Defra Approved Log Burners If you live in a smoke controlled area, then you'll require a defra approved stove to meet government regulations. This permits you to use approved fuels, such as briquettes and firewood that has been approved by the government. These kinds of stoves are usually more sustainable than older models as they employ secondary and tertiary combustion systems. This reduces the amount of smoke that is produced and therefore is more beneficial 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 are called DEFRA-exempt stoves. They are designed to provide efficient and clean burning efficiency, which can save you money while keeping your home warm. They typically come with secondary and tertiary combustion systems that help to reduce the amount of smoke that is released into the atmosphere. If your stove is not DEFRA approved you can convert it with an easy kit. Defra approval is obtained by passing the stringent emissions tests conducted by the UK Government's Department of Environment Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) which restrict the amount of black smoke a stove can produce during all stages of normal operation. If you reside in an area which is classified as a Smoke Control Area, then it's illegal to use any stove other than a DEFRA approved log burner or open fire. Incorrectly authorised wood burning appliances can result in heavy fines. The good part is that DEFRA approved stoves will allow you to continue to burn your preferred logs if they are properly seasoned. We recommend that you burn hardwoods that have a moisture level of less than 20% to ensure optimal performance and a clean burning in a DEFRA-approved stove. 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 quantities of smoke that is not pleasant to breathe. This is caused by a process known as 'slumbering'. A slumbering stove will close the air intake too much, which causes the fuel to not to ignite fully. This leads to a lack of heat, and more smoke. Defra exempt stoves have their top air controls changed so that you are unable to shut them all the way. Clean-burn technology that is modern and efficient is a major factor in improving the air quality of cities across Europe. We believe that banning older, polluting stoves as well as encouraging the use of DEFRA exempt stoves is a big step in the right direction. Low Smoke Emissions Many people have log burning stoves in their homes due to the amazing scent they emit and the warmth they bring to the room. But the truth is that a significant amount of pollution is caused by a wood burning stove. The pollution rises up the chimney, and then pollutes the air outside. Some of it can also be absorbed into homes of neighbors through vents or gaps around doors and windows. In order to minimise these harmful pollutants, it is an ideal idea to buy a DEFRA approved stove or fire. These stoves are designed to be cleaner than older models and can cut down on PM emissions by half. If you live in an area that has smoke control in place, you will need an approved DEFRA stove. The law prohibits the use of non-DEFRA-approved appliances within these areas. If you buy a Defra approved stove you can be sure that the combustion process has been optimised for low emissions. This is usually done through an additional combustion stage where waste gases are recycled and burned back. This results in less pollution being released to the atmosphere. You should also be sure to use kiln dried or seasoned wood as this will have a lower moisture content, and will burn more efficiently. A Defra approved stove will also have been through rigorous tests to prove that it meets the most current European emission standards. These standards are called Ecodesign and were created to improve air quality. When you buy a Defra approved stove, you'll be helping the environment! In addition to reducing levels of PM emissions in addition, the DEFRA approved log burner will be energy efficient and can significantly reduce your heating bills. They consume less fuel as they produce less heat. This makes them a great alternative to oil or gas burners. Eco-Friendly Log burners can be environmentally friendly ways to heat your home. But, it is essential to only use the correct fuel type. A fuel that is not properly used can cause damage to your stove, alter your chimney, and even invalidate the warranty. Dry wood and manufactured solid fuels (such as briquettes and fire logs) produce much less smoke and polluting than traditional household coal and wet wood. Dry, kiln dried wood has a moisture level of 20% or less and burns much more effectively than untreated or wet wood. Wood that is not treated or wet produces excessive smoke emissions, which are harmful to human health. Even a short exposure to smoke can cause respiratory issues. Be aware that a number of regions in the UK have smoke control zones, which limit the amount of smoke you can emit. If you exceed the limit, you will be penalized. The best way to avoid getting caught out is by using an approved log burner and always checking that the fuel you're burning is in line with the required standards. Similarly, when used correctly If it is used correctly, when used correctly, a Defra approved stove will have very low emissions - and when it is installed in a smoke-free area it will reduce by half the PM2.5pollution, compared to a less efficient stove. The best way to ensure that your stove is as environmentally friendly as possible is to invest in an Defra approved model and only use sustainable, locally sourced wood that has been dried to reduce the moisture content. Avoid burning treated wood in any form including old furniture and fence panels. These emit toxic pollutants which can have a serious effect on the environment and human health. You should regularly clean your Defra-approved stove and check for any obstructions in the flue. Regular maintenance will extend the lifespan of your appliance and ensure it functioning efficiently. It is also essential to always follow the manufacturers instructions for the use and maintenance of your stove. This includes regular cleaning, sweeping the chimney and examining for any blockages. Neighbour Friendly While it is crucial to make sure you use Defra approved log burners and only burn authorised fuels, it's equally important to make the effort to properly maintain your stove. Carbon monoxide (CO) and other harmful pollutants can be released into your home if you don't take the time to maintain your stove properly. CO is an odourless, colorless gas that could be deadly if inhaled at high levels. It's important to note that if you live in a smoke-free area and do not have a Defra approved stove you could be fined up to PS1,000. Non-Defra approved appliances produce more smoke in smoke-controlled areas than is permitted. This is why it is vital to use a Defra approved stove and only burn approved fuels in smoke-controlled areas. If you're using wood in a stove that is Defra-approved it is recommended to make use of hardwood logs that have been seasoned rather than softwood. Hardwoods are less moist and retain heat better. They also burn faster, so you won't need to refill as often. Another important point to remember is that you should make use of Defra approved stoves that comply to the manufacturer's guidelines. This will ensure the stove is properly vented, and it doesn't emit harmful emissions into your home. A stove that is Defra-approved comes with numerous benefits. It can help you avoid fines if you use an non approved Defra stove in a smoke-controlled area. These include: A Defra approved stove is also more efficient in heating your home, which could result in cost savings on your energy bills. This is because it is capable of heating your home with the same amount of fuel while producing significantly lower emissions. This is why more people are opting for Defra approved stoves instead of traditional open fires. In addition it is important to note that an Defra approved stove will come with advanced features that will allow you to be more friendly with your neighbors. This includes airwash systems that keep the glass of your stove clear and clean, preventing it from becoming obscured with smoke and grime.