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Why Defra Exempt Stove Still Matters In 2023
What is a DEFRA Exempt Wood Burning Or Multi Fuel Stove?

It is important to take into consideration whether you live in an area that has smoke control laws when you are choosing a wood stove or multi-fuel. If you do, you will need a defra exempt stove.

These appliances are also sometimes called SE stoves (SE means Smoke Exempt). They have met the strict UK government testing standards for emissions and can be used in smoke-controlled zones.

What is an DEFRA Approved Stove?

A DEFRA approved stove is a wood-burning or multi fuel stove that has passed an emissions test for smoke created by the UK Government's Department of Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA). The tests ensure that the stove emits very low levels when using fuels that are suitable, such as wood. Stoves that have been approved by Defra can be installed in Smoke Control Areas and will usually carry the DEFRA approval logo or the word SE (for smoke exempt) added to their names.

The majority of cities and towns are classified as Smoke Control Areas and so if you reside in one of these areas, then you'll need to use a DEFRA Approved Stove for when you plan to burn wood or other DEFRA approved fuels. Stoves that are approved by Defra will have their manufacturers modify them to limit the amount of air they consume when they burn, which can result in black smoke.

The stoves that are Defra-approved also have secondary and tertiary systems which help to burn off any unburned material that is left over in the fire that is then blown away from the chimney. This keeps your flue and stove cleaner for longer, and reduce overall emissions.

There are numerous things to think about when buying a stove. It is easy to get overwhelmed by all the details available. There are a variety of terms to consider such as DEFRA or smoke controlled zones and this could be confusing if you're looking for a new appliance.

It is important to choose the DEFRA-approved model before purchasing a new stove. Most large towns and cities are Smoke Control Areas, and if your stove is not approved you could be fined lots. Grate Expectations stocks a large number of stoves that are DEFRA approved. This means that you can shop with confidence and be assured that you're getting the top woodburning stove or multifuel stove.

Can I put in an oven that isn't DEFRA approved in a smoke-controlled zone?

When looking for a brand new wood stove, you will come across some terminology that may be confusing. You might hear the words DEFRA approved or DEFRA exempt. They simply indicate that the stove has was able to pass a smoke test and is in compliance with UK government regulations.

The primary benefit of buying a DEFRA exempt stove is that you are permitted to use it in a smoke-free zone without fear of being fined. This is because the stove is designed to reduce the amount of smoke it produces. This is accomplished by closing off air during combustion process, which strips the fuel of oxygen.

To become DEFRA approved a stove must be able to pass a series of tests that are set out by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). DEFRA compliant stoves list that are DEFRA-exempt are typically marked with SE, which stands for Smoke Exempt.

It is a good idea, even if you do not live in a smoke-free zone to purchase a DEFRA-approved stove. This is because a DEFRA approved stove will burn more efficiently than a non-DEFRA certified stove, meaning that you will get more heat output from your appliance and it will be less likely to release part-burned combustibles that can be emitted into the air.


Some people may choose to fit a non-DEFRA approved stove in their home simply because they like the appearance of it or because they don't live in a smoke controlled area. It is important to remember that if you reside in a smoke-free area and you install the non DEFRA approved stove, you could be facing the possibility of a fine from your local authority. It is therefore always best to buy a DEFRA exempt stove to be safe from this risk.

Can I burn fuels that are not DEFRA approved in a DEFRA approved stove?

A DEFRA approved wood burning stove, also referred to as a DEFRA exemption wood burning stove, also known as a smoke-free multi fuel stove, is a stove that can be legally used within UK Smoke Control Areas. It has passed a rigorous test designed by the UK government's Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) which ensures that it emits low levels of emissions during combustion. This means that it is able to burn a wide range of different types of fuels without creating polluting smoke, and is therefore an excellent choice for homeowners who live in urban areas.

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

If you are unsure of whether or not your stove is DEFRA approved, you can call the manufacturer to inquire or check the specifications on the website. It is important to remember that even if your stove has the DEFRA logo on it or is described as being a DEFRA stove, it is still possible to be prosecuted for producing nuisance smoke if you are not using it correctly in an area that has a Smoke Control Area.

Using your DEFRA approved stove properly is simple and requires making sure that you have plenty of dry and seasoned wood, and that it is well lit before starting to burn it. It is essential to keep the stove clean and have a water tank near the stove in case of any problems or emergencies.

A DEFRA stove will provide you with a much more efficient combustion and offers an environment-friendly option than traditional open fires, or even gas or electric powered stoves since they produce less smoke, which is better for the environment as well as your neighbors. DEFRA stoves typically have a second combustion phase that reduces the amount of smoke released into the air.

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

There are a number of terms used when discussing wood burning and multi fuel stoves. These terms can be confusing for new buyers who may not understand what they refer to. One of the terms you may have encountered is a DEFRA exempt or DEFRA approved stove. This may appear like a lot of words, but it actually is a simple definition.

A DEFRA approved stove is a wood burning or multi fuel stove that has been tested and accepted for use in a smoke control zone. The Department of Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs, or Defra, grants the DEFRA approval.

The DEFRA approval allows the stove to be used with authorized fuels such as anthracite and certain manufactured smokeless fuels. The stove can be used without producing excessive quantities of black fumes in smoke control areas. Defra approved stoves will usually be labelled with the Defra approved logo or have SE (smoke exempt) after their name.

To be DEFRA approved the stove must satisfy certain requirements, such as testing for emissions. This test is performed to ensure that the stove does not produce excessive amounts smoke when burning approved fuels.

The stove must also pass some additional tests to qualify for DEFRA approval. This includes ensuring that the stove has secondary and tertiary combustion technology. This lets the stove burn fuel with less smoke and better efficiency.

Many manufacturers sell stoves that are DEFRA approved. These stoves usually bear the Defra approved logo or be referred to as a DEFRA approved stove on their website or catalogue. They are also often identified as having a Clean Burn technology, which again helps to reduce the amount of smoke produced when burning authorised fuels.

While having an DEFRA approved stove is not a legal requirement in smoke-free areas there are a myriad of reasons why it is an excellent idea to get one. This will not only help to avoid any fines levied on the owner, but it will also increase the efficiency of the stove and produce a cleaner burn. This is better for both the surroundings and the chimney of the stove.

Website: https://www.fireplacesandstove.com/categories/defra-stoves