What Is the Difference Between a Wood Burning Stove and a DEFRA Approved Stove?

Wood-burning stoves have found their niche in many homes, offering both additional warmth and an inviting atmosphere. Who doesn't love the glow of real flames? 1.5 million UK households now use wood for fuel in addition to existing heating systems. This surprising figure comes from government statistics on air pollution. Wood-burning stove popularity has risen during the energy cost crisis despite new regulations that came into effect in 2022. These new rules require all new wood-burning stoves to meet certain environmental standards in an effort to reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions and dangerous small particles. Yet, a common question we get asked is: what sets a standard wood-burning stove apart from a DEFRA-approved one? This article aims to clear up any confusion.

What Is Different About a DEFRA-Approved Stove?

From the outside, a DEFRA-approved stove looks just like any other wood-burning stove. The real differences are under the skin. Specifically, they use advanced technologies in the combustion air control mechanism. These internal features are crucial in reducing emissions and ensuring the stove meets stringent environmental standards. Here's a closer look at what sets DEFRA-approved stoves apart from normal wood burning stoves:

Internal Combustion Air Control Mechanism

Location and Functionality: The key difference is the unseen combustion air control mechanism, which is usually located inside the top front, underneath the base of the firebox, or at the rear of the stove. This mechanism is designed to precisely regulate the amount of air entering the stove, ensuring optimal combustion conditions.
Airflow Regulation: DEFRA-approved stoves produce a cleaner burn by controlling the airflow better. This means that the wood burns more completely, producing less smoke and fewer small particles. This efficient combustion process not only reduces emissions but also maximises the heat output, which is a win-win.

Advanced Combustion Technology

Secondary Burn Systems: Many DEFRA-approved stoves are equipped with secondary burn systems. These systems re-burn the gases and particulates produced during the initial combustion process further up the chimney. By re-igniting these a second time, the stove reduces the amount of smoke released into the atmosphere and increases fuel efficiency.
Tertiary Air Supply: Some DEFRA-approved stoves also include a tertiary air supply, which introduces a third stream of hot air recirculated into the combustion chamber. This additional air supply helps complete the burning of the embers and unburnt gases, ensuring that the stove meets DEFRA’s strict emission standards.

What Are the Two Types of Wood Burning Stoves?

Non-DEFRA Approved Stoves:

Common in areas with lenient emission regulations.
Feature-rich and can be highly efficient.
Emit higher levels of smoke and particulates, adversely affecting air quality.

DEFRA Approved Stoves:

Engineered to meet DEFRA’s stringent emission standards.
More efficient in wood combustion, producing minimal smoke.
Suitable for Smoke Control Areas and environmentally conscious individuals.

Do Wood Burning Stoves Need to be DEFRA Approved?

Not every wood-burning stove in the UK requires DEFRA approval. But it's vital for several reasons. DEFRA, the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, oversees stove and fire emissions to reduce air pollution. If you live in a Smoke Control Area, owning a DEFRA-approved stove becomes crucial to avoid possible fines for failing to meet the stringent emission standards. There are restrictions on the fuels that can be burned and what type of appliance can burn them. Falling foul of using the wrong fuel can be costly, with fines up to £1000. The aim of the restrictions is based on good intentions. It is not only to enhance air quality but they also ensure cleaner stove operation.

What if My Stove is not DEFRA-Approved?

Owning and using a non-DEFRA-approved stove in a Smoke Control Area could lead to legal issues and fines. Additionally, these stoves contribute to higher pollution levels, harming air quality. To avoid these issues, you should consider upgrading to a DEFRA-approved stove for your peace of mind.

What Makes a Stove DEFRA Approved?

A stove achieves DEFRA approval by adhering to specific criteria established by DEFRA, including:

Reduced emission levels of smoke and particulates.
Incorporation of technologies such as secondary burn for enhanced combustion efficiency.
Rigorous testing and certification to confirm adherence to environmental standards.

Can I Install a Non-DEFRA Approved Stove?

While it's possible to install a non-DEFRA-approved stove, there are important considerations:

It must not be used in a Smoke Control Area unless you have special exemptions.
Compliance with local regulations is essential.
Non-compliance risks fines and legal issues, making it crucial to verify local guidelines before installation.

How Do I Know if My Wood Stove is Certified?

To find out if your stove is DEFRA approved:

Look for the DEFRA approval mark on the stove or any of its documents.
Check the official DEFRA list of approved stoves available online.
Buy from reputable suppliers who can verify the stove’s certification.

What is a HETAS Approved Stove?

HETAS certifies stoves for safety and efficiency. A HETAS approved stove:

Meets stringent standards for installation and performance.
Ensures safe and efficient operation.
While distinct from DEFRA approval, HETAS certification also means a dependable and effective stove.

Conclusion

Understanding the distinctions between conventional wood-burning stoves and DEFRA-approved stoves is important for legal compliance and environmental reasons. DEFRA-approved stoves help in green house gas emission reduction, which is essential in Smoke-Control Areas. A top tip is to always verify certifications and consult professionals when selecting and installing a stove.

What to Do Next

Verify if your current stove is DEFRA-approved to ensure compliance and lessen environmental impact. For further details, visit the official DEFRA and HETAS websites or seek expert guidance from certified suppliers and installers.