the moisture level of 20% or less and burns more efficiently than wet or untreated wood. Untreated or wet wood creates excess smoke emissions, which are harmful to human health. Even a short exposure to smoke can cause respiratory issues. It is important to be aware that a number of regions in the UK have smoke control zones, which restrict your ability to emit smoke. If you exceed the limit, you could be penalized. Make sure you use a log burner that is approved by defra and ensure that the fuel you burn is in compliance with the standards required by law.
If used properly when it is properly used, when used correctly, a Defra approved stove will produce very low emissions. Additionally, when it is installed in a smoke exempt area, it can halve the PM2.5* pollution when compared to a stove that is inefficient. The most effective way to make sure your stove is as green as possible is to invest in a Defra approved model, and only burn sustainable, locally sourced wood that has been kiln dried to reduce the moisture content.
Avoid burning treated wood in any form such as old furniture and fence panels. They release toxic substances that can have a serious effect on the environment and health of humans. It is recommended to clean your stove that is Defra-approved and look for any obstructions in the flue. Regular maintenance can help prolong the lifespan of your stove and keep it running efficiently. Always follow the instructions of the manufacturer on how to use and maintain your stove. This includes regular cleaning and sweeping the chimney.
Neighbourly Friendly
While it is essential to make sure you use Defra approved log burners and only use authorised fuels, it is important to make the effort to maintain your stove in a proper manner. Carbon monoxide (CO) and other dangerous pollutants can be released into your home if you fail to maintain your stove in a timely manner. CO is an odourless, colorless gas that could be deadly if inhaled with high concentrations.
It's worth noting that, should you reside in a smoke-free area and do not have a Defra approved stove You could be punished up to PS1,000. This is due to the fact that non-Defra certified stoves emit more smoke than permitted in these areas. This is why it is vital to have a Defra approved stove and only burn authorised fuels in smoke-controlled areas.
If you're using wood in a stove that is Defra-approved It is recommended to use hardwood logs which have been seasoned rather than softwood. Hardwoods have less moisture content and are superior in retaining heat. They also burn more quickly and this means you'll have to refuel your stove less often.
It is also important to select stoves that are Defra-approved and in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer. This will ensure that the stove is properly vented and doesn't emit harmful toxins into your home.
In addition to avoiding fines for using a stove that is not Defra approved in a smoke-free zone There are a variety of other benefits of having an Defra approved stove. These include:
A Defra-approved stove will also provide more efficient heating to your home which results in lower energy costs. This is because it is capable of heating your home using the same amount of fuel while producing significantly lower emissions. This is why more people are opting for Defra approved stoves over traditional open fires.
A stove that is Defra-approved will also come with advanced features to make you a more welcoming neighbor. Airwash systems keep the glass of your stove clear and clean and also prevent it from getting obscured by smoke and dirt.