Defra Approved Log Burners
If you live in an area which is smoke-free or smoke-controlled, you’ll need to use a defra-approved stove to be in compliance with the regulations of the government. This will allow you to legally burn approved fuels, such as briquettes and approved firewood.
These stoves tend to be more environmentally friendly than older models because they employ secondary and tertiary combustion systems. This reduces the amount of smoke that is produced and so is better for your chimney flue system and neighbors.
Clean Burn Technology
Defra Approved stoves are a great choice for Smoke Control Areas and any urban environment, generally built up locations. These modern appliances, also referred to as DEFRA exempt stoves, are made to offer a clean burn and a high efficiency in heating which will save you money on fuel costs while keeping your home warm. They usually feature secondary and tertiary combustion methods which help reduce the amount of smoke emitted into the atmosphere.
Most modern stoves, which aren’t DEFRA approved could be converted to one by an easy kit. Defra approval is obtained through the passing of stringent emissions tests set out by the UK Government’s Department of Environment Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) which restrict the amount of black smoke a stove can emit during all phases of normal operation.
If you reside in an area that is classified as a Smoke Control Area or a Smoke Control Area, then it’s against the law to use any stove other than one that is a DEFRA approved log burner or open fire. The use of a non-approved wood burning appliance can be punished with hefty fines. The good news is that DEFRA approved stoves will allow you to continue burning your favourite logs, if they are seasoned properly.
To ensure the best performance and a clean burn from a DEFRA approved stove, we suggest you only burn dry, seasoned hardwood with less than 20 percent. A Moisture Meter is a useful instrument that can be used to determine the amount of moisture in your wood.
Older stoves, if used incorrectly, can emit massive amounts of noxious smoke. 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 burn fully. This causes a loss of heat and more smoke. The top air controls on stoves exempt from Defra are modified so that they can’t be closed completely.
The newer clean-burn technology is a huge factor in improving the air quality of cities across Europe. We believe that the ban on older, polluting stoves and encouraging the use of DEFRA exempt stoves is an important step in the right direction.
Low Smoke Emissions
Many people opt to install log burners in their homes because of the wonderful smell they produce and the warm feel they give to a room. A wood burning stove can cause a lot pollution. The smoke is released up the chimney, polluting the air outside. Some of it may also be absorbed by neighbouring homes through vents and gaps around windows and doors.
It is recommended to buy a DEFRA-approved fire or stove to reduce these harmful pollutants. These stoves have been specially designed to be cleaner than older models and can cut down on PM emissions by half. If you live in an area where smoke control is enforced and you need an approved DEFRA stove. The law prohibits the use of non-approved DEFRA appliances in these areas.
If you buy a Defra approved stove, you can be certain that the combustion process has been optimised for low emissions. This is typically done by another combustion stage, defra Stove where waste gases are recycled and burned back. This results in less pollution released into the atmosphere. Make sure to use seasoned or kiln-dried wood, since it will burn more efficiently and also have less moisture.
A Defra approved stove has also been through rigorous tests to prove that it meets the latest European emission standards. These standards are referred to as Ecodesign and were introduced to improve the quality of air. By purchasing a Defra-approved stove, you will be helping the environment!
A log burner that is DEFRA recommended stoves-approved is not only efficient in energy use, but it can also reduce your heating costs. This is because they produce much less heat than other kinds of stove, so will require less fuel to operate. This makes them a great alternative to oil or gas burners.
Eco-Friendly
As you probably already know that using log burners to warm your home can be very green. However, it is important to select the right fuel type. The wrong fuel could cause damage to your stove, harm your chimney and possibly end the warranty. Dry wood manufactured solid fuels, such as brquettes or fire logs as well as traditional house coals produce less smoke and polluting.
Dry wood that has been kiln dried has an average moisture content of 20 percent or less and is much more efficient in burning than untreated or wet wood. Wood that is treated but not wet produces excessive smoke emissions that are harmful to the human body. Only a few minutes of exposure can cause respiratory problems. You should also be aware that many parts of the UK have smoke control zones, which limit the amount of smoke you can emit. If you exceed this threshold, you’ll be penalized. Use a log burner that has been approved by the defra, and make sure that the fuel you burn meets the required standards.
When properly used, a Defra-approved stove will also have very low emissions. If it is installed in a smoke-free area it can reduce by half PM2.5* pollution when compared to an unefficient stove. The best way to ensure that your stove is as environmentally friendly as you can is to invest in a Defra approved model, and only burn sustainable, sourced wood that has been kiln dried to reduce its moisture content.
It’s also worth avoiding burning any kind of treated wood, Defra Stove which includes old fence panels and furniture. These releases toxic pollutants that can have a serious impact on human health as well as the environment. It is recommended to clean your stove that is Defra-approved and check for any obstructions in the flue. Regular maintenance will extend the longevity of your appliance and ensure it functioning efficiently. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on how to use and maintain your stove. This includes regular cleaning of the chimney, sweeping it and examining for any obstructions.
Neighbour Friendly
While it is crucial to use Defra approved log burners and only burn authorised fuels, it’s equally crucial that you take the time to properly maintain your stove. Carbon monoxide (CO) and other harmful pollutants can enter your home if you fail to maintain your stove properly. CO is a colourless, odourless gas that can cause death if inhaled in high levels.
It’s worth noting that, should you reside in a zone that is smoke-free and don’t have an Defra approved stove you could be punished up to PS1,000. Appliances that aren’t Defra-approved produce more smoke in smoke-controlled areas than is permitted. It is therefore essential to use a Defra-approved stove and only burn authorised materials in areas that are smoke-controlled.
When you’re burning wood in a Defra approved stove, you should select seasoned hardwood logs instead than softwood types. Hardwoods are less moist and retain heat better. They also burn faster and don’t require to refuel as frequently.
Another important point to remember is that you must only make use of Defra approved stoves that comply with the manufacturer’s instructions. This will ensure that the stove is properly vented, and also ensure that it does not release harmful pollutants into your home.
A stove that is Defra-approved has numerous other advantages. It will allow you to avoid fines if you are using an non approved Defra stove in a smoke-free area. These include:
A Defra approved stove will also be more efficient at heating your home, which can result in cost savings on your energy bills. This is due to the fact that it will be capable of heating your home with the same amount of fuel, while producing significantly lower emissions. This is why more and more people are opting for Defra approved stoves over traditional open fires.
Finally the best part is that the Defra approved stove will have advanced features that will allow you to be neighbour friendly. They include airwash systems that keep the glass of your stove clean and clear and prevents it from getting obscured with smoke and grime.