Defra Approved Wood Stoves
If you are in a UK smoke control zone (most cities and large towns) then you'll require a DEFRA approved stove to avoid breaking the law. These Defra Smoke Exempt Appliances are designed to ensure that the wood or multi-fuels are burned without releasing unnecessary amounts of smoke.
Cleaner Burning
Defra exempt wood stoves which are also known as 'clean burning' wood burners as they're often known, use the latest combustion technology to reduce emissions and smoke. They achieve this by using pre-heated secondary air to burn the fuel more efficiently and reduce harmful particles that are released into the atmosphere. The result is a cleaner, more efficient fire that emits less smoke and a more effective heating system.
In addition to improving the efficiency of the stove, these modern wood stoves have also been made to be kinder to your chimney and flue system. Modern wood stoves produce less creosote than older counterparts. This helps you keep your chimney and flue system cleaner for longer.
If defra stoves reside in the Smoke Control Area (most major towns and cities) then you should only use a Defra Approved Stove or Wood Burner to avoid breaking the law and risking a large fine. However, even if you do not live in a Smoke Control Area it is still advisable to buy a Defra Approved stove as they will not only produce much less noxious smoke, but will aid in reducing your heating expenses and carbon footprint as well.
Many manufacturers used to produce wood stoves that had poor performance and high emissions. This was due to the fact that they weren't EPA (U.S Environmental Protection Agency) and evaluated. This was due a number factors, such as the size and kind of stove and fireplace used, the manner in which wood was stored and burned and the way the stove was operated.
All new wood stoves are required to meet a higher requirement for EPA emissions than their predecessors that were not certified. The most modern wood stoves, like the Vermont Castings Defiant and Encore NC 1450 come with an EPA rating of less than 1 gram per hour.
There is a lot of potential for further improvements in the manufacture of wood stoves. The Norwegian research institute SINTEF estimates that if all the old stoves were replaced with modern ones that are in line with Defra standards, then a few billion tonnes of climate-changing carbon dioxide could be sucked out each year.
Reduced Emissions
The latest DEFRA approved wood-burning stoves we carry here at Stove Supermarket make use of the most recent clean burn technology to ensure that they are able to combust both solid coal and smokeless at a lower temperature of combustion. This means they produce significantly less harmful emissions than older models and allow you to legally use your stove in a smoke-control area.
The main pollutant emitted by solid fuels that burn is fine particulate matter (PM2.5). These tiny particles are so tiny that they can penetrate the human respiratory system, and cause health problems including stroke and heart disease. Researchers from the University of Sheffield published a study that found wood-burning stoves can release high levels of particles with the size PM2.5 into the home. The harmful particles were at their highest level every time the stove was opened to refill its fuel.
As well as reducing the amount of PM2.5 emitted by the stove, DEFRA approved wood burning stoves also come with built-in air-wash systems which keep the glass free of ash and soot deposits. This keeps your stove looking fresh for longer and cut down on maintenance costs and cleaning time.
While the benefits of a wood burner are undeniable, the choice to purchase a stove which allows you to legally burn wood in a Smoke Control Area is a serious decision. In the past, people were able to burn wood in any way they wanted, which resulted in unhealthy levels of pollution in cities and towns.
In Smoke Control Zones in Smoke Control Areas, the Defra Approved Stove will be the only choice for homeowners looking to use their fire in a legal manner. If you're thinking about purchasing a new wood-burning stove or replacing an open fire one, an Defra Approved Stove is the best option to comply with the smoke control regulations.
Stove Supermarket stocks a range of Defra Approved Wood-Burning Stoves from leading brands such as Arada, Burley and Parkray, so you can pick the model that's best for you. Our Defra Approved stoves are all Ecodesign compatible and come with the Defra Certificate of Conformity, so you can be confident that your new woodburning stove will comply with the latest regulations for use in smoke control areas.
High Efficiency
This will decrease your carbon footprint as well as your energy bills. This is especially important as the price of electricity and gas continue to rise. By switching to a DEFRA-approved wood stove, you will be able to reclaim some control over your household costs and save money in the long run.
A Defra-approved wood stove is in compliance with the Government's regulations on smoke controlled zones, which means you can use in smoke exempt areas. If you see a stove that has Defra Approved or the word 'SE' in its title, it means that it meets the strict requirements set by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

These stoves can produce much less particulate emissions than the older versions of wood burners and open fires. The latest stoves made by top manufacturers such as Arada, Burley Parkray, and Stovax feature secondary and tertiary burning systems which reduce the emissions of the stove. A lot of these stoves that burn wood are also SIA EcoDesign Ready, meaning they are more environmentally friendly than DEFRA Approved and will be able meet future emission goals.
In addition to being environmentally responsible As well as being more environmentally responsible, a Defra approved stove will burn your wood much more efficiently than older open fires or stoves. This will result in lower levels of particulate emissions which is good news for those who live in areas that have smoke control. In addition, a DEFRA-approved stove will also help reduce your fuel expenses. If you choose a stove which can burn more wood per hour than an open flame it will help you save money since you don't have to feed it as often.
A Defra Approved Stove is a great investment for any homeowner who wants to be eco-friendly and lower their energy costs. These stoves are not just efficient and clean, but also come in a variety of styles to fit your personal preferences.
EPA Certification
If you reside in an area where smoke is controlled, then you will require an approved DEFRA stove for burning wood at home. Defra is the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs which is responsible for regulations on environmental and countryside matters. The Smoke Control Area Regulations prohibit the emission dark smoke from chimneys, unless using an exempt device, or approved fuels such as smokeless coal. Stoves that are approved by Defra are the only devices that can legally be used in these areas without violating the law and incurring fines up to PS1,000.
The best way to ensure you buy a smoke-controlled stove is to look for the EPA 2020 certification label. This indicates that the stove has passed stringent tests to to claim it can be used in a smoke-control area. It will also be classified as an efficient burner ensuring that it produces the most heat using less fuel. This efficiency means that homeowners will make monetary savings on their heating costs and will see less of wood required to keep their homes warm.
Another important aspect to consider is whether a Defra approved wood burning stove has been constructed with eco-friendly features. The Country 4 BLU is a perfect example of an Defra approved stove that has many environmentally conscious features. It was designed to meet and surpass 2022 Ecodesign standards, meaning it emits extremely low levels of carbon dioxide that reduce its environmental impact. This means a cleaner, more eco-friendly operation for everyone. It also makes your chimney and flue systems more secure.
A Defra approved wood-burning stove can give you many benefits aside from being in compliance with UK smoke control regulations set by the government. By adhering to strict emissions standards, these stoves are essential in reducing air pollution, which can help to decrease respiratory issues for those with lungs that are sensitive. They also have long burn times which can translate into significant cost savings through reduced consumption of wood and fuel. These stoves can be paired with an energy-efficient heating system. energy efficient to offer a green and responsible option for homes.