DEFRA Exempt stoves are certified to reduce air pollution, making them suitable for Smoke Control Areas. They pass lab tests measuring emissions at both full and reduced output, typically using firewood. Since 2022, Ecodesign legislation has introduced stricter emissions limits than DEFRA Exemption, though it doesn’t include reduced output testing. Future updates may add this requirement for stoves used in Smoke Control Areas. You might like to read more in depth information about The Clean Air Act of 1956 and 1968.
The Esse 525 is a designer stove made here in the UK. One of the things that distinguishes the 525 (apart from its stainless steel tubular legs) is that it is a multifuel stove – most contemporary stoves are woodburning only.
