Which Fuels Can I Use In My Stove?
Stoves and fireplaces are great ways to add warmth and a beautiful ambience to your home. Choosing the right fuel for your stove is just as important as selecting the appliance itself. There are a variety of different fuel types available for stoves and open fires, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Let’s take a closer look at the variety of fuel options available.
Wood Logs
Wooden logs are one of the most popular fuel choices for both stoves and open fires. It is a renewable source that is also widely available, and it produces that wonderful crackling sound once lit. On the other hand, wood burning can be messy and requires regular cleaning of the stove or fireplace to prevent buildup. To rely on wooden logs, you will need a good supply of seasoned wood, which can be costly. Dry wood is defined as wood with a moisture content below 20%, which burns more efficiently and creates fewer emissions.
Pellets
Wooden pellets are made up of compressed sawdust and other wood-waste materials, which makes them an eco-friendly and renewable fuel source. Wood-burning stoves that utilise pellets are highly efficient and will require less cleaning and maintenance than wood logs. One drawback is pellets can be expensive to purchase in large quantities.
Coal
Coal has been a popular fuel of choice for many years, especially in open fires. It has remained so popular thanks to its ability to produce long-lasting, consistent heat as well as being fairly inexpensive. The downside is burning coal can be messy and produces more smoke and ash than other fuel types. Because of this, it is recommended to burn Anthracite coals which have a high carbon content and few impurities meaning it releases less smoke and impurities.
Using Multiple Fuels
If you own a Multi-fuel stove, it may be beneficial to burn smokeless coal and firewood together. The extra heat from the solid fuel drives off any residual moisture in the logs which significantly reduces the build-up of tar and rusting. A combined fire of both smokeless coal and firewood will also burn hotter for longer.
For any further information, please contact us and one of our team will be happy to support you in choosing the right fuel for your stove or fireplace.
