Choosing a Defra Approved Multi Fuel Stove
If you reside in a region that is under smoke control, you must make use of a wood-burning stove or multi-fuel stove approved by DEFRA. They are also referred to as Defra Exempt appliances and will permit you to use approved coal and smokeless logs, without creating the nuisance smoke.
Defra Approved
Anyone who lives in an area that has smoke control in place must have a DEFRA approved stove or log burner. Defra approved stoves have been tested and proven to produce a minimal amount of smoke. They also have passed strict emissions tests and meet the government's Clean Air Act requirements. Unlike standard wood burning stoves or multi fuel stoves, DEFRA approved appliances have been manufactured and designed to burn wood with such efficiency that there is no smoke. This is achieved by making sure that the stove has enough combustible air flow throughout the day. Here at Bowland Stoves we offer a range of modern and traditional DEFRA approved wood-burning stoves in different styles.
If you plan to install a DEFRA-approved stove it's a smart investment, whether you reside in a smoke control zone or not. Many of the modern stoves we sell come with an inbuilt feature that stops you from closing the top air vent all the way, this stops the fire from reducing its effectiveness, and causes it to burn and create more smoke.
Another benefit of DEFRA approved stoves is that they are more efficient in terms of energy consumption which means you can save fuel and keep your home warm for longer. They also have much lower emissions than older stoves and open fires, meaning they emit less carbon dioxide and are more eco-friendly.
Some of the models that we have on hand are Eco Design 2022-compliant, a fantastic feature that helps to reduce the amount of fuel you need to burn, thereby saving you even more money. These stoves are designed to burn fuel more efficiently and use all the combustible sources. They also have primary secondary, tertiary, and primary controls.
We also stock a variety of DEFRA multifuel stoves, these allow you to burn all forms of solid fuel including smokeless coal, peat or turf briquettes. They are ideal for people who want to utilize their stove with a variety of different fuels. They also are permitted for use in Smoke Control Areas, if you are searching for a DEFRA multifuel stove that can be used in a Smoke Control Area take a look at our range of Defra Exempt multifuel stoves.
Clean Burning Technology
Multi fuel stoves are an excellent option for homeowners who would prefer a wood-burning stove, but do not have the space for storage of logs. These stoves are able to be filled with wood or manufactured fuels, such as coal and peat. These stoves are generally capable of combusting both of these types of fuel more effectively than traditional log burners. This is because multi-fuel stoves have been designed to burn a range of fuels.
Stoves designed to burn a variety of different fuels usually have a raised grate that is designed to allow air to circulate under the fuel. This is due to the fact that certain fuels like peat and turf briquettes require a lot of air underneath for them to be ignited and burn effectively. The majority of multi-fuel stoves have an additional airflow that can be shut or opened depending on the fuel type. This helps keep the fire going by supplying a larger amount of air to the stove and can increase the efficiency of combustion.
The primary and secondary airflow systems inside the fireplace can be used to regulate the flame's height and temperature. This is important because different fuels burn at different rates and generate different amounts of heat. Keeping the flame high and temperature within a certain range will ensure that your stove is running at its maximum efficiency and generating the highest amount of heat from its fuel.
In the end, you'll be required to remove ash frequently from your stove and store it in an ash pan or bucket. This will stop the accumulation of too much ash on the stove's grates, and also hinder your fuel from burning properly. You should also clean your stove glass regularly to avoid any discolouration. You can keep your stove looking fresh by using a soft damp scourer with a special stove cleaner. It is also essential to follow the manufacturer's guidelines when cleaning and maintaining your stove to avoid damage or causing problems.
Low Emission Vehicles
The best multi-fuel stoves are built with low emissions, which means they burn wood or smokeless coal or a combination of both and emits minimal emissions. This is especially important in a smoke-control zone like London where you'll require an approved stove by Defra. Only burn authorised materials that are part of the Ready To Burn Scheme to meet local regulations.
Typically, a Defra approved stove will come with automatic fuel feed and an air supply control to ensure the fire is burning at its optimum efficiency. This means that there is no smoke, and a high level of heat. It is a good option for a small room where the stove can be the focal point.
If you reside in a smoke-control zone, it is important to select a stove that is Defra approved to ensure you comply with the rules. This will allow you to avoid paying hefty fines if you burn illegally. There are a myriad of Defra approved stoves available on the market, but we suggest you to look for a woodburning stove that is also Eco Design 2022 compliant as it will provide you with an improved view of the flame and be more energy efficient too.

The AGA Ellesmere EC4 is a fantastic example of an Ecodesign and DEFRA approved stove that delivers both aesthetics and efficiency. With multi fuel wood burning stoves , it is ideal for smaller spaces and has easy to use primary and secondary air controls. The stylish design will work in both traditional and modern settings.
Another alternative is the Stovax Blithfield which is a stove with a widescreen and a big square window that offers stunning flame views. It comes in a variety of colours to suit your style. This stove is Defra and Eco Design compliant and can be ordered with a clear arched or a Tracery version that adds dramatic Gothic arches to the door.
Pellet stoves can be a great alternative to conventional multi-fuel stoves. They make use of biomass or compressed wood to produce a high-quality flame that is highly efficient. The pellets are made from scrap materials like sawdust and other wood products, which makes it a very environmentally friendly choice. The stoves have hotplates as well as an oven, so they can also be used for cooking. The standard 6" (150mm) stove, however still compatible with 5 1/2" (125mm) liner is a standard feature. This is an advantage when it might be difficult to install an ordinary 6" (150mm) stove or the chimney stack has awkward bends.
Energy Efficiency
The combustion of fuels in a multifuel fireplace generates heat that is distributed to the room. It does this either through radiation, which is when the hot surface of the stove radiates heat into the room or by convection, where it draws cold air from outside, then heats it up and then directs it back into the room. The majority of modern multifuel stoves are designed to maximize the efficiency of their heat output, by using secondary and tertiary sources to minimize emissions and burn fuel as efficiently as is possible.
Stovax Go Eco 5-kW widescreen multifuel Stove is an excellent example. It is endorsed by both Defra as well as Ecodesign. Its large square window provides a great view of the flame, and its wider size allows it to be able to fit into chimneys with larger openings. The airwash system keeps the glass clear of soot. The stove comes in a selection of six finishes. It can even be fitted with a top plate, so that you can cook on it too.
Multifuel stoves are also a great option to burn wood. However, you must adhere to the directions on your appliance to ensure best results. It is also recommended to check it on a regular basis with an expert. Selecting the right fuel is also crucial, as different types of fuel burn at varying speeds and generate different quantities of energy. You will need to decide if you want the fire to generate a lot of heat quickly, or if you are more interested in a long, slow burning and creating a warm atmosphere in the room.
If you live in a region where smoke is controlled, you must be aware that only DEFRA-approved cooking stoves are allowed to be used to burn smokeless coke and wood. If you attempt to burn other types of fuel, it may lead to a large fine and will probably harm your stove too.
The Defra-approved multifuel stoves that we offer all come with 5" (125mm) flue outlets, which can be installed to an existing chimney system or stack. This is a more affordable option than installing a stainless steel twin wall liner, particularly when you don't need to go as high up the chimney.