20 Myths About Defra Approved: Dispelled

· 6 min read
20 Myths About Defra Approved: Dispelled

Defra Approved Multi Fuel Stoves

DEFRA approved multi-fuel stoves let you to burn wood and approved smokeless fuels in smoke controlled areas. They emit low emissions, provide clean combustion and come in a variety of designs that can be used in any home.

Defra regulations (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) prohibit the emission of dark smoke from chimneys within Smoke Control Areas without an exempt appliance, or authorised fuel.

Efficient combustion

Many homeowners use Defra approved multi-fuel stoves in their homes due to their effective heating performance and their low carbon footprint. They can be used for different types of fuel that include logs that are smokeless and coal. These models also offer plenty of control over the flame which allows you to achieve the perfect burn from your wood stove.

This is essential because it will ensure that the most ash is produced and will help keep your chimney clean. This will also allow the fire to continue to warm your home for a longer period of time, without having to refuel. In the end, you'll save money over the long run and can enjoy your fire without worrying about the health of your chimney system.

Stoves that have been approved by Defra have been tested for efficiency and emissions. They will usually be labelled as 'Defra Approved or 'SE' for Smoke Exempt, making them the best option when buying an appliance for your home.

Our online store stocks a large selection of DEFRA-approved stoves, including everything from classic to contemporary designs. The Gallery Classic 5 Compact Multi-Fuel Stove is a classic design that would suit cottages or other rustic cabins. On the other hand, the Stovax Stockton 3 or Go Eco Excel Wide have a modern design.

The ESSE 700 Vista DEFRA approved multi-fuel stove is a different option that has been developed with a modern look in mind. It has a cutting-edge clean burn system that reduces the sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions, and the steel body will ensure it lasts for many years. It is able to warm an entire room quickly by using kiln dried logs and also has A energy rating with 78.5 per cent heat efficiency.

You can choose from a wide range of colors, including neutral shades like black and cream. Colors that are bold like green and red are also available to add an attractive appearance to your home, and metallic finishes can give modern aesthetics. You can pick the stove with an enamel coating if want a subtle look. This will provide you with an even, smooth surface that is easy to clean and will complement any interior colour scheme.

Reduced emissions

Multi-fuel stoves endorsed by Defra are not only environmentally friendly but also help reduce household emissions. The main pollutant released by solid fuels like coal and wood is ultra-fine particles (also called PM2.5). Fine particles can enter lungs and cause respiratory illness or even heart disease.

Modern multi-fuel stoves that have been approved by DEFRA are designed to lower levels of this harmful substance. The Stove Yard offers a variety of stoves that are SIA Ecodesign ready and have been rigorously tested to ensure they operate at a level that is lower than the current manufacturing standard of 3g/hour, which is the standard for appliances used in areas with smoke control. We also offer a variety of models that have been approved by the independent clearSkies scheme, which offers further reductions in emissions.

If you reside in a region that is under Smoke Control, you should only use seasoned and dried wood to avoid excessive smoke. However, if you do want to make use of fossil fuels in your multi-fuel stove, there are plenty of smokeless alternatives available which will significantly reduce the amount of harmful gases your stove produces.

The most recent DEFRA approved stoves, like the ones we have in our collection, provide an additional and tertiary burning system that further reduces users' carbon footprint and pollution levels. Using these systems helps to reduce the amount of volatile gases created by solid fuels such as wood, and convert them into heat energy. This means that you can make use of less of your favorite fuel to achieve the same level of heating and your fuel expenses will be less!

While this is a great feature of DEFRA approved multi-fuel stoves, it is important to know that Defra approved stoves don't provide the same time of burning as non-Defra stoves. This is because a constant supply of secondary and third-level combustion air is required to keep the flame from smoldering. If you are planning to make use of the stove for sleep burn (i.e. overnight burning), a Defra Approved model does not permit you to expand your fuel supply to the same extent as an non Defra model.

Smoke control regulations

DEFRA approved wood-burning stoves may be used in smoke-control zones (check online to see whether you reside in one). In these areas, stricter limits have been placed on the emissions of log burners to prevent nuisance smoke. This helps to prevent the release of harmful substances into the air that could upset neighbours and create unhealthy conditions for people living nearby. It is essential to use a DEFRA-approved stove in a smoke-controlled area to avoid fines.

Smoke control zones are typically urban areas with a large population density, like large cities and towns. Smoke control regulations are designed to maintain air quality by limiting particulate emissions into the atmosphere. Multi-fuel stoves that have been approved by Defra comply with the regulations and have been certified to provide low emissions. This is vital to ensure the safety and health for those living in these areas.

It is important to remember, too, that smoke-free stoves must be used with approved fuels like dry properly seasoned wood.  DEFRA stoves installation  is illegal to burn damp fuels or wet wood in a smoke control zone as they can produce excessive smoke. Burning household waste, such as old furniture, pallets or fencing is also prohibited as they are likely to have been treated with chemicals that could release toxins into the air when burned. Selecting firewood with an moisture content of 20 percent or less is a good idea to limit emissions and ensure the stove is used in a safe manner. The Woodsure Ready to Burn scheme is a great option to purchase firewood with this need in mind.


A DEFRA approved multi-fuel stove is able to burn a variety of different types of fuel so you can enjoy a cosy fire throughout the year without the need to replace your chimney. But, it's important to keep in mind that your stove requires regular maintenance and cleaning to perform at a high level and effectively. If you neglect to maintain your stove on a regular basis it will be less efficient in reducing emissions, and could damage the chimney's flue system or chimney.

Styles to suit any style home

You can also add a wood burning stove to your home, regardless of whether you live in a city or in the country. You'll also reduce the carbon footprint of your home and help the environment by reducing the fuel cost. We have a selection of DEFRA approved multi-fuel stoves to meet your needs and budget. They're designed to meet the highest standards of efficiency and performance, delivering optimum heat output while cutting down on fuel consumption.

In addition to achieving the DEFRA standards, a large number of our wood burners are Ecodesign compliant. This European standard focuses on enhancing energy efficiency and reducing emissions like harmful particulates and carbon monoxide. Look for the Ecodesign label when browsing our range to find a stove that is compliant with this stringent standard.

A DEFRA approved multi-fuel stove will not only create a relaxing space for your family to gather around in but complement your living space. You can choose from a wide range of styles and finishes to find the stove to fit with your style.

Modern and contemporary stoves are constructed with minimalist, sleek designs that are perfect for any space. We also offer a range of classic log stoves with traditional features, like log storage, and cast iron grates. They work well with rustic interiors. Our log burners are offered in a variety of sizes, ranging from compact and small to huge and spacious.

Many homeowners are turning to wood-burning stoves as an economical and green alternative to gas heating. Wood-burning stoves burn peat, wood and turf briquettes, which are low in carbon emissions. Trees absorb carbon dioxide which is then released into the atmosphere after they are burned. This makes them carbon neutral, reducing the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

We've put together a variety of styles to suit all preferences, from clean lines and sleek finishes, to bold colours and metallic finishes. You can even opt for an oven with an open-plan view to make the most of your view and create a striking centerpiece in your living space.