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Ecodesign Stoves: What Are They and Why Are They Different?

Ecodesign Stoves: What Are They and Why Are They Different?

You might have seen the term Ecodesign Stoves while browsing wood-burning stoves or multi-fuel stoves on our website. In this article, we will demystify Ecodesign Stoves and answer some key questions you may have about them.

Let's take a closer look at what Ecodesign Stoves are so you can make an informed decision when buying a woodburner.

What is Ecodesign?

Ecodesign is a Europe-wide directive relating to the efficiency of a wide variety of energy-related products. Specifically, it focuses on ensuring lower emissions from the manufacturing and use of energy products.

Ecodesign is based on a directive of the European Parliament that came into full effect in the UK on 1 January 2022, which is why products are sometimes referred to as Ecodesign 2022 or Eco 2022 Stoves. 

As well as woodburners, Ecodesign also relates to a range of other products, such as lighting products, electrical devices and a range of household appliances.

    What are Ecodesign Stoves?

    Ecodesign Stoves are woodburners and multi-fuel stoves that meet the high efficiency, low emissions standards detailed in the Ecodesign directive. They're essentially the latest generation of eco wood-burning stoves.

    In order to be accredited as an Ecodesign Stove, an appliance needs to demonstrate in testing that its emissions are at least 55% lower than the current requirements for DEFRA exempt stoves.

    How is Ecodesign measured for woodburners?

    All woodburners being sold in the UK now have to be tested to make sure they achieve acceptable levels of:

    • Seasonal Efficiency
    • Particulate Matter (Smoke)
    • Organic Gaseous Compounds (OGC)
    • Carbon Monoxide (CO)
    • Nitrogen Dioxide (NOx)

    To meet Ecodesign standards, stove must be at least 65% efficient and emit less than:

    • 65mg/m3 of particulate matter (PM)
    • 40 mg/m3 of OGC
    • 120 mg/m3 of CO
    • 1500 mg/m3 of NOx

    How can I reduce the amount of PM my stove creates?

    Burning wood produces particulate matter (PM). The amount produced can vary significantly depending on the stove itself, what is being burned and how the stove is being operated. 

    The first step is to choose a woodburner with a high efficiency rating. You’ll see efficiency levels shown for every stove on our website.

    The next step is to operate your stove efficiently to limit the amount of smoke produced and significantly reduce the particulate emissions. To do this, burn only well seasoned wood with a moisture content of less than 20% and operate your woodburner efficiently.

    Independent research conducted by Kiwa Gastec shows Ecodesign stoves can reduce emissions by 90% in comparison to an open fire and by 80% compared to an old stove.

    What are Ecodesign Ready stoves?

    Ahead of Ecodesign legislation coming into full effect in January 2022, the Stove Industry Alliance preempted the Ecodesign directive by working with Hetas to create independent testing to verify woodburners entering the UK marketplace that met the lower emissions and minimum efficiency criteria for Ecodesign. Stoves that passed these tests were accredited as being Ecodesign Ready.

    How does Ecodesign impact my woodburner buying decision?

    Now that Ecodesign legislation is in place, it is illegal to manufacture or sell appliances that don’t meet the Ecodesign requirements. For that reason, you should only buy an appliance that is manufactured in accordance with Ecodesign.

    My woodburner isn’t an Ecodesign Stove — is it illegal?

    No, Ecodesign only relates to appliances sold since the directive came into force in January 2022. If you bought your stove before this, it is unaffected by the changes and you can continue to use it as usual.

    When the time comes to replace your existing stove, you will need to buy an Ecodesign Stove.

    Do Gr8Fires stoves meet Ecodesign standards?

    Yes, all stoves on Gr8Fires meet and surpass Ecodesign standards. We’ve been selling heating appliances for more than 30 years and our products have always complied with relevant legislation.

    Our collection of Mazona Stoves and Arada Stoves have their efficiency ratings displayed on each stove's product page. When browsing stoves, you’ll see that all appliances surpass the required 65% efficiency and many have efficiency ratings that far exceed the minimum.

    Recommended Ecodesign Stoves

    If you’re interested in buying a low emissions, high efficiency woodburner or multi-fuel stoves, here are a few of our recommended Ecodesign Stoves to consider.

    Mazona Ripley

    Product Overview

    This great appliance boasts a high-quality steel body, a cast iron door for greater heat retention and an attractive modern design. The Mazona Ripley is covered by a 5-year warranty and has a powerful airwash system to keep the glass clean. It is available in three heat output options:

    Key Features

    • 4kW, 5kW or 8kW heat output
    • Top or rear flue options
    • Suitable for kiln-dried logs or smokeless solid fuel
    Mazona Ripley Ecodesign Stoves

    Ecodesign Details

    • Up to 79% efficiency
    • A-rated for energy efficiency
    • DEFRA exempt for use in smoke control areas

    Take a closer look

    Arada Hamlet Solution

    Product Overview

    Made in the UK, the Arada Hamlet Solution combines a timeless woodburner look with the latest technology. This includes a highly-efficient burn, preheated airwash system to keep the glass clean and non-smoke paint. The stove — covered by a 10-year guarantee — is available in multiple sizes:

    Key Features

    • 4kW, 5kW or 7kW heat output
    • Externally controlled riddling grate
    • Suitable for kiln-dried logs or smokeless solid fuel

     

    Arada Hamlet Solution Ecodesign Stoves

     

    Ecodesign Details

    • Up to 83.1% efficiency
    • A+ rating for energy efficiency
    • DEFRA exempt for use in smoke control areas

    Take a closer look

    Mazona Warwick

    Product Overview

    With its classic wood-burning stove aesthetic, enhanced by brass accenting, the Mazona Warwick is the perfect Ecodesign Stove to create a traditional feature in any living room. Its high-quality steel construction is covered by a 5-year warranty, while a highly effective airwash system keeps the grass crystal clear. It is available in various heat output sizes:

    Key Features

    • 4kW, 5kW or 8kW heat output
    • Top or rear flue options
    • Suitable for kiln-dried logs or smokeless solid fuel
    Mazona Warwick Ecodesign Stoves

    Ecodesign Details

    • Up to 83.1% efficiency
    • A+/A-rated for energy efficiency
    • DEFRA exempt for use in smoke control areas

    Take a closer look

    Ready to see more Ecodesign Stoves

    If you'd like to see more options, feel free to take a look at our full collection of Ecodesign Stoves right now. Browse Ecodesign Stoves.

    Filed in: Category_Stove Information
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