Defra Approved Log Burners
If you live in an area that is smoke-controlled and you live in a smoke-free area, you must make use of a defra-approved stove in order to be in compliance with the rules of the government. This permits you to burn fuels that are approved, such as briquettes and firewood that has been approved by the government.
These stoves are eco-friendly since they utilize secondary and third combustion systems. This helps reduce the amount of smoke, which is more beneficial for your chimney system the flue system, chimney, and neighbours.
Clean Burn Technology
Defra Approved Stoves are an excellent choice for Smoke Control Areas and in any urban environment. These modern appliances, also referred to as DEFRA exempt stoves, are designed to offer a clean burn and a high efficiency in heating - saving you money on fuel costs while keeping your home warm. They typically come with secondary and tertiary combustion methods which help reduce the amount of smoke emitted into the air.
If your stove isn't DEFRA certified, you can convert it using a simple kit. Defra approval can only be achieved after passing the strict emissions tests that are set by the UK Government Department of Environment Food & Rural Affairs. These tests restrict the amount of black smoke a stove will emit at all stages of normal use.
If you reside in an area which is classified as a 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. Using you could try this out burning appliance will be punished with hefty fines. The good part is that DEFRA approve stoves will allow you to continue burning your favorite logs, provided they are properly seasoned.
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 test the moisture content in your wood.
If older stoves are not used correctly, they can emit large amounts o nuisance smoke. This is caused by a process known as 'slumbering'. A burner that is slumbering will shut down the air intake large, causing the fuel to not ignite fully. This causes a loss of heat and more smoke. The top air controls on Defra-exempt stoves are modified so they can't be closed all the way.
Clean-burn technology that is modern and efficient is a major factor in improving the quality of air in cities across Europe. We believe that promoting the use of DEFRA-exempt stoves, and banning older, polluting stoves is a crucial step in the right directions.
Low Smoke Emissions
Many people decide to install log burners in their home because of the amazing smell that they create and the warm atmosphere they give to a room. A wood burning stove can create a lot of pollution. This pollution goes through the chimney and pollutes the air outside. Some of it can also be absorbed into homes of neighbors through vents or gaps in windows and doors.
It is best to purchase an approved DEFRA-approved stove or fireplace to help reduce the harmful pollution. These stoves are designed to be more clean than older models and can halve the PM emissions of a typical stove. If you reside in a smoke-free zone then you must search for a DEFRA approved stove, since the law prohibits the use of any non-DEFRA certified appliance within these areas.
You can be sure that a stove that is Defra-approved has been optimised to produce a low amount of emissions. This is typically done by an additional phase of combustion, which means that waste gases are recycled and then burned again, resulting in far less pollution being released into the atmosphere. Choose kiln-dried or seasoned wood, as it will burn more efficiently and contain less moisture.
A stove that is Defra-approved has been tested rigorously to ensure it complies with the most recent European emissions standards. They are referred to as the Ecodesign standards and were created to improve the quality of air So, by buying a Defra approved stove you will be helping the environment!
A DEFRA-approved log burner is not only energy efficient, but can reduce heating costs as well. This is because they produce far less heat than other kinds of stove, so will require less fuel to operate. This makes them a fantastic alternative to oil or gas burners.
Eco-Friendly
As you probably already know that using log burners to heat your home is very environmentally friendly. But, it is essential to select the right fuel type. The wrong fuel can damage your stove and cause issues with your chimney. It could also invalidate your warranty. Dry wood manufactured solid fuels such as briquettes or fire logs and traditional house coal create less smoke and pollution.
Dry, kiln-dried wood has a moisture level of 20% or lower and burns more efficiently than untreated or wet wood. Wet, untreated wood produces excessive smoke emissions that can be harmful to the human body. Even a few minutes exposure can cause respiratory problems. It's also important to bear in mind that a lot of regions of the UK are currently smoke control zones - which means that you are able to only legally emit 3g of smoke per hour or face a fine. Make sure you use a log burner that is approved by defra and ensure that the fuel you burn meets the required standards.
When used correctly when it is properly used, a stove that is Defra-approved will also have very low emissions. If you have one placed in a smoke-free location it can reduce by half PM2.5* pollution, compared to an inefficient stove. Investing in a Defra-approved model and burning only sustainable wood that has been kiln dried to reduce moisture content is the best method to make your stove as green as possible.
It's also recommended to avoid burning any form of treated wood, such as old fence panels and furniture. They release toxic substances that could have a significant impact on human health as well as the environment. To make your Defra approved stove as environmentally green as you can it is important to clean it on a regular basis and examine the flue for obstructions. Regular maintenance can help prolong the life of your stove and keep it running efficiently. It is also essential to always follow the manufacturers instructions for the use and maintenance of your stove. This includes regular cleaning and sweeping the chimney.
Neighbourly Friendly
It is essential to maintain your stove properly. Failure to do this could result in harmful contaminants, like carbon monoxide (CO), being released into your home. CO is a colourless, odourless gas that can cause death if inhaled at high concentrations.
It's important to note that if you live in a smoke-free area and don't have an Defra approved stove you could be fined up to PS1,000. Non-Defra approved appliances produce more smoke in smoke controlled areas than is allowed. This is why it is crucial to have a Defra approved stove and only burn authorised fuels in smoke controlled areas.
When burning wood in a Defra approved stove, it's best to choose seasoned hardwood logs rather than softwood types. Hardwoods are less moist and hold heat better. They also burn faster so you won't have to refuel as often.
It is also important to only use stoves that are Defra-approved, and conform to the specifications of the manufacturer. This will ensure that the stove is properly vented, and also ensure that it does not emit harmful emissions 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 number of other benefits of having a Defra approved stove. These include:
A stove that is Defra-approved will also heat your home more efficiently which results in lower energy bills. This is due to the fact that it will be able to heat your home using the same amount of fuel, while producing significantly lower emissions. This is why many people prefer stoves that are Defra-approved over open fires.
A Defra-approved stove will also have advanced features to assist you in being a neighbor-friendly. They include airwash systems that keep the glass of your stove clear and clean, preventing it from becoming blocked by smoke and grime.