Multi Fuel Stoves - Are They DEFRA Approved?
It is important that you check all regulations before purchasing an appliance that is new. This includes ensuring that the stove is DEFRA approved for use in smoke control zones when burning wood, and is approved smokeless coal.
They have separate air controls that provide the correct amount of air for secondary and primary combustion. They also have a removable grate and ash pan for easy cleaning.
Clean Burn Technology
Multi fuel stoves are made to accept a range of different materials in addition to logs. Thermo-free fuels, turf, peat briquettes, anthracite, and other materials can be used. These materials produce less harmful emissions in general than logs. This is why many of our multi-fuel stoves are equipped with clean burn technology in order to reduce the amount of particulate matter that they generate during combustion. The term "clean burn" is also used to refer to other technologies that reduce emissions, such as preheated tertiary or Ecodesign Ready.
DEFRA legislation stoves of our multifuel stoves feature a raised grate, or a central grate riddling with asphan beneath it. This helps maintain optimal combustion conditions. This ensures that the process of combustion produces minimal black smoke when operating. It also allows the removal of ash from the bottom of the stove which can then be stored in the asphan below to ensure safe disposal.
If you live in a Smoke Control Area it is important to buy a Defra approved wood burning or multi-fuel stove that has been exempted from the Defra regulations. This will ensure that you can use the stove legally so long as it's using fuels that are authorised, according to DEFRA guidelines. This is because non-Defra stoves can be prone to'slumbering,' which is a condition where the combustion system is starved of air resulting in black smoke. Defra approved stoves (or Defra exempt wood burners) have been tested and confirmed to prevent this slumbering from occurring which gives you the peace of mind that your stove will be safe and efficient when it is operated correctly.
Modern multi-fuel stoves, like the Stovax Stovax Stockton 3 have a contemporary design, with sleek lines and smooth surfaces that complement any space. The stoves come in a variety of colors that include matte black for a timeless appearance that is compatible with a variety of interior color designs. Other popular options include neutral gray and cream finishes and bold hues like red, blue or green that can make a dramatic statement in any living space.
Defra Approved
In regions of the UK designated as smoke-controlled stoves that are DEFRA approved may be used. This includes many large cities towns, urban zones and towns. If you reside in a similar area and you burn wood or fuel you could be subject to an expensive fine. Stoves that are DEFRA approved will provide the minimum amount of air to ensure efficient combustion, which means that they emit very small, if any harmful smoke.
To get the Defra approval stoves must be tested for emissions and efficiency. The Defra Logo is easily recognizable on stoves and manufacturers' websites. Many stove manufacturers are enhancing their products by adding secondary and tertiary combustion methods that aid in reducing emissions. This makes their stoves more eco sustainable and also means that they can be used with a greater range of fuels.
You should always check if the stove is DEFRA-approved prior to purchasing a new multi-fuel or wood stove. This is particularly crucial if you live in a smoke-control area. Even if you can make use of approved smokeless fuels such as anthracite or briquettes but a stove that is not approved by DEFRA can still create nuisance smoke, in violation of the law.
DEFRA approved stoves have an adjustment on the top vent that prevents it from being closed completely. This stops you from robbing the stove of oxygen which will slow down its combustion and cause it to smoulder. The more smouldering occurs the more smoke produced and the less efficiently your stove is burning. You should only use dry seasoned hardwood and only authorised smokeless fuels in a DEFRA approved stove. The smoke produced by damp wood and other wet fuels is too much and could cause a disturbance to your neighbors. This is not just illegal, but it can also result in costly fines. If you're planning to install a multi-fuel fireplace that's DEFRA-approved, you'll have to hire an engineer to ensure it is in compliance with building regulations.
Smoke Control Areas
Smoke Control Areas in the UK are located primarily in large cities and towns where excessive smoke is an issue for residents. If you live in a region that is that is smoke-free, you cannot burn unauthorised fuels on open fires or wood-burning stoves unless the appliances are designated as exempt. Defra approved wood burning and multi-fuel stoves feature the latest technology to prevent part-burned combustibles from going up your chimney, making them an ideal option for your smoke-free property.
DEFRA approval means your appliance has been tested to ensure it burns all authorised fuels without producing excess smoke. This is achieved by providing the right amount of air to the combustion process in order to ensure that the combustibles remain at their best state. Wood burning stoves that are Defra-approved are better for the environment, and less likely to cause a chimney blockage.
Defra approved stoves are the best choice for your smoke controlled home, as they offer a safe and clean way to heat your property while ensuring compliance with the strict regulations of the government. No matter if you're searching for a modern or traditional stove, we offer an array of wood and multi-fuel stoves that are DEFRA approved and suitable for use in smoke control areas.
A Defra approved stove will come with an exemptions list that explains which fuels are permitted to be used in a smoke control zone. This is mainly wood (properly dried) but can be a mixture of household smokeless materials such as anthracite.
All our Defra approved stoves that burn wood and multi-fuel come with a proof of compliance from the manufacturer, as well as an extensive user's guide and instructions for installation to help you get your new stove up and running safely. It is recommended that you install your fireplace and have it maintained by a HETAS-certified engineer to ensure that the work is completed in accordance with building regulations.
Dovre provides a variety of accessories for your wood-burning stove or multi-fuel, including mesh guards, log baskets and flue liners. Contact your local Dovre retailer for more information about our products.
Energy Efficiency
The ability to use multiple fuels makes a multi-fuel stove a green option. Modern multi-fuel stoves are designed to achieve optimal combustion, which means they can warm your home at a lower cost. They can also be used to add to your central heating system and reduce emissions.
You can save money by using energy efficient stoves. They are more efficient in fuel usage than traditional wood-burning models. They are available in a range of temperatures ranging from 5kW to 8.5kW.
Selecting a multi-fuel stove that has triple burn technology can help to enhance its efficiency. The triple burn technology employs three stages to ensure that each part of the fuel is burned completely, which results in more efficient heating and less emissions.
Many people prefer a multi-fuel stove since it gives them greater flexibility when it comes to the fuel they choose. This is a great option for those who live in areas that are smoke-free as it allows the stove to burn both wood and smokeless coal. However you should only use the fuels suggested by the stove manufacturer and not burn household waste or wood that has been painted or treated.
When purchasing a multi-fuel stove, you should ensure that it is suitable for your home and it has the correct flue outlet. Also, you should ensure that the chimney or flue system is in good working order and that there is adequate clearance around it (known as distance from the combustibles) for safe operation.
Multi-fuel stoves come in a wide range of styles that are suited to any style of home. Some are available in vibrant colors like blue or red, while others have enamel coatings and metallic finishes which can create an industrial, modern style to your home. You can also find stoves with built-in log stores, like the ACR Malvern Log Store or Mendip Woodland Log Store, for a more convenient way to store your firewood.
Although a multi-fuel stove is more flexible than a wood burning stove, you must ensure that it adheres to the strict guidelines that are set by DEFRA to avoid creating unwelcome smoke. If you have an appliance that does not conform to these guidelines, you may be fined. Follow the guidelines included in the manual of your stove.