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Defra Exempt Stove: The Ultimate Guide To Defra Exempt Stove
What is a DEFRA Exempt Wood Burning Or Multi Fuel Stove?

When choosing a wood burner or multi-fuel stove it is important to consider whether you live in a smoke control area. If you do, you will need a defra exempt stove.

These appliances are often referred to as SE stoves (SE is for Smoke Exempt). These appliances have passed the rigorous UK government testing criteria for emissions levels and can be used in smoke-controlled zones.

What is a DEFRA approved stove?

A DEFRA-approved stove is a multifuel or wood-burning stove that has passed an emission test for smoke created by the UK Government Department of Environment, Food & Rural Affairs. The tests ensure the stove emits very low levels when using fuels that are suitable, such as wood. Stoves that have been approved by Defra may be installed in Smoke Control Areas. They will typically have the DEFRA logo or the term SE (for smoke-free) added to their names.


The majority of cities and towns are classified as Smoke Control Areas. If you reside in one of these areas, you will need a DEFRA-approved stove to burn wood or other approved fuels by DEFRA. Stoves that have been approved by Defra will have had their manufactures modify them to limit the amount of air they consume during combustion, which could result in black smoke.

Defra approved stoves will come with secondary and tertiary systems that help to burn any unburned matter from the fire into a gas which is then blown away of the chimney. This helps keep the stove and flue system cleaner for longer and reduces emissions in general which is great news for you and your neighbors.

When purchasing a new stove for your home, there are many factors to consider and it can be easy to be overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information on offer. There are a variety of terms to consider like DEFRA or smoke controlled zones. This can be confusing if you're seeking a new appliance.

If you are purchasing an entirely new stove for your home, it's very important that you choose the DEFRA approved model as most large cities and towns will be Smoke Control Areas and if you install a stove that isn't approved, you could face a hefty fine. Luckily, the majority of the stoves that we stock here at Grate Expectations are all DEFRA approved, so you can shop with confidence knowing you're getting the highest quality woodburning or multifuel stove for your home.

Can I use an appliance that isn't DEFRA approved in a smoke-controlled area?

You may come across some confusing terms when you are looking for a wood burning stove. There are a few terms that you can hear, such as DEFRA approved or DEFRA exempt. DEFRA stoves cost indicate that the stove has passed a smoke control test and is in compliance with UK government laws.

The main advantage of purchasing a DEFRA exempt stove is that you are able to use it in a smoke controlled area without fear of being fined. This is due to the fact that the stove has been constructed to limit the amount of smoke it produces. This is accomplished by shutting off some air during the combustion, which starves the fuel of oxygen.

In order to become DEFRA approved, a stove must undergo a series tests that are set out by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). Typically a Defra exempt stove will be marked with the word SE which means Smoke Exempt.

The primary reason to purchase the DEFRA approved stove is to use it in a smoke control area, it's a good idea to purchase one even if you do not live in a smoke controlled area. A DEFRA-approved stove burns more efficiently than one that isn't DEFRA-approved. This means you will have better heat output and less part-burned combustibles in the air.

Some people opt to install an non DEFRA approved stove into their home because they like its look or because they don't live in a smoke-controlled area. It is important to remember that if you reside in a smoking-free zone and install an non DEFRA approved stove, you could be subject to a fine from your local authority. To avoid this possibility, it's recommended to purchase a DEFRA exempt stove.

Can I burn non-DEFRA approved Fuels in a DEFRA approved Stove?

A DEFRA approved stove, also known as a DEFRA exempt wood burning stove or a smoke-free multi fuel stove, is a stove that is legal to use in UK Smoke Control Areas. It has passed a rigorous test designed by UK's Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. This assures it produces low levels of emissions during combustion. It can burn a range of fuels and not emit smoke, making it a great choice for homeowners in urban areas.

A DEFRA approved multi-fuel or wood burner is usually marked with the Defra Approved Logo or described as a DEFRA Exempt Stove. Sometimes an SE will be added to the stove's name, indicating that it is able to be used within smoke controlled areas. The logo is widely used in the industry and is easily identifiable.

If you're unsure whether your stove is DEFRA-approved, you can contact the manufacturer or look up the specifications online. Even if your DEFRA stove is marked with the logo or referred to as such, you may be charged with a crime if are not using it correctly in an area where smoke control is enforced.

Utilizing your DEFRA approved stove is very simple and involves making sure you have plenty of seasoned dry wood and that it is well lit before starting to burn it. It is also crucial to clean the stove regularly and to keep a water tank nearby in the event of emergencies or issues with the stove.

A DEFRA stove is more efficient and produces less smoke than traditional open flames, electric or gas stoves. This is better for the surroundings and your neighbors. DEFRA stoves typically feature a second phase of combustion which further reduces the amount of carbon dioxide that is released into the air.

What is the difference between the DEFRA approved stove and a non-DEFRA approved stove?

When discussing wood burning stoves and multi-fuel stoves there are many terms that are commonly used. These terms can be confusing for novice buyers who might not be aware of what they mean. One of the terms you may have come across is a DEFRA exempt or DEFRA approved stove. While this may seem like an excessive amount of jargon, it actually has a simple meaning.

A DEFRA approved wood stove or multi-fuel stove has been tested and is approved for use in smoke control areas. The DEFRA approval is given by the Department of Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs Also called Defra.

The DEFRA approval permits the stove to be used with approved fuels such as anthracite and certain manufactured smokeless fuels. This means that the stove can be used in a smoke-control area without causing excessive amounts of black smoke. Defra approved stoves may be identified with the Defra approved logo or SE (smoke exempt) in their name.

In order for a stove to be DEFRA approved it must meet certain criteria, including emissions testing. The test is done to ensure that the stove doesn't emit excessive amounts of smoke when burning approved fuels.

There are a few additional tests that the stove has to undergo in order to receive DEFRA approval. These include making sure that the stove has secondary and tertiary combustion technology. This allows the stove to burn fuel with less smoke and better efficiency.

Many manufacturers offer stoves which are DEFRA-approved. They are usually marked with the Defra logo or listed as a DEFRA-approved stove on their website or catalog. They will also typically be identified as having a Clean Burn technology, which again helps to reduce the amount of smoke created when burning approved fuels.

It is beneficial to own a DEFRA-approved stove in smoke-controlled areas. Not only will this assist to avoid any fines levied against the owner however, it will also ensure that the stove is more efficient and produces a much cleaner burn. This is not just better for the environment, but it is also better for the chimney and the flue system of the stove.

Here's my website: https://www.fireplacesandstove.com/categories/defra-stoves