5 Defra Approved Log Burner-Related Lessons From The Professionals

· 6 min read
5 Defra Approved Log Burner-Related Lessons From The Professionals

Defra Approved Log Burner

The Defra approved log burner is one of the most sought-after stoves for homeowners. This is due to the fact that they provide an easier burn and provide more control over heating costs.

You can also use wood legally in Smoke Control Areas, which is a huge advantage because it helps you avoid fines that are imposed on people who use stoves that are not regulated. They are available in a variety of designs to match your home.

Clean Burn Technology

The clean burn technology found in log burners that are defra-approved works to reduce the amount of smoke and particulate emitted during combustion. It has been demonstrated to dramatically reduce the health impacts of poor air quality in urban areas, particularly when a traditional wood burning stove or fireplace is used. The city of Bergen for instance, realised the importance of implementing efficient measures to improve the quality of their air and, as a consequence, old non-cleanburn stoves are now banned in the city. This trade-in program was a huge success. Bergen ranked fifth among 320 European cities in 2021 when it came to its air quality.

To accomplish this, stoves that are Defra-approved have been designed to ensure that the fire receives enough oxygen to ignite and burn fuel. This is accomplished by having a secondary or tertiary air feed which allows extra combustion air to enter the appliance in addition to the main air intake. A secondary air supply is usually located behind the appliance, either inside or underneath the fire box.

Modern, Defra exempt stoves have been through rigorous tests in order to legally burn wood in Smoke Control Areas. This is if the right kind of wood, which is seasoned and kiln dried to less than 20% moisture content. This can be utilized in conjunction with the Defra approved stove.



A Defra approved stove has also been tested to be capable of emitting no more than 3g of smoke per hour which is the legal limit for many UK towns and cities. If the stove is found to emit excessive emissions, the owner will be fined a sum of PS300 or more.

A stove that is Defra-approved will bear the Defra mark on it, and also an Ecodesign label. This will go into effect in 2022. To be Ecodesign compliant, stoves must undergo strict emissions tests and must have minimum efficiency ratings of 72 percent. A stove that has an efficient rating will lower the amount of pollution generated by it, and will save you money on heating costs.

Smoke Control Areas Suitable

The government of the UK has set high limits on the emissions of fireplaces and stoves. The government aims to make the country more clean and healthier. Smoke Control Areas are found in many large towns and cities and where the dark smoke could be a source of irritation for local residents. If you have an older wood burning stove or open fire and you reside in a smoke control zone, it's vital to upgrade your appliances to Defra approved Log Burners.

They are greener than the traditional log burners and have the most advanced clean burning technology. Leading manufacturers such as Arada, Burley, Parkray & Stovax are continuing to develop their products and are producing models that have secondary and secondary combustion systems that reduce emissions. These advanced burners can save you money over the long run on fuel costs.

DEFRA approved or Defra Exempt are terms that indicate that the stove has passed a test developed by the Department for Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs in the UK. This test ensures the stove is safe used in smoke-free areas. Defra Exempt is a term that is applicable to specific models that have passed the test. These models are suitable for burning authorised smokeless fuels, which are highlighted in a list supplied by Defra. These fuels do not contain wood.

If you have an older stove that isn't DEFRA-approved and you put it in a controlled smoke area you could be fined for breaking the law. You can determine whether you are in a smoke-control area by visiting the official Defra website. To avoid a fine, you should only burn dry seasoned wood and Defra approved smokeless fuels and not logs or any other wet woods.

There is a wide range of DEFRA Approved log burners on the market and the Dovre product pages will display this logo if the product is suitable to be used in Smoke Control Areas. Visit the official Defra website to learn more about stoves, fireplaces and fires.

Easy to Clean

Cleaning your log burner is vital to maintain its performance and reduce the build up of harmful creosote which can cause chimney fires. Regular cleaning will also ensure your stove's glass is clear and clean so that you can take in the view of a beautiful fire without obstructed visibility.

There are a number of tools you may need to assist in the maintenance of your wood stove, including cleaning brushes as well as a ash vacuum cleaner, and polish for your stove. It is essential to complete the cleaning process while your stove is cool and we suggest wearing heat-resistant gloves.

First, use the grate brush to get rid of any ash that has accumulated on the bottom of the stove. Make sure that you reach all corners and crevices. You can then utilize your ash cleaner to remove any remaining ashes from the stove and dispose of them in a steel container. After your stove is thoroughly cleaned, you can apply a soft cloth to apply a stove cleaner. Be careful not to touch the hot surface.

It is crucial to burn quality, seasoned wood on your defra-approved log burner to ensure that you are not producing large amounts of particulates. When selecting your firewood, look for the Woodsure Ready to Burn logo or use a moisture meter to check the moisture content to be less than 20%. Seasoning your own logs is also an option, however it could take up to two years for the moisture to evaporate.

Avoid burning painted, stained or chemically treated wood (including pallets, MDF, and Medium Density Fiberboard). These types of wood create dangerous chemicals when they are burned and are not suitable for burning in the log burner.

A proper installation of your log burner is essential for maintaining its performance and efficiency. Be sure that it is installed by a qualified professional, and that it is located in a well-ventilated area where it will not be subject to drafts. Stoves installed incorrectly can be unsafe and lead to damage, in addition to decreasing the efficiency of the stove and increasing running costs.

Energy Efficient

Log burners that are Defra-approved are generally more efficient than competitors. The reason for this is that they have passed the tests to ensure that the right amount of air is provided to the wood or fuel burning stoves during combustion. This reduces the amount of smoke generated and, in turn, reduces emissions and heat loss from the stove.

When you purchase a defra exempt wood burner you can also be assured that it will be safe for use in your chimney as it has a flue size of 5" (150mm).  DEFRA stoves ratings and reviews -Defra approved stoves typically have a bigger flue outlet and this can cause problems when trying to fit a chimney liner. The Stove Yard offers a range 5" chimney liners to fit your wood or multi-fuel exempted stove.

Most of the stoves that we sell at The Stove Yard are Defra Approved and offer the latest clean burning technology. Many of our models have secondary and tertiary feeds that use air to ensure that the fuel is burning. This improves the efficiency of the stove and reduces the amount smoke produced.

A DEFRA-approved log burner can also permit you to use it legally within Smoke Control Area. UK cities and towns are classified as Smoke Control Areas and in order to be legally compliant, you must use a DEFRA Approved appliance when burning smokeless coal or wood.

You can also purchase a defra approved stove that has been certified by clearSkies to prove that it meets the new Ecodesign emission standards that came into force a year ago. This is the best option when you reside in a region that has Smoke Control. It makes your stove eco-friendly, and also comply with the laws. The ESSE 700 Vista, a elegant and efficient Defra Approved Log Burner, has the option to add an smoke control kit in the event that it is required.