When shopping for a Wood Burning Stove, or a Multi Fuel Stove, you will no doubt see the phrases ‘Ecodesign’ or ‘DEFRA Exempt’. But what do either of those mean?
Lets start with the basic analogy first…
- Ecodesign is like a “clean air/efficiency standard” that new stoves must meet.
- DEFRA Exempt (also called “smoke‐exempt” or “DEFRA approved”) is about whether a stove is legally allowed to burn wood (or other fuels) in a Smoke Control Area.
What is Ecodesign?
Ecodesign is a UK and EU regulation that sets strict standards for all new solid fuel appliances, including wood-burning and multi-fuel stoves. Introduced on 1 January 2022, the Ecodesign directive ensures that any new stove placed on the market meets specific limits for emissions, efficiency, and overall performance.
In simple terms, Ecodesign stoves are designed to burn cleaner and waste less fuel, helping to cut down on harmful pollutants such as particulate matter and smoke. By choosing an Ecodesign-approved stove, you’re not only improving your home’s energy efficiency but also contributing to better air quality and a more sustainable future.
It’s important to note, however, that while Ecodesign-compliant stoves meet the latest environmental and performance standards, this doesn’t automatically mean they can be used to burn wood everywhere. The Ecodesign regulations don’t override local Smoke Control Area laws. For that, you’ll need a DEFRA-Exempt stove (which we’ll cover next).
What is a DEFRA Exempt stove?
A DEFRA Exempt stove (sometimes called a DEFRA Approved or Smoke Exempt stove) is one that has been officially tested and approved by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs for use in Smoke Control Areas. These are areas where local regulations restrict the burning of certain fuels to help reduce air pollution.
In these zones, it’s normally illegal to burn wood or other ‘unauthorised’ fuels in a standard stove. However, a DEFRA Exempt appliance has been specially designed and certified to burn wood cleanly enough to meet the legal requirements. That means you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of a real log fire without breaking the law or causing excessive smoke emissions.
To stay compliant, it’s essential to only burn the approved fuels listed for your stove (such as dry, ‘Ready to Burn’ wood) and follow the manufacturer’s usage guidelines.
Ecodesign vs DEFRA Exempt: what’s the difference?
Although Ecodesign and DEFRA Exempt stoves are often mentioned together, they aren’t the same thing. Understanding the difference can help you choose the right stove for your home.
In basic terms…
Ecodesign = environmental performance and efficiency
DEFRA Exempt = legal permission to burn wood in Smoke Control Areas
While Ecodesign focuses on efficiency and emissions standards for all new stoves, DEFRA Exemption is about where and what you’re legally allowed to burn. Many modern stoves today meet both standards, offering the best of both worlds: high efficiency, low emissions, and full compliance with UK clean air regulations.
Conclusion
The majority of stoves these days are both DEFRA Exempt and Ecodesign, meaning you dont have to worry too much. You’re choosing a clever, future ready stove – one that meets today’s regulations, promotes cleaner air for years, and delivers top performance and style!
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