Defra Approved Multifuel Stoves
Defra approved multifuel stoves are an excellent choice for people living in smoke controlled areas. They are very safe and can burn wood or authorised smokeless fuels.
The Defra logo is typically found on the appliance, or is written in the specification to indicate that it is suitable for 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 that we sell are Defra approved, which means that they are able to meet the strictest standards for emissions when they are used with wood and other approved fuels. This is due to the fact that these stoves are built to work with a variety of different fuels and have been tested independently to ensure that they don't emit excessive smoke. You'll also find that a Defra approved stove comes with features such as secondary and tertiary burning that help to maximise the amount of energy in the burn and minimise harmful gasses.
Multifuel stoves that are approved by Defra typically have an 'SE' logo or the word SE (which is a reference to smoke-free) in their name. This signifies that the stove has been tested independently to show it can be used legally in a Smoke Control Area with logs and other approved solid fuels. The testing procedure includes an array of tests to check the stove's performance under a variety of conditions, and also to confirm that it produces at least 5 grams of particulates/kg when burning wood.
To comply with this standard, stoves that are Defra-approved have a modified top air control that prevents the user closing the top vent completely. If you close the top vent too much will decrease the oxygen supply to the fire, causing it to smoulder instead of burn. If you attempted to do this using a non-Defra endorsed stove, you'd be in violation of law and may be prosecuted for a number of nuisance smoke offenses.
The best way to avoid fumes that cause irritation when using a wood stove is to purchase kiln-dried or seasoned wood. The wood has been dried for a long time and reduces the moisture content below 20%. You can check the moisture content of your wood using a simple wood moisture meter.
You can also limit the amount of smoke generated by your Defra approved stove by only using dry well-seasoned, well-seasoned, kiln-dried or spruce logs. You should never burn damp, wet, or unseasoned wood. This can cause a lot more smoke and you could be fined by the local authority.
Smoke Control Area Approval
DEFRA approved stoves meet the strict air quality standards set by the government. These stoves can use a range of fuels such as wood and some 'authorised smokeless fuels within Smoke Control Areas (see DEFRA's indicative interactive tool here).
The smoke from burning untreated wood or other wet fuels in a fireplace that is not DEFRA approved or exempt from DEFRA will make your neighbors angry. It can also impact the local air quality if you live in a city. You could be prosecuted or fined if you burn unauthorised fuels in the Smoke Control Area or use an appliance that is not designed to work with smokeless fuels.
Defra approved stoves are built with secondary and tertiary systems of combustion which help burn fuel at lower temperatures and, consequently, produce less particulate matter (PM2.5). This is achieved by using stainless steel liners, as well as convection technology that pushes air down the chimney even after the fire is removed. This allows the stove to burn wood and other fuels more efficiently, while producing significantly less emissions.
A Defra Approved Stove will also feature an adjustment on the top air vent, which prevents you from closing it completely. When you stop the air supply to the stove it stops burning properly and starts to smolder and produce a lot of smoke. Defra approved stoves will allow you to shut the vent a little but not completely so that the fire continues to burn at an lower temperature, and still comply with the UK regulations.
When selecting a new stove that is Defra-approved it is essential to take into consideration the style and appearance and whether it will match the interior decor of your home. There are many designs and sizes to pick from that range from traditional fireplace chambers and inglenooks, to more contemporary designs that look stunning in open plan living areas.
DEFRA stoves comparison -approved stoves have a 5kW chimney outlet which allows them to be utilized in Smoke Control Areas. This includes most UK cities and towns. It also saves money on installation costs as the stove requires only five" liner, instead of the more costly 6" liner.
Aesthetics
Multi-fuel stoves aren't just meant to be practical. They can also add style and charm to your home. There are many models that come in a variety of styles that can be a perfect match for your decor, whether it's traditional or contemporary. They typically have cleaner lines and sleeker designs than wood-burning stoves. This makes them a better option for any room.
Make sure the stove that you select matches your needs and is compatible to your chimney or flue. Check that the stove meets local requirements for clearance from combustible substances. You can get an idea of these requirements by checking the manufacturer's guidelines that will specify how far you have to keep combustible materials like curtains walls, furniture, and even walls away from your stove.
When you are shopping for a multi-fuel stove you may want to consider the airwash system. This will keep the glass windows clean so that you can enjoy your fire. Some multi-fuel stoves come with a removable grate that makes it easier to change the fuel and clean the stove.
Multi-fuel stoves that are approved by Defra are designed to reduce pollution and emissions and are therefore a sensible choice for homeowners who are environmentally conscious. They're also extremely efficient and let you reduce the amount of fuel you use and reduce your heating costs.
Many Defra multi-fuel stoves are available in a variety of styles to match your aesthetic preferences. Inset stoves, like the Hamlet Solution 5 Compact or the Woodford Lovell C400, can be fitted into an existing fireplace opening or a wall to create a seamless appearance. Meanwhile, cylindrical stoves like the Opus Harmony and the ACR Solis have a slim, rounded shape that can stand on the hearth without taking up the floor space.
Many stoves have a classic design that reflects their heritage, with features like cast iron construction and elaborate details. These stoves are ideal for country cottages and other homes that have traditional, rustic feel. Other models have a contemporary style, featuring simple lines and materials like steel and glass. These models are perfect for homes with minimalist designs like those found in urban areas or modern homes.
Energy Efficiency
You can be assured that a multifuel stove approved by DEFRA will be up to date with the latest standards for air pollution. Leading stove makers like Arada, Stovax and Parkray have invested in advanced combustion technology that reduces the amount of smoke that is produced during the burning process. Modern stoves, which use the latest technology in clean air such as secondary and tertiary combustion systems, are more eco-friendly and reduce the cost of fuel for households.
It doesn't matter if you reside in an area under Smoke Control or not there is the stove you need for your home. From the stunning Danish design of the Uniq 37, to the contemporary and comfortable design of the Arundel Deluxe. There are also models that have more traditional design and are suitable for existing fireplace chambers and inglenooks.
The Defra approved multifuel stoves that we offer come with various colors to match your decor, from matt black and gloss black enamel to majolica brown enamel and gloss buttermilk enamel. A majority of our multifuel stoves are compliant with 2022 EU Ecodesign emissions reduction standards that allow you to cut down on your energy bill while making a positive impact on environmental sustainability.
DEFRA approve wood stoves are also available for those who live in a Smoke Control Area which makes it simple to be in compliance with the law. Always remember to use authorised kinds of fuel (like'smokeless' anthracite coal) in your stove as it is illegal to burn damp wood or other wet fuel and you could risk a fine.
If you live in a region that is under Smoke Control select a DEFRA Approved Multifuel Stove that is marked with the ClearSkies Mark to ensure you are complying with the laws. This means that the stove has been tested to ensure it is compliant with current UK and European emission requirements which include wood and smokeless fuels. You can easily determine the status of a stove's page of products by looking for a mark that says "DEFRA Approved" or "Approved by DEFRA".